The 7 Congress returns to work; genocide scholars on Gaza; U.S. Open hat drama; and more
16 snips
Sep 2, 2025 Congress is back in session, facing urgent spending legislation to avoid a shutdown. Serious discussions arise as genocide scholars label actions in Gaza as systemic deprivation. Meanwhile, a new Tennessee law mandates firearm safety education in schools. Environmental policies hit a snag with the loss of a crucial carbon capture grant, and unsettling findings about microplastics are revealed. On a lighter note, tennis fans are treated to a humorous hat incident at the U.S. Open.
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Congress Faces Fast Funding Deadline
- Congress returns with about four weeks to pass spending bills before a shutdown on Sept. 30.
- Republicans will likely need Democratic votes in the Senate to avoid a shutdown.
Workers Over Billionaires Protests
- Labor Day protesters rallied in cities like Chicago, San Diego, and Washington, D.C., decrying billionaire influence over President Trump.
- In Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson vowed no federal troops and promised to defend democracy locally.
Scholars Say Gaza Actions Meet Genocide Definition
- The International Association of Genocide Scholars concluded Israel's actions in Gaza meet the legal definition of genocide.
- The group's definition includes destruction of livelihoods and restriction of aid as potential genocidal acts.