{"href":"https://api.simplecast.com/oembed?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftodays-news.simplecast.com%2Fepisodes%2Ftodays-news-august-26-27-2025-MMMwtPcY","width":444,"version":"1.0","type":"rich","title":"Today's News, August 26-27, 2025","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_url":"https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/01f7d4b2-716c-43f9-8a03-c96056c76782/479df3df-fc00-4eae-a7b6-c2ac1f86b0c3/wwop-todays-20news-20cover.jpg","thumbnail_height":300,"provider_url":"https://simplecast.com","provider_name":"Simplecast","html":"","height":200,"description":"Recent updates highlight shifting U.S. politics, with Democrats narrowly flipping an Iowa seat but facing continued criticism from their own ranks, while Trump pushes tougher stances on crime, renames the Department of Defense back to “War,” and targets figures like Soros under RICO. Courts weigh ballot signature rules in Pennsylvania, and whistleblower settlements expose past FBI and DOJ cover-ups. Cultural flashpoints include Cracker Barrel’s logo reversal, Vanity Fair staff revolting over Melania Trump, and unions funneling millions to progressive causes. Transgender policy battles intensify, with the administration cracking down on gender ideology in schools. Economically, home prices dip slightly, durable goods manufacturing rises, and tariffs are touted as revenue boosters. Internationally, Europe faces battery troubles, India pushes back against tariffs, and questions loom over China’s property crisis and Britain’s financial stability. Entertainment sees Angel Studios nearing a major fundraising goal and the release of Nobody 2, while scandals hit music stars. In health, FEMA staff face purges, RFK Jr. probes autism causes, and the FDA finally revokes COVID vax emergency authorization. Finally, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement nets a nine-figure media deal."}