The Discontinuation of Pennies

On Nov. 12, 2025, the production of pennies in the U.S. came to a halt. Although pennies will no longer be produced in the U.S., they can still be used as a form of currency, though they are not commonly used anymore in this day and age. 

In the past, a single penny could be used to purchase something like a piece of candy; however, this is not the case anymore. Furthermore, it costs around 4 cents to produce a single penny, which was a big factor in the decision to discontinue the production of pennies. 

The Release of the Epstein Files

It is confirmed that, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, both the House and Senate have voted to pass the bill that will allow the full release of the full Epstein Files. The House only had a singular vote against this bill, making the vote nearly unanimous. 

This conflict has gained mass attention, especially since the intervention of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican who has been outspoken in her opposition to Trump and his belief against the release of the full Epstein Files. She is one of many republicans who have now shifted their views in opposition to Trump’s.

Now, the only obstacle for the bill to fully pass is that it may potentially be vetoed by Trump in the case that the Senate is unable to override his veto. 

The Government Shutdown Ends 

On Nov. 12, 2025, the government shutdown finally came to an end. The 2025 government shutdown lasted 43 days, making it the longest government shutdown in history. 

This shutdown ended when President Donald Trump signed legislation to reopen the government. On the same day, the House approved the funding package, which was passed by the Senate.

The government shutdown led to thousands of federal workers working without pay for the past six weeks. However, on Monday the 17th, backpay for some federal employees will begin, and for others, backpay will begin on Wednesday the 19th, according to a memo from the Office of Management and Budget.