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By Sallee Ann Harrison

October 16, 2025

By Sallee Ann Harrison

October 16, 2025

 
 

Good afternoon and welcome to your afternoon news update from AP. Today, an AP-NORC poll shows who Americans blame for the government shutdown, gun safety advocates warn of a surge in untraceable 3D-printed weapons in the U.S., and colleges scramble to prove their value to students.

 

UP FIRST

A sign turns away tourists at the entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center, in Washington, on Wednesday. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

A sign turns away tourists at the entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center, in Washington, on Wednesday. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Americans spread shutdown blame across parties, AP-NORC poll shows 

As the government shutdown drags on with no end in sight, a new AP-NORC poll finds that most Americans see it as a significant problem — and all of the major players are being blamed. The survey, conducted as the shutdown stretched into its third week, comes as leaders warn it could soon become the longest in history. Read more.

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TOP STORIES

Gun safety advocates warn of a surge in untraceable 3D-printed weapons in the US

As police departments around the country report a surge in 3D-printed firearms turning up at crime scenes, gun safety advocates and law enforcement officials are warning that a new generation of untraceable weapons could soon eclipse the “ghost guns” that have already flooded U.S. streets. Read more.

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Colleges are fighting to prove their return on investment

Public confidence in higher education has plummeted in recent years amid high tuition prices, skyrocketing student loans and a dismal job market — plus ideological concerns from conservatives. Now, colleges are scrambling to prove their value to students. Read more.

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IN OTHER NEWS

Lisebo Lechela, 54, an HIV-positive sex worker turned activist and health worker, poses for a portrait in her house in Maputsoe, Lesotho, July 17. (AP Photo/Bram Janssen)

Lisebo Lechela, 54, an HIV-positive sex worker turned activist and health worker, poses for a portrait in her house in Maputsoe, Lesotho, July 17. (AP Photo/Bram Janssen)

Aid cuts: The tiny African nation of Lesotho had victories in its HIV fight. Then, the US aid cuts came
Decriminalizing euthanasia: In a regional first, Uruguay passes a law allowing euthanasia
Luxury fashion houses: European Commission fines Gucci, Chloé and Loewe for price fixing

Rescued diary: A D-Day diary reveals Chinese role in Allied liberation of France
Unlikely clue: A discarded straw leads to murder charges in 1984 killing of New York teen
Court to catwalk: Angel Reese becomes first pro athlete to walk in Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show
WATCH: Radio City Rockettes ready for holiday season

 

TRENDING

Tourists enjoy a view on Kalsoy Island at the Faroe Islands on Sept. 4. (AP Photo/Cara Anna)

Tourists enjoy a view on Kalsoy Island at the Faroe Islands on Sept. 4. (AP Photo/Cara Anna)

Take a ‘stormcation’ in the dramatic Faroe Islands, where James Bond died

The tiny Faroe Islands in the north Atlantic could be a poor choice for travelers with vertigo, seasickness or a fear of enclosed spaces. But a growing number of travelers are arriving to explore its landscapes. One remote place is so dramatic it became the site for James Bond’s movie death.

 

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