Texas manufacturing activity saw significant growth in September, with the production index increasing to 29.5, marking the ninth consecutive month of expansion. New orders and hiring also rose, while cost pressures intensified, with manufacturers expressing mixed sentiments about future business conditions.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is encountering significant resistance from congressional Republicans regarding his request for $1.5 trillion in funding for the Pentagon. Concerns about his leadership, relationships with lawmakers, and the ongoing conflict with Iran are contributing to this reluctance. Hegseth's proposed budget includes a more than 40% increase from the previous year, along with additional funding for war-related costs, but skepticism remains among some GOP members about his ability to secure the necessary support.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has raised concerns about the proliferation of data centers in Texas, claiming they are larger in number than those in China. He cites significant public opposition to their construction and has called for increased regulation, warning that the issue could impact Governor Greg Abbott's reelection campaign.
The Supreme Court recently blocked an executive order from President Trump aimed at restricting mail-in voting. Initial proposals included requiring ballots to be delivered via certified mail, which faced strong objections from the Postal Service. The final order surprised Postal Service officials and included mandates for changes to ballot envelopes and tracking measures.
Research indicates that partisan 'pink slime' news sites have surpassed traditional newspapers in number, particularly in battleground states ahead of the midterm elections. Funded by political action committees, these sites are raising concerns about misinformation and public trust in media. The decline of local newspapers has contributed to the rise of these outlets, which often present biased content under the guise of legitimate journalism.
Andrew Bailey, co-deputy director of the FBI since September 2025, is resigning for family reasons after one year in the position. He expressed gratitude to key figures in his announcement and confidence in the ongoing reforms under Director Kash Patel. Bailey's departure follows that of former deputy director Dan Bongino.
Rising diesel prices, currently averaging around $6.50 per gallon, are impacting various sectors in the U.S. economy, including schools, farmers, and small businesses. The increase in fuel costs is raising operational expenses and could contribute to inflation, with economists predicting a potential rise to 3.6% by year-end. Local communities are feeling the effects, with some businesses and institutions considering cost-cutting measures to manage the financial strain.
Residents in Ohio have shown uncertainty about Senator Jon Husted's status as the incumbent. Some mistakenly identified Democrat Sherrod Brown as the incumbent senator.
Ohio voters have shown a lack of familiarity with Senator Jon Husted, the Republican incumbent, with some mistakenly identifying Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, as the incumbent. This reflects a potential gap in recognition for Husted among the electorate.
FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey has announced his departure from the bureau after about a year in the role. He thanked key figures in the Trump administration for the opportunity to serve.
President Trump is set to announce a $15 billion steel mill plan for eastern Iowa. Additionally, the Trump administration has rolled back fuel economy standards, criticizing the Biden administration's approach to electric vehicle regulations.
New research presented at the Brookings Papers on Economic Activity analyzes the economic impact of the immigration surge in the U.S. from 2021 to 2024. The study found that the influx of approximately 6.5 million migrants contributed to job growth and increased GDP while raising rents modestly. The findings suggest that native-born workers experienced minimal negative effects, with wages rising during this period.
Farmers in Idaho are concerned about the future of labor availability as immigration enforcement continues nationwide. Despite largely escaping the impacts of aggressive immigration policies, many farms still struggle to find enough workers.
Senate Republicans have decided to remain in session this week, initially planning to adjourn early for midterm campaigning. The decision is politically motivated, as they aim to address key issues, including a bill regulating money in intercollegiate athletics and the Ratepayer Protection Act, which seeks to alleviate utility costs for consumers. The outcome of these discussions may impact vulnerable Republican candidates in the upcoming elections.
SpaceX is set to launch its Starship rocket for the first time to reach orbit on Monday, with a launch window starting at 8:15 a.m. ET from Starbase, Texas. The FAA has authorized the launch, which includes deploying 26 new Starlink V3 satellites. Starship is integral to SpaceX's plans for expanding its satellite internet business and future missions, including a NASA test flight next year.
Oil prices have risen as negotiations between the U.S. and Iran remain stalled. President Trump has dismissed Iran's recent proposal, while Iran continues to seek clarity from the U.S.
During a panel discussion at the Texas Tribune Festival, White House reporters explored potential Republican candidates for the 2028 presidential election. They identified various lanes within the party, including Trump successors and anti-Trump candidates, and discussed the influence of Donald Trump Jr. on the political landscape. The conversation also touched on the possibility of candidates from Trump's cabinet entering the race.
Restaurants are implementing various policies to limit phone use among diners, aiming to enhance the dining experience. Strategies include using locked pouches for phones and offering incentives, with some establishments enforcing strict no-phone policies. Industry professionals discuss the implications of phone use on social interactions and service dynamics.
Senator John Fetterman referred to himself as a 'lifelong Republican' during a recent event in Texas, which has drawn attention amid speculation about his political affiliation. The comment was made during a discussion with CBS News correspondent Major Garrett at the Texas Tribune Festival.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) will embark on a six-week campaign across 22 states, focusing on defending Republican-held seats and targeting Democratic districts. This effort comes as the Cook Political Report has shifted several House races toward Democrats, indicating a challenging landscape for Republicans. Johnson has also reported record fundraising for the midterm elections.
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