David Fokinflett, NPR's media correspondent, dives into the current political landscape, revealing the likelihood of a government shutdown and its implications. He discusses recent court tests on free speech, spotlighting how the First Amendment is under pressure from regulators targeting critics. The conversation also highlights the contentious discussions from a vaccine advisory panel, including new guidelines for the MMRV shot and updates on COVID protocols. Fokinflett's insights shed light on the intricate dance between politics, media, and public health.