Four million Americans lose food assistance amid historic SNAP overhaul

Over four million people have stopped receiving SNAP benefits since July as the Trump administration tightens eligibility and cuts back the program historically. The drop marks the fastest and most consistent participation decline in food stamp history, creating an urgent crisis for families now unable to pay for groceries (via NPR).

Washington Republicans test Trump's grip. The primary to replace retiring Rep. Dan Newhouse has become a rare opportunity for Washington's Republicans to seek federal office without Trump's blessing. Candidates from different wings of the party are competing to chart the GOP's direction after Trump, with the race testing how much his influence extends beyond his core supporters (via NPR).

Federal relocations bring bedbugs and broken Wi-Fi. Federal agencies rushing to move hundreds of workers into new buildings have created chaos and disruption, with employees reporting infestations, connectivity failures, and uncertainty that has already driven experienced staff out. The summer relocations have become a management nightmare for already-stretched government offices (via NPR).

Justice Department cracks down on ICE protesters. Federal prosecutors are using conspiracy charges to prosecute immigration activists, casting a wide net that legal experts say threatens to criminalize political dissent. Protesters who gathered to oppose ICE raids now face federal charges alongside those accused of planning them (via NPR).