Morning Announcements

Today’s Headlines: Trump, posting from London, declared “Antifa” a terrorist organization—even though it’s not an actual organization—while mulling racketeering charges with AG Pam Bondi against unnamed left-wing groups. Meanwhile, watchdogs say Russia’s “Operation Overlord” is pumping out fake news, memes, and even Pedro Pascal quotes to stir division after Charlie Kirk’s assassination. The Pentagon, for its part, is eyeing machine learning-driven propaganda tools abroad, and even floating a recruitment campaign using Turning Point USA offices “in Kirk’s honor.” Speaking of deals, the New York Times dropped a bombshell linking Trump’s family cryptofirm World Liberty Financial to a $2B investment from the UAE, followed suspiciously by U.S. approval to send Emiratis advanced AI chips—despite intel concerns they’ll land in China. In other news, House Oversight launched an investigation into ABC, Disney, and Sinclair over Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension after FCC threats. Sinclair called the punishment “not enough” and demanded Kimmel apologize and cut a check to Turning Point USA. The same committee also summoned the CEOs of Discord, Reddit, Twitch, and Steam to testify on platform radicalization October 8. On the Turning Point front, Charlie Kirk’s widow Erika Kirk has been unanimously elected as the org’s new CEO. On immigration, a judge ordered Columbia grad Mahmoud Khalil to be deported to Syria or Algeria, citing omissions on his green card application—including past political affiliations—though supporters say it’s punishment for his activism against the Gaza war. And to end this crazy week, Limewire (yes, Limewire) bought the Fyre Festival brand on eBay for $245K and says it’s planning “real world experiences.”  Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Trump says he’s designating Antifa as a terrorist organization ABC News: Security analysts flag rise in Russian-created misinformation posts on social media following Kirk shooting The Intercept: Pentagon Document: U.S. Wants to “Suppress Dissenting Arguments” Using AI Propaganda NYT: In Giant Deals, U.A.E. Got Chips, and Trump Team Got Crypto Riches Deadline: Top Oversight Democrat Says He’s Launching Investigation Of Trump Administration, ABC And Sinclair Over Jimmy Kimmel Suspension Sinclair: Sinclair Says Kimmel Suspension is Not Enough, Calls on FCC and ABC to Take Additional Action Oversight Committee: Chairman Comer Invites CEOs of Discord, Steam, Twitch, and Reddit to Testify on Radicalization of Online Forum Users - United States House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Axios: Erika Kirk named new Turning Point USA CEO after Charlie Kirk's death NBC News: Immigration judge orders Mahmoud Khalil to be deported to Algeria or Syria WSJ: Infamous Fyre Festival Sells for Fire-Sale Price of $245,000 NBC NEws: Military leaders consider recruiting campaign centered on Charlie Kirk Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: ABC yanked Jimmy Kimmel Live off the air “indefinitely” after Kimmel joked in his monologue about conservatives spinning the Charlie Kirk shooting, with the FCC chair threatening action against Disney and ABC. Meanwhile, the DOJ quietly pulled a study from its site showing far-right violence vastly outpaces left-wing or Islamist extremism—though archived versions and even a Cato Institute report back that up. On Capitol Hill, FBI Director Kash Patel’s second day of testimony was another loud but empty circus, while former CDC Director Susan Monarez dropped bigger bombshells: RFK Jr allegedly pressured her daily to change the vaccine schedule, demanded pre-approval of advisory panel recs, and called CDC staff “child killers.” She says she was fired for defending science; meanwhile, the CDC just announced it will ban remote work for employees with health conditions. The Fed cut rates by a quarter point and hinted at two more cuts this year as inflation lingers but jobs weaken. The Trump admin ordered the National Park Service to remove references to slavery and Native American history in the name of “patriotism,” because nothing says history like a good whitewash. In the UK, police arrested four members of Led By Donkeys for projecting Epstein/Trump/Prince Andrew images onto Windsor Castle during Trump’s state visit. And finally, Jerry Greenfield of Ben & Jerry’s is walking away after 47 years, accusing Unilever of muzzling the brand on social issues—especially Gaza. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: Disney's ABC pulls 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' after FCC chair criticizes the host's Charlie Kirk comments Spectrum News: Vance, Trump falsely claim left-wing violence outpaces the right as DOJ deletes report stating otherwise CNN: Takeaways from FBI Director Kash Patel’s testimony on Jeffrey Epstein WaPo: Takeaways from fired CDC director’s Senate testimony CNBC: Fed meeting recap: Fed Chair Powell calls quarter-point trim a 'risk management cut' NYT: National Parks Ordered To Remove Some Materials on Slavery and Tribes  Axios: 4 arrested after Trump, Epstein images beamed onto Windsor Castle WSJ: Ben & Jerry’s Co-Founder Quits After 47 Years, Cites Loss of Independence Under Unilever Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Trump touched down in the UK for a rare second state visit, where King Charles is rolling out the red carpet even as protesters projected images of Epstein, Trump, and Prince Andrew onto Windsor Castle. Back home, Trump sued The New York Times for $15 million, claiming their endorsement of Kamala Harris in 2024 was an election hit job. Meanwhile, FBI Director Kash Patel got grilled in the Senate over Epstein, Charlie Kirk’s assassination, and political meddling—he also bizarrely claimed Epstein only trafficked for himself. In Utah, the man accused of killing Kirk was charged with seven counts, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty. In New York, a judge tossed terrorism charges against the man who killed UnitedHealthcare’s CEO but kept a murder charge intact. In darker news, Mississippi mourned the death of 21-year-old Trey Reed, whose body was found hanging on campus, while Missouri Republicans pushed through a new congressional map that wipes out a Democratic seat, part of a broader GOP redistricting wave. Elsewhere, a court ruled Fed Governor Lisa Cook can’t be fired by Trump despite his attempts, and all eyes are on the Fed board’s rate decision today. TikTok’s U.S. takeover deal is nearly done, with Oracle, Andreessen Horowitz, and Silver Lake set to take an 80% stake and rebrand the app under a new U.S.-based entity. And finally, the Emmys had their best ratings in years, pulling 7.4 million viewers. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Guardian: Donald Trump lands in UK for second state visit as protesters gather in Windsor NYT: Trump Sues The New York Times For Articles Questioning His Success CNN: Takeaways from FBI Director Kash Patel’s Senate hearing CNN: Live updates: Charlie Kirk shooting investigation, suspect Tyler Robinson hearing AP News: New York judge tosses terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione, lets murder count stand NBC News: Body of a Black student is found hanging from a tree in Mississippi NBC News: Missouri Legislature passes new Republican-drawn congressional map MO Independent: Judge hears arguments in case seeking to toss Missouri’s new congressional maps CNBC: Bill Pulte's relatives claimed primary residence on two properties in two states Axios: Appeals court rules Fed governor Cook can continue to serve The Wrap: TikTok in Final Talks to Be Bought by Oracle, Silver Lake, Andreessen Horowitz Axios: Emmys hit four-year viewership high Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Utah Gov. Spencer Cox says accused shooter Tyler Robinson isn’t cooperating, but the Washington Post found Discord messages where Robinson admitted to the shooting hours before his arrest. FBI Director Kash Patel revealed Robinson had also suggested his plans in texts and a now-destroyed note. Investigators describe him as politically radicalized against Kirk, though he has no criminal record and was still in trade school. Meanwhile, VP JD Vance guest-hosted The Charlie Kirk Show from his White House office, joined by Tucker Carlson, Stephen Miller, and others. Miller went full scorched-earth, calling left-wing groups a “domestic terrorist movement” that the government would dismantle “in Charlie’s name.” In other news, Trump wants companies to ditch quarterly earnings reports, the U.S. and China reached a tentative TikTok sale deal ahead of tomorrow’s deadline, and the Trump administration plans to destroy $10M worth of contraceptives intended for low-income countries despite global offers to take them. Trump also bragged about another strike on a Venezuelan “drug boat,” Israel launched a new ground offensive into Gaza with Rubio nodding along, and NY Gov. Kathy Hochul endorsed Zohran Mamdani over Andrew Cuomo. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: BBC: Suspect in Charlie Kirk shooting not cooperating with authorities, Utah governor says WaPo: Suspect In Charlie Kirk Shooting appears to confess in Discord chat NYT: FBI Head Says Note and DNA Link Suspect to Charlie Kirk Killing AP News: JD Vance says national unity is impossible with those celebrating Charlie Kirk's killing NBC News: 'We will do it in Charlie's name': Stephen Miller vows vengeance for Kirk's murder CNBC: Trump advocates end to quarterly earnings reports  CNBC: Bessent: TikTok deal 'framework' reached with China, Trump and Xi will finalize it Friday Axios: Planned Parenthood urges Trump not to destroy $10 million in contraceptives The Guardian: Trump announces deadly US strike on another alleged Venezuelan drug boat  Axios: Israel launches offensive to occupy Gaza City Axios: Rubio to discuss with Netanyahu Israeli plan for possible West Bank annexation NYT: Opinion | Kathy Hochul: Why I Am Endorsing Zohran Mamdani Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The manhunt in Utah is over — 22-year-old Tyler Robinson confessed to killing Charlie Kirk after admitting it to his father and minister, who turned him in. Investigators haven’t nailed down a motive, though his transgender roommate (and alleged former partner) told police Robinson thought Kirk’s anti-trans rhetoric was hateful. That roommate has been cooperating, handing over texts that led police to the hidden rifle. Formal charges are expected tomorrow. Meanwhile, Congress is debating everything from Kirk lying in state at the Capitol to criminalizing jokes about his death, while FBI Director Kash Patel made headlines for tweeting bad info about the case… from a prime table at Rao’s. Elsewhere: Maryland and Michigan officials got bomb threats (one credible, since cleared), Trump backed off sending the National Guard to Chicago but is pushing troops into Memphis, and Fox host Brian Kilmeade apologized for suggesting homeless people be killed by lethal injection. In Brazil, lawmakers are floating amnesty for ex-president Bolsonaro after his coup conviction — a move drawing sharp rebukes from Brazil and open threats from Trump and Marco Rubio. Trump also tried tying new Russia sanctions to NATO-wide tariffs on China. Across the pond, over 100,000 people joined a far-right rally in London, complete with Elon Musk ranting about wokeness, while Nepal’s revolutionaries literally elected a new prime minister on Discord. Not to be left out, Albania’s Prime MInister just appointed an AI “minister” named Diella to fight corruption as part of its EU membership bid. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: Sources: Kirk suspect's transgender roommate "aghast," may be key to motive CBS News: Live Updates: Charlie Kirk shooting suspect in custody after manhunt, officials announce AP News: Workers commenting on Kirk's death learn the limits of free speech in and out of their jobs Yahoo: Keystone Kash Dined at Luxe NYC Eatery During Kirk Killer Manhunt The Baltimore Banner: Bomb threats target top Maryland General Assembly leaders Yahoo: Lt. Gov Gilchrist says home targeted in ‘credible’ bomb threat Axios: Trump backs off Chicago National Guard threats AP News: Trump says he’ll send National Guard to Memphis, escalating his use of troops in US cities AP News: Fox News' Brian Kilmeade apologizes for saying mentally ill homeless people should be executed NYT: After Bolsonaro’s Conviction, Brazil Already Considers His Amnesty AP News: Brazil braces for new US sanctions after Bolsonaro's conviction angers Trump administration Axios: Trump ties new Russia sanctions to NATO tariffs on China AP News: More than 100,000 people pack streets of central London in march organized by far-right activist NYT: Nepal’s Social Media Ban Backfires as Politics Moves to a Chat Room NBC News: Albania's prime minister appoints an AI-generated 'minister' to tackle corruption Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The FBI is in Utah chasing down leads in the Charlie Kirk assassination, releasing video of the suspected gunman’s escape and offering $100K for tips. Meanwhile, Trump plans to award Kirk the Medal of Freedom, VP JD Vance escorted his casket, and MAGA lawmakers are pushing for a Capitol statue. Security scares piled on, too—Capitol Police cleared a bomb threat at DNC HQ and multiple HBCUs went into lockdown after threats, all later deemed not credible. Bloomberg dropped 18,000 Epstein emails showing his tight post-conviction ties with Ghislaine Maxwell, plus a spreadsheet of $1.8M in gifts and payments. Across the pond, Britain’s ambassador to the U.S. got fired after Epstein’s “birthday book” and emails revealed his buddy-buddy relationship with the disgraced financier. On the economy, grocery inflation hit the highest since 2022—coffee up 20%, beef up 16%, even bananas pricier—thanks in part to tariffs. And abroad, Brazil’s ex-president Jair Bolsonaro was convicted of plotting a coup, including assassinations of Lula da Silva and others, and sentenced to 27 years. Unsurprisingly, he’s crying “witch hunt” as his supporters riot. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NYT: No Arrests in Charlie Kirk’s Killing as FBI Seeks Help From Public Independent: MAGA Rep. Anna Paulina Luna calls for Charlie Kirk statue in the Capitol after his assassination Axios: State Department warns immigrants not to mock Kirk's death NBC: DNC headquarters searched for bomb due to threat later deemed ‘not credible ABC News: 'Chilling reminder': Multiple historically Black universities under lockdown after receiving threats Bloomberg: Epstein’s Inbox: A Trove of Emails Reveals Ghislaine Maxwell’s Secrets BBC: Being US ambassador 'privilege of my life', Mandelson says, after being sacked over Epstein emails Axios: Grocery inflation highest since 2022 as Trump tariffs pile up CNN: Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro convicted of plotting coup, sentenced to over 27 years in prison  Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Conservative pundit Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at a Utah Valley University event yesterday with thousands in attendance. The shooter  is still on the run despite an FBI “person of interest” briefly being detained. Utah’s governor called it a political assassination, while Trump lowered flags and blamed the “radical left” without evidence. Hours later, another shooting at a Colorado high school left four hospitalized, including the gunman. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans blocked a Schumer amendment to force the DOJ to release the Epstein files—yes, the same Republicans who were once demanding them—while Democrats flipped a Virginia House seat in a special election. In economic news, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick wants the U.S. to claim a share of university patents funded by federal grants (hello, communism?). Abroad, Poland accused Russia of 19 drone incursions in one night and invoked NATO’s Article 4, Nepal’s protests exploded into riots that toppled the prime minister, and France’s government collapsed after a debt-driven no-confidence vote—booting its fifth prime minister in under two years. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Live updates: Manhunt underway after conservative activist Charlie Kirk shot dead on Utah campus CPR: Shooting at Evergreen High School leaves three students with gunshot wounds, including the suspected shooter Axios: Senate GOP blocks amendment to release Epstein files Politico: Democrats add 1 more vote in Congress after Virginia special election - Live Updates Axios: "The Axios Show" exclusive: Lutnick says U.S. should take a chunk of universities' patent revenue WaPo: What to know as Poland invokes NATO Article 4, citing Russian drone violation CNN: Trump on Russia’s incursion into NATO: ‘Here we go!’ CNN: A parliament in flames, a leader toppled. Nepal Gen-Z protesters ask: what comes next? Time: What Comes Next for France After Another Government Collapse Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Israel stirred up another front yesterday by striking Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar—right as they were meeting to discuss Trump’s ceasefire plan. Qatar, not thrilled about the timing, has suspended its mediator role. The White House is insisting the bombing was Israel’s call, not ours—though the optics are messy, given Qatar’s status as a U.S. ally. Meanwhile, Chief Justice John Roberts temporarily let Trump freeze $4 million in foreign aid while the Court takes up the case, and the justices agreed to fast-track Trump’s appeal to reinstate tariffs that lower courts already ruled illegal. In other Trump court news, a federal appeals court upheld the $83.3 million defamation payout he owes E. Jean Carroll, calling the damages “fair and reasonable.” On the economy, Labor Department revisions show 911,000 fewer jobs created in the past year than first reported—the biggest downward adjustment since 2002. The Census Bureau also found that inflation wiped out income gains for most Americans in 2024, except high earners, while the gender pay gap actually widened. And finally, South Carolina Republicans are moving toward one of the harshest abortion bans with no exceptions for rape, incest, or fatal fetal anomalies, women potentially facing murder charges and even the death penalty for terminating a pregnancy. The bill will serve as a model for other states. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: Israel strikes Hamas leadership in Qatar, which had been mediating a ceasefire in Gaza Axios: Israel's attack in Qatar infuriated Trump advisers, officials say Axios: Supreme Court pauses judge's order on Trump foreign aid freeze Axios: Supreme Court to expedite Trump tariff case appeal AP News: Appeals court upholds E. Jean Carroll's $83.3M defamation judgment against Trump CNBC: Jobs report revisions September 2025: Axios: Gender pay gap is getting wider, reversing progress Substack: South Carolina Republicans Move to Ban Birth Control Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The Epstein files just keep coming—House Oversight dropped a batch of subpoenaed documents from his estate, including Trump’s long-denied birthday note (with the very recognizable Trump signature) plus another note from a Mar-a-Lago member joking about Epstein “selling” Trump a woman for $22,500. Meanwhile, the NYT dropped a bomb on JP Morgan, showing how the bank ignored red flags to keep Epstein as a client for years because he was too lucrative—and too connected to people like Bill Gates and Sergey Brin. The DOJ, for its part, asked a judge to keep the names of two Epstein associates who got six-figure payments in 2018 sealed. Elsewhere, the Supreme Court greenlit roving immigration patrols in LA, prompting Gov. Newsom to accuse the conservative majority of being the “Grand Marshal for a parade of racial terror.” Trump, asked about his Chicago “war” meme, claimed he just meant “cleaning up cities” as DHS launched “Operation Midway Blitz” targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records. ICE raided a Hyundai plant in Georgia, detaining 475 workers—most of them South Korean nationals—sparking diplomatic talks with Seoul. On top of that, Trump wants to make the citizenship test harder, possibly with an essay requirement. In digital warfare news, the FBI warned China’s Salt Typhoon campaign has now hit 600 companies in 80 countries—and possibly every American. Hackers even impersonated Rep. John Moolenaar during trade talks. Finally, Axios reported Biden staffers were uneasy about his heavy reliance on autopen for pardons and Trump cheered West Point for scrapping an award for the “woke” Tom Hanks. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WSJ: Epstein Birthday Letter With Trump’s Signature Revealed NYT: How JP Morgan Enabled The Crimes Of Jeffrey Epstein NBC News: DOJ says names of two associates Epstein wired $100k and $250k to should stay secret LA Times: Supreme Court allows Trump administration to resume indiscriminate immigration raids in Los Angeles NYT: Trump Administration Live Updates: President Says He's Not Declaring 'War' on Chicago NYT: Immigration Crackdown in Chicago WSJ: Seoul Says Deal Reached With U.S. to Release Workers Detained in Hyundai Raid Axios: Trump's team plans harder test for U.S. citizenship — and more leeway to reject applicants Axios: China's hacking machine wants your data and knows how to get it WSJ: Chinese Hackers Pretended to Be a Top U.S. Lawmaker During Trade Talks Axios: Scoop: Biden officials raised concerns with how he issued pardons, used autopen AP News: Trump celebrates West Point alumni group canceling award ceremony to honor Tom Hanks Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The weekend brought another Trump classic: a meme threatening to send the military into Chicago, complete with an Apocalypse Now reference and the caption “Chicago about to find out why it’s called the Department of War.” Thousands protested in both Chicago and DC, while the new “Department of War” is now rebranding everything from uniforms to its website to fit the new name—on the taxpayer dime. In other news, RFK Jr., still smoldering from his Senate tantrum, is reportedly preparing a report linking autism to Tylenol use during pregnancy, a claim debunked by every credible medical body. His own family called for him to resign, former Surgeon General Jerome Adams said Trump should fire him, and even Trump broke with him to say vaccines “just work.” Meanwhile, VP JD Vance sparked a GOP mini-drama after bragging about a deadly US strike in the Caribbean; when a journalist called it a war crime, his response prompted Rand Paul to comment “despicable.” The DOJ opened a criminal probe into Fed governor Lisa Cook, who’s already suing the administration over Trump’s attempt to oust her—setting up a major fight over Fed independence. At the same time, a dozen federal judges voiced frustration with the Supreme Court for overturning lower court rulings with little explanation.  On the economy, August jobs numbers were rough, with just 22,000 added and unemployment climbing to 4.3%. And finally, Paramount is in talks to acquire Bari Weiss’s Free Press for up to $200M, possibly putting her in charge of CBS News. She just hosted Justice Amy Coney Barrett at Lincoln Center, where ACB insisted the Constitution is “alive and well” and that the US is not in a constitutional crisis… though if you have to say it, maybe that’s its own answer. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Trump threatens Chicago with apocalyptic force and Pritzker calls him a 'wannabe dictator' Wired: Defense Department Scrambles to Pretend It’s Called the War Department The Times: Kennedy family: RFK Jr is ‘threat to wellbeing of every American Axios: Trump breaks from RFK on vaccines: "Pure and simple, they work" CNN: Trump’s former surgeon general calls for RFK Jr. to be fired CNBC: Payrolls rose 22,000 in August, less than expected in further sign of hiring slowdown Axios: "Despicable and thoughtless": Vance's drug vessel strike praise slammed by senator WSJ: DOJ Opens Criminal Investigation Into Fed’s Cook, Issues Subpoenas NBC News: In rare interviews, federal judges criticize Supreme Court's handling of Trump cases NBC News: Justice Amy Coney Barrett says country is not in a 'constitutional crisis' Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: RFK Jr., still clinging to his shaky Health & Human Services title, melted down for three hours in front of the Senate yesterday over the CDC chaos and vaccine access. He accused the CDC director of lying about being fired, insisted he’s not restricting vaccines (while restricting them), and somehow wandered into diabetes and Nobel Prizes for Trump. Massachusetts, meanwhile, became the first state to require insurers to cover vaccines regardless of federal policy. Jobs data isn’t great: just 54,000 private-sector jobs added in August, layoffs up nearly 40%, and hiring plans at their lowest since 2009. The official BLS report lands today—Trump’s first with his handpicked Heritage economist in charge. The Trump family’s wealth ballooned by $5 billion this week thanks to their crypto empire—even as their shiny new WLFI token lost half its value. They also launched a bitcoin miner on Nasdaq and unveiled a $6.4B crypto treasury firm. Elsewhere, a federal court cleared the way for the Everglades-based “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center, and Macron announced a 26-country “coalition of the willing” to back Ukraine postwar, with US support still fuzzy. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Kennedy tries to defend COVID-19 vaccine stance in raucous Senate hearing Axios: Massachusetts becomes first state to impose its own vaccine coverage rules Yahoo: August jobs report to show further 'softness growing' in the US labor market as Fed rate cuts near CBS News: New crypto token boosts Trump family's wealth by $5 billion Axios: Trump family-backed American Bitcoin is a different sort of power play Axios: Crypto.com launches $6.4B treasury firm Axios: Florida shouldn't have been ordered to dismantle Alligator Alcatraz, appeals court finds AP News: Macron says 26 countries pledge troops as a reassurance force for Ukraine after fighting ends Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Epstein survivors demanded the full release of government files on his trafficking network. Haley Robson, abused by both Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, stressed the issue isn’t political and called out banks that looked the other way while Epstein moved huge sums of cash. Survivors also noted Epstein’s favorite brag: his friendship with Trump. In response, Trump staged a loud military flyover to drown them out, held his own Oval Office event with Poland’s new right-wing president, and again dismissed the survivors’ claims as a “hoax”—despite warning GOP lawmakers the night before that forcing DOJ to release the files would be an act of betrayal. Meanwhile, China’s massive military parade rolled out thousands of troops and cutting-edge weapons for Xi, Putin, Kim Jong-un, and two dozen other world leaders. Putin even floated meeting Zelensky in Moscow, though given Russia’s use of North Korean fighters in Ukraine, that seems like a stretch. Back home, the latest jobs report shows more unemployed Americans than job openings for the first time since 2021. A federal judge also smacked down the Trump administration’s $2.6B in Harvard research funding cuts, calling them retaliation dressed up as “antisemitism” concerns. Florida went full Wild West on public health, ending vaccine mandates for all childhood diseases—measles, polio, the works—while the state’s surgeon general bizarrely compared mandates to slavery. And in tech news, Oura’s new partnership with the Department of Defense sparked consumer concern about data-sharing, though the company insists civilian users’ info won’t be touched. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: PBS: ‘The abuse was real,’ Epstein survivor implores Trump, who again calls case a ‘hoax’ NYT: Trump Welcomes Poland’s Right-Wing President to White House CNN: China showcases military strength at parade as Xi stands alongside Putin and Kim Yahoo: There are more Americans out of work than there are jobs open for the first time since April 2021 AP News: Judge reverses Trump administration’s cuts of billions of dollars to Harvard University The Guardian: Florida to end vaccine mandates for children as state’s surgeon general likens them to ‘slavery’ Mashable: What Oura Ring’s partnership with the U.S. military means for your data Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Trump finally reappeared yesterday—45 minutes late to his big Oval Office presser—where he confirmed Space Force HQ is moving from Colorado Springs to Huntsville, Alabama (something we already knew thanks to a DoD slip-up). Asked about his mysterious five-day absence and rumors he’d died, Trump brushed it off, then pivoted to announce he’s sending National Guard troops into Chicago, prompting Gov. JB Pritzker to accuse the feds of already staging units nearby. At the same time, Sec. of State Marco Rubio announced a U.S. strike on a Venezuela-linked drug boat in the Caribbean that killed 11, with Trump posting an explosion video on Truth Social as his version of “just say no.” Meanwhile, Trump’s two-week “deadline” for peace in Ukraine passed without progress—Putin was too busy in China attending Xi Jinping’s WWII anniversary parade with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un and his daughter/successor Kim Ju Ae. Back in D.C., Congress returned from recess facing another looming shutdown and the Epstein files circus: six survivors testified on Capitol Hill as lawmakers released 30,000 pages of mostly redundant documents, while still pressing DOJ for the unredacted batch. Elsewhere, a federal judge ruled Google abused its search monopoly but stopped short of breaking up Chrome—news that sent its stock soaring. And Denmark just made history by becoming the first European country to grant citizens copyright control over their likeness, including AI-generated versions of themselves, with protections lasting 50 years after death. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: Trump administration live updates: Congress faces shutdown fight, Epstein files vote ABC Chicago: Chicago braces for potential surge in ICE operations, which could begin Tuesday AP News: Trump says US strike on vessel in Caribbean targeted Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang, killed 11 CNBC: Plane carrying EU leader hit with suspected Russian GPS interference Reuters: Xi hosts ‘old friend’ Putin, Kim ahead of military parade in challenge to West ABC News: Congress returns from recess as government shutdown deadline looms, Epstein files dominate the House NBC News: Jeffrey Epstein accusers urge Trump to release all the case files and rule out a Ghislaine Maxwell pardon NYT: Google Must Share Search Datda With Rivals, Judge Rules My Privacy: Denmark Makes History: Your Face and Voice Are Now Your Intellectual Property Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: President Trump hasn’t been seen in public in days, fueling health rumors the White House won’t confirm or deny—though his team has been posting old photos and oddly ghostwritten Truth Social rants to keep up appearances. Meanwhile, a U.S. appeals court ruled most of Trump’s tariffs illegal but left them in place until mid-October, setting up a likely Supreme Court fight. Trump also yanked Kamala Harris’s Secret Service protection right before her book tour, while Marco Rubio revoked Mahmoud Abbas’s U.S. visa ahead of the UN General Assembly. On the rebrand beat, the administration is drafting plans to rename the Department of Defense the “Department of War” (which was last used in 1947). Elsewhere, Rudy Giuliani says he fractured his spine in a car crash after helping a domestic violence victim—though Trump quickly promised him a Medal of Freedom, raising more questions than answers. Missouri’s GOP governor is fast-tracking redistricting to lock in more Republican seats before 2026. Abroad, Xi Jinping hosted Putin and Modi at the Shanghai Cooperation summit to pitch a “Global South” order, Yemen mourned slain Houthi leaders after an Israeli strike, and Israel says it also killed Hamas’s spokesman as it eyes another Gaza offensive. And back home, Congress returns with the Epstein files looming—lawmakers Massie and Khanna are set to appear with new victims demanding the DOJ release everything. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Newsweek: Donald Trump Posting Week-Old Photo Raises Eyebrows Amid Health Speculation CNBC: Bessent expects Supreme Court to uphold legality of Trump’s tariffs but eyes Plan B NBC News: Trump revokes Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris AP News: US revokes visas of Palestinian president and other officials ahead of UN General Assembly  WSJ: White House Moves Forward on Plans for a Department of War NBC News: Trump says he will award Rudy Giuliani the Presidential Medal of Freedom NBC News: Missouri governor calls special session to redraw congressional maps in push to boost GOP seats Reuters: SCO summit 2025 as it happened: China's Xi met Putin and Modi, as Trump's shadow loomed  Reuters: Thousands attend funeral of Houthi leaders killed by Israeli strike, vow revenge WSJ: Israel Says It Has Killed Hamas Spokesman in Gaza City Strike Ahead of Planned Invasion Politico: Khanna and Massie to hold press conference with Epstein victims Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Newly confirmed CDC director, Susan Monarez, was “officially removed” by HHS Secretary RFK Jr.—even though she insisted only the president can fire her, making The CDC mess even messier. Meanwhile, RFK Jr’s ally Jim O’Neill has been tapped as acting director, prompting dozens of CDC staff in Atlanta to walk out in protest. Over at the Surface Transportation Board, Trump is trying to oust a Democratic member just as the board weighs a huge merger between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific that could essentially create one mega-railroad controlling freight across the U.S. At the same time, Trump is also closing the “de minimis” loophole, meaning imported packages under $800 will now get slapped with tariffs ranging from 10–50%—and several countries, including Japan, Germany, and Mexico, say they’ll stop sending packages here altogether. In Minneapolis, police gave more details about the horrific school shooting that killed two children and injured 18 others. Officials say the gunman plastered his weapons with over 100 hate slogans and had been openly posting about his plans for weeks, though law enforcement somehow missed it. And in DC, the infamous “sandwich thrower” who hurled lunch at a federal agent during Trump’s new troop patrols has been charged only with a misdemeanor after prosecutors couldn’t get a felony indictment. Truly, the first time a ham sandwich wasn’t indicted. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Guardian: CDC in crisis: who are the top officials resigning or being forced out? | Trump administration NBC News: Trump administration live updates: White House taps Kennedy deputy as acting CDC director; Fed governor Lisa Cook sues over removal Axios: Massive CDC walkout erupts amid internal chaos Bloomberg: Trump Moves To Fire Rail Regulator WIRED: The Duty-Free Loophole Is Closing. What That Means for You—and Your Packages NBC News: Minneapolis shooting live updates: Shooter 'wanted to watch children suffer' as 120 shell casings are recovered, officials say AP News: DC man seen throwing sandwich at agent charged with misdemeanor after grand jury declines indictment Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: On the first day back at Annunciation Catholic School, a 23-year-old former student killed two kids, injured 17 others, and then himself. He left behind a manifesto filled with antisemitic and racist rants, even scrawling “6 million wasn’t enough” on his gun, the FBI is investigating it as domestic terrorism. Abroad, Denmark summoned the U.S. envoy after reports that Trump-linked operatives ran covert influence campaigns in Greenland, compiling lists of allies and critics while trying to undermine Denmark’s image. In other news, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the Trump administration is taking control of D.C.’s Union Station from Amtrak, promising to restore its “beauty.” A whistleblower revealed that DOGE uploaded a massive Social Security database—including names, addresses, and birth dates of millions—onto an insecure cloud server, risking a “catastrophic” breach. In Iowa, Democrat Catelin Drey flipped a GOP-held state senate seat by 11 points, ending Republicans’ supermajority. On public health, HHS Secretary RFK Jr restricted access to COVID vaccines by requiring doctor approval, as new CDC Director Susan Monarez abruptly resigned alongside other senior officials. And DHS Secretary Kristi Noem unlawfully placed over 180 FEMA staff on leave after they signed a letter criticizing cuts to disaster preparedness. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Live Updates: Minneapolis shooting leaves at least 2 children killed and 17 people injured in Annunciation Catholic School Axios: Denmark summons U.S. envoy over Greenland influence campaign with Trump ties AP News: Trump extends control over Washington by taking management of Union Station away from Amtrak NYT: DOGE Put Critical Social Security Data at Risk, Whistle-Blower Says Des Moines Register: Democrat Catelin Drey wins Iowa Senate special election, breaking Republican supermajority Axios: RFK Jr. limits who is eligible for COVID shots Axios: CDC director Susan Monarez ousted as new COVID vaccine policy takes shape Axios: Multiple FEMA staff put on leave after letter criticizing Trump admin  Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Right as Taylor Swift casually dropped her engagement pics Trump brushed off his critics by saying he might be a “dictator,” but at least he “stops crime,” and pitched the death penalty for DC murders. He also doubled down on firing Fed Governor Lisa Cook — accusing her of mortgage fraud (a line of attack he often saves for Black women in power) — and is already eyeing his buddy Stephen Miran as a replacement. Cook is suing, and the Fed says it’ll let the courts decide.Meanwhile, Commerce Secretary Lutnick floated the idea of the U.S. buying stakes in defense giants like Lockheed Martin — basically admitting they’re already arms of the government. Over in Congress, Oversight Chair James Comer launched a probe into DC crime stats after a whistleblower claimed they were cooked. On foreign policy, Trump met with South Korea’s president and announced 600,000 new visas for Chinese students, despite backlash from his base. Abroad, Israeli troops shelled Gaza’s Nasser Hospital, killing 20 people, including journalists and medics, saying they mistook a camera for Hamas surveillance. In Australia, PM Anthony Albanese blamed Iran for a string of arson attacks targeting Jewish sites, expelled Iranian diplomats, and cut ties completely. Lastly, OpenAI faces yet another lawsuit — this one from the parents of a 16-year-old in California who say ChatGPT helped their son explore suicide methods before he took his life. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: ABC News: Trump admin live updates: Trump says he will seek death penalty for murders in DC AP News:  Fed governor Lisa Cook to sue Trump administration WSJ: Trump Weighs Quickly Announcing Nominee to Replace Lisa Cook on Fed Board CNBC: Trump Pentagon weighing equity stakes in defense contractors like Lockheed, says Lutnick Axios: House GOP launches probe into alleged DC crime data manipulation Axios: MAGA rages over Trump's Chinese students announcement WSJ: Israeli Troops Targeted a Camera in Gaza Hospital Strike That Killed 20, Army Says CBS News: Australia expels Iranian diplomats, accuses country of directing antisemitic arson attacks Axios:  Parents sue OpenAI over teen's suicide Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Trump claims he’s “not-a-dictator” while justifying plans to send the National Guard into states under the banner of fighting crime. He followed that up by signing a stack of executive orders: one to criminalize flag-burning (directly challenging a Supreme Court ruling that protects it as free speech), and another targeting cashless bail by pressuring cities and D.C. to roll it back. He also picked new fights with Chris Christie and threatened to have FCC revoke their licenses - which he can’t really do. Meanwhile, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is openly defying Trump, calling him a wannabe dictator and vowing to stop him. On Capitol Hill, the House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Epstein’s estate for financial records, contacts, and his infamous birthday book. In deportation news, ICE re-detained Kilmar Abrego Garcia—less than 24 hours after his release—though a judge has temporarily blocked his deportation to Uganda. In other news, Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro is urging citizens to join the pro-government militia in response to U.S. warships and a $50M bounty on his head (though his claim of 4.5M soldiers is… generously padded). Trade tensions are also flaring again, with foreign postal services pausing shipments to the U.S. over confusion around Trump’s changes to tariff exemptions. Lastly, Elon Musk’s xAI is suing Apple and OpenAI, accusing them of illegally rigging the AI market by locking ChatGPT into every iPhone. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: Trump denies being a dictator as he threatens new National Guard deployment AP News: Trump moves to ban flag burning despite Supreme Court ruling that Constitution allows it WSJ: Trump Takes Aim at Ending Cashless Bail Axios: Trump threatens ABC and NBC over "BAD STORIES" WTTW Chicago: Pritzker Vows to Stop Trump From Sending National Guard to Chicago AP News: House committee subpoenas Jeffrey Epstein's estate for documents AP News: Kilmar Abrego Garcia faces new deportation efforts after ICE detains him in Baltimore CBS News: Housewives, retirees in Venezuela line up to join militia in response to what Maduro calls "outlandish threats" by U.S. Axios: Global shippers cut U.S. off as de minimis tariff deadline nears WSJ: Elon Musk’s xAI Sues Apple and OpenAI, Alleging They Are Monopolists Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The FBI raided John Bolton’s house over “classified docs” (read: political trolling), while Trump basically pulled off a hostile takeover of Intel, forcing the company to hand over 10% equity to the government. In D.C., National Guard troops are now openly armed, and Trump’s talking about shipping them off to Chicago and New York like he’s picking stops on a tour while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth guts the Pentagon of anyone not Trump-loyal enough. Down in Florida, a judge froze the swampy “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center, but DeSantis bounced back with plans for a new “Deportation Depot.” ICE is still deporting people at lightning speed, including Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who’s now being sent to Uganda with barely any notice. In other news, Russia’s Lavrov went on U.S. TV to hint at peace talks (translation: Ukraine gives up land), while Zelensky celebrated Independence Day with Canada’s billion-dollar aid package and a parade of European allies. At the same time, the Pentagon is quietly blocking Ukraine from using U.S. long-range missiles on Russia—because “wooing” Putin is apparently still the plan. And finally, Newsom is cutting green deals with Denmark like a real head of state, and the DOJ “accidentally” dumped a soft-focus interview with Ghislaine Maxwell the same day it was supposed to hand over Epstein files—timed perfectly with the Bolton raid. Funny how that works. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: Former Trump national security adviser John Bolton's home and office searched by FBI WSJ: Trump, Intel Agree to 10% U.S. Stake as President Promises More Deals AP News: National Guard troops on DC streets for Trump's crackdown will start carrying guns CNN: Officials have been planning for weeks to send National Guard to Chicago as Trump seeks to expand crime crackdown CNN: Hegseth fires general whose agency’s intel assessment of damage from Iran strikes angered Trump CNN: ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ may be shut down before Halloween. Florida already has a backup plan WaPo: Trump administration to vet all 55 million foreigners with U.S. visas NBC News: Kilmar Abrego Garcia notified by ICE that he may be deported to Uganda NBC News: Russia’s Lavrov says Putin wants peace even as strikes on Ukraine ramp up: Full interview Kyiv Independent: Canada to send over $700 million in drones and ammunition to Ukraine in September WSJ: Pentagon Has Quietly Blocked Ukraine’s Long-Range Missile Strikes on Russia NBC News: Trump 'not happy' with strike on U.S. factory in Ukraine Newsweek: Gavin Newsom Announces 'Very Important' International Partnership: What to Know NBC News: Read the full transcript of Ghislaine Maxwell's DOJ interviews Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The border wall is getting a makeover—DHS Secretary Kristi Noem says it’ll be painted black (because the president thinks the heat will make it harder to climb), with a price tag that could hit a billion dollars but plenty of funding still left in Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill.” Meanwhile, the Pentagon asked nearly a million of its civilian employees if they’d like to “volunteer” with ICE or CBP under potentially harsh conditions, while the DC National Guard has quietly been pulled into pistol training drills in case they’re ordered to carry weapons. Meanwhile, Walmart’s CEO says tariffs are slowly driving up costs, especially for lower-income households, while Trump himself has been quietly buying more than $100 million in corporate and municipal bonds—meaning he’s personally investing in the same companies and local governments affected by his own policies. On top of that, a New York appeals court just tossed his $500 million fraud fine as “excessive,” even as the DOJ’s new “Weaponization” unit is clumsily targeting NY Attorney General Letitia James, with its Trump-friendly head, Ed Martin, literally showing up outside her townhouse in a trench coat. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams’ inner circle is once again in scandal mode: his longtime ally Winnie Greco was caught trying to hand a reporter cash inside a potato chip bag (she swears it was just a cultural kindness), while another close aide, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, was indicted for steering migrant shelter contracts and even trying to block a Brooklyn bike lane—for as little as $2,500 and a TV cameo. Finally, Texas Republicans approved a new congressional map giving them at least 5 extra winnable seats, while Trump is already dreaming much bigger—claiming on Truth Social that he wants 100 new GOP seats and railing (again) against mail-in voting. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Kristi Noem: Southern border wall will be painted black to deter people from climbing it during hot weather, DHS secretary says 404 Media: Pentagon Asks Its Civilian Employees If They Want to Work for ICE The Handbasket: DC National Guard members actively training to carry pistols in capital mission Axios: Walmart says tariff impact gradual, but changing customers' behavior NBC News: Trump bought more than $100 million in bonds since January, filings show AP News: Appeals court throws out massive civil fraud penalty against President Donald Trump ABC News: Head of DOJ anti weaponization group calls on NY AG Letitia James to resign The Guardian: Two former Eric Adams advisers accused of bribery in separate schemes Axios: Trump lays out his redistricting endgame: A 100-seat Republican majority Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices