US universities

US consumer sentiment dropped in September to near the lowest level ever recorded in the 74-year history of the University of Michigan's monthly survey, according to fresh data released Friday. Analysts point to a month-long stretch of high inflation squeezing household budgets and an underlying oil supply shock that pushed up costs, souring shoppers' outlook on the economy.

The Trump administration has moved to rescind federal funding from a range of higher education programs, according to Community College Daily. The decision redirects or cancels money previously allocated to colleges and universities, prompting concern among education leaders about the impact on students, workforce training and campus services, and adding to ongoing friction between the administration and the higher education sector.

Commentary is circulating accusing Donald Trump of banning reporters just weeks before Americans go to the polls. A columnist from Elon University argues the move targets the press at the moment voters most need information, framing it as an attack on accountability ahead of the election. Critics see it as an attempt to shape coverage in the final stretch of the campaign.