Monday, October 5th

What happened

President Donald Trump created a federal “Super Intelligence Force” to coordinate the government’s artificial intelligence work and keep the United States ahead in the technology. He named Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to lead it with FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson, Pentagon technology official Emil Michael and Office of Personnel Management Director Scott Kupor. The move followed a White House meeting where major AI companies signed voluntary safety and self-policing pledges, including internal controls and outside audits. Trump said the force would protect Americans’ interests and improve their lives while preserving U.S. leadership. The group will report to Trump and chief of staff Susie Wiles. Clayton said it would produce a report within 120 days.

What happened

Flávio Bolsonaro finished first in Brazil’s presidential election with nearly all votes counted, taking about 47% of valid votes. Incumbent president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva followed with about 45%, leaving both short of a majority. The result extends a fight between two entrenched camps: Lula seeks a fourth non-consecutive term, while Bolsonaro carries the movement built by his father. Former president Jair Bolsonaro is barred from office and serving a 27-year sentence for plotting a coup after losing to Lula in 2022. Lula accused the Trump administration of trying to influence the race; Flávio Bolsonaro denied receiving U.S. government help. The runoff is October 25.

What happened

The U.S. Air Force withdrew all bombers deployed to RAF Fairford and sent them back to home stations in the United States. U.S. officials cited a new, unspecified threat and heightened security concerns, while the Pentagon gave no specific public reason. The Gloucestershire base has served for decades as a U.S. forward operating site, and its bombers recently supported strikes on Iran. British prime minister Andy Burnham said there were strong signs Iran played a role in the alleged plot; Iran denied involvement and called the claims baseless. Police said no explosives were found in the vans, but petrol was recovered. The investigation continues, and the specific threat remains undisclosed.