•Shutdown Day 29: SNAP benefits and Head Start funding are on the brink. TSA and air-traffic-control staff shortages begin slowing air travel across the country.

•Obamacare Profiteering: UnitedHealthcare and AARP are cashing in on subsidies while small businesses and taxpayers shoulder the burden. Republicans are turning their sights on the insurance industry's record profits.

•Federal Reserve Rate Cut: The Fed lowers rates ¼ point despite limited data amid the shutdown, prioritizing jobs over inflation.

•Trump, China & the Constitution: As Trump prepares to meet Xi Jinping, China's economy falters, and the president reaffirms he cannot seek a third term, proving once again that America's Constitution holds strong.

Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.

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Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.