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Axios

U.S. CENTCOM Reports Financial Strain on IRGC from Iran-Backed Militias

U.S. CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper reported that Iran-backed militias are sending funds to the IRGC to alleviate economic strain. The U.S. military is preparing for potential combat operations while maintaining sanctions and a naval blockade. Cooper noted that Iran has lost $25 billion in oil revenue and that militia groups are withholding payments to support the IRGC. The situation has led to increased Iranian attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Washington Examiner

Abdul El Sayed's Campaign Security Spending Amid Calls for Police Reform

Abdul El Sayed, a Democratic Senate candidate in Michigan, has spent over $58,000 on private security while advocating for reduced police involvement in certain emergencies. His campaign did not respond to inquiries about this spending. El Sayed has faced criticism for past statements on police reform, including calls to defund the police, although he has since moderated his stance.

Fox News — Politics

Mixed Reactions from Black Voters to Obama's Endorsement of El-Sayed in Michigan Senate Race

Former President Barack Obama's endorsement of Abdul El-Sayed for the Michigan Senate seat has elicited mixed responses from Black voters in Detroit. While many plan to support El-Sayed, several undecided voters expressed that Obama's backing did not sway their opinions. The reactions highlight a division among voters regarding the effectiveness of endorsements in influencing their choices.

New York Times — US

Experts Advocate for Preventive Measures in School Safety

An armed attacker killed three children and a teacher at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, on October 16, 2026. Experts are advocating for preventive measures rather than defensive strategies to improve safety in schools.

Fox News — Latest

Trump Hosts Dinner with Kid Rock, Bill Maher, and Stephen A. Smith

President Donald Trump hosted a dinner on October 16, 2026, with Kid Rock, Bill Maher, and Stephen A. Smith. Kid Rock described the gathering as "epic" and noted that the group agreed on opposing socialism and communism. The dinner showcased a mix of political perspectives, with Smith expected to discuss it on his podcast.

Axios

Capitol Hill Leaders Prepare for Challenges in 2027

Capitol Hill leaders are bracing for a challenging 2027, with key figures like Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson facing uncertain futures. Thune is expected to retain his leadership role despite potential losses for Republicans, while Schumer must navigate party dynamics with House Minority Leader Jeffries. The outcomes of the upcoming elections will significantly impact their positions and strategies.

Washington Examiner

Trump denies knowledge of Starshield throttling order in Ukraine

President Trump stated he is unaware of who ordered the throttling of Starshield in Ukraine, which has reportedly affected defense operations. Ukrainian officials claim the throttling limited their capabilities against Russian attacks. A bipartisan group of senators has called for an investigation into the situation, expressing concerns for U.S. personnel safety during airstrikes.

Mother Jones

Tennessee Representative Sues City Council Over Meeting Ban Related to Data Center Moratorium

Tennessee Representative Justin J. Pearson has filed a lawsuit against the Memphis City Council after being banned from meetings for protesting delays in a data center moratorium vote. Pearson claims this ban infringes on his First Amendment rights. The council's policy prohibits disruptive behavior, which the plaintiffs argue is used to suppress dissent. Pearson's opposition to data centers, particularly those linked to Elon Musk, is a key aspect of his congressional campaign.

The Daily Beast

Bill Maher Meets Trump, Kid Rock, and Stephen A. Smith at White House

Bill Maher enjoyed a meal with President Trump, Kid Rock, and Stephen A. Smith at the White House, focusing on political views. During the gathering, Kid Rock took aim at Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed and stressed the importance of resisting socialism. Maher has had a varied relationship with Trump, who has made disparaging remarks about him in the past.

Ars Technica

Proposed Bill Seeks to Grant Video Game Buyers Ownership Rights

Rep. Ritchie Torres has introduced the Power to Players Act, which aims to ensure that video game purchases grant consumers ownership rights. The bill addresses concerns about games becoming unplayable after server shutdowns, citing NBA 2K25 as a specific example.

The Hill

Trump denies involvement in Ukraine Starlink outage

President Trump asserted that he and Elon Musk did not cause the Starlink outage in Ukraine. His comments were made during a dispute with Ukrainian President Zelensky over strikes on Russian oil refineries.

Washington Examiner

Super PAC Funds Third-Party Candidates in Competitive Senate Races

Principled Patriots PAC is funding third-party candidates in several states, including Iowa, which some Republicans claim is a tactic to siphon votes from GOP candidates. The PAC received significant funding from a super PAC linked to a Democratic-aligned nonprofit, raising concerns about dark money influence in competitive races.