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Today’s Sponsor: Ground News
Today’s Rundown:
- U.S. GOVERNMENT SHUTS DOWN AFTER CONGRESS MISSES DEADLINE: Congress failed to pass a stopgap bill by the Tuesday night deadline, triggering a federal government shutdown. Many agencies will scale back services, and hundreds of thousands of workers face furloughs or delayed pay. The Senate tried to move a short extension, but negotiations collapsed over policy riders and spending levels. The White House said agencies are executing contingency plans while leaders keep talking. Markets and federal contractors are bracing for disruptions if the standoff lasts.
- HEGSETH RAILS AGAINST ‘WOKE’ POLICIES IN SPEECH TO TOP BRASS: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told generals at Quantico that the Pentagon will roll back diversity, equity and inclusion programs and tighten grooming and fitness rules. He argued these steps will improve readiness, and he invited dissenting commanders to resign. Critics say the approach could sideline women and minorities and politicize the ranks. The speech comes amid a larger shake-up of military leadership and media rules.
- AG BONDI: 9 ARRESTS ON DAY 1 OF MEMPHIS FEDERAL CRACKDOWN: Attorney General Pam Bondi said nine people were arrested in Memphis as a new federal crime initiative launched. The operation brings in multiple agencies and state troopers, with a joint command center coordinating actions. Supporters say it will curb violent crime; opponents worry about civil rights and mission creep. State and local leaders have offered mixed reactions as more phases roll out.
- TALIBAN IMPOSES NATIONWIDE INTERNET BLACKOUT IN AFGHANISTAN: Afghanistan went dark online after the Taliban cut fiber-optic links in several provinces and restricted phone service, citing a morality crackdown. Watchdogs reported widespread outages across major networks. The shutdown is disrupting banking, travel, education, and news access. Rights groups say it’s about silencing dissent, not public morals.
- CALIFORNIA POLICE STOP A DRIVERLESS WAYMO FOR ILLEGAL U-TURN: San Bruno officers pulled over a Waymo robotaxi after it made an illegal U-turn—but they couldn’t write a ticket because there was no human driver. Officials say the incident highlights gaps in traffic enforcement rules for autonomous cars. Waymo said it is reviewing logs and cooperating with police. Regulators are weighing new guidance as AV testing expands.
- TYREEK HILL HAS SUCCESSFUL KNEE SURGERY, TARGETS 2026 RETURN: Dolphins star Tyreek Hill underwent surgery to repair a dislocated left knee and ligament damage, including his ACL. His agent said the procedure went well and he won’t need additional surgeries. The goal is to be ready for the start of the 2026 season. Miami is adjusting its offense as rehab begins.
- NICOLE KIDMAN FILES FOR DIVORCE FROM KEITH URBAN AFTER 19 YEARS: Nicole Kidman filed for divorce in Nashville, citing irreconcilable differences with musician Keith Urban. Reports say the pair had been living apart over the summer while working on separate projects. They share two daughters and haven’t issued detailed public statements. Coverage notes the split follows months of speculation about their marriage.
- TINA TURNER STATUE IN TENNESSEE DRAWS FAN BACKLASH: A 10-foot bronze statue honoring Tina Turner in her hometown of Brownsville sparked mixed reviews, with many fans criticizing the likeness—especially the hair and facial expression. Supporters say it’s a bold tribute to the “Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll,” unveiled during Heritage Days. The debate echoes other controversial celebrity statues worldwide. Local organizers say the monument celebrates Turner’s legacy despite the chatter.
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