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Trump did what today?

9/17/2026

When students attend these colleges, taxpayers often pay. Here's why

  • Many U.S. colleges have high loan nonpayment rates, with over 40% of students not repaying loans.
  • Pandemic confusion and rising debt are causing issues for borrowers, especially at for-profit schools.
  • Higher unpaid loans lead to taxpayer concerns since many of these schools rely heavily on federal aid.
  • Some schools like UEI College and Miller-Motte are facing scrutiny for their high default rates.
  • Programs and regulations are being discussed to improve accountability and borrower outcomes.

The Fed raises interest rates for the first time in over three years

  • The Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 0.25% to combat inflation.
  • This decision affects borrowing costs for loans and credit cards.
  • Current inflation is significantly influenced by rising oil prices due to geopolitical tensions.
  • Some economists question the effectiveness of rate hikes on volatile prices like gasoline.
  • The Fed plans additional rate adjustments based on future economic conditions.

Senators question Trump's picks for top health positions, including surgeon general

  • Senators held hearings for Trump's nominees for health positions, including the surgeon general.
  • Dr. Nicole Saphier, the nominee, faced questions on her views about vaccines.
  • The committee is wary of her previous vaccine skepticism linked to another nominee's controversial views.
  • Chris Klomp and Dr. Timothy Westlake were also nominated for deputy secretary and mental health positions.
  • The hearings highlighted tensions between public health and political influences.

DOJ charges Russian agents with plotting attacks, including in the U.S.

  • The DOJ charged five Russian operatives for alleged plots against dissidents, including in the U.S.
  • The indictment details various plans for targeted killings and sabotage related to the Russian government's agenda.
  • Some operatives attempted to recruit individuals in the U.S. for surveillance and murder.
  • Charges include conspiracy to finance terrorism and murder-for-hire.
  • All defendants are currently at large, complicating prosecution efforts.

EU offers Canada 'associate member' role; Trump calls it 'laughable'

  • The EU proposed a special 'associate member' status for Canada to strengthen ties amid tensions with the U.S.
  • The announcement was made by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
  • Trump criticized the proposal, warning he would impose tariffs if deemed hostile.
  • The new relationship aims to improve cooperation on trade and security between Canada and the EU.
  • Some European leaders express frustration over the lack of prior consultation on the offer.

House passes Russia sanctions, sending bill named for Lindsey Graham to Trump's desk

  • Congress passed a Russia sanctions bill aimed at pressuring Russia to end its aggression in Ukraine.
  • The legislation garnered bipartisan support, though it raised concerns over potential tariffs on allies.
  • Democrats expressed fear of the bill's loopholes that could allow Trump to impose tariffs arbitrarily.
  • The measure is named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham who contributed to its negotiation.
  • The House vote reflects ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia.

Annie Dillard, Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, dies at 81

  • Annie Dillard, acclaimed author known for her work 'Pilgrim at Tinker Creek', passed away at 81.
  • Her writings focused on themes of nature and the complexity of life.
  • Dillard emphasized the impact of writing on memory and perception.
  • She received numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for her distinctive prose.
  • Her legacy includes inspiring generations of readers and writers with her unique perspective.

Committee investigating Epstein holds billionaire Leon Black in contempt of Congress

  • Leon Black was held in contempt for not complying with subpoenas about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • The House committee is examining Epstein's connections and the potential influence on Black's financial dealings.
  • Black's legal team criticized the contempt charge as politically motivated.
  • Congress has been probing Epstein's network while ensuring accountability for powerful figures.
  • This marks a significant development in ongoing investigations into Epstein’s associates.

Trump administration plans ideological warning signs for Smithsonian

  • The Trump administration plans to install signs at Smithsonian sites to warn visitors about ideological biases.
  • Critics say this undermines the independence and integrity of the Smithsonian Institution.
  • The signs stem from concerns over museum leadership's perceived political agendas.
  • Implementation of these signs could provoke controversy over cultural institutions' neutrality.
  • The administration's approach raises questions about the future of public art and historical narratives.

Judge blocks DHS from acting against a man over a harsh email to an ICE official

  • A judge ruled that DHS cannot take action against David Streever for an email criticizing ICE officials.
  • Streever argued his First Amendment rights were violated by ICE's attempts to confront him.
  • The email compared ICE's actions to Nazi behavior in light of a controversial shooting incident.
  • The ruling protects political speech and emphasizes free expression rights.
  • This case highlights tensions between government actions and citizen free speech.

New maps reveal massive gaps in access to affordable birth control across the U.S

  • A report shows 21.4 million women in U.S. lack access to affordable birth control.
  • Most need is unmet in specific counties, especially among low-income and minority populations.
  • Local clinics are overwhelmed, often only meeting a small portion of the demand for services.
  • The report calls for increased funding and policy changes to expand contraception access.
  • Experts stress the need for education and outreach to raise awareness about available resources.

A tumultuous congressional primary season closes with record departures and defeats

  • Nearly 20% of Congress members won't return next year, due to resignations and defeats in primaries.
  • Significant retirements and a high number of lawmakers seeking other offices have shaken politics.
  • Numerous incumbents have lost their primaries, reflecting dissatisfaction among voters.
  • The current political landscape is marked by instability as elections approach.
  • This upheaval points to ongoing shifts in party power and voter sentiment.

Mice with human brain cells offer a tool to study disease. Ethicists ask: What's next?

  • Researchers have implanted human brain cells into mice to study neurodegenerative diseases.
  • The process enhances understanding of brain functions and potential treatment pathways.
  • This development raises ethical questions regarding the manipulation of animal brains.
  • The research has shown mice can adapt despite having significant brain parts missing.
  • As research progresses, concerns about consciousness and ethical treatment of modified animals grow.

Home Page Tiny Desk Carousel

  • The Tiny Desk Concerts feature a collection of music performances by various artists.
  • This series showcases unique musical talent in an intimate setting.
  • Listeners can discover new genres and artists through these engaging performances.
  • The series has gained popularity for its casual yet professional atmosphere.
  • Each concert offers a fresh and diverse listening experience.

5 eating habits that can help you sleep better at night

  • Experts suggest eating specific foods like tryptophan-rich ones to promote better sleep.
  • Swapping sugary foods for fruits and vegetables can improve sleep quality.
  • Avoiding caffeine in the afternoon and evening is crucial for better rest.
  • Drinking alcohol before bed may disrupt sleep despite initial sedative effects.
  • Having heavy meals before sleeping can lead to discomfort and poor sleep.

Don't always depend on GPS. Your sense of direction will thank you

  • Experts encourage trying to navigate without GPS to improve your sense of direction.
  • Observing landmarks can help orient yourself better while exploring new areas.
  • Being curious about your surroundings can enhance your navigation skills.
  • Understanding the layout of your city can also be beneficial for direction finding.
  • Using memory tricks can help remember routes and locations as you travel.

Sewing your own clothes can be empowering. Here's how to get started

  • You can start sewing without a machine; hand-sewing skills are valuable too.
  • Upcycling old clothes is a great way to learn and be creative.
  • Simplicity is key; choose easy projects like skirts or elastic pants for beginners.
  • Patterns help guide your sewing, but you can also trace clothes you already own.
  • Finding and engaging with a sewing community can provide support and inspiration.

Can I date that co-worker? What to consider before an office romance

  • Consider company policies on workplace relationships before pursuing a co-worker.
  • Think through worst-case scenarios, including potential job loss if things go wrong.
  • Gauge interest carefully and ensure your approach is respectful and pressure-free.
  • Discuss openly with your partner about who to tell and how to disclose your relationship.
  • Maintain professionalism post-breakup to avoid workplace drama and tension.

As campaign season gears up, AI-generated ads are everywhere

  • AI-generated political ads are becoming increasingly common, appearing in various races.
  • Some ads parody candidates, but they raise ethical concerns about representation.
  • Experts warn that while AI may not deceive, it can still influence voter perception.
  • Jessica Bichler criticized an AI ad that misrepresented her image and views.
  • AI is providing new tools for political expression, but its implications are not yet fully understood.

Congress is under pressure to act on AI — here's what that could look like

  • Congress faces pressure to regulate AI following warnings from industry leaders.
  • Opinions on regulation differ significantly between political parties.
  • Past efforts on AI regulation indicate some groundwork has been laid but lack consensus.
  • Key areas of agreement may include protections for children against harmful AI use.
  • The future of AI regulation remains uncertain as lawmakers grapple with how to proceed.