U.S. Government Operations
The federal government shutdown has entered its 37th day. President Trump has advocated for Republican senators to end the shutdown by eliminating the Senate filibuster. Earlier in the week, some Democratic lawmakers indicated a willingness to seek a resolution; however, following recent election results, many have adopted a firm stance. The President acknowledged that the shutdown negatively impacted Republican performance in recent elections.
While most Republican members of Congress do not support eliminating the filibuster, bipartisan discussions have reportedly gained traction. Potential solutions under consideration by Senate Democrats and Republicans include a short-term funding measure, possibly extending until December or later, alongside votes on a package of regular appropriations bills. Reopening the government would necessitate the support of eight Democratic senators for a deal to pass. Expiring health care subsidies continue to be a point of contention in these negotiations.
Supreme Court Considers Presidential Tariff Authority
The Supreme Court has heard arguments regarding the legality of tariffs imposed by President Trump, though a ruling has not yet been issued. These tariffs were implemented under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The central legal inquiry of the case is whether this law grants the President the authority to impose tariffs on products originating from countries globally. Justices' questions during oral arguments indicated skepticism regarding the President's interpretation of the law.
The potential impact of a ruling against the President on current tariffs is subject to clarification. Such a ruling could deem certain tariffs illegal, while others, such as those on steel and aluminum, might remain in effect. President Trump has characterized this case as the "most important Supreme Court case ever." A ruling adverse to the President would mark the first instance of the Supreme Court constraining the scope of his executive powers.
Immigration Enforcement Litigation in Chicago
The Trump administration is currently facing legal challenges in Chicago from city residents who are contesting federal immigration enforcement activities. Judge Sara Ellis has received extensive testimony from citizens detailing their interactions with federal agents. Concurrently, Judge Robert Gettleman presided over a hearing concerning conditions within an immigration holding facility located in a Chicago suburb.
Judge Ellis is expected to issue a ruling today on a preliminary injunction. This injunction would effectively extend a previous order she issued, which limits the use of force by federal agents against protesters. During an eight-hour hearing, testimony included an account from a woman who reported being confronted with a weapon while filming an arrest of day laborers. Video testimony from U.S. Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino was also presented, in which he stated that the use of force has been "more than exemplary."
Tax Law Changes and Benefits
Approaching tax season highlights provisions within President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill." These tax breaks are primarily structured to benefit high-net-worth individuals and high-income earners. While middle-income households may experience some relief, the predominant share of benefits is directed toward those with substantial earnings, investment income, or large estates.
Key provisions favoring upper-income individuals and families include:
- Effective next year, a permanent lifetime exemption for estate and gift taxes will be set at $15 million per individual and $30 million per married couple, an increase from the previous limits of $13.99 million and $27.98 million.
- The exclusion for capital gains from sold qualified small business stock, issued after July 4, 2025, has been raised from $10 million to $15 million for companies with assets up to $75 million.
- Bonus depreciation has been extended, allowing businesses to immediately deduct 100% of the cost of qualifying assets, such as machinery and vehicles, rather than distributing the deduction over several years.
Misty Copeland Concludes Ballet Career
Misty Copeland, recognized as the first Black woman to achieve principal dancer status at American Ballet Theatre, performed her final show last month. This performance marked her return to the stage after a hiatus exceeding five years. Copeland undertook a year of physical preparation for her farewell with ABT. She articulated that the performance served as an expression of gratitude to the communities that supported her career. Following her final dance, Copeland received a 15-minute standing ovation. An interview with NPR's Fresh Air explored her farewell performance and future plans.
Additional News Updates
A federal judge has mandated that the White House immediately provide American Sign Language interpretation for press briefings conducted by the press secretary or the president. In October, Johannesburg, South Africa, is experiencing a bloom of violet Jacaranda trees, as noted in NPR's Far-Flung Postcard series. Additionally, five recent economic research papers covering topics from "brain rot" to factors influencing female politicians' electoral performance were highlighted by Planet Money.