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National

'They're stealing from the poor': A major source of SNAP fraud robs recipients of millions

Jayeleauna Lewis, a singe mother, spends time with her 3-year-old daughter, Gianna, outside their home in Indianapolis, Indiana, Saturday, October 3, 2026. Jayeleauna says she became a victim of fraud after someone stole her EBT SNAP card number and used it to make unauthorized purchases in several states. Octavio Jones for NPR

Jayeleauna Lewis, a singe mother, spends time with her 3-year-old daughter, Gianna, outside their home in Indianapolis, Indiana, Saturday, October 3, 2026. Jayeleauna says she became a victim of fraud after someone stole her EBT SNAP card number and used it to make unauthorized purchases in several states. Octavio Jones for NPR Octavio Jones for NPR hide caption

Octavio Jones for NPR
Jayeleauna Lewis, a singe mother, spends time with her 3-year-old daughter, Gianna, outside their home in Indianapolis, Indiana, Saturday, October 3, 2026. Jayeleauna says she became a victim of fraud after someone stole her EBT SNAP card number and used it to make unauthorized purchases in several states. Octavio Jones for NPR

Jayeleauna Lewis, a singe mother, spends time with her 3-year-old daughter, Gianna, outside their home in Indianapolis, Indiana, Saturday, October 3, 2026. Jayeleauna says she became a victim of fraud after someone stole her EBT SNAP card number and used it to make unauthorized purchases in several states. Octavio Jones for NPR Octavio Jones for NPR hide caption

Octavio Jones for NPR

Organized criminal rings target SNAP recipients because of the government program's outdated security features. But upgrading the tech costs money and states' SNAP budgets are getting squeezed.

A major source of SNAP fraud robs recipients of milions

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National Security

Trump cancels public execution, but a line may already have been crossed

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks at the Association of the United States Army 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 14.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks at the Association of the United States Army 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 14. Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks at the Association of the United States Army 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 14.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks at the Association of the United States Army 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 14. Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images

Defense Secretary Hegseth's announcement of a livestreamed execution elicited reactions of disgust and condemnation from some faith leaders and politicians. But within his church, it's not an outlier.

Health Policy

After booting 760K off ACA health plans, the Trump administration adds some people back

KFF Health News
The Healthcare.gov web page is shown.

The anti-fraud moves affect people in the states that use Healthcare.gov to buy Affordable Care Act health insurance. Not all of the 760,000 people disenrolled are "phantoms," as the government has claimed. Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images hide caption

Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Healthcare.gov web page is shown.

The anti-fraud moves affect people in the states that use Healthcare.gov to buy Affordable Care Act health insurance. Not all of the 760,000 people disenrolled are "phantoms," as the government has claimed. Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images hide caption

Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Trump administration provided few details about its process for canceling hundreds of thousands of Affordable Care Act enrollments — even as the next stage of the anti-fraud effort is underway.

Your Turn with Allison Aubrey

Hit a midlife wall? This test identifies your strengths and what matters to you

Ready for a midlife reset? First, take stock of your strengths.

Ready for a midlife reset? First, take stock of your strengths. Westend61/Getty Images hide caption

Westend61/Getty Images
Ready for a midlife reset? First, take stock of your strengths.

Ready for a midlife reset? First, take stock of your strengths. Westend61/Getty Images hide caption

Westend61/Getty Images

As part of her new podcast and newsletter Your Turn with Allison Aubrey, NPR's Allison Aubrey went in search of tools to help navigate midlife — starting with this survey to rank one's character strengths.

Hit a midlife wall? This test identifies your strengths and what matters to you

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Home Page Top Stories
NPR's Newsmakers

Hasan Piker isn't worried about being a political boogeyman this midterms season

Home Page Top Stories
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Hasan Piker speaks to Leila Fadel for NPR's Newsmakers. hide caption

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Hasan Piker speaks to Leila Fadel for NPR's Newsmakers. hide caption

President Donald Trump recently called Hasan Piker a "terrible liability" and a "communist." The California-based streamer — who describes himself as a socialist — has become the GOP's political bogeyman ahead of the midterm elections.

Hasan Piker isn't worried about being a political boogeyman this midterms season

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Three children among dead in Oregon school shooting, sources say

OPB
Schoolchildren ride the last bus leaving Silver Rail Elementary School, in Bend, Ore., Oct. 15, 2026. A shooting occurred at the school, leaving multiple victims, including children, officials say.

Schoolchildren ride the last bus leaving Silver Rail Elementary School, in Bend, Ore., Oct. 15, 2026. A shooting occurred at the school, leaving multiple victims, including children, officials say. Eleanor Moseman/OPB hide caption

Eleanor Moseman/OPB
Schoolchildren ride the last bus leaving Silver Rail Elementary School, in Bend, Ore., Oct. 15, 2026. A shooting occurred at the school, leaving multiple victims, including children, officials say.

Schoolchildren ride the last bus leaving Silver Rail Elementary School, in Bend, Ore., Oct. 15, 2026. A shooting occurred at the school, leaving multiple victims, including children, officials say. Eleanor Moseman/OPB hide caption

Eleanor Moseman/OPB

Multiple victims, including children, have been sent to an area hospital.

National

U.S. historic preservation law faces the most serious threat in its 60-year history

Historic preservation advocates say the Grand Canyon (left) and Arlington Memorial Bridge (right), where President Trump wants to build a 250-foot arch, are examples of historic sites that would lose protection under the proposed changes.

Historic preservation advocates say the Grand Canyon (left) and Arlington Memorial Bridge (right), where President Trump wants to build a 250-foot arch, are examples of historic sites that would lose protection under the proposed changes. Ian Maule/AFP via Getty Images, Alex Brandon/AP hide caption

Ian Maule/AFP via Getty Images, Alex Brandon/AP
Historic preservation advocates say the Grand Canyon (left) and Arlington Memorial Bridge (right), where President Trump wants to build a 250-foot arch, are examples of historic sites that would lose protection under the proposed changes.

Historic preservation advocates say the Grand Canyon (left) and Arlington Memorial Bridge (right), where President Trump wants to build a 250-foot arch, are examples of historic sites that would lose protection under the proposed changes. Ian Maule/AFP via Getty Images, Alex Brandon/AP hide caption

Ian Maule/AFP via Getty Images, Alex Brandon/AP

Congress and a federal agency are threatening to weaken the country's historic preservation law, fueling a backlash that critics say is as fiery as the one that led to the law's creation 60 years ago.

Congress

Suspicious mailings to election officials, congressional offices under investigation

Federal authorities are investigating suspicious mailings sent to election officials and congressional offices in multiple states. Above, a USPS mail collection box in Pasadena, Calif.

Federal authorities are investigating suspicious mailings sent to election officials and congressional offices in multiple states. Above, a USPS mail collection box in Pasadena, Calif. Mario Tama/Getty Images hide caption

Mario Tama/Getty Images
Federal authorities are investigating suspicious mailings sent to election officials and congressional offices in multiple states. Above, a USPS mail collection box in Pasadena, Calif.

Federal authorities are investigating suspicious mailings sent to election officials and congressional offices in multiple states. Above, a USPS mail collection box in Pasadena, Calif. Mario Tama/Getty Images hide caption

Mario Tama/Getty Images

The FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service are looking into the mailings, some of which included an unidentified powdery white substance.

Law

Conservative super-lawyer squares up for his latest Supreme Court argument

Attorney Paul Clement answers questions outside the U.S. Supreme Court after oral arguments in April 2022 in Washington, D.C.

Attorney Paul Clement answers questions outside the U.S. Supreme Court after oral arguments in April 2022 in Washington, D.C. Win McNamee/Getty Images hide caption

Win McNamee/Getty Images
Attorney Paul Clement answers questions outside the U.S. Supreme Court after oral arguments in April 2022 in Washington, D.C.

Attorney Paul Clement answers questions outside the U.S. Supreme Court after oral arguments in April 2022 in Washington, D.C. Win McNamee/Getty Images hide caption

Win McNamee/Getty Images

Paul Clement, a Republican, has racked up dozens of wins at the Supreme Court since his days as George W. Bush's solicitor general. Recently, he's been challenging some Trump administration policies.

Conservative super-lawyer squares up for latest Supreme Court argument

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Understanding AI

These workers help train robots who could one day steal their jobs

AI robots final .jpeg
Faven Mulugeta for NPR
AI robots final .jpeg
Faven Mulugeta for NPR

Factory workers in India are being asked to wear GoPro cameras to record the way they do their jobs. The ultimate goal is to train robots to take over. Will it work?

Textile factory workers in India are teaching AI how to do their jobs

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NPR Shorts
Elections

These swing voters regret voting for Trump and it's influencing their midterm choices

A person walks past a voting sign at the East Point Library on Tuesday, the first day of early voting, in Atlanta.

A person walks past a voting sign at the East Point Library on Tuesday, the first day of early voting, in Atlanta. Megan Varner/Getty Images hide caption

Megan Varner/Getty Images
A person walks past a voting sign at the East Point Library on Tuesday, the first day of early voting, in Atlanta.

A person walks past a voting sign at the East Point Library on Tuesday, the first day of early voting, in Atlanta. Megan Varner/Getty Images hide caption

Megan Varner/Getty Images

Some key voters in Georgia say deep frustration and disappointment with President Trump are motivating their election plans just weeks before Election Day.

LA County red flag warning starts Thursday for 'extreme fire risk' potential

LAist 89.3
A firefighter sprays a hotspot while fighting the Bike fire in the outskirts of Santa Clarita, California on October 11, 2026. Los Angeles County Fire is battling a fast moving wildfire that started on Sunday afternoon threatening homes in Santa Clarita, the third largest city in Los Angeles County. The LA County Sheriff's office ordered residents to evacuate as the Bike fire grew to 100 acres in size in a very short time.

A firefighter sprays a hotspot while fighting the Bike fire in the outskirts of Santa Clarita, California on October 11, 2026. Los Angeles County Fire is battling a fast moving wildfire that started on Sunday afternoon threatening homes in Santa Clarita, the third largest city in Los Angeles County. The LA County Sheriff's office ordered residents to evacuate as the Bike fire grew to 100 acres in size in a very short time. DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images
A firefighter sprays a hotspot while fighting the Bike fire in the outskirts of Santa Clarita, California on October 11, 2026. Los Angeles County Fire is battling a fast moving wildfire that started on Sunday afternoon threatening homes in Santa Clarita, the third largest city in Los Angeles County. The LA County Sheriff's office ordered residents to evacuate as the Bike fire grew to 100 acres in size in a very short time.

A firefighter sprays a hotspot while fighting the Bike fire in the outskirts of Santa Clarita, California on October 11, 2026. Los Angeles County Fire is battling a fast moving wildfire that started on Sunday afternoon threatening homes in Santa Clarita, the third largest city in Los Angeles County. The LA County Sheriff's office ordered residents to evacuate as the Bike fire grew to 100 acres in size in a very short time. DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images

The warning is happening because of a combination of strong Santa Ana winds, low humidity and dry brush in the region.

Man shot by ICE in NYC said federal officers never identified themselves

Gothamist
In this image taken from police-worn body camera video released the New York City Police Department (NYPD), law enforcement personnel tend to a Oscar Belgal, 28, a Dominican man who was shot by Federal immigration officers, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, in New York, as he drove his car with a 5-year-old boy inside.

In this image taken from police-worn body camera video released the New York City Police Department (NYPD), law enforcement personnel tend to a Oscar Belgal, 28, a Dominican man who was shot by Federal immigration officers, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, in New York, as he drove his car with a 5-year-old boy inside. New York City Police Department/AP hide caption

New York City Police Department/AP
In this image taken from police-worn body camera video released the New York City Police Department (NYPD), law enforcement personnel tend to a Oscar Belgal, 28, a Dominican man who was shot by Federal immigration officers, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, in New York, as he drove his car with a 5-year-old boy inside.

In this image taken from police-worn body camera video released the New York City Police Department (NYPD), law enforcement personnel tend to a Oscar Belgal, 28, a Dominican man who was shot by Federal immigration officers, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, in New York, as he drove his car with a 5-year-old boy inside. New York City Police Department/AP hide caption

New York City Police Department/AP

The man shot by federal immigration agents in New York Cityl last week says that he didn't know that the men who ambushed and shot him were ICE agents until he later woke up in the hospital.

Religion

Pope Leo's cancer prognosis is 'very good,' according to outside medical experts

Pope Leo XIV arrives at the Gemelli University Hospital for an operation to remove a lump from his lung, in Rome on October 13, 2026

Pope Leo XIV arrives at the Gemelli University Hospital for an operation to remove a lump from his lung, in Rome.
Alberto Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Alberto Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images
Pope Leo XIV arrives at the Gemelli University Hospital for an operation to remove a lump from his lung, in Rome on October 13, 2026

Pope Leo XIV arrives at the Gemelli University Hospital for an operation to remove a lump from his lung, in Rome.
Alberto Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Alberto Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images

Pope Leo XIV had surgery on Tuesday to remove a cancerous growth in his lung, the Vatican announced.

Pope Leo has lung cancer, the Vatican says

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Review Book Reviews

'New Yorker' cartoonists admit to having 'The Two Saddest Kitchens'

Fresh Air
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Bloombury Publishing
81taoPRHQmL._SL1500_.jpg
Bloombury Publishing

The Two Saddest Kitchens is a comic conversation between Roz Chast and Jason Adam Katzenstein. Book critic Maureen Corrigan says it made her laugh and feel better about her own (lack of) cooking.

'New Yorker' cartoonists offer a lighthearted take on the city's 'Saddest Kitchens

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The Picture Show

Inside a Chicago home, a photographer documents the life her family built

Jennifer Teresa Villanueva’s aunts, cousins, grandmother and uncle gather around the dining table for an afternoon brunch at home in Chicago in 2018.

Jennifer Teresa Villanueva's aunts, cousins, grandmother and uncle gather around the dining table for an afternoon brunch at home in Chicago in 2018. Jennifer Teresa Villanueva hide caption

Jennifer Teresa Villanueva
Jennifer Teresa Villanueva’s aunts, cousins, grandmother and uncle gather around the dining table for an afternoon brunch at home in Chicago in 2018.

Jennifer Teresa Villanueva's aunts, cousins, grandmother and uncle gather around the dining table for an afternoon brunch at home in Chicago in 2018. Jennifer Teresa Villanueva hide caption

Jennifer Teresa Villanueva

For eight years, photographer Jennifer Teresa Villanueva has documented her Mexican American family's everyday life in Chicago, capturing intimate moments of love, labor and sacrifice.

Asia

School roof collapse kills at least 29, injures more than 3 dozen in Pakistan

A volunteer clears the way for an ambulance transporting injured school children following a roof collapse at a private school in Peshawar, Pakistan, Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026.

A volunteer clears the way for an ambulance transporting injured school children following a roof collapse at a private school in Peshawar, Pakistan, Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. Maaz Awan/AP hide caption

Maaz Awan/AP
A volunteer clears the way for an ambulance transporting injured school children following a roof collapse at a private school in Peshawar, Pakistan, Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026.

A volunteer clears the way for an ambulance transporting injured school children following a roof collapse at a private school in Peshawar, Pakistan, Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. Maaz Awan/AP hide caption

Maaz Awan/AP

The roof of a private school collapsed in northwestern Pakistan on Thursday, killing at least 28 children and a female teacher and injuring more than 50 other people.

Economy

Inflation sizzled in September — and Social Security benefits will get a boost

A man pumps gas at a gas station.

Rising gasoline and diesel prices pushed inflation higher in September. The cost of living index was up 3.7%, according to a report Wednesday from the Labor Department. Isabelle Souriment/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Isabelle Souriment/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images
A man pumps gas at a gas station.

Rising gasoline and diesel prices pushed inflation higher in September. The cost of living index was up 3.7%, according to a report Wednesday from the Labor Department. Isabelle Souriment/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Isabelle Souriment/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images

Consumer prices in September jumped 3.7% from a year ago. The Social Security Administration said benefits will increase next year to help keep pace with the rising cost of living.

Inflation sizzled in September — and Social Security benefits will get a boost

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911 calls show ambulance was delayed after failed execution in Tennessee

WPLN News
Emergency vehicles arrive at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution after the execution of Christa Pike was halted Sept. 30 in Nashville, Tenn.

Emergency vehicles arrive at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution after the execution of Christa Pike was halted Sept. 30 in Nashville, Tenn. George Walker IV/AP hide caption

George Walker IV/AP
Emergency vehicles arrive at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution after the execution of Christa Pike was halted Sept. 30 in Nashville, Tenn.

Emergency vehicles arrive at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution after the execution of Christa Pike was halted Sept. 30 in Nashville, Tenn. George Walker IV/AP hide caption

George Walker IV/AP

Confusion over 911 calls from the prison where Christa Pike survived two rounds of lethal injection led to late arrival of an ambulance, recordings show.

California Democrats hope Iran war flips the script on gas prices

KQED
Image

Gas prices are displayed on a screen at a Shell gas station in San Francisco on Oct. 14, 2026. Gina Castro/KQED hide caption

Gina Castro/KQED
Image

Gas prices are displayed on a screen at a Shell gas station in San Francisco on Oct. 14, 2026. Gina Castro/KQED hide caption

Gina Castro/KQED

After years of playing defense over the nation's highest gas prices, Democrats in battleground House districts are taking aim at war-fueled price increases.

Europe

Ukraine resumes attacks on Russian oil refineries, officials say, after brief truce

Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham says goodbye to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after their meeting at 10 Downing Street in London, Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026.

Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham says goodbye to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after their meeting at 10 Downing Street in London, Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026. Alberto Pezzali/AP hide caption

Alberto Pezzali/AP
Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham says goodbye to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after their meeting at 10 Downing Street in London, Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026.

Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham says goodbye to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after their meeting at 10 Downing Street in London, Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026. Alberto Pezzali/AP hide caption

Alberto Pezzali/AP

Ukrainian drones attacked a refinery in Russia's Ryazan region early Thursday, hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that a brief truce spurned by Moscow was over.

Law

CNN, MS NOW and Politico prevail against White House — for now

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 19: CNN signage on the network's booth in the press area of the White House after journalists with the network were earlier denied entry to the White House grounds, on September 19, 2026 in Washington, DC.

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 19: CNN signage on the network's booth in the press area of the White House after journalists with the network were earlier denied entry to the White House grounds, on September 19, 2026 in Washington, DC. Graeme Sloan/Getty Images hide caption

Graeme Sloan/Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 19: CNN signage on the network's booth in the press area of the White House after journalists with the network were earlier denied entry to the White House grounds, on September 19, 2026 in Washington, DC.

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 19: CNN signage on the network's booth in the press area of the White House after journalists with the network were earlier denied entry to the White House grounds, on September 19, 2026 in Washington, DC. Graeme Sloan/Getty Images hide caption

Graeme Sloan/Getty Images

A federal judge ruled late Tuesday that President Trump cannot ban news organizations from covering him at the White House because he does not like the nature of their coverage - at least, not until the matter goes to a formal trial.

Judge extends order blocking White House from barring media outlets

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World, reordering

Aboard an icebreaker, a writer got a closer look at the Arctic's 'Sea Change'

Fresh Air
Rana Foroohar reports from the USS Healy (pictured above) in Sea Change.

Rana Foroohar reports from the USS Healy (pictured above) in Sea Change. Crown hide caption

Crown
Rana Foroohar reports from the USS Healy (pictured above) in Sea Change.

Rana Foroohar reports from the USS Healy (pictured above) in Sea Change. Crown hide caption

Crown

As polar ice melts in the Arctic, shipping lanes are opening up, making the region a new zone of superpower competition. Writer Rana Foroohar explains the stakes in Sea Change.

FA: Rana Faroohar

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Elections

In Kansas, a newly competitive Senate race tests limit of Trump's unpopular policies

Signs reading "Midterm Elections Matter, Vote Conservative" and a photo of President Trump with the word Vote across the bottom seen on a Kansas GOP bus tour across the state to bolster Republican candidates in an unusually competitive year.

A sign seen on a Kansas GOP bus tour across the state to bolster Republican candidates in an unusually competitive year. Kansas has a Democratic governor and Republican U.S. Senators but recent polls show voters could elect a Republican governor and Democratic U.S. Senator this year. Stephen Fowler/NPR hide caption

Stephen Fowler/NPR
Signs reading "Midterm Elections Matter, Vote Conservative" and a photo of President Trump with the word Vote across the bottom seen on a Kansas GOP bus tour across the state to bolster Republican candidates in an unusually competitive year.

A sign seen on a Kansas GOP bus tour across the state to bolster Republican candidates in an unusually competitive year. Kansas has a Democratic governor and Republican U.S. Senators but recent polls show voters could elect a Republican governor and Democratic U.S. Senator this year. Stephen Fowler/NPR hide caption

Stephen Fowler/NPR

Kansas voters could send a Democrat to the Senate for the first time in nearly a century — and flip the governor's office back to Republican control, even in what could be a tough year for the GOP.

In Kansas, a newly competitive Senate race tests limit of Trump’s unpopular policies

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Gaming

Hands-on with the Ocarina of Time remake, the most ornate Zelda game ever made

The titular Princess Zelda, reworked for the Nintendo Switch 2 remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.

The titular Princess Zelda, reworked for the Nintendo Switch 2 remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Nintendo hide caption

Nintendo
The titular Princess Zelda, reworked for the Nintendo Switch 2 remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.

The titular Princess Zelda, reworked for the Nintendo Switch 2 remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Nintendo hide caption

Nintendo

We got to play The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time early. Here are our impressions of the remake and its elaborate new style.

Elections

Civil rights advocates plan to send thousands of observers to midterm polling places

A voting center is seen in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Oct. 7, the first day of early voting.

A voting center is seen in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Oct. 7, the first day of early voting. Olivier Touron/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Olivier Touron/AFP via Getty Images
A voting center is seen in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Oct. 7, the first day of early voting.

A voting center is seen in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Oct. 7, the first day of early voting. Olivier Touron/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Olivier Touron/AFP via Getty Images

For many election cycles, civil rights groups and political parties have fanned out to monitor polling places, but the charged midterm environment has many organizations stepping up efforts this year.

Civil rights advocates plan to send thousands of observers to midterm polling places

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Politics

Trump's ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle, resigns after allegations of improper conduct

FILE - Kimberly Guilfoyle speaks as President Donald Trump listens at a reception celebrating Greek Independence Day in the East Room of the White House, March 24, 2025, in Washington.

FILE - Kimberly Guilfoyle speaks as President Donald Trump listens at a reception celebrating Greek Independence Day in the East Room of the White House, March 24, 2025, in Washington. Jacquelyn Martin/AP hide caption

Jacquelyn Martin/AP
FILE - Kimberly Guilfoyle speaks as President Donald Trump listens at a reception celebrating Greek Independence Day in the East Room of the White House, March 24, 2025, in Washington.

FILE - Kimberly Guilfoyle speaks as President Donald Trump listens at a reception celebrating Greek Independence Day in the East Room of the White House, March 24, 2025, in Washington. Jacquelyn Martin/AP hide caption

Jacquelyn Martin/AP

The White House publicly asked for U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle's resignation on Tuesday as she faced mounting accusations of improper conduct.

Life Kit: Tools to help you get it together

Life Kit

Our relationship with money is emotional. How to make the most of your cash

Three 20 dollar bills folded into hearts are arranged in an upward trending diagonal line on a sparkly green background, reflections of the money are cast to the lower right side of the frame.
Enlarge this image
Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR
Three 20 dollar bills folded into hearts are arranged in an upward trending diagonal line on a sparkly green background, reflections of the money are cast to the lower right side of the frame.
Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR
Three 20 dollar bills folded into hearts are arranged in an upward trending diagonal line on a sparkly green background, reflections of the money are cast to the lower right side of the frame.
Enlarge this image
Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR
Three 20 dollar bills folded into hearts are arranged in an upward trending diagonal line on a sparkly green background, reflections of the money are cast to the lower right side of the frame.
Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR

Fall is officially here. Why not use this new season as a chance to check in with your health? This episode of Life Kit, medical professionals share advice to help you care for your ears, eyes, teeth, feet and skin. We hope these tips leave you feeling healthy and strong.

Our relationship with money is emotional. How to make the most of your cash

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Life Kit

Bad bosses, low pay, big mistakes: How to navigate the pitfalls of starting a new job

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Flat lay view of busy office worker table top objects still life.
twomeows/Getty Images
Flat lay view of busy office worker table top objects still life.
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Just starting your career? Elainy Mata, host of the Harvard Business Review podcast New Here, offers advice on how to deal with issues that aren't part of the job description.

Bad bosses, low pay, big mistakes: How to navigate the pitfalls of starting a new job

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Trauma after a parent's deportation could affect children for decades

Iowa Public Radio
Six of Juan Lopez’s children and two sons-in-law stand inside the Des Moines, Iowa, garage where he spent most of his time fixing cars and watching television with friends, on Sept. 27, 2026. One of his grandchildren is seated nearby. Juan Lopez was arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Sept. 9, 2026.

Six of Juan Lopez's children and two sons-in-law stand inside the Des Moines, Iowa, garage where he spent most of his time fixing cars and watching television with friends, on Sept. 27, 2026. One of his grandchildren is seated nearby. Juan Lopez was arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Sept. 9, 2026. Madeleine Charis King/Iowa Public Radio hide caption

Madeleine Charis King/Iowa Public Radio
Six of Juan Lopez’s children and two sons-in-law stand inside the Des Moines, Iowa, garage where he spent most of his time fixing cars and watching television with friends, on Sept. 27, 2026. One of his grandchildren is seated nearby. Juan Lopez was arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Sept. 9, 2026.

Six of Juan Lopez's children and two sons-in-law stand inside the Des Moines, Iowa, garage where he spent most of his time fixing cars and watching television with friends, on Sept. 27, 2026. One of his grandchildren is seated nearby. Juan Lopez was arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Sept. 9, 2026. Madeleine Charis King/Iowa Public Radio hide caption

Madeleine Charis King/Iowa Public Radio

More children from mixed-status families are being separated from their parents through detention or deportation. Researchers and advocates say the resulting trauma can lead to severe consequences.

National

A judge blocks the government's tree-clearing spree at a municipal D.C. golf course

The Trump administration abruptly cut down more than 400 trees at Washington D.C.’s historic East Potomac Golf Links last weekend. A federal judge has ordered testimony from two high-level officials with the Interior Department over the recent abrupt removal of trees; the judge plans to hold another hearing Oct. 19.

The Trump administration abruptly cut down more than 400 trees at Washington D.C.'s historic East Potomac Golf Links last weekend. A federal judge has ordered testimony from two high-level officials with the Interior Department over the recent abrupt removal of trees; the judge plans to hold another hearing Oct. 19. Tyrone Turner/WAMU for NPR hide caption

Tyrone Turner/WAMU for NPR
The Trump administration abruptly cut down more than 400 trees at Washington D.C.’s historic East Potomac Golf Links last weekend. A federal judge has ordered testimony from two high-level officials with the Interior Department over the recent abrupt removal of trees; the judge plans to hold another hearing Oct. 19.

The Trump administration abruptly cut down more than 400 trees at Washington D.C.'s historic East Potomac Golf Links last weekend. A federal judge has ordered testimony from two high-level officials with the Interior Department over the recent abrupt removal of trees; the judge plans to hold another hearing Oct. 19. Tyrone Turner/WAMU for NPR hide caption

Tyrone Turner/WAMU for NPR

Locals and preservationists have long opposed Trump's plan to redevelop a municipal D.C. golf course. That legal fight escalated after the government cleared hundreds of trees on short notice.

Midterm elections 2026

Elections 2026

Texas Republican Alex Mealer leads Leticia Gutierrez as her campaign scrubs Trump from website

Houston Public Media News 88.7
Republican nominee Alex Mealer speaking to supporters at her March 2026 primary watch party. Mealer would go on to battle staet house representative Briscoe Cain in a run off before clinching the nomination in May.

Republican nominee Alex Mealer speaking to supporters at her March 2026 primary watch party. Mealer would go on to battle staet house representative Briscoe Cain in a run off before clinching the nomination in May. Bianca Seward/Houston Public Media hide caption

Bianca Seward/Houston Public Media
Republican nominee Alex Mealer speaking to supporters at her March 2026 primary watch party. Mealer would go on to battle staet house representative Briscoe Cain in a run off before clinching the nomination in May.

Republican nominee Alex Mealer speaking to supporters at her March 2026 primary watch party. Mealer would go on to battle staet house representative Briscoe Cain in a run off before clinching the nomination in May. Bianca Seward/Houston Public Media hide caption

Bianca Seward/Houston Public Media

The race has become more competitive — and mentions of President Donald Trump have disappeared from Mealer's website.

Elections 2026

Kansas governor election: What to know about the candidates running in November

KCUR
Voters in Kansas City, Kansas, showing up at the Wyandotte County Election office for the last minutes of early voting on Nov. 7, 2022.

Voters in Kansas City, Kansas, showing up at the Wyandotte County Election office for the last minutes of early voting on Nov. 7, 2022. Carlos Moreno/KCUR 89.3 hide caption

Carlos Moreno/KCUR 89.3
Voters in Kansas City, Kansas, showing up at the Wyandotte County Election office for the last minutes of early voting on Nov. 7, 2022.

Voters in Kansas City, Kansas, showing up at the Wyandotte County Election office for the last minutes of early voting on Nov. 7, 2022. Carlos Moreno/KCUR 89.3 hide caption

Carlos Moreno/KCUR 89.3

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, is running against state Sen. Cindy Holscher, an Overland Park Democrat, in the race to replace the term-limited Democratic Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly.

Explainer Elections

Why mailing a ballot close to Election Day may get it rejected for a late postmark

A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C.

A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C. Matt Ramey/AP hide caption

Matt Ramey/AP
A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C.

A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C. Matt Ramey/AP hide caption

Matt Ramey/AP

If you're using the U.S. Postal Service to return a ballot close to Election Day, officials recommend getting it postmarked at a post office to avoid getting caught up in mail processing changes.

Why mailing a ballot close to Election Day may get it rejected for a late postmark

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Elections

In one of the country's most competitive districts, a Democrat tries to keep her seat

In this file photo, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) listens at a House Appropriations Committee hearing on July 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. Gluesenkamp Perez is seeking reelection in one of the most competitive seats in the country.

In this file photo, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) listens at a House Appropriations Committee hearing on July 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. Gluesenkamp Perez is seeking reelection in one of the most competitive seats in the country. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images hide caption

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
In this file photo, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) listens at a House Appropriations Committee hearing on July 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. Gluesenkamp Perez is seeking reelection in one of the most competitive seats in the country.

In this file photo, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) listens at a House Appropriations Committee hearing on July 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. Gluesenkamp Perez is seeking reelection in one of the most competitive seats in the country. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images hide caption

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

In a highly competitive Washington congressional race, the incumbent Democrat has angered part of her party base and the Trump-backed Republican challenger faces backlash against the party in power.

POSTCARD OF A TOSS UP DISTRICT

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Elections

After losing ground with Latino voters, Democrats are turning to influencers for help

Democrats are trying to rebuild trust among Latino voters, and turning to content creators for help. Above, Spanish language voting stickers which read "He Votado Hoy" ("I Voted Today") at a Philadelphia polling place in 2019.

Democrats are trying to rebuild trust among Latino voters, and turning to content creators for help. Above, Spanish language voting stickers which read "He Votado Hoy" ("I Voted Today") at a Philadelphia polling place in 2019. Matt Rourke/AP hide caption

Matt Rourke/AP
Democrats are trying to rebuild trust among Latino voters, and turning to content creators for help. Above, Spanish language voting stickers which read "He Votado Hoy" ("I Voted Today") at a Philadelphia polling place in 2019.

Democrats are trying to rebuild trust among Latino voters, and turning to content creators for help. Above, Spanish language voting stickers which read "He Votado Hoy" ("I Voted Today") at a Philadelphia polling place in 2019. Matt Rourke/AP hide caption

Matt Rourke/AP

Democrats are hoping to win back Latino voters who have soured on both parties. They hope Latino content creators will bridge the gap.

Democrats vie for Latino 'Double Haters'

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Elections

Win or lose, independent candidates want to meet voters in the middle

Alaska U.S. House candidate Bill Hill, an independent, poses in a park in downtown Juneau, Alaska, on June 4, 2026.

Alaska U.S. House candidate Bill Hill, an independent, poses in a park in downtown Juneau, Alaska, on June 4, 2026. Becky Bohrer/AP hide caption

Becky Bohrer/AP
Alaska U.S. House candidate Bill Hill, an independent, poses in a park in downtown Juneau, Alaska, on June 4, 2026.

Alaska U.S. House candidate Bill Hill, an independent, poses in a park in downtown Juneau, Alaska, on June 4, 2026. Becky Bohrer/AP hide caption

Becky Bohrer/AP

Nearly 200 independent candidates in more than 100 congressional races are trying to prove there's an alternative to the two party system — even though the chance of winning is very low.

Win or lose, independent candidates want to meet voters in the middle

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Elections 2026

What older Texans need to know about voting by mail

KUT News
A voter in Austin, TX inserts a voter registration card into a machine.

Travis County Clerk Dyana Limon-Mercado shares tips ahead of the November election. Michael Minasi/KUT News hide caption

Michael Minasi/KUT News
A voter in Austin, TX inserts a voter registration card into a machine.

Travis County Clerk Dyana Limon-Mercado shares tips ahead of the November election. Michael Minasi/KUT News hide caption

Michael Minasi/KUT News

Eligible voters have until Oct. 23 to apply to vote by mail in the upcoming midterms.

2 Way Stayton Limon Mercado on Senior Voting LV WEB MIX.mp3

Sovereignty at the ballot: How do tribal nations in Oklahoma navigate elections?

KOSU
Choctaw Nation Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. leads a Christian prayer at President Donald Trump's rally in Durant on Oct. 1.

Choctaw Nation Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. leads a Christian prayer at President Donald Trump's rally in Durant on Oct. 1. Sarah Liese/KOSU hide caption

Sarah Liese/KOSU
Choctaw Nation Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. leads a Christian prayer at President Donald Trump's rally in Durant on Oct. 1.

Choctaw Nation Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. leads a Christian prayer at President Donald Trump's rally in Durant on Oct. 1. Sarah Liese/KOSU hide caption

Sarah Liese/KOSU

Tribal nations in Oklahoma have several ways to defend their sovereignty. Sometimes, that's through politics.

261013-lede-PabloPoliticsTribes.mp3

Climate

Some of the most pristine coral reefs have a secret weapon: birds

At Palmyra Atoll in the remote Pacific Ocean, wildlife refuge manager Paige Mino observes red-footed boobies. Scientists have found a surprising link between the seabirds and the health of the surrounding ocean.

At Palmyra Atoll in the remote Pacific Ocean, wildlife refuge manager Paige Mino observes red-footed boobies. Scientists have found a surprising link between the seabirds and the health of the surrounding ocean. Claire Harbage/NPR hide caption

Claire Harbage/NPR
At Palmyra Atoll in the remote Pacific Ocean, wildlife refuge manager Paige Mino observes red-footed boobies. Scientists have found a surprising link between the seabirds and the health of the surrounding ocean.

At Palmyra Atoll in the remote Pacific Ocean, wildlife refuge manager Paige Mino observes red-footed boobies. Scientists have found a surprising link between the seabirds and the health of the surrounding ocean. Claire Harbage/NPR hide caption

Claire Harbage/NPR

Coral reefs are facing increasing threats around the globe. But on a remote Pacific island, scientists have found that reefs can get help from a surprising ally: seabirds.

Some of the most pristine coral reefs have a secret weapon: birds

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Politics

New White House press secretary faces questions about credentials after first briefing

White House press secretary Katie Zacharia speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, in Washington.

White House press secretary Katie Zacharia speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, in Washington. Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP hide caption

Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP
White House press secretary Katie Zacharia speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, in Washington.

White House press secretary Katie Zacharia speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, in Washington. Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP hide caption

Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP

Katie Zacharia worked for one of Trump's companies and raised her profile appearing on conservative-leaning talk shows. She also amplified right-wing conspiracy theories. Now she'll be the president's chief spokesperson.

new tile 2023
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It's Been a Minute

Nowadays, celebrity is a state of mind

new tile 2023
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In their new book, Bobby Finger and Lindsey Weber, hosts of the podcast Who? Weekly, explore what they've learned about the ephemeral nature of fame, celebrity, and our collective obsession with reality television.

Nowadays, celebrity is a state of mind

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Author Interviews

Writer Yiyun Li lost both of her sons. When words fell short, she turned to music

Fresh Air
YiYun Li

YiYun Li Hannah Yoon/Macmillan hide caption

Hannah Yoon/Macmillan
YiYun Li

YiYun Li Hannah Yoon/Macmillan hide caption

Hannah Yoon/Macmillan

Li won a Pulitzer for her memoir about the suicides of her two sons. In her new novel, Music Against the Night, she writes about two young prodigies in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

FA: Yiyun Li

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50 years later, this documentary is still influencing music, labor movements

WKMS
Eastern Kentucky celebrate after successfully striking to join the United Mine Workers of America in 1974. Their fight was documented in Barbara Kopple's Academy Award-winning "Harlan County USA," which premiered 50 years ago Thursday.

Eastern Kentucky coal miners celebrate after successfully striking to join the United Mine Workers of America in 1974. Their fight was documented in Barbara Kopple's Academy Award-winning "Harlan County USA," which premiered 50 years ago Thursday. Robert Gumpert/Courtesy of the Appalshop Archive hide caption

Robert Gumpert/Courtesy of the Appalshop Archive
Eastern Kentucky celebrate after successfully striking to join the United Mine Workers of America in 1974. Their fight was documented in Barbara Kopple's Academy Award-winning "Harlan County USA," which premiered 50 years ago Thursday.

Eastern Kentucky coal miners celebrate after successfully striking to join the United Mine Workers of America in 1974. Their fight was documented in Barbara Kopple's Academy Award-winning "Harlan County USA," which premiered 50 years ago Thursday. Robert Gumpert/Courtesy of the Appalshop Archive hide caption

Robert Gumpert/Courtesy of the Appalshop Archive

It's been 50 years since the release of "Harlan County USA," the Academy Award-winning film that shined a light on an eastern Kentucky coal mining community.

Short Wave podcast: Revealing the science behind everyday mysteries

SW
NPR
Short Wave

What Flock cameras really see – and how

SW
NPR
A close-up photo of one of Flock Safety's ALPR (Automated License Plate Reader) cameras, distinguishable by its hooded shape and oval lens, the rectangular solar panel above it, and the small Flock logo at its base.

Flock Safety's cameras, like this one in Los Angeles, are being installed all over. But what are police departments, ICE, and other federal agents using them for? halbergman/Getty Images hide caption

halbergman/Getty Images
A close-up photo of one of Flock Safety's ALPR (Automated License Plate Reader) cameras, distinguishable by its hooded shape and oval lens, the rectangular solar panel above it, and the small Flock logo at its base.

Flock Safety's cameras, like this one in Los Angeles, are being installed all over. But what are police departments, ICE, and other federal agents using them for? halbergman/Getty Images hide caption

halbergman/Getty Images

Police departments across the U.S. are installing Flock cameras, saying the surveillance devices help deter theft and solve crimes, like helping find stolen property and missing people. But as the technology and its use by federal agencies expands, a handful of people have taken matters into their own hands. A hacker collective ripped down a Flock camera and made a copy of the software inside for investigative journalists at 404 Media and Wired. We talk to one of those journalists, Joseph Cox, about what he and his colleagues found, how the data is being used, why some residents are pushing back against the cameras and the future of the technology.Interested in more science and technology news? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.

What Flock cameras really see – and how

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Short Wave

What's best for Earth? The debate over deep ocean mining

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Blue-gray lumps that structurally resemble coal under a white logo that reads "Sea Camp" and has a white cartoon image of waves, bubbles, a crab and a seahorse. The top logo in white reads "Short Wave"

Polymetallic sea nodules take millions of years to grow. Pallava Bagla/Getty Images hide caption

Pallava Bagla/Getty Images
Blue-gray lumps that structurally resemble coal under a white logo that reads "Sea Camp" and has a white cartoon image of waves, bubbles, a crab and a seahorse. The top logo in white reads "Short Wave"

Polymetallic sea nodules take millions of years to grow. Pallava Bagla/Getty Images hide caption

Pallava Bagla/Getty Images

Deep sea mining for rare earth elements and other critical minerals could start as early as 2026, even as 38 countries have called for a moratorium on it. The metals that companies are targeting are used in many green technologies like electric cars and wind turbines – but mining them is destructive to the environment. Some in the mining industry say the mining is necessary to a green transition – and essential to democratizing that transition globally since the supply chain is currently dominated by a single country, China. Meanwhile, some scientists caution against mining before the full scope of environmental damage can be understood. Can there be balance in this environmental and political push-and-pull? Hosts Regina G. Barber and Emily Kwong dive into this debate and talk about what science has to say. Curious about other science controversies? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

Sea Camp: To Mine Or Not To Min

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Short Wave

Here's how hunger and food insecurity affect individuals — and whole societies

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For square image: A white counter with a plastic bag containing an apple and a bunch of bananas, there is an elderly light skinned woman holding a receipt in her left hand and typing numbers into an old calculator with her right hand. She is wearing a black and white striped shirt and there is a potted plant and a coffee mug in the background.

SNAP is the largest anti-hunger program in the United States. It serves 1 in 8 residents, who live at or just above the poverty line. It was paused earlier this month during the government shutdown. PIKSEL/Getty Images hide caption

PIKSEL/Getty Images
For square image: A white counter with a plastic bag containing an apple and a bunch of bananas, there is an elderly light skinned woman holding a receipt in her left hand and typing numbers into an old calculator with her right hand. She is wearing a black and white striped shirt and there is a potted plant and a coffee mug in the background.

SNAP is the largest anti-hunger program in the United States. It serves 1 in 8 residents, who live at or just above the poverty line. It was paused earlier this month during the government shutdown. PIKSEL/Getty Images hide caption

PIKSEL/Getty Images

One in every eight households in the U.S. isn't always sure where the next meal will come from. Limited food access can spell hunger – and that can affect the body and mind. So can cheaper, less nutritious foods. Hunger has a huge impact on individuals – and whole societies. It can mean shorter term issues like trouble focusing, as well as longer term mental health and physical struggles like chronic disease and social isolation. Host Regina G Barber speaks with experts looking at the impacts of food insecurity – from the known tolls and misconceptions to ways to bridge the gap.If you liked this show, check out our episode on loneliness and the brain. To learn about ways you can find free or low-cost food, check out NPR's Life Kit episode on the topic.Interested in more public health or human biology stories? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

SNAP Delays: The Science Of Hunger And Food Insecurity

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