The Senate approved bipartisan legislation to end the nation’s record 41-day government shutdown. The measure passed 60-40 with eight Democrats joining Republicans in support. The shutdown began Oct. 1, surpassing the 35-day closure of 2018–2019. House Speaker Mike Johnson called members back to Washington for votes expected as early as 4 p.m. Wednesday. (Story URL)
White House officials expressed frustration after federal housing chief Bill Pulte publicly floated a 50-year mortgage idea that had not been fully reviewed. Pulte discussed the plan with President Trump at Mar-a-Lago, leading to a Truth Social post approved by Trump. Analysts warn such long-term loans could lower monthly payments but would increase total interest costs. (Story URL)
Federal health officials say two additional infants have been hospitalized in a botulism outbreak linked to ByHeart infant formula. The FDA reports 15 suspected or confirmed cases across 12 states, including new cases in Kentucky and North Carolina. All affected babies were hospitalized. ByHeart has expanded its voluntary recall to include all batches nationwide. (Story URL)
An 829-yard bridge in China’s Sichuan Province collapsed Tuesday after a landslide struck the structure. No injuries were reported because authorities had closed the bridge earlier when cracks were discovered. Videos shared on social media showed a mountain slope giving way beside the bridge, sending debris onto one end before part of it fell. (Story URL)
Italian pasta could soon cost much more in the United States under new tariffs proposed by the Commerce Department. A preliminary decision issued in September set duties of up to 107% on pasta from 13 major Italian producers, including Barilla, La Molisana, Garofalo, and Rummo. Rummo’s Jim Donnelly said prices could rise from $3.99 to as high as $7.99. (Story URL)
