9 – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
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Policy Archive

Archives for October 2026

The Social Reckoning is a tepid thriller that reminds us of how we got here

Aaron Sorkin’s follow up to The Social Network puts the Facebook Files scandal on the timeline.

Charles Pulliam-Moore
Sean Hollister
Sean Hollister
The FCC has decertified two more Chinese test labs.

The US has been finding ways to stem the tide of imported Chinese gadgets, including decertifying “bad labs” that are “apparently controlled by China.” It’s now pulled credentials from two more: SLG-CPC Test Laboratory, and Shenzhen STS Test Services, “for willfully providing incorrect or false equipment test results in connection with applications for equipment authorization.”

It’s also planning to do the same to Shenzhen CTB Testing.

Stevie Bonifield
Stevie Bonifield
FBI blames unpatched third-party platform for massive ShinyHunters security breach.

Reuters reports the FBI removed a contractor for failing to implement a security patch, with sources reporting it was an Accenture worker managing Oracle’s PeopleSoft platform. Last month, hacking group ShinyHunters claimed they used the HR platform to access data on “all FBI employees and applicants.”

Sen. Adam Schiff on AI regulation, free speech, and impeaching Trump one more time
Play

Congress missed its chance on social media. Can it act on AI?

Nilay Patel
Terrence O'Brien
Terrence O'Brien
Trump names his ‘Super Intelligence Force’ headed by spy chief Jay Clayton.

As the new AI czar, Clayton will lead a team that includes FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Emil Michael, and Office of Personnel Management Director Scott Kupor. Clayton served as SEC chair during Trump’s first term and recently became director of national intelligence in August.

Emma Roth
Emma Roth
California will fine robotaxi companies for interfering with first responders.

Under SB 1246, which goes into effect in July 2028, robotaxi operators will face fines of up to $10,000 for each autonomous vehicle that blocks emergency responders for more than 30 minutes.

The law will also require robotaxi companies like Waymo, Tesla, and Zoox to employ remote drivers in the US to take control of the vehicles and move them out of the way — something police and firefighters have had to do themselves.

Jess Weatherbed
Jess Weatherbed
New Yorkers can now name and shame subscriptions that are difficult to cancel.

The “Click to Cancel” rule announced in July is now in effect, with a new web portal launching today where NYC residents can report businesses that fail to provide a straightforward cancellation process. Filed complaints will be reviewed by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, and mediators may be assigned to resolve the matter.