Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump on October 20th, 2025, in response to the administration's threat to cut emergency funding to the city, according to a report from the Chicago Tribune. The lawsuit was filed within the reporting window of 5:34 PM to 6:04 PM UTC. In a significant diplomatic development, President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed a Critical Minerals Agreement on October 20th, 2025. The White House stated the deal secures $53 billion in resources, strengthens the AUKUS alliance, and counters China's rare earth export restrictions. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, voiced support for the agreement and emphasized the need for increased cooperation with Australia to reduce dependence on China. Meanwhile, in Georgia, former Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan is launching a campaign for governor as a Democrat, aiming to unite Democrats, independents, and Republicans. He stated that Democrats have not won in Georgia in nearly 30 years because they have not secured enough votes. His campaign team includes veterans, donors, and a statewide strategy, though building trust within the party is identified as a key challenge. In Florida, Ashley Litwin Diego announced her candidacy for the State House District 106 on October 20th, 2025, promising a "fresh perspective and real solutions." Diego, who has a background in courtroom advocacy, non-profit work, and has battled breast cancer, will be running in Tallahassee. Regarding ongoing national issues, the federal government shutdown continues for its 20th day, with legislative efforts in Congress to address funding unresolved. President Trump previously commented on October 20th, 2025, that the U.S. was "in the process of trying to make a deal" regarding Russia and Ukraine, noting that providing more weapons was not a simple solution. The Supreme Court is expected to announce its decision on whether to hear the case "United States v. Hemani," which concerns the constitutionality of statutes barring individuals with addiction from possessing firearms and its implications for Second Amendment rights. This case was previously announced on October 20th, 2025, at approximately 1:45 PM UTC. In other political news, a report indicated that Americans generally like third parties but are hesitant to vote for them. Separately, the retail lobby's Merchants Payments Coalition criticized banks following reports of large third-quarter profits, highlighting the ongoing credit card industry dynamics. Ron DeSantis commented on Starbucks' high prices, stating "See Starbucks. Their prices have long been outta control." On the conservative side, an event in New Jersey involved a "No Kings Counter protest" with networking among conservative groups, though dialogue with opposing groups was reportedly met with hostility.
