THE FEDERAL government shutdown starts its sixth week (Shutterstock).

The shutdown of the federal government – now nearing its sixth week – continued as President Donald Trump vowed he “won’t be extorted” by Senate Democrats who are demanding the preservation of tax credits for health care assistance for the poor.

In an interview, Trump predicted that the Democrats will eventually yield. “I think they have to,” said Trump. “And if they don’t, it’s their problem.”

According to the Associated Press, the shutdown also blocks the payments of SNAP food aid to 42 million Americans as well as paychecks to those still required to work despite the shutdown.

Trumps’ suggestion to get rid of the fillibuster – which requires 60 votes to overcome objections in the Senate – has been rejected by Republicans because they have used it previously to block Democratic legislation.

Sports: A good day for LA in the NFL

Both and NFL teams posted impressive wins on Sunday. The Los Angeles Chargers (6-3) defeated the Tennessee Titans (1-8). The Bolts fell behind 14-7 in the first quarter, but outscored their opponents 20-6 the rest of the way. Justin Herbert passed for 250 yards and two scores in the win. He also rushed for 57 yards and a touchdown.

The Chargers are second in the AFC West behind the Denver Broncos (7-2).

The Los Angeles Rams (6-2) hammered the New Orleans Saints 34-10 at SoFi Stadium. Matthew Stafford passed for 281 yards and four touchdowns. Kyren Williams ran for 114 yards and one score.

The Rams are tied with the Seattle Seahawks (6-2) for first in the NFC West.

Weather: A return to the Sixties

Real autumn conditions – it is said – don’t begin until the temperatures drop into the Sixties. Well, that’s what we will have in our West Orange County cities. Monday and Tuesday will have daytime highs of 69 and overnight lows of 56. There were be some fog in the morning and sun in the afternoon. Wednesday will warm to 70 (55), also with fog and sun. Thursday is expected to be 72 (55) and sunny.