Apple News Today

Hurricane Melissa is rapidly approaching Jamaica, posing serious threats of catastrophic flooding and widespread damage. The political landscape heats up as Trump seeks compensation for alleged damages from investigations, while ranchers push back against his beef price reduction plan linked to Argentina’s elections. The largest federal workers' union calls for a clean funding bill to end the government shutdown, and redistricting battles heat up in Virginia and Indiana. Plus, discover the rising trend of luxury Halloween porch decorations!

Tensions rise as Trump imposes tariffs on Canada following a critical ad from Ontario. U.S.-China trade talks suggest progress with a new framework deal. Reports reveal increasing violent encounters during ICE raids leading to more citizen detentions. Legal battles unfold for former FBI Director Comey and AG Letitia James against Trump's Justice Department. Meanwhile, Hurricane Melissa threatens the Caribbean, and California Democrats hint at potential presidential aspirations.

Eric Lach, Staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the political ascent of Zohran Mamdani, a young democratic socialist surging in New York City's mayoral race. Lach discusses Mamdani's unique upbringing and its impact on his bold campaign promises. Key topics include the challenges of governing New York, innovative policy proposals like rent freezes and free buses, and the evolving landscape of national Democratic support. As Mamdani navigates complex issues, Lach highlights his savvy social media strategy and how he frames his message for maximum impact.

A massive FBI investigation ties the NBA to the Mafia, with high-profile arrests of a coach and a player caught in a gambling scandal. Innovative cheating methods such as marked cards and hidden cameras were reportedly used. In political news, the implications of a government shutdown on healthcare are explored, particularly regarding undocumented immigrants. Meanwhile, Trump’s controversial pardon of a crypto exchange founder raises questions about corruption and regulatory challenges. Plus, a woman astounds by playing the clarinet during her brain surgery.

Dan Diamond, a White House reporter at The Washington Post, dives into the surprising demolition of the East Wing, revealing how Trump moved forward with a grand ballroom project without the usual approvals. He sheds light on the political pushback from preservationists concerned about the changes. The discussion also touches on the significant impacts of the China-U.S. trade dispute on soybean farmers, exploring financial strains and potential government aid, alongside curious news about mosquitoes making an unexpected appearance in Iceland.

Tensions rise at NASA as leadership disputes threaten a lunar mission, with Elon Musk playing a pivotal role. The discussion shifts to the Gaza ceasefire and the challenges faced by aid organizations amidst changing Israeli policies. Meanwhile, an Afghan refugee who aided U.S. forces faces deportation after Trump’s program changes. Listeners also learn about the surprising decline in childhood peanut allergies due to early exposure and the incredible rise of NBA star Victor Wembanyama as he transforms the game's landscape.

A massive outage of Amazon Web Services caused widespread disruption, impacting everything from popular apps like Starbucks to healthcare services. Authorities are investigating a daring jewel heist at the Louvre, where thieves executed a quick, expertly planned robbery. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is debating whether drug users can legally own guns, with the Trump administration leaning towards stricter restrictions. Additionally, there's exciting news about retinal implant technology helping patients regain vision.

U.S. forces are intensifying military action in the Caribbean, targeting boats linked to drug trafficking and Venezuela. Tensions in Gaza escalate as airstrikes threaten a fragile ceasefire. A troubling crisis emerges with rising incidents of autistic children wandering away, prompting local policy changes. The podcast also touches on mass protests against Trump and the early release of George Santos, who aims to focus on prison reform. Lastly, the Louvre faces security concerns after a daring jewel heist, raising alarms about art theft.

Jonathan D. Cohen, author of *Losing Big: America’s Reckless Bet on Sports Gambling*, delves into the explosive growth of sports betting in the U.S. He discusses the psychological pull of placing bets, comparing apps to social media's addictive designs. The conversation highlights how lobbying shapes state legalization and the fiscal motivations behind it. Cohen shares a personal story of addiction, raising questions about the effectiveness of regulation. He connects sports betting to broader cultural trends of gamification, predicting its future expansion.

As the government shutdown lingers, both parties are banking on public support while grappling with distrust and funding standoffs. The NYC mayoral race heats up with Zohran Mamdani emerging as a key candidate, championing progressive policies like free childcare. Sports betting's rising popularity raises questions about its impact on culture and state revenues, as discussed by Jonathan D. Cohen. Meanwhile, John Bolton faces indictment, Trump issues dire warnings to Hamas, and Taylor Swift fans flock to a museum inspired by her references.