Government Shutdown Ends, Epstein File Debate, Grijalva Sworn In, Goodbye Penny

Today on America in the MorningGovernment Shutdown Ends

After 43 days, the United States government is once again open for business. John Stolnis has the details from Washington.

Demands For Epstein Files Be Released

House Democrats upon their return to Washington on Wednesday released a trove of emails related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, including ones involving President Trump, which was followed later in the day by a Republican release of Epstein documents. As correspondent Ed Donahue reports, with the response to new Epstein emails, a vote on the House floor is expected in the coming days to release all of the Epstein files.

Grijalva Sworn In

Seven weeks after she was elected in Arizona, a Democrat Congresswoman is sworn into office, hours before the government shutdown ended. Correspondent Clayton Neville reports.

Trump Wants Netanyahu Pardoned

President Trump wants a pardon in Israel's leader Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption case, and sent a letter to Israel’s President. Correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports any pardon cannot happen until after a trial has ended, and if the current Israeli Prime Minister is found guilty.

Chicago’s Catch & Release

A federal judge ordered the release of more than 600 people arrested as part of the Trump administration’s “Operation Midway Blitz” immigration crackdown in Illinois. Correspondent Lisa Dwyer reports.

Government Reopens

The longest government shutdown in US history has ended with the House passing the spending bill by a vote of 222 to 209. Even with the government open, it will take time for things to get back to normal, as travelers will still experience some airport delays, and when SNAP recipients receive their full benefits will vary by state. John Stolnis has a recap from Washington.

Focusing On Healthcare

House Democrats and some Republicans are urging a vote on extending Obamacare subsidies, an idea that might get pushback from the White House. Correspondent Clayton Neville reports.

Hemp Out Of The Spending Bill

Even though Congress passed the spending bill with overwhelming GOP support, there are some Republicans who are not happy with one part of the bill – a ban on many THC-infused products, something Kentucky Senators Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul wanted overturned. Katie Clark reports.

Flight Concerns Remain

Even with an end to the government shutdown, flight schedules continue to shrink, and delays and cancellations at the airports are for some making flying intolerable. Correspondent Ben Thomas reports.

Finally

The U.S. Mint has shut down the presses and ended production of the penny, a change made to save money and in recognition of the growing irrelevance of the 1-cent coin. Lisa Dwyer reports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices