Author: Lester Holt
Lester Holt
Lester Holt is a freelance journalist based in the USA, with over 25 years of experience reporting on Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. He earned his degree in Journalism from California State University, Sacramento. Throughout his career, he has contributed to outlets such as NBC News, MSNBC, and The New York Times. Known for his clear reporting and insightful storytelling, Lester delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on national and global developments.
Federal Courts Move to Safeguard Food AssistanceJudges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island have instructed the Trump administration to draw from emergency and contingency reserves to keep the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) operating during the government shutdown. The rulings followed lawsuits filed by a coalition of states and advocacy groups arguing that pausing food aid would cause widespread harm to low-income Americans. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) must now determine how those funds can be used to continue benefits while normal appropriations remain frozen. Funding Gap and Administrative Challenges HighlightedCourt filings show that the USDA has access to roughly…
Billions remain idle as millions risk losing nutrition assistance during shutdown. The Trump administration has told a federal court that it cannot legally tap billions of dollars in reserve accounts to keep the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program running. Officials acknowledged that the Department of Agriculture holds about $5 billion in emergency reserves but insisted that the funds are earmarked for disasters and cannot cover the roughly $9 billion required to fund monthly food aid. The admission comes as a government shutdown threatens to interrupt benefits for tens of millions of Americans who rely on SNAP to afford groceries. States Push…
A new survey reveals that small business owners remain highly confident about growth opportunities in the coming year. Many are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and financial technology (fintech) solutions to strengthen their operations. The survey shows that optimism is strong across various sectors. Business owners are looking to AI tools to improve efficiency, automate tasks, and enhance customer experiences. Fintech solutions are helping with faster payments, better financial management, and access to funding. Experts say the trend highlights a shift toward technology-driven growth among small businesses. Companies that adopt AI and fintech are better positioned to compete in a fast-changing…
Domestic Call Escalates Into Deadly GunfireA routine domestic violence response in Rancho Cucamonga turned deadly Monday when San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Nunez was shot moments after arriving at a home on Hollyhock Drive. Investigators said the 28-year-old deputy was struck in the head by gunfire from an armed suspect who immediately fled the scene on a motorcycle. Nunez was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Pursuit Reaches Dangerous Speeds on 210 FreewayFollowing the shooting, a pursuit unfolded across the Inland Empire as officers chased the fleeing suspect, who was recorded traveling at…
Framework to Delay Tariffs and Export Restrictions American and Chinese negotiators have reached a preliminary deal aimed at preventing a major escalation in their ongoing trade dispute. The understanding, achieved after a series of discussions in Kuala Lumpur, would temporarily halt Washington’s planned 100 percent tariffs on Chinese goods while Beijing agrees to postpone export limits on rare earth minerals. The proposal will now be reviewed by Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping during their scheduled meeting in South Korea. Agricultural and Technology Promises Included The draft deal includes China’s pledge to resume large-scale imports of American soybeans and other…
New Yorkers Begin Casting Ballots in Mayoral Contest Early voting has officially opened in New York City, giving residents the chance to decide the outcome of a closely contested mayoral race. Polls opened on October 25 and will operate through November 2. The ballot features Democrat Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and independent Andrew Cuomo, who reentered the political arena after Mayor Eric Adams exited the race and offered his support to Cuomo. Turnout is expected to be strong in what many view as a pivotal local election. Governor’s Race Drives Early Turnout in New Jersey Across the Hudson, early…
Washington Expands Maritime Offensive Against Smuggling Networks The U.S. military launched a second strike this week on boats accused of trafficking narcotics in the eastern Pacific Ocean, leaving three people dead, according to defense officials. The latest action follows an earlier operation that killed two individuals, reflecting a growing U.S. campaign aimed at dismantling drug networks operating in international waters. Pentagon: Targets Were Operating on Known Trafficking Routes Officials said the vessels were intercepted in open waters frequently used by smuggling operations and were believed to be controlled by a group designated as a terrorist organization. The Pentagon confirmed the…
Millions Could Lose Access to SNAP in November As the federal budget impasse drags on, at least 25 U.S. states have announced plans to pause food assistance programs starting in November. The move could affect millions of low-income families who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for daily groceries. Officials from states including Texas, California, and Pennsylvania say benefit payments cannot be processed without renewed federal funding, leaving households uncertain about how they will afford food next month. USDA Warns Funding Is Nearly Exhausted The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers SNAP, has confirmed that its remaining contingency…
Federal Stop Leads to Exchange of Gunfire An immigration enforcement operation in South Los Angeles turned violent on Tuesday when shots were fired, wounding both a deputy U.S. marshal and an undocumented man. The Department of Homeland Security said Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, working with the U.S. Marshals Service, attempted to stop a vehicle tied to an immigration case. According to officials, the driver tried to flee and crashed into federal vehicles, prompting officers to open fire. The man was hit in the arm, while a marshal suffered a hand injury caused by a ricocheted bullet. Suspect Hospitalized and…
President Donald Trump has awarded conservative activist Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the nation’s highest civilian honors. The medal recognizes Kirk’s influence on American political discourse and his role in shaping public debate. The award was presented in a formal ceremony at the White House. Officials described it as a tribute to Kirk’s work in advancing civic engagement and political activism across the United States. “Charlie Kirk has made a lasting impact on American politics,” Trump said. “His voice inspired countless people to participate in democracy and defend the principles of our nation.” Kirk, who passed…
