Congress Returns to High-Stakes Battles Over Shutdown and Epstein Files

U.S. lawmakers return to Washington this week facing two immediate and contentious battles. The first is a fight to fund the government and avoid a partial shutdown. The second is a push for transparency regarding the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Congress must pass a new budget by September 30. If they fail, key federal services will stop. This deadline sets the stage for a major political clash. Separately, there is growing pressure to release sealed court documents related to Epstein. He was accused of running a sex trafficking ring before his 2019 jail cell death. A judge has ordered the release of many names from these files, a move some in Congress are demanding be accelerated. In other news, a unique music program is showing promise in steering young people away from violence. The initiative, highlighted in a recent report, provides music education and mentorship to at-risk youth. Organizers say creative expression builds confidence and provides a positive alternative to street life. Early data suggests it reduces participants' involvement in violent incidents.