Meet the Press NOW — Sept. 26

Political & Legal Developments - Former FBI Director James Comey was indicted on charges of making a false statement and obstruction of a congressional proceeding, facing up to 5 years in prison if convicted [1][4][5] - President Trump publicly called for the prosecution of his political opponents, signaling more prosecutions could be coming [3][8] - The indictment of Comey was brought by Lindseay Halligan, a former personal attorney for Donald Trump, despite internal division at the DOJ over the substance of the case [6][7] - Concerns were raised about the lack of prosecutorial experience of the acting US attorney and the potential for vindictive or selective prosecution [16][35] Economic Policy & Trade - President Trump announced a 100% tariff on pharmaceuticals coming into the US, causing concern in the healthcare industry about rising prices [42] - Additional tariffs of 25% on heavy trucks and 50% on some key furniture were also announced [43] Government Shutdown - The US government is facing a potential shutdown with no sign of resolution, as Democrats and Republicans are deadlocked on how to proceed [1][45] - Democrats are demanding an extension of the Affordable Care Act subsidies and a reversal of Medicaid cuts [46] - The White House is threatening mass layoffs to the federal workforce, potentially permanently firing people after a government shutdown [46][68] International Relations & Geopolitics - President Trump claimed to have a deal to end the war in Gaza and release the remaining hostages, while Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to finish the job [2][88][89] - Netanyahu delivered a defiant speech to the United Nations, met with protests and mass walkouts, announcing his speech was being broadcast through speakers along the Israel Gaza border [2][86] Social & Political Issues - A deadly shooting at a Dallas ICE facility has sparked debate about political violence and rhetoric [103] - Some state legislatures are trying to make it more difficult for citizens to get issues on the ballot through the petition process [128][131]