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On August 4, 2025, the CDC confirmed the first US human case of New World screwworm in Maryland, involving a patient recently returned from El Salvador. The flesh-eating parasite, primarily affecting livestock, has been spreading northward through Central America and Mexico since 2023. The US is responding with plans for a sterile fly facility in Texas to prevent reintroduction and protect the cattle industry.
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Texas Attorney General Paxton's office has withdrawn its lawsuit against Dr. Hector Granados, a pediatric endocrinologist in El Paso, after reviewing evidence that found no legal violations related to his medical practice. The case was part of broader efforts to enforce a 2023 law restricting gender-affirming care for minors.
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As of mid-October 2025, US soybean farmers are struggling due to China halting purchases amid ongoing trade tensions and tariffs. China, the largest buyer, has not bought US soybeans this season, diverting demand to Brazil and Argentina. President Trump plans to discuss soybean trade with Xi Jinping at the upcoming APEC summit, while US farmers seek new markets and await potential government aid.
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The New World screwworm, a deadly parasitic fly, has been detected in Nuevo León, Mexico, less than 70 miles from the US border. Authorities are increasing surveillance and control measures to prevent its spread into the US, where it could devastate livestock and wildlife. No US cases have been confirmed yet.
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As of November 10, 2025, the US government shutdown, the longest in history at over 40 days, is close to ending after bipartisan talks yielded a short-term funding deal. The impasse, rooted in disputes over healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, has caused widespread disruptions including unpaid federal workers, flight cancellations, and halted food aid for millions.
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Brazilian farmers are increasing soybean planting due to the US-China trade dispute, which has cut US exports to China. Brazil now supplies over 70% of China's soybean imports, while US shipments decline. Argentina's export policies also influence global prices, impacting US farmers' strategies today.
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The Biden administration plans to increase Argentine beef imports to lower record-high U.S. beef prices, sparking anger among American ranchers. The move follows a recent delay in inflation data due to a government shutdown, with economic and political implications for affordability and trade policies.
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The US and China have agreed on a one-year trade truce during a summit in South Korea, involving tariffs, agricultural purchases, and critical mineral exports. The deal aims to de-escalate tensions, though key issues like technology and AI remain unaddressed. The agreement is seen as a cautious step forward amid ongoing disputes.
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Following a meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping in South Korea, China committed to buy 12 million metric tons of US soybeans this season and 25 million annually for the next three years. The deal aims to restore trade relations, but uncertainties remain about enforcement and timing, with US farmers cautious about the short-term impact.
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As the US government shutdown persists, millions relying on SNAP face delays and reduced benefits. Food pantries report increased demand, highlighting widespread food insecurity. Court rulings have temporarily mandated continued payments, but uncertainty remains about future funding and impact on vulnerable populations.
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Amid ongoing government shutdown, courts have ordered the US government to fully fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to prevent hunger for millions. Despite legal rulings, the administration's delays and partial payments threaten food security, with uncertainty over when benefits will fully resume.
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The Biden administration is threatening to withhold federal SNAP funds from 21 states that refuse to share recipient data, citing fraud concerns. Legal battles and privacy debates are ongoing, with courts temporarily blocking enforcement. The dispute highlights partisan divides over social safety programs and data privacy.