What Actually Happened With the Epstein Files?

Epstein Transparency Vote

Politics: This week’s political news felt like one of those moments where the group chat suddenly wakes up. Congress voted overwhelmingly to force the Justice Department to release the long-requested investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein. And when we say overwhelmingly, we mean overwhelmingly: the House passed it 427–1, and the Senate passed it unanimously.

Even former President Trump, who had previously pushed back on the idea, reversed course and said he’d sign the bill. It's one of those rare “everyone agrees this should happen” moments in Washington, which… doesn’t happen often.

So what does the bill actually do? It requires federal agencies to release records connected to the Epstein investigation, with the usual disclaimers: redactions for personal privacy, ongoing investigations, etc. Whether those redactions end up revealing or hiding more is still a big question. But the symbolism matters. Survivors have been pushing for transparency for years, and for once, Congress moved fast. And yes — survivors spoke out, too.

While lawmakers were having their moment on the Capitol steps, survivor Danielle Bensky publicly responded to comments dismissing parts of the conversation as political games. She called out the messaging as dismissive of victims and emphasized that this is not about scoring points — it’s about truth, dignity, and long-delayed accountability.

Mercury Retrograde Check-In

Astrology: If your phone has been glitching, your brain’s been buffering, or your calendar suddenly feels like it’s personally attacking you… congratulations, you’re living through another Mercury retrograde.

But astrologers say this one — running from November 9 through November 29, with a shadow phase into mid-December — isn’t all chaos. In fact, the theme is less “everything is falling apart” and more “please slow down before you accidentally become a burnt piece of toast.”

Mercury started its backspin in Sagittarius (the sign of big ideas, questionable impulse-control, and saying yes to too many things). Then it dips back into Scorpio, which is basically the emotional deep-dive sign of the zodiac.

Translation:

• First half = overcommitting, overtalking, overbooking

• Second half = inner reflection, “why am I like this?,” and reorganizing your life like you’re on a cleaning show

Astrologers are calling it a cosmic “mini reset,” which honestly sounds way more appealing than the usual retrograde panic.

What this retrograde is nudging you to do (without being dramatic)?

• Revisit projects you abandoned when life got chaotic

• Re-check your boundaries, because someone has probably crossed them

• Unsubscribe from unnecessary digital noise (yes, even the newsletters you forgot you signed up for — not this one, though)

• Pick up a hobby that isn’t doomscrolling

• Slow down before your nervous system sends a formal complaint

But what about the classic retrograde warnings? They still apply — double-check your emails, think before you send the “we need to talk” text, and maybe don’t make major life decisions at midnight. But the overall vibe this time around is gentler. Think: “Reset your energy” —not— “Your life is falling apart; run.”

Beyond the astrology girlies, a lot of people are resonating with the theme of burnout reset. This time of year is peak pressure season — holidays, deadlines, emotional baggage, travel, all of it. So a retrograde that’s basically saying “babe, rest” is kind of refreshing. You don’t need to sage your phone or burn a candle for Mercury (unless you want to). You just need to treat this as a cosmic permission slip to slow down, get grounded, and stop treating your life like a race.

Viral Mac & Cheese Recipe

Recipe: If you’re already planning your Thanksgiving sides, TikTok creator Tineke Younger has officially entered the chat — and her viral mac & cheese with evaporated milk is taking over everyone’s “must-try” list. The video has racked up more than 139 million views, partly because the recipe is simple, creamy, and totally doable… and partly because evaporated milk is having its unexpected moment in the spotlight (it even sparked a commercial tie-in). It’s the kind of dish that quietly slides in, outshines everything on the table, and makes you rethink why you ever let mashed potatoes be the default. If you’re looking to upgrade your Thanksgiving lineup without doing the absolute most, this is the side that’s stealing the show.

Money smart: one simple move to consider this month

Finance: Here’s the headline energy this week: despite inflation, higher prices, and everyone collectively saying “I’m being so good with money right now,” Americans are… very much not slowing down on holiday shopping. Retailers are projecting $1.01–$1.02 trillion in November–December sales — a 3.7–4.2% jump from last year.

And before you think it’s all luxury stores cashing in, it’s actually discount and value retailers leading the charge. People are still buying, but they’re buying with strategy: deals, bundles, early promos, and “this gift looks expensive but definitely wasn’t” vibes.

Consumer spending is still carrying the U.S. economy on its back. Even with higher costs, people are willing to shop for holidays, family, comfort items, and yes — the occasional treat for themselves (because survival). Where people spend (or don’t spend) is one of the strongest signals of how the economy is doing. And right now, Americans are telling us: “We’re cautious… but we’re still participating.”

Use holiday spending as a “micro-budget reset.” Not in a restrictive way — but in an “I’m going to actually look at what I’m buying and why” way. Ask yourself: Is this a gift, a need, or a “stress scrolled into my cart”? Can I get this cheaper somewhere else (probably yes)? Does this fit into my monthly spending vibe, or am I pretending future me will deal with it?

A five-minute check-in before checkout can literally save you hundreds over the season — without skipping the joy.