Fox News Hourly Update Podcast – January 31, 2026
Host: Paul Stevens, FOX News
Main Theme: Latest federal government shutdown, national protests, hazardous weather, law enforcement investigations, and international tensions.
Episode Overview
This episode delivers a concise rundown of major breaking news topics, dominated by the latest partial U.S. government shutdown driven by a dispute over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Other key stories include hazardous winter weather impacting Virginia Beach, widespread anti-ICE protests and unrest, ongoing federal investigations, and U.S.-Iran military tensions.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Severe Weather Impacting Virginia Beach
- Reporter on the Ground: Chelsea Torres describes the harsh windchill and local responses to an intensifying nor’easter.
- Details:
- Layering up is essential for residents braving the storm.
- The storm isn’t as rocky as previous ones but brings high winds and active surf.
- Community Resilience: Local residents continue morning routines despite conditions.
Quote:
- "This windchill is absolutely insane. And I think at this point I'm realizing what you really need out here is some good gloves ... because of this wind."
— Chelsea Torres [00:14]
2. Federal Government Shutdown: Causes & Timeline
- Shutdown Background:
- The Senate altered House-approved funding bills, holding up the DHS portion due to Democratic demands for changes at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
- The rest of the funding package was returned to the House, leaving a funding gap.
- Current Status:
- Partial government shutdown is in effect, at least until Monday night.
- House Speaker Mike Johnson is rallying Republican support for a Monday vote, which could limit the shutdown to 70 hours.
- DHS funding remains in limbo, with only enough appropriated for “two hours, weeks” (likely a transcript error, possibly "two more weeks").
Quote:
- "The Senate approved five spending bills, but Democrats insisted on holding up the DHS bill. They wanted changes at ICE... That triggers a shutdown until at least Monday night."
— Chad Pergrim [01:00]
3. Anti-ICE Protests & Violent Clashes
- Unrest in Los Angeles:
- Violent clashes at the federal detention center.
- Thousands participated in “ICE out everywhere” protests nationwide.
- Mob swarmed key federal locations in L.A.
Quote:
- "Violent anti ICE agitators arrested Friday outside the federal Detention center in Los Angeles... cities across the country took part in ICE out everywhere protests."
— Paul Stevens [01:33]
4. FBI Investigations: Protest-Linked Death & Fraud Allegations
- Death of Alex Preddy:
- FBI Director Kash Patel discusses the ongoing investigation after a fatal shooting during an anti-ICE protest in Minneapolis.
- The shooting involved HSI (Homeland Security Investigations) officials.
- Massive Social Services Fraud:
- Ongoing federal investigation into billions allegedly stolen from programs like Feeding Our Future and Medicaid in Minnesota.
Quotes:
- "We're working with our Department of Homeland Security partners because those involved in the shooting were HSI officials... we'll continue as the FBI to lead any investigation where the facts predicate opening of criminal cases."
— FBI Director Kash Patel [02:44] - "This coming as the FBI is also investigating allegations of federal fraud in Minnesota... billions of dollars from taxpayer funded social service programs... allegedly stolen."
— Paul Stevens [03:02]
5. Growing Tensions: U.S. Military Posture towards Iran
- Possible Strikes:
- President Trump considers “possible military strikes” amid a buildup of U.S. forces in the region.
- Deployment of high-tech aircraft to Europe and Jordan.
- Significant naval presence in the Middle East, including eight guided missile destroyers with “over 750 vertical launch tubes.”
- Submarines with undisclosed locations acting as further deterrence.
Quote:
- "President Trump says he hopes he doesn't have to use them at sea. There are now eight guided missile destroyers in the waters of the Middle east... within striking distance [of Iran]."
— Lucas Tomlinson [03:22]
6. Gaza Update: Israeli Strikes Continue
- Civilian Casualties:
- Hospitals in Gaza report at least 30 Palestinians killed, including women and children, in Israeli airstrikes.
- The Rafah border crossing set to open the next day.
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
-
On the shutdown:
“That triggers a shutdown until at least Monday night. Now House Speaker Mike Johnson implored Republicans to vote yes on Monday.”
– Chad Pergrim [01:00] -
On ICE protests:
“Thousands assembling in front of city hall before marching to the Federal center where a mob swarmed the area.”
– Paul Stevens [01:33] -
On federal investigations:
“We'll continue as the FBI to lead any investigation where the facts predicate opening of criminal cases.”
– FBI Director Kash Patel [02:44] -
On U.S. military presence near Iran:
“There are now eight guided missile destroyers in the waters of the Middle east... over 750 vertical launch tubes...”
– Lucas Tomlinson [03:22]
Timestamps for Key Segments
- Severe weather in Virginia Beach: 00:14 – 00:50
- Federal government shutdown explanation: 01:00 – 01:33
- Violent anti-ICE protests in LA: 01:33 – 01:55
- FBI Director on protest shooting & fraud: 02:44 – 03:14
- U.S. military buildup and Trump/Iran tensions: 03:22 – 04:05
- Gaza civilian casualties update: 04:05 – 04:28
Tone & Language
The episode maintains a fast-paced, urgent tone, reflecting the breaking nature of the news. Language remains direct, factual, and focused—typical of FOX News radio bulletins. Soundbites from field reporters, correspondents, and key officials provide immediacy and authority.
Summary:
This episode delivers high-impact coverage on the government shutdown triggered by DHS funding disputes, ongoing national unrest over immigration policies, unfolding investigations into both protest violence and federal fraud, and escalating U.S.-Iran tensions, against a backdrop of storm alerts and international conflict. A must-listen for those seeking a condensed, authoritative news briefing.