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The Daily Beast

CNN Clarifies Scott Jennings' Comments on Mitch McConnell's Health

CNN has distanced itself from Scott Jennings' claims about Senator Mitch McConnell's health, stating that Jennings is not a full-time employee and his comments do not reflect CNN's reporting. Jennings suggested that McConnell is preparing to return to work, but CNN has not presented his statements as official network reporting.

NPR — Top Stories

Shooting Incident Involving ICE Agents in Houston Results in Fatality

A shooting incident involving ICE agents in Houston resulted in the death of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a 52-year-old Mexican national. The shooting occurred after agents attempted to pull him over, prompting concerns among local residents about the presence of ICE in the community.

Guardian — US

Minnesota Man Pardoned by State Deported to Laos

Tou Lue Vang, who was pardoned by Minnesota officials in June 2026, has been deported to Laos. The deportation was announced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, following Vang's conviction for first-degree criminal sexual conduct in 2006.

Guardian — US

Texas AG Candidate Proposes Investigation into SpaceX Grants

Nathan Johnson, a Democratic candidate for Texas Attorney General, plans to investigate the state's $110 million deal with SpaceX, claiming it raises concerns about corruption. He called for more legislative scrutiny of grants given to SpaceX for its Starlink satellite program.

The Intercept

Democratic Socialists of America Members Call for Boycott of Consultant Morris Katz

Members of the Democratic Socialists of America have issued a letter calling for a boycott of consultant Morris Katz and his firm, Fight Agency, due to their involvement in Graham Platner's controversial campaign. The letter accuses Katz of continuing to support Platner despite serious allegations against him and has prompted discussions on accountability within the party.

rawstory.com

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Enforces No-Beard Policy at Pentagon

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has initiated stricter enforcement of a no-beard policy within the military after noticing numerous exemptions. This policy aims to reduce exceptions, which could impact Black servicemen due to a common shaving-related condition. Hegseth is also pushing for timely resolution of workplace complaints under updated Equal Employment Opportunity laws.

cbsnews.com

Pentagon Officials Focus on Grooming Standards for Service Members

The Pentagon is reinforcing grooming, fitness, and appearance standards for U.S. military personnel, following Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's previous remarks on the issue. A memorandum allows for the dismissal of service members who do not comply with grooming standards after a year of medical waivers, prompting discussions about balancing military discipline with necessary accommodations. The military is also revising body composition measurement practices to enhance readiness.

cnn.com

Defense Secretary Hegseth Addresses Beard Policy After Navy Visit

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent visit to a Navy ship revealed non-compliance with his beard policy, prompting discussions on grooming standards in the military. Hegseth has implemented stricter regulations on facial hair, citing national security concerns, while critics highlight potential negative impacts on Black service members. The Pentagon is focusing on enforcing these standards and improving workplace complaint processes.

justsecurity.org

Election Assistance Commission Loses All Commissioners

President Donald Trump has removed all three commissioners of the Election Assistance Commission (EAC), leaving the agency without a quorum. While some operations can continue under the leadership of career staff, the EAC cannot establish new programs or modify existing policies without commissioners. The agency's functions include disbursing election security grants and certifying voting equipment.

lawfaremedia.org

Analysis of President Trump's Removal of Election Assistance Commission Members

On July 9, 2026, President Trump removed all three remaining members of the Election Assistance Commission (EAC), which has resulted in the commission's inability to function. The EAC requires at least three members to approve actions, and with no members currently in office, it cannot fulfill its duties. The lengthy nomination process for new members has raised concerns about the future capacity of the EAC to execute its responsibilities.

msn.com

U.S. National Debt Interest Payments Reach $24 Billion Weekly

The U.S. national debt interest payments have reached approximately $24 billion weekly, with the federal deficit for fiscal year 2026 nearing $1.4 trillion. The Congressional Budget Office reports that net interest on public debt has increased significantly compared to the previous year, raising concerns among experts about the sustainability of U.S. fiscal policies.

wtop.com

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Drained Again for Repairs

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is being drained again for repairs following issues with algae and peeling coatings. President Trump has blamed vandalism for the damage, while critics point to poor workmanship. The Interior Secretary confirmed the draining was necessary to clean debris from a recent fireworks display and to address vandalism.

cbsnews.com

Trump Administration Discusses Permanent Fencing Near White House

The Trump administration is exploring a plan for permanent fencing along Pennsylvania Avenue near the White House to improve security and reduce costs associated with temporary barriers. The proposal is still pending President Trump's approval and involves repurposing existing fencing materials. Security concerns have increased following a recent shooting incident near the complex.

Fox News — Politics

Trump Declines to Sign Bipartisan Housing Bill, Citing SAVE Act Concerns

President Donald Trump has stated he will not sign a bipartisan housing bill, citing the failure to advance the SAVE America Act as his reason. The housing bill is set to become law unless vetoed, and it aims to lower housing costs and increase construction. Critics of Trump's decision emphasize the urgency of addressing rising housing costs, which have reached record levels.