• Flight Reductions Hit Major Airports: Air traffic controllers continue calling out as the shutdown drags on. The FAA is ordering flight capacity cuts at more than 40 major airports, including Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, and Chicago, as workers go unpaid and pick up side jobs to support their families.
• Ford Backs Away from the Electric F-150: After real-world testing and weak consumer demand, Ford appears poised to scrap the electric F-150 Lightning project.
• Senate Republicans Push Back on Trump's Filibuster Messaging: GOP allies are privately urging the President to stop calling for an end to the filibuster, arguing it gave Senate Democrats cover to prolong the shutdown. Republicans say the focus must shift back to forcing Democrats to accept a clean reopening.
• Lower Prices Coming for Ozempic and Wegovy: The administration announces reduced Medicare and Medicaid costs for weight-loss injectables, bringing monthly prices closer to $149.

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.