The World and Everything In It

9.2.26 Pentagon’s upheaval, Venezuela’s earthquakes, and Dolly Parton’s roots

The World and Everything In It

Summary

The U.S. military escalates its involvement in the ongoing conflict with Iran, launching strikes against Iranian Revolutionary Guard targets in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump announces the military action, asserting it is a response to Iranian aggression, including a missile attack on a U.S. base in Jordan. The administration also intensifies economic pressure on Iran, with Treasury Secretary Scott Besant stating the goal is to economically isolate the regime. Meanwhile, oil prices rise amid concerns over the conflict's impact on global supplies.

In domestic news, Congress averts a government shutdown by passing a short-term spending bill, allowing federal agencies to continue operating at current funding levels until December 11. This decision pushes contentious budget discussions past the upcoming elections. Additionally, a Utah judge rules that Tyler James Robinson will stand trial for the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, with prosecutors citing substantial evidence against him, including DNA and video footage.

As Tropical Storm Edouard makes landfall near the Texas-Louisiana border, officials express concern over potential flooding, with forecasts predicting significant rainfall in the region. In a separate matter, a Kentucky congressman advocates for further investigation into individuals connected to the late Jeffrey Epstein, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding the Epstein files still withheld by the government.

Show Notes

Hunter Baker has more Washington than Wednesday can hold: Pentagon upheaval, the politics of AI data centers, Social Security’s looming reckoning—and a lightning round besides. In Venezuela, an earthquake exposes a crisis years in the making, while Mary Muncy looks past Dolly Parton’s carefully built image to the faith and roots beneath it. Plus: cheaper raccoon permits, and Maria Baer on the friend who asks, and Wednesday morning news. Support The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donate. Additional support comes from Boyce College—which offers a Christ-centered education built on the truth of God’s Word. Every student—no matter their major—takes 30 hours of Bible and theology, learning how to think biblically, live faithfully, and lead with conviction. Formed from the 160-year legacy of Southern Seminary, Boyce College prepares students for maximum faithfulness in the world, the workplace, the church, and the family. Learn more at boycecollege.com From World Watch. A 10-minute daily news program that explores current events for students 5-12th grade. This high-energy show connects learners to the present, history and communities around the world. Join 40,000 Christian families that utilize World Watch as a tool to foster curiosity and have conversations about today’s news as a discipleship rhythm within their families. “Whatever the news, the purpose of the Lord will stand!” First time? Take advantage of a 30-days free trial at worldwatch.news/podcast. Not ready to sign up? Check out a free episode at get.worldwatch.news/free-episode. And from Cedarville University—a Christ-centered, academically rigorous university located in southwest Ohio, equipping students for Gospel impact across every career and calling. Cedarville integrates a biblical worldview into every course in the more than 175 undergraduate and graduate programs students choose from. New online undergraduate degrees through Cedarville Online offer flexible and affordable education grounded in a strong Christian community that fosters both faith and learning. Learn more at cedarville.edu, and explore online programs at cedarville.edu/online.

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Oct 28, 2026

Wed » Why some midterms bring political earthquakes but others barely register: On Washington Wednesday, Hunter Baker looks to history—and makes his predictions. Also: Australia welcomes U.S. submarines to deter China, though the increased military presence could make it a target. Bible translators produce Scripture without writing a word. Plus: a rescue crane needs rescuing, and Cal Thomas has a question for voters who keep trusting politicians.

Oct 27, 2026

Tue » Washington schoolgirls sit out races rather than compete with a boy. Too young to vote on next week’s ballot measure, they appeal to adults who can. Also: In Brazil, leftist Lula wins a disputed election, while Venezuela welcomes home an opposition leader. An elite runner finds new speed after becoming a mother, and Daniel Suhr warns about political revenge to come. Plus: two men take their loveseat for a joyride on electric scooters—until the police show up.

Oct 26, 2026

Mon » Legal Docket · An election-law expert’s love of liberty began with parents who escaped tyranny. Also: On Moneybeat, David Bahnsen asks what consumer-confidence surveys really tell us. Plus: tariff relief in Maine, France’s debt corner, and California’s wealth tax. WORLD History Book: The Statue of Liberty at 140—and how an abolitionist monument became an icon of immigration.

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