The ongoing U.S. government shutdown, now in its 35th day, is causing widespread hardship as millions of Americans face reduced food assistance. The White House has announced that only partial payments will be made to the 42 million individuals reliant on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. This decision comes as the shutdown nears a record length, crippling essential public services. Federal courts recently ruled that the Trump administration must allocate $4.65 billion from an emergency fund to cover part of November’s SNAP costs, estimated at $9 billion. However, officials from the Agriculture Department confirmed they would not bridge the funding gap, leaving 50% of eligible households with reduced benefits. The shutdown has also jeopardized other critical programs, including WIC, which supports pregnant women and infants, and Head Start, which provides nutrition and family support to thousands of children. At the core of the political impasse is the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies, set to lapse at year’s end unless Congress intervenes. Democrats and Republicans remain deadlocked, with Democrats demanding a deal to extend health care subsidies and Republicans refusing to negotiate until the government reopens. President Trump has instructed government lawyers to explore legal avenues to fund SNAP, but delays are expected. Critics, including top Senate Democrat Patty Murray, have condemned the administration for failing to fully fund SNAP payments, calling the partial funding ‘not acceptable.’
标签： North America
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US fugitive Nicholas Rossi to serve at least 10 years in jail
Nicholas Rossi, a 38-year-old American fugitive who notoriously faked his own death and assumed a false identity to evade extradition from Scotland, has been sentenced to a minimum of 10 years in prison for raping two women in Utah in 2008. His elaborate attempts to escape justice captivated global attention after he was identified in a Glasgow hospital’s COVID ward in 2021. Despite claiming to be an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight, hospital staff recognized him from an Interpol notice due to his distinctive tattoos. Rossi’s charade continued through court hearings, where he appeared in an electric wheelchair, wearing an oxygen mask, and maintained his innocence. However, his claims were debunked, and he was extradited to the U.S. in January 2024. Following separate trials in August and September 2024, Rossi was convicted of both rapes. Utah’s indeterminate sentencing system means he could face life imprisonment, with the state’s parole board determining his final release date. During the trials, Rossi’s victims delivered emotional impact statements, describing the lifelong trauma he inflicted. Rossi, however, denied the allegations and vowed to appeal. His defense argued for concurrent sentences, but prosecutors highlighted his manipulative behavior, including thousands of unauthorized prison calls. Judge Derek Pullan labeled Rossi a serial sex offender and a danger to society. Born Nicholas Alahverdian in Rhode Island, Rossi had a troubled past, including time in foster care and a brief stint as a child welfare advocate. Reports of his death in 2020 were later revealed as a ruse to escape FBI investigations into alleged credit card fraud. His eventual capture and conviction mark the end of a long and bizarre saga of evasion and deception.
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Watch: Sharjah announces discovery of additional gas reservoirs
In a significant development for the energy sector, the Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC) has announced the discovery of additional gas reservoirs in the Hadebah Field, located north of the Sajaa Field. The discovery was made through the successful drilling and testing of the ‘Hadebah-02’ well, which reached a depth of 13,200 feet. This marks a new milestone in Sharjah’s ongoing exploration efforts. The well is part of the corporation’s evaluation and development work in the onshore Hadebah gas field. In the coming months, the well will be connected to the production line, and further drilling programs will continue to assess the full potential of the field’s reservoirs. The Hadebah Field is the fifth onshore gas and condensate field in Sharjah and the second discovery in the past five years, highlighting the emirate’s commitment to expanding its energy resources. The Sharjah Media Office emphasized that this achievement builds on the success of the ‘Hadebah-01’ well, discovered in 2024, which confirmed the presence of gas and associated liquids in the Thamama geological formations. This discovery is expected to bolster Sharjah’s energy production capabilities and contribute to the UAE’s broader energy strategy.
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New Yorkers expected to pick Mamdani in stunning election
In a groundbreaking development, New Yorkers are projected to elect Zohran Mamdani, a self-proclaimed socialist, as their next mayor. This election, held on November 4, 2025, marks a significant shift in the political landscape, particularly as it signals a resurgence of the Democratic opposition ahead of the crucial midterm elections next year. Mamdani’s campaign, focused on reducing living costs for ordinary citizens, has resonated strongly with voters, as evidenced by his seven-point lead in the latest AtlasIntel poll, where he garnered 41% of the vote. His closest competitors, former state governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa, trailed with 34% and 24%, respectively. The election has also drawn national attention, with President Donald Trump threatening to withhold federal funds from the city if Mamdani wins. Mamdani’s potential victory would make him New York’s first Muslim mayor, a milestone that has sparked both celebration and controversy. The race has centered on key issues such as the cost of living, crime, and the city’s relationship with the Trump administration. Meanwhile, off-year gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New Jersey are being closely watched as barometers of the national political mood. Democratic candidates in these states, Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger, are locked in tight races against their Republican opponents, with both sides receiving high-profile endorsements. Former President Barack Obama rallied support for the Democratic candidates but refrained from endorsing Mamdani, reflecting the ongoing internal debate within the party about its future direction. The outcomes of these elections could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in Congress and the broader political trajectory of the United States.
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Pizza Hut’s parent company explores sale of struggling chain
Yum! Brands, the parent company of Pizza Hut, is reportedly evaluating the potential sale of its iconic pizza chain as it grapples with declining sales and fierce competition in the fast-food industry. Pizza Hut has faced multiple quarters of falling same-store sales in the United States, a critical market that accounts for 42% of its global revenue. This downturn has overshadowed growth in other regions, prompting Yum! Brands to explore strategic alternatives. In a recent statement, CEO Chris Turner emphasized the need for decisive action to unlock Pizza Hut’s full potential, suggesting that the brand might thrive better under new ownership. The pizza division’s struggles contrast sharply with the performance of Yum!’s other major brands, KFC and Taco Bell, which have both demonstrated resilience. Taco Bell, known for its affordable offerings, saw a 7% increase in same-store sales last quarter, while KFC posted a 3% rise despite economic headwinds. Pizza Hut, however, reported a 1% decline in sales at existing outlets. The chain operates approximately 20,000 stores worldwide, with 6,500 in the U.S., but has lost ground to competitors like Domino’s and Papa Johns. Domino’s recently reported a 6% surge in quarterly sales, partly driven by promotional strategies. Yum! Brands, which derives about 11% of its operating profits from Pizza Hut, has not set a timeline for a decision on the brand’s future. The broader fast-food industry is also feeling the pinch of cautious consumer spending, exacerbated by inflation and labor market challenges. In the U.K., Pizza Hut is closing half of its restaurants as consumers increasingly favor more agile competitors. Despite these challenges, Turner described U.S. consumers as ‘cautious but incredibly resilient,’ noting that Taco Bell’s sales have remained stable amid macroeconomic pressures.
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Curriculums can’t keep up: UAE experts say youth needs to be trained in mindset, not technology
At the Abu Dhabi Global AI Summit, corporate leaders emphasized that the future of work demands a shift in focus from technical skills to human-centric abilities. Ahmed Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation, highlighted the limitations of traditional curriculums in keeping pace with rapid technological advancements. “Curriculums can’t catch up with technology — by the time something is approved, the world has moved ahead,” he stated. Instead, Al Shamsi urged educators and policymakers to prioritize fostering adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking in the youth.
Naria Santa Lucia, General Manager at Microsoft Elevate, echoed this sentiment, asserting that human skills such as communication, teamwork, and empathy will remain irreplaceable in the AI-driven future. “Technology can learn to code faster than we do, but it can’t connect or imagine the way humans can,” she remarked.
The rise of automation has already transformed the workforce landscape, as noted by IBM’s Justina Nixon-Saintil. Entry-level tasks like data summarization and report preparation are increasingly automated, necessitating a rethinking of internships and on-the-job training. Lucia added that career progression is no longer linear, with lateral moves and reskilling becoming essential components of professional growth.
Al Shamsi concluded by stressing the importance of cultivating problem solvers and communicators rather than over-specializing in technical fields. “We don’t need everyone to be a data scientist,” he said. “We need people who can use these tools wisely.” The summit underscored the urgent need for educational systems to evolve, preparing the next generation not just for the jobs of today, but for the challenges of tomorrow.
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‘Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore’ actress Diane Ladd dies at 89
Renowned actress Diane Ladd, celebrated for her remarkable performances in films such as ‘Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,’ ‘Wild at Heart,’ and ‘Rambling Rose,’ has passed away at the age of 89. Her daughter, actress Laura Dern, confirmed the news, stating that Ladd died peacefully at her home in California. Ladd’s illustrious career spanned over seven decades, during which she portrayed a diverse array of strong, intelligent, and complex female characters. She earned three Academy Award nominations for her supporting roles, solidifying her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most versatile talents. Ladd and Dern made history as the first and only mother-daughter duo to receive Oscar nominations for the same film in the same year, for their work in ‘Rambling Rose.’ Beyond acting, Ladd co-authored a memoir with her daughter, ‘Honey, Baby, Mine: A Mother and Daughter Talk Life, Death, Love,’ which chronicled their heartfelt conversations during daily walks following Ladd’s lung disease diagnosis. Born Rose Diane Lanier in Meridian, Mississippi, Ladd pursued her passion for acting from a young age, eventually making her mark on stage, television, and film. She was also a prolific writer, director, and advocate for complementary medicine. Ladd’s contributions to the arts were honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2010, alongside her ex-husband Bruce Dern and daughter Laura. Her enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike.
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Watch: The Iraq war to a hunting accident, Cheney’s defining moments
Dick Cheney, one of the most consequential and polarizing figures in American political history, has left an indelible mark on the nation’s legacy. His tenure as Vice President under George W. Bush was marked by pivotal events that continue to shape public perception of his leadership. Among the most significant was his instrumental role in the Iraq War, a decision that remains deeply controversial. Cheney’s advocacy for the invasion, rooted in claims of weapons of mass destruction, has been scrutinized for its long-term geopolitical consequences. Beyond the political arena, Cheney’s personal life also drew national attention, most notably a 2006 hunting accident in which he accidentally shot a fellow hunter. This incident, while seemingly trivial in comparison to his political decisions, became emblematic of his complex public image. Together, these moments encapsulate the duality of Cheney’s legacy: a steadfast leader in times of crisis, yet a figure mired in controversy and division.
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Trump: Cooperate with China amid competition
In a recent interview with CBS’ ’60 Minutes,’ former US President Donald Trump emphasized the potential for the United States to achieve greater strength and prosperity through strategic cooperation with China. Speaking on Sunday, Trump highlighted the importance of fostering a collaborative relationship with China, even as the two nations navigate intense global competition. His remarks underscore a pragmatic approach to international diplomacy, suggesting that mutual benefits can be derived from partnership rather than confrontation. This perspective aligns with broader discussions on the evolving dynamics of US-China relations, which have significant implications for global economic and political stability. Trump’s comments come at a time when both nations are exploring avenues to address shared challenges while managing their competitive interests.
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Former US Vice-President Dick Cheney dies aged 84
Dick Cheney, the former US Vice President who played a pivotal role in shaping George W. Bush’s ‘war on terror’ and was a key advocate for the 2003 invasion of Iraq, passed away at the age of 84. His family announced that he succumbed to complications from pneumonia, cardiac, and vascular diseases on Monday night. Cheney, born in Lincoln, Nebraska in 1941, rose to prominence as one of the most powerful vice presidents in US history, transforming the traditionally ceremonial role into a de-facto deputy presidency. He was instrumental in guiding American foreign policy and national security following the 9/11 attacks, advocating for military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Cheney’s tenure was marked by controversy, particularly over his assertions about Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction and alleged links to al-Qaeda, claims that were later discredited. Despite his significant influence, Cheney’s legacy remains deeply polarizing due to the prolonged and costly Iraq War. In his later years, he became a vocal critic of Donald Trump, endorsing Kamala Harris in the 2020 election and condemning Trump’s leadership as a threat to the republic. Cheney’s daughter, Liz, followed in his footsteps, becoming a prominent ‘never Trump’ Republican before being ousted from Congress for her opposition to the former president. His passing has reignited debates over his complex legacy, with some on the left praising his late-life stance against Trump, despite their earlier criticisms of his policies.