The ongoing US government shutdown has led to a critical halt in the distribution of food assistance to over 40 million Americans, as federal funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have been exhausted. The US Department of Agriculture announced the cessation of benefits starting November, attributing the impasse to Senate Democrats. The Trump administration has declined to tap into a contingency fund, citing its necessity for potential emergencies like natural disasters. This decision has sparked outrage among Democratic lawmakers, who have condemned the move as cruel and unlawful. Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro and Angie Craig criticized President Trump for prioritizing aid to Argentina and constructing a new White House ballroom over addressing domestic needs. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) estimates that the contingency fund would only cover about 60% of one month’s benefits. Democratic House members have urged Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to release the reserves and reallocate other available funds to fully support SNAP for November. However, Rollins maintains that the reserve is reserved for true emergencies, primarily natural disasters. States are scrambling to mitigate the impact, with some pledging to use their own funds, though the federal government has warned against reimbursement. Massachusetts, where one million people are expected to lose benefits, has admitted to insufficient resources. California is deploying its National Guard to assist in food distribution, while many states are directing SNAP recipients to charity food pantries. The government shutdown, now in its 26th day, marks the second-longest in US history, exacerbating the crisis for millions of vulnerable Americans.
标签： North America
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Flight delays in US to grow worse, transportation secretary warns
The ongoing US government shutdown, now in its 26th day, is taking a heavy toll on air traffic controllers, who are increasingly seeking second jobs and calling in sick due to unpaid work. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy revealed the escalating crisis on Sunday, highlighting the strain on these essential workers. The situation has led to significant flight delays across the country, with a ground stop issued for much of the California coast due to staffing shortages. Over 3,000 flights were delayed on Sunday alone, exacerbating disruptions caused by weather and other factors. Duffy expressed deep concern, stating that controllers are under immense stress and are exploring alternative income sources, such as driving for Uber, to make ends meet. He emphasized the need for controllers to focus on airspace safety rather than financial worries. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued alerts for multiple airports, including Los Angeles International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, and Dallas Fort-Worth, warning of delays due to low staffing. The crisis coincides with critical travel periods, including Game 3 of the World Series in Los Angeles and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. This situation mirrors the 2019 shutdown, which ended after air travel disruptions prompted a resolution. Duffy’s warnings underscore the urgent need for a resolution to prevent further deterioration of air travel safety and efficiency.
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Look: Jacob Elordi’s first look character poster from ‘Frankenstein’
The highly anticipated Netflix film ‘Frankenstein,’ directed by Guillermo del Toro, has unveiled the first look at Jacob Elordi in his transformative role as ‘The Creature.’ The Australian actor, known for his role in ‘Euphoria,’ undergoes a dramatic metamorphosis to portray Mary Shelley’s iconic monster. The official character poster, released by Netflix, showcases Elordi with pale, cadaverous skin, lacerations, and long, stringy hair, rendering him nearly unrecognizable. The film, set for a global release on November 7, also features a star-studded cast including Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth, Felix Kammerer, and Christoph Waltz. Elordi revealed that the extensive makeup process, which took up to 10 hours per day, profoundly impacted his approach to acting. Director del Toro expressed confidence in Elordi’s ability to embody the complex character, despite the actor’s conventionally attractive appearance. Fans eagerly await the film’s debut, which promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally gripping adaptation of the classic tale.
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Lassie and Lost in Space actress June Lockhart dies aged 100
June Lockhart, the celebrated actress renowned for her iconic roles in television series such as *Lassie* and *Lost in Space*, has passed away at the age of 100. The veteran performer died peacefully of natural causes at her Santa Monica residence on Thursday, as confirmed by a family spokesperson. Lockhart’s illustrious career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on both stage and screen. Born on June 25, 1925, in New York City, she made her cinematic debut at just 13 years old in the 1938 film *A Christmas Carol*, sharing the screen with her parents, esteemed actors Kathleen and Gene Lockhart. Her Broadway breakthrough came in the 1940s with her ‘enchanting’ performance in *For Love or Money*, earning her a Tony Award, a Donaldson Award, and the Associated Press citation for Woman of the Year for Drama. Lockhart’s portrayal of Ruth Martin in *Lassie* during the late 1950s and 1960s solidified her status as a household name, garnering her an Emmy nomination. She further captivated audiences as the nurturing mother in the science-fiction classic *Lost in Space* from 1965 to 1968. Even in her later years, Lockhart remained active, lending her voice to a 2021 Netflix remake of *Lost in Space*. A lifelong enthusiast of current events, she remained engaged with the world, reading the *New York Times* and *LA Times* daily until her final days. She is survived by her two daughters, including Anne Lockhart, who followed in her mother’s footsteps as an actress.
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Harris reflects on why she did not ask Biden to quit sooner
In a candid interview with the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris expressed deep introspection over her decision not to urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. Harris, who stepped in as the Democratic nominee after Biden’s exit but ultimately lost to Donald Trump, revealed her lingering doubts in her new book, *107 Days*. She questioned whether her silence was an act of grace or recklessness, particularly given her concerns about Biden’s ability to endure the grueling demands of a presidential campaign. Harris emphasized that her reservations were not about Biden’s capacity to govern but rather his stamina for the campaign trail, especially against a formidable opponent like Trump. She also acknowledged the delicate position she was in, fearing that raising the issue might be perceived as self-serving. The broader debate about whether Biden’s inner circle should have challenged his decision to run has sparked significant discussion, with some alleging that his physical decline was concealed from the public. Biden’s aides have denied these claims, asserting that while he aged visibly, there was no evidence of mental incapacity. Harris, now promoting her book in the UK, hinted at a potential future presidential run, stating she is ‘not done’ with public service.
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Yamamoto helps Dodgers level World Series at 1-1
In a stellar performance, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Will Smith led the Los Angeles Dodgers to a decisive 5-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, tying the best-of-seven World Series at 1-1. Yamamoto, the Japanese right-hander, delivered a masterclass on the mound, pitching a complete game with just 105 pitches. This marked his second consecutive complete game in the postseason, a feat not achieved since Curt Schilling in 2001. Meanwhile, catcher Will Smith was the offensive powerhouse, driving in three runs to secure the Dodgers’ win. The game, held at Toronto’s Rogers Centre, was a stark contrast to the high-scoring opener, with both teams locked in a pitching duel for much of the contest. The Dodgers struck early in the first inning when Smith brought Freddie Freeman home, but Blue Jays starter Kevin Gausman dominated afterward, retiring 17 consecutive batters. The Blue Jays managed to level the score in the third inning with a sacrifice fly by Alejandro Kirk, but the Dodgers regained control in the seventh inning with back-to-back solo home runs by Smith and Max Muncy. The Blue Jays’ defense crumbled in the eighth inning, allowing the Dodgers to extend their lead with a wild pitch and another RBI from Smith. Yamamoto’s complete game ensured the Dodgers’ bullpen remained rested, setting the stage for the series’ shift to Los Angeles for the next three games. Game 3 is scheduled for Monday evening at Dodger Stadium.
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A humming annoyance or jobs boom? Life next to 199 data centres
Loudoun County, Virginia, often referred to as ‘Data Center Alley,’ is home to nearly 200 data centres spanning 45 million square metres. These facilities, which power the internet and artificial intelligence, have become a cornerstone of the global digital economy. However, their rapid expansion has sparked significant concerns among local residents.
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Trump raises tariffs on Canadian goods in response to Reagan advert
US President Donald Trump announced a 10% increase in tariffs on Canadian imports following Ontario’s airing of an anti-tariff advertisement featuring former President Ronald Reagan. Trump, en route to Malaysia on Saturday, took to social media to denounce the ad as a ‘fraud’ and criticized Canadian officials for not removing it before the World Series baseball championship. ‘Due to their serious misrepresentation of facts and hostile act, I am raising tariffs on Canada by 10%,’ Trump declared. This move comes after Trump withdrew from trade talks with Canada on Thursday, prompting Ontario Premier Doug Ford to pause the ad campaign to facilitate resumed negotiations. Despite this, the ad continued to air during the World Series, featuring the Toronto Blue Jays against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Canada remains the only G7 country without a trade deal with the US since Trump initiated steep tariffs on major trading partners. The US already imposes a 35% levy on most Canadian goods, with additional sector-specific tariffs, including 50% on metals and 25% on automobiles. Ontario, a hub for Canada’s automobile manufacturing, heavily relies on US exports, with three-quarters of its exports destined for the US. The controversial ad, sponsored by the Ontario government, quotes Reagan’s 1987 radio address on foreign trade, asserting that tariffs ‘hurt every American.’ The Ronald Reagan Foundation criticized the ad for misrepresenting Reagan’s legacy and using unauthorized excerpts. Trump accused Canada of attempting to influence an upcoming US Supreme Court case that could dismantle his tariff regime. The case, set for next month, will determine the constitutionality of the tariffs. Meanwhile, Ontario leveraged the World Series to critique Trump’s tariffs, with Ford and California Governor Gavin Newsom humorously betting on the series outcome, pledging tariff-free exchanges of maple syrup and wine. Both leaders concluded their exchange with a toast to a ‘tariff-free friendship between Ontario and California.’
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‘I’m not done’, Kamala Harris tells the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg
In a recent interview with the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, Kamala Harris, the former Vice President of the United States, hinted strongly at a potential presidential campaign in 2028. This marks her most definitive indication yet of her political ambitions following her defeat to Donald Trump in the previous election. Harris, who has remained a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, expressed her determination to continue her political journey, stating, ‘I’m not done.’ Her comments have sparked widespread speculation about her future role in American politics and the potential strategies she might employ in a future bid for the presidency. Political analysts are now closely monitoring her movements and public statements for further clues about her intentions.
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UAE weather tomorrow: Rains likely; fair, partly cloudy skies expected
Residents of the UAE are advised to prepare for a mix of weather conditions on Sunday, October 26, as the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecasts fair to partly cloudy skies. The eastern regions may experience convective cloud formations, potentially leading to rainfall. Temperatures are expected to remain high, with Dubai reaching up to 35ºC and Abu Dhabi peaking at 33ºC. Humidity levels will rise by night and into Monday morning, particularly in coastal and internal areas, increasing the likelihood of fog or mist. Light to moderate Northeasterly to Northwesterly winds are anticipated, with gusts reaching speeds of up to 35kmph. Sea conditions in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea are predicted to be slight. Stay informed with the latest updates by following Khaleej Times on WhatsApp Channels.