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Today's top stories
• During his address on Tuesday, President Donald Trump continued to enforce his belief in a "barrier" and refuses to reopen the government until he is funded $5.6 billion for this project. Here's how Florida politicians from U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio to Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy reacted. (Tampa Bay Times)
• As the shutdown continues into its third week, there are impacts to hurricane forecasting research, active Coast Guard members, and community aid organizations across the state. " It's a pause that could delay life-saving upgrades to forecasts" says Eric Blake, National Weather Service union steward (Miami Herald, FLKeyNews, WJCT, Palm Beach Post)
• The government shutdown has also impacted air travelers by removing much of the Federal Aviation Administration's necessary staff, including most safety inspectors. (AP)
We're curious: Have you been impacted by the shutdown? Are you curious about a certain aspect of this as it continues into its third week? Send us an email to news@wuft.org with your question or comment.
• Gov. Ron DeSantis' future plans consist of limiting the state's harsh political divide and focusing more of Florida's overall development. Here are photos from his and others' swearing-in ceremonies. (AP)
• Nikki Fried is the first Jewish woman in Florida's Cabinet. ( Tampa Bay Times)
• U.S. Sen. Rick Scott was sworn into office yesterday as well, as Florida is now represented in the U.S. Senate by two Republicans. (Florida Politics)
• At least 50 former felons registered to vote yesterday in Alachua County, now that Amendment 4 from the November ballot has taken effect. In addition to those in Alachua County, a handful of former felons in Marion County also registered and can now vote. (WUFT News, Ocala Star-Banner)
• U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman demands further regulation and inspection of contaminated water in Ocala, following the Miami Herald's reporting.
• It's worked so far in Winter Garden, so golf carts may be allowed on main roads in residential areas across parts of Orange County. (WMFE)
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From NPR News
• National: FACT CHECK: Trump's Oval Office Pitch For A Border Wall
• National: Federal Employees Sue Trump Administration Over Government Shutdown
• National: National Governors Association Calling For Immediate End To The Shutdown
• Business: How The U.S. Steel Industry Is Reacting To Trump's Aspiration For A Steel Border Wall
• Business: Extended Talks Signal Progress In Efforts To End Trade War With China
• Health: Shutdown Impacts Native Americans' Ability To Get Health Services
• Science: U.S. Carbon Dioxide Emissions Are Once Again On The Rise
• Science: Using Genetic Genealogy To Identify Unknown Crime Victims, Sometimes Decades Later
• Race: Father And Son, Who Are African-Americans, Discuss Racism In Youth Hockey
• Politics: Old Florida Clemency System Was Unconstitutional, Racially Biased