Apple News Today

Government reopens, but the health care battle continues as ACA subsidies are left out of the deal. World leaders gather at COP30 with no U.S. officials present, which may undermine global climate efforts. Canada loses its measles-elimination status due to an outbreak, highlighting a concerning trend in vaccination rates. Meanwhile, the USS Gerald Ford is deployed near the Caribbean targeting drug trafficking. In sports, fallout from a controversial NBA trade leads to a major leadership shakeup, while Bob Ross paintings help support public television funding.

Lori Aratani, a national transportation reporter for The Washington Post, shares insights on the ongoing challenges facing the aviation industry after a government shutdown. She highlights a significant shortage of air traffic controllers, which could delay recovery efforts. Aratani also discusses the logistical hurdles airlines face in restoring schedules, as well as the impact of pay and morale issues among controllers. Additionally, she touches on the rise in car-loan delinquencies and the evolving landscape of the repossession industry, showcasing its human costs.

A rare Sunday Senate session leads to a potential end to the government shutdown, driven by pressure on senators from various fronts. Heavy investments in AI data centers are reshaping small towns like Umatilla, fostering economic growth but also rising housing costs. A shocking incident of street harassment against Mexico's president sparks national outrage and a debate on gender violence. Plus, Trump’s recent pardons, a scandal in MLB, and the surprising end of the 207-year-old Farmer's Almanac add to the mix.

Journalist Irin Carmon, author of 'Unbearable: Five Women and the Perils of Pregnancy in America,' discusses the shocking maternal mortality rate in the U.S. and the preventable nature of most deaths. She highlights systemic failures in maternal healthcare that treat pregnant individuals as less than human and the disparity Black women face in medical settings. Irin contrasts the care quality between midwives and hospitals, sharing harrowing stories of women like Maggie and Christine to underscore the urgent need for reform and advocacy.

Nancy Pelosi's retirement after nearly four decades prompts a reflection on her groundbreaking role in politics. The discussion highlights her legislative successes, including the Affordable Care Act and banking reforms. Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago's controversial support for U.S. military strikes sparks debate about regional impact. A blackout of ESPN on YouTubeTV raises concerns for sports fans, while Tesla shareholders approve a staggering pay package for Elon Musk. Last but not least, a security breach in the Louvre heist garners attention for its alarming simplicity.

Flight reductions loom over 40 major airports due to a government shutdown, raising concerns about travel disruptions. In Sudan, a crucial turning point is marked by the RSF's control of El Fasher, intensifying the civil war's humanitarian crisis. The rise of food delivery apps has drastically changed dining trends, pushing restaurants to adapt to delivery-first models. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court voices skepticism on presidential tariffs and controversies linger over the handling of the Comey case, amidst a nationwide scramble for dwindling pennies.

Democrats scored significant victories in recent elections, including a historic win in New York by Zohran Mamdani. The Supreme Court is tackling Trump’s tariffs, with potential refunds for businesses if he loses. Meanwhile, a tragic UPS plane crash in Louisville raised safety concerns, and some residents in Maine hilariously received letters about their deaths—despite being very much alive. Negotiations on the government shutdown are also heating up, hinting at possible resolutions ahead.

The Trump administration's decision to partially restore SNAP food aid raises concerns about delays and impacts on millions. Californians are faced with a pivotal vote on congressional maps that could shift power in upcoming midterms. Stand-your-ground laws are linked to a rise in justifiable homicides, sparking heated discussions. Trump adds intrigue to the New York City mayoral race with a late endorsement. Meanwhile, potential tariffs threaten to spike prices on Italian pasta, and Egypt unveils its massive new archaeological museum near the Giza pyramids.

As key elections unfold, the dynamics of races in New Jersey and New York City spark discussions on national political implications. Meanwhile, the Pentagon escalates U.S. military action against drug trafficking in the Caribbean, raising questions about legal authorizations. Over 1,000 Afghan allies remain trapped in Qatar due to complex vetting processes. Travelers face challenges as a government shutdown impacts airline staffing, while the New York City Marathon delivers a thrilling photo finish.

Andy Kroll, an investigative reporter for ProPublica and coauthor of 'The Shadow President', dives into the significant yet overlooked influence of Russell Vought in shaping Trump’s agenda. Kroll reveals Vought's views on dismantling the ‘deep state’ and how Christian nationalism infuses his policies. He discusses Vought's powerful role as the 'shadow president', his past experiments with funding impoundment, and plans for Project 2025. The conversation sheds light on Vought's loyalty to Trump and the long-term implications of his governance philosophy.