Good morning, readers! 🌍 It’s Sunday, August 31, 2025, and the world is waking up to a mix of political unrest, looming deadlines, and high-stakes drama. From anti-immigration protests shaking Australia, to Congress returning under the shadow of a shutdown, to chaotic street protests in Indonesia, today’s headlines highlight just how turbulent—and unpredictable—this weekend has become.
Morning News — Sunday, August 31, 2025
1. Anti-Immigration Protests Sweep Australia
Tensions escalated across Australia as thousands participated in “March for Australia” protests in about 20 locations, drawing notable political figures like One Nation’s Pauline Hanson and Malcolm Roberts in Canberra, and MP Bob Katter in Townsville. In Melbourne, clashes between protesters and counter-demonstrators prompted police to deploy pepper spray, with alarm raised over extremist elements present at the event. Victorians watched anxiously, and political leaders appealed for calm and unity. Meanwhile, the manhunt for Dezi Freeman—suspected of killing two Victorian police officers—entered its sixth day, as his wife issued a heart-wrenching plea for his surrender. Adding contrast to the unrest, the 2025 Sydney Marathon commenced its debut as an official World Marathon Major, drawing a record 35,000 runners and crowning Ethiopian Hailemaryam Kiros Kebedew and Dutch star Sifan Hassan as winners. The Guardian
2. Congress Returns with Shutdown Looming
As Congress reconvenes from its August recess, lawmakers face a ticking clock to avert a potential government shutdown by September 30. Deep partisan divides persist over federal spending, with recent tax and spending cuts passed via a Republican-only bill fueling tensions. Trump’s move to block billions in foreign aid has further complicated negotiations. Senate Republicans are exploring rule changes to bypass Democratic delays on confirmations. Simultaneously, a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia’s energy partners lacks the president’s endorsement. The House Oversight Committee is pressing ahead with investigations into both former President Biden’s mental acuity and the Jeffrey Epstein case. A Senate proposal to ban lawmakers from trading stocks—including future presidents and vice presidents—is gaining traction, though Trump would be exempt. On the health front, the CDC faces scrutiny after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy ousted its director, prompting further resignations and sparking congressional investigations. AP News
3. Looting and Protests Shake Indonesia
In Jakarta, unrest marked August 31 as protesters forcibly entered and looted the residences of Finance Minister Sri Mulyani and Speaker Puan Maharani. At Sri Mulyani’s Bintaro home, looters—mostly teenagers—stole electronics, jewelry, kitchenware, and even a basketball ring. Similar looting occurred at former husband of celebrity Nafa Urbach's house. By morning, calm had returned, streets were being cleared, and the city resumed its Sunday routine. Meanwhile, President Prabowo Subianto convened coalition lawmakers for an urgent meeting at the State Palace. Reuters
Why This Matters:
Australia: A volatile mix of political protest, extremist infiltration, and a high-profile criminal search made for a dramatic day.
United States: The return of Congress under the shadow of a shutdown, with simultaneous health, ethics, and policy battles, sets the tone for a contentious fall legislative session.
Indonesia: A rare eruption of politically charged looting and protests signals rising public discontent and political instability.
What to Watch Today:
Will Australian leaders successfully quell further unrest and steer public sentiment toward unity?
Can U.S. lawmakers reach a compromise to stave off a government shutdown by September 30—or will partisan rifts deepen?
In Indonesia, will the president’s summit with coalition chairs lead to calming the nerves of a shaken capital?
Stay tuned for more updates as these stories unfold.
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