General News Today — September 23, 2026

As we look at today's news, it's clear that influence and power are being wielded in various ways, often with significant consequences. On one hand, influential figures like MrBeast and former USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah are using their platforms to highlight the potential for positive change, advocating for the use of video content to drive social good. Meanwhile, in the world of politics, disputes over power and representation continue to play out, such as the ongoing debate over Missouri's congressional map, which has once again landed in the Supreme Court.

The exercise of power and influence can also be seen in more everyday contexts. In Singapore, commuters who disrupt the peace with loud music on public transportation could face fines of up to £300. On a more personal level, families affected by the actions of others, such as the sale of deadly drugs, are speaking out in anger and grief. In the entertainment industry, a significant development has seen Hollywood essentially cede control to a major player, with the Ellison Empire emerging as a dominant force. Even the world of sports is not immune, with high-profile athletes like Kylian Mbappe reflecting on the what-ifs of their careers, including a potential move to Liverpool in 2016.

Today's signal:
• MrBeast and Rajiv Shah: We’ve Seen What Video Can Do. Let’s Use It for Good. (nytimes.com)
• Dispute Over Missouri’s Congressional Map Again Returns to Supreme Court (nytimes.com)
• Playing loud music on the bus? That could cost you £300 in Singapore (bbc.co.uk)
• 'Poison seller' who sold my daughter deadly drugs should rot in hell (bbc.co.uk)
• Hollywood Surrenders to the Ellison Empire (nytimes.com)
• I was close to joining Liverpool in 2016 - Mbappe (bbc.co.uk)