What's Happening

US News

The Art of Not Answering Questions

What's going on: For more than four hours yesterday, Attorney General Pam Bondi deflected questions before the Senate Judiciary Committee on topics ranging from politically charged investigations to DOJ firings and the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey. When Democrats accused her of weaponizing the Justice Department against President Donald Trump’s rivals, she said it actually happened under former President Joe Biden. Bondi defended the Comey indictment by describing the grand jury as “one of the most liberal” in the country. At one point, when Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) asked whether the White House had consulted her before sending federal troops to Chicago, she responded that he should “love Chicago as much as [he hates] President Trump.” Subtle it was not.

What it means: This was Bondi’s first testimony before the panel since her confirmation. Her strategy was simple: offense over answers. The New York Times described her combative tone and scripted attacks as part of a broader “coordinated effort” to turn accountability into partisan counterpunching. Her approach mirrored that of FBI Director Kash Patel, whose recent Congressional testimony also veered into political theater. Republicans mostly stood behind Bondi, commending her leadership in steering the department back in the right direction.

Related: A White House Shutdown Strategy Could Put Federal Worker Pay at Risk (Axios)

Travel

About Your Trip…

What's going on: If you have a flight coming up, brace yourself — the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says passengers can expect more delays this week (yes, more than usual). Thank the government shutdown. Staffing shortages are stretching already overworked air traffic controllers, many of whom are still expected to work without pay as “essential” employees. Some have started calling out sick — and honestly, who can blame them? The staffing shortages have already rocked at least six airports, including Chicago and Houston, the FAA reported. At Burbank Airport near Los Angeles, flights didn’t take off until 1 am Tuesday, with average delays hitting 2.5 hours. One reason? There were exactly zero workers to man the air traffic control tower, per Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA).

What it means: Analysts say the delays will continue — and so will the sick calls. (Air traffic controllers are expected to miss their first paycheck on Oct 14.) One thing their union president wants to make clear? Blame Washington, not the workers. If things get worse, the FAA may implement a plan that slows air traffic even further for safety reasons — meaning more cancellations are likely ahead. And some airlines have warned they could scale back their operations if the shutdown continues. In the meantime, if you’re flying this week, maybe pack an extra book… or three.

Related: The Real Winner in Clear and TSA’s Speed Rivalry? Travelers (WSJ Gift Link)

Economy

It's a 21st Century Gold Rush

What's going on: Someone check on those gold bar ATMs — the price of gold just hit $4,000 per ounce for the first time ever, as investors and central banks bet big on the precious metal. Gold is on track to have its best year since 1979, when it jumped by 100% due to inflation and Middle East turmoil. Goldman Sachs predicts a troy ounce (a special unit used for precious metals, slightly heavier than a regular ounce)​​ to hit $4,900 by the end of 2026. And it’s not just people with deep pockets looking for some 24k deals — some Americans are scooping up gold bars at Costco or trading in old jewelry for quick cash.

What it means: While gold has already surged more this year than at any point in history, some urge caution and warn prices could peak sooner than later. Still, gold prices usually climb when confidence in the government drops — and right now, faith is apparently low. Between President Donald Trump’s tariffs, pressure on the Fed to slash rates, and a government shutdown, people are looking for something steadier than the dollar (which is having its worst year in more than five decades). Is it time to bring back bartering?

Related: What To Know if You Want To Invest in Gold (CNBC)