LIVE: Karoline Leavitt Briefs Media — Shutdown Fallout, Federal Reserve Twist

We’re live as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt briefs the press. Today’s big threads: the Democrat-labeled government shutdown and possible federal layoffs, a Supreme Court twist on Fed Governor Lisa Cook, a pulled nomination (E.J. Antoni), China halting U.S. soybean buys, an AI “med beds” video reposted then deleted by the President, and Jared Kushner’s role in the administration’s Middle East peace push. We’ll watch the podium, fact-check in real time, and take your questions.
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What we expect to hear (based on the latest briefing/transcripts):
• Shutdown blame game + layoffs: Leavitt frames it as a “Democrat shutdown,” says layoffs are “imminent,” and that OMB Director Russ Vought is prepping agencies and briefing House Republicans on cuts.
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• Fed/ Lisa Cook: White House reaction after the Supreme Court allowed Cook to remain at the Fed Board until oral arguments in January.
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• E.J. Antoni nomination: WH indicates he lacked the votes; replacement “very soon.”
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• China & farmers: Leavitt cites no Chinese soybean purchases this year and says help for farmers is “top priority,” with more to come soon.
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• AI video flap: Press asks about the President reposting (then deleting) an AI “med beds” video; Leavitt defends his social media transparency.
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• Kushner’s Mideast role: WH defends his involvement with Qatar/UAE/Saudi contacts, calling the peace framework widely applauded.
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