4 Things To Know This Afternoon

•U.S. Military Strikes Narco Vessel – The American military destroys a drug-running ship off Venezuela, sparking protests from Democrats and the Venezuelan government. •Trump Targets Sanctuary Cities – $2.1 billion in federal funds withheld from Chicago, with Portland possibly next, as the administration cracks down on cities protecting illegal aliens and Antifa activists. •Deadline for Hamas – Trump sets a Sunday deadline for Hamas to accept his peace deal or face total destruction. Polling shows majority support among Israelis for the plan. •Shutdown Showdown – Speaker Mike Johnson signals the House may remain on recess until Democrats agree to reopen the government. Republicans frame the battle around illegal immigrant healthcare benefits while Democrats push for expanded funding. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Russ Vought and the Deep State – Trump signals he may unleash Russ Vought to overhaul the bureaucracy, though deal-making could delay it. •Illegal Alien Case Rejected – A federal judge denies asylum for El Salvadoran ABrego Garcia, showing the administration’s tightened immigration stance. •Ukraine Drone Deal – U.S. authorizes Ukraine to use long-range drones and gains access to Ukraine’s advanced drone tech to compete with China, Russia, and Iran. •War on Drug Cartels – Trump declares a fight against cartels, vowing to use military force to stop the deadly flow of drugs into America. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Government Shutdown at Midnight – Democrats demand funding for NPR, PBS, and healthcare for illegal immigrants. Republicans refuse, making Democrats own the looming shutdown. •TrumpRx Launch – The White House unveils TrumpRx.com, a government-backed prescription site with Pfizer onboard, but major questions remain about access and pricing. •Louisiana Crime Crisis – Governor Jeff Landry requests National Guard support for Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport amid police shortages and surging crime. •Electric Vehicle Market Collapse – Ford and GM warn EV demand could drop by half as subsidies expire, while Toyota’s hybrid strategy proves right. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Trump & Netanyahu’s Gaza Peace Plan – A historic U.S.-Israel-Arab partnership outlines a path for Hamas to release hostages, disarm, and allow redevelopment in Gaza, or face elimination. •Iran Rejects Peace at the UN – As Trump and Netanyahu spoke at the White House, Iran’s president attacked Israel at the United Nations, signaling continued defiance. •Government Shutdown Looms – Democrats threaten to block funding unless healthcare for illegal immigrants is included, risking the first shutdown of its kind. •Economic Fallout – If the shutdown occurs, key labor and inflation reports will be delayed, leaving markets and the Federal Reserve blind to critical data. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•James Comey Indicted – The former FBI Director faces a messy case filled with legal disputes, DOJ precedent issues, and political overreach that could see charges dismissed before trial. •Jimmy Kimmel’s Return – Sinclair Broadcasting reverses course, bringing Kimmel back to ABC affiliates after pressure and apologies, though low ratings may still seal his fate. •Trump & Ukraine Weapons Deal – President Trump signals willingness to provide Zelensky with long-range weapons under strict conditions, escalating Ukraine’s ability to strike Russian targets. •Clarence Thomas Signals SCOTUS Shift – In a speech, Justice Thomas suggests the Court should revisit flawed precedents, raising questions about the Federal Reserve, tariffs, and executive power cases coming this term. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Government Shutdown Fight – Democrats threaten to shut down the government unless healthcare benefits (including coverage for illegal immigrants) are expanded. •New York Targets Rikers Employee – A corrections officer faces punishment for helping federal officials deport illegal alien inmates, exposing just how far sanctuary policies go in protecting criminals over citizens. •DOJ Investigates the Soros Foundation – With Alex Soros now in charge, the foundation faces scrutiny for funding radical activist groups tied to left-wing violence. •EU Pushes Back on Russia – The European Union warns it will shoot down Russian jets and drones violating its airspace, presenting a united front against Putin’s aggression while testing global stability with China watching closely. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Dallas ICE Facility Attack – Two detainees are dead and an ICE agent critically injured after a progressive activist opened fire. This marks the second attack on an ICE facility in Texas this year, raising alarms about left-wing violence. •Apple Cancels The Savant – Apple TV+ shelves its upcoming Jessica Chastain series after the Charlie Kirk assassination, amid concerns it glorified progressive fantasies about conservative villains. •Targeting DOJ Lawyers – Progressives launch organized efforts to file bar complaints against DOJ attorneys and Trump administration officials, weaponizing the legal system to harass conservatives long after they leave office. •Housing Market Surges – New home sales jumped 20.5% in August, with median prices climbing to $413,500. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

• Ryan Routh Guilty – The would-be assassin of Donald Trump is convicted on five counts in Florida after a courtroom suicide attempt. • Jimmy Kimmel Boycotted – Nexstar joins Sinclair in pulling Kimmel’s show from conservative markets, deepening late-night TV’s struggles after years of partisan comedy. • Shutdown Showdown – President Trump cancels talks with Democrats as Schumer and Jeffries demand Obamacare expansions in a budget fight. Could this mark the first modern shutdown led by Democrats? • Trump at the UN – The president blasts climate change policies, defends U.S. energy dominance, and questions the UN’s role as he touts a “golden age” for America. Plus, Erick’s take on how late-night TV could reinvent itself, and why Democrats may be walking into a political trap. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Trump Administration Questions Tylenol Safety – Officials cite disputed studies linking acetaminophen (Tylenol) use during pregnancy to autism, while also approving a new drug, Leucopore, that shows promise for improving language and behavioral skills in children with autism. •Spirit Airlines Bankruptcy Fallout – Spirit announces 1,500 flight attendant furloughs and scales back routes in a desperate bid to restructure. •Trump Cancels Bike Lane Grants – The administration moves to cut federal funding for trails, sidewalks, and bike lanes, arguing cities have prioritized “walking culture” over drivers. •U.S. Considers Aid to Argentina – Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signals possible intervention to support Argentine President Javier Milei’s free-market reforms, positioning the U.S. against China’s growing influence in South America. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•FTC vs. Ticketmaster/Live Nation – The Federal Trade Commission and 11 states are suing over bots and ticket resales that hurt both fans and artists. •Trump vs. Lisa Cook – The president asks the Supreme Court to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook amid mortgage fraud allegations. •Federal Reserve boxed in – After yesterday’s quarter-point rate cut, the Fed signals more cuts are possible despite inflation remaining above target. •NVIDIA invests $5 billion in Intel – A major lifeline for the once-dominant chipmaker, this deal could reshape America’s semiconductor future and align with Trump’s push to revive U.S. manufacturing. 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. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Constitution Day – The U.S. Constitution turns 238. Erick reflects on its enduring significance, the strength of written law, and why America’s founding framework still matters globally. •Federal Reserve rate cut – The Fed lowers interest rates by a quarter point, signaling concern over unemployment despite lingering inflation. More cuts may be on the horizon. •Trump in the UK – President Trump meets King Charles at Windsor Castle while pressing European leaders to stop financing Russia through energy purchases if they want stronger U.S. sanctions. •Democrats and government shutdown – For the first time in modern history, Democrats, not Republicans, are driving toward a shutdown, fueled by demands from their base. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

• Tyler Robinson charged – Charlie Kirk’s assassin faces aggravated murder and six additional counts, with the DA seeking the death penalty. Shocking new details emerge about his background and accomplices. • House Republicans split on tariffs – Speaker Mike Johnson faces rebellion as Republicans resist a plan to block the House from limiting future tariffs, raising the risk of a government shutdown. • Israel surrounds Gaza City – Satellite images confirm a military buildup as Prime Minister Netanyahu prepares to purge Hamas strongholds. Leaders privately suspect hostages may not have survived. • Federal Reserve meets on rate cuts – Analysts expect a rate cut of up to half a point as the Fed weighs economic weakness and controversy swirls around Lisa Cook’s mortgage fraud probe. Plus: Erick pushes back on Pam Bondi’s misguided “hate speech” comments, a rare moment uniting the right in defense of free speech. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Charlie Kirk’s assassin confesses – Tyler Robinson admitted the shooting in a Discord channel, while investigators probe whether others had prior knowledge. •TikTok deal with China – Despite laws that should have shut it down, the app remains embedded in Beijing’s strategy, raising new national security concerns. •Soybean farmers in crisis – A Chinese boycott leaves U.S. soybeans unharvested, raising the specter of bailouts as tariffs ripple through agriculture. •Crime falls in Washington, D.C. – New data shows murders, carjackings, and robberies down significantly after Trump’s 30-day federal crackdown. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Charlie Kirk’s assassin arrested – 22-year-old Tyler Robinson turned in by his family, revealing radicalization from progressive online spaces. • National Guard in Memphis – President Trump deploys forces to address crime in Memphis, with New Orleans possibly next. • Consumer sentiment falling – Inflation fears, job losses, and tariffs weigh on Americans despite optimistic spin. • A call to rest – Erickson urges Americans to unplug, focus on family, and strengthen their communities after a long, difficult week. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

On this solemn September 11th, Erick Erickson reflects on the state of our nation after the assassination of Charlie Kirk. From the disturbing gloating of educators online to the progressive framing of words as violence, Erickson warns of a cultural and political tipping point. He also examines how mainstream media coverage, including CBS and CNN, continues to marginalize conservative voices while shaping narratives that excuse violence from the left. What we choose as individuals will determine the direction of America as it approaches its 250th year. Please keep Charlie Kirk and his family in your prayers. Violence cannot be the answer to our political differences.

•Charlie Kirk Shot — The TPUSA founder was shot at Utah Valley University. His condition is unknown. The attack highlights escalating left-wing violence in politics. •Markets Surge Despite Tariffs — The S&P hits record highs as the Producer Price Index shows deflation. Strong consumer spending masks weaknesses in manufacturing and tariffs’ long-term drag. •NATO Condemns Russia — Russian jets probed Polish airspace. Trump and NATO leaders issued sharp warnings, signaling strength and unity in the alliance. •Schumer’s Epstein Files Gamble — Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer breaks precedent by forcing a vote on the Epstein files. Even Democrats call it brazen, while Republicans push back. Please keep Charlie Kirk and his family in your prayers. Violence cannot be the answer to our political differences.

•Census Bureau confirms inflation wiped out all wage growth for working Americans while elites making $250K+ came out ahead. The media dismissed Americans’ concerns, but the data proves otherwise. •A Michigan judge dismisses charges against Trump’s so-called “fake electors” — a ruling that could ripple into Nevada and beyond. Was 2020 a turning point the GOP still hasn’t moved past? •Israel orders the evacuation of Gaza City, signaling an invasion is imminent. Progressives accuse Israel of genocide, while Hamas still holds hostages. The U.S. isn’t coordinating, but it is blessing Israel’s move. •Cracker Barrel scraps its controversial rebrand, logo, and remodeling campaign. But the real problem isn’t the logo, it’s the food quality. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

•Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago — ICE launches a large-scale enforcement surge, staging agents at Naval Station Great Lakes to detain illegal immigrants. •Congressional Stock Trading Ban — President Trump surprises House leaders by backing Rep. Anna Paulina Luna’s discharge petition, catching leadership off guard. •French Government Collapse — Prime Minister François Bayrou ousted as France’s debt crisis deepens, sparking fresh EU instability. •Lumber Prices Drop — A glut of lumber signals a slowdown in U.S. construction, raising red flags for the economy. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

• Weak Jobs Report – Only 22,000 jobs were added in August while U.S. manufacturing lost 75,000 positions. Tariffs are hitting hard, prices are climbing, and interest rate cuts are now expected. • Airline Rule Reversal – Pete Buttigieg criticizes the Trump administration for rolling back flight delay compensation. The rule looked consumer-friendly, but critics argue it raised ticket costs and degraded service. • Venezuela Escalates Against U.S. – Venezuelan fighter jets flew low over U.S. Navy ships after America struck cartel-linked drug runners in the Caribbean. Tensions rise as the Trump administration signals tougher rules of engagement. • Trump Eyes NYC Politics – Reports suggest the White House is considering appointing NYC Mayor Eric Adams as ambassador to Saudi Arabia to clear the field against socialist candidate Mamdani. Cuomo’s weak campaign may not stop the challenge. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith

•Federal Reserve Under Investigation – The Justice Department has opened a criminal probe into Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook over alleged mortgage fraud tied to property filings in Georgia and Michigan. A sitting Fed governor facing grand jury subpoenas raises questions about independence, accountability, and political optics. •McDonalds Takes on Tipping – The fast-food giant is pushing to end the sub-minimum tip wage model, arguing it distorts competition and fuels “tip creep” across the industry. •Naval Base Becomes Immigration Hub – The Pentagon approved Naval Station Great Lakes near Chicago as a staging point for ICE operations despite pushback from Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. •U.S. Strikes Venezuelan Drug Syndicate – A U.S. strike in the southern Caribbean killed 11 suspected members of the Tren de Aragua Syndicate, signaling a new era of treating cartel-linked traffickers as military targets. 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. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.