Lawmakers in Washington are working overtime to wrap up a partial federal government shutdown that kicked in after Congress blew past its funding deadline last Friday. The stalemate has left big chunks of the government, including the Pentagon and Transportation Department, in limbo with workers either sent home or clocking in without a paycheck. Senate Democrats pushed for changes in immigration enforcement before agreeing to fund the Department of Homeland Security, sparking the disruption. Both sides anticipate a quick fix, with the Senate already moving a temporary package that gives DHS just two weeks of cash to push talks forward. Over in the House, things are trickier some Republicans balk at the DHS tweaks and want to tack on election security measures, while certain Democrats won’t back even short-term funding for the agency.
The US government has shut down. Here’s what to know – ABC News
In Minneapolis, a federal judge’s decision over the weekend paved the way for the Trump administration to keep up its immigration crackdown, right after the border chief signaled a pullback in operations. Thousands hit the streets Friday to rally against federal agents, and lawyers for the state and city tried to block the moves, claiming they trampled on constitutional rights. Judge Kate Menendez, appointed by Biden, said the challenge probably wouldn’t hold up but highlighted the deep and painful effects on the community. Meanwhile, journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort got out of jail after being nabbed while covering a protest at a church, pledging to keep shining a light on the story. A local knitting store even revived a protest hat design from World War II Norway, donating proceeds to help immigrants.
Anti-ICE protests take place nationwide following fatal shootings …
President Trump dropped a surprise on social media Sunday night, announcing he wants to shutter the Kennedy Center for two full years starting this summer for major upgrades. The venue, which he renamed the Trump Kennedy Center back in December, has been dealing with lawsuits over the name switch, artists bailing on shows, and donors pulling support. It’s raised big questions about keeping the place running smoothly.
The Grammys lit up last night with Bad Bunny making waves as his album DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS snagged album of the year, the first time a Spanish-language record has taken that top honor. The 31-year-old dedicated his trophy to folks who’ve left their homes chasing dreams. He wasn’t the only standout, with a bunch of other winners lighting up the night.
Bad Bunny wins Grammy for album of the year – Los Angeles Times
A fresh report from the Government Accountability Office reveals that the Trump team’s push to axe staff at the Education Department’s civil rights office racked up as much as $38 million in taxpayer costs. Courts stepped in to stop the firings, forcing the government to keep paying folks they tried to let go without letting them back to work.
On a lighter note, author Priya Parker shares tips for building stronger communities: Throw the kind of get-togethers you’d love to go to, surround yourself with reliable friends up for adventure, and make habits out of visiting spots like your local gym or bookstore.
Out in Quartzsite, Arizona, the annual Rubber Tramp Rendezvous draws vans, buses, and RVs for folks to trade advice and fixes on nomadic living, serving as a key support network for those without fixed addresses.
Three quick things before wrapping up:
- Fuel tests kick off today for NASA’s Artemis II mission, a big step toward sending astronauts around the moon.
- Actress Catherine O’Hara, famous for Home Alone and Schitt’s Creek, passed away at 71.
- Eight years back, a San Francisco cyclist got help from a stranger in a lavender bunny suit after a hit-and-run, a reminder of unexpected kindness in tough times.
Quick Summary
Congress aims to swiftly resolve a partial government shutdown tied to DHS funding and immigration disputes. Minneapolis sees continued immigration enforcement after a judge’s ruling amid protests. Trump proposes a two-year Kennedy Center closure for renovations. Bad Bunny claims a historic Grammy for his Spanish album, while a report flags $38M costs from Education Department layoffs. Plus, community tips, nomadic gatherings, and quick hits on NASA, O’Hara’s passing, and a heartwarming story.