Media News Daily: Top Stories for 10/08/2025

Bob Ross Paintings to Be Auctioned to Support Public TV Amid Funding Cuts

Thirty original paintings by Bob Ross will be auctioned to help fund small and rural public television stations that have been affected by $1.1 billion in federal funding cuts. The auctions, led by Bonhams in Los Angeles and other global locations, will benefit stations airing content from American Public Television, including The Joy of Painting, America’s Test Kitchen, and This Old House. Ross, known for his serene landscapes and calming presence, created most of the paintings on-air in under 30 minutes. The auction’s estimated value is between $850,000 and $1.4 million. The proceeds will assist stations in covering licensing fees and offset recent layoffs and programming cuts. (Read More) (The Guardian Rating)

Donald Trump and Son Slam Fox News Over Sen. Mark Kelly Interview

President Donald Trump criticized Fox News for airing an unchallenged interview with Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ), accusing the network of enabling Democratic messaging on healthcare during a funding standoff. Trump Jr. echoed the sentiment, labeling Fox a “RINO network” and accusing it of being biased against conservatives in its effort to appear neutral. Kelly, in the interview, argued that millions could lose healthcare under the GOP’s proposed plan. Democrats are blocking a stopgap government funding bill to protect enhanced Obamacare tax credits. Trump warned Fox to “get on board” or risk losing conservative support. (Read More) (Washington Examiner Rating)

Chicago Press Groups Sue Trump Administration Over Alleged Journalist Abuse

A coalition of Chicago press associations, unions, and journalists filed a federal lawsuit accusing the Trump administration of using “extreme brutality” against journalists and protesters outside a local ICE facility. The 52-page suit claims that federal agents violated First Amendment rights by targeting journalists, six of whom were reportedly hit with pepper balls or tear gas despite being clearly identified as press. Protesters and residents also allegedly suffered injuries, including a minister offering prayers. The suit follows President Trump’s plan to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago, which state officials are trying to block. (Read More) (Politico Rating)