12/9/25

• State Dept finalizes mass layoffs, says employees won’t be reinstated under shutdown-ending deal – Federal News Network

• The government’s top watchdog is retiring — but the Trump probes continue – Politico

• Congress must become a champion guard dog to defend its watchdog – Roll Call

• ‘Sort of blackmail’: Billions in rural health funding hinge on states passing Trump-backed policies – Politico

• Funding cuts may leave hundreds in St. Louis homeless, advocates and city leaders warn – STL Public Radio

• Republicans have an affordability problem. They can’t agree on how to fix it. – Politico

• Delayed federal funds for energy assistance draws concerns in Durham County: 'Constant stress' – ABC11

• Judge temporarily blocks State Department layoffs – Roll Call

• Education Department bringing back 260 civil rights employees – Politico

• Democratic senators demand U.S. Park Police suspend hiring spree – Washington Post