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Washington Examiner

Couple Pleads Guilty in New Jersey Massage Parlor Trafficking Case

A husband-and-wife team has pleaded guilty to operating illicit massage businesses in New Jersey and New York, which were found to be brothels. The Justice Department is prioritizing human trafficking cases, with a focus on financial investigations to dismantle trafficking networks. There are an estimated 7,500 to 9,000 illicit massage businesses in the U.S., often exploiting vulnerable individuals.

Fox News — Politics

Congress Sends Bipartisan Housing Package to President Trump

The House has delivered a bipartisan housing package to President Trump, who has not yet signed it. The bill aims to ease home construction and assist first-time buyers. If Trump does not sign it within 10 days, the bill will automatically become law unless Congress adjourns completely.

Guardian — US

Two Killed and 20 Injured in Long Island Expressway Crash

A crash on the Long Island Expressway in Queens, New York, resulted in two deaths and 20 injuries. The incident, which involved a coach bus and multiple vehicles, occurred around 11:45 PM and has led to a federal investigation by the NTSB.

Washington Examiner

Bar Complaint Filed Against U.S. District Judge Sparkle Sooknanan for Alleged Misconduct

A bar complaint has been filed against U.S. District Judge Sparkle Sooknanan by Democracy Restored, alleging misconduct during her tenure at the Justice Department. The complaint requests an investigation into her actions and statements, particularly regarding her rulings against the Trump administration and her testimony during her confirmation hearing. The outcome of the complaint and potential investigation is currently unclear.

Fox News — Politics

Senator Hawley Initiates Investigation into U.S. Postal Service Over Mail Issues and Executive Bonuses

Senator Josh Hawley has launched an investigation into the U.S. Postal Service, focusing on issues related to dumped mail and executive bonuses. The inquiry follows a Senate hearing where Postmaster General David Steiner did not satisfactorily address concerns about mail handling and delivery metrics. Hawley has requested detailed records and clarification on potential criminal referrals.

Fox News — Politics

House Committee Investigates Eli Lilly's Clinical Trials in China

The House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party is investigating Eli Lilly's clinical trials in China, particularly at military-affiliated hospitals and in Xinjiang. Chairman John Moolenaar has requested detailed information regarding ethical standards and protections for sensitive data, amid concerns over national security and human rights risks. Eli Lilly must respond to the committee's inquiries by July 17.

The Hill

House Democrats Divided Over Amendment to Cut Funding for Israel

House Democratic leadership has urged members to vote based on their conscience regarding an amendment to cut U.S. funding for Israel, proposed by Rep. Thomas Massie. This situation has revealed notable divisions within the Democratic caucus over U.S.-Israel relations.

nbcnews.com

Rep. Tom Kean Returns to Congress After Treatment for Depression

Rep. Tom Kean returned to Congress on June 30, 2026, after a four-month absence for treatment of depression. He missed over 140 votes during this period and discussed the seriousness of his condition in a speech. Kean is preparing for the upcoming election against Democrat Rebecca Bennett.

nbcnews.com

Supreme Court Upholds State Bans on Transgender Athletes in Women's Sports

The Supreme Court has upheld bans on transgender athletes in girls' and women's sports in West Virginia and Idaho, ruling that the laws do not violate constitutional or educational rights. This decision may influence similar laws in 25 other states and follows a series of rulings against transgender rights by the court.

san.com

Supreme Court Upholds State Bans on Transgender Athletes in Women's Sports

The Supreme Court ruled that states can ban transgender athletes from women's sports, upholding laws from Idaho and West Virginia. The decision, made with a 6-3 vote, stated that such bans do not violate Title IX. Critics argue the ruling will reduce protections for transgender students.

cnbc.com

Gold Prices Decline, Heading for Worst Quarterly Loss in 13 Years

Gold prices fell on June 30, 2026, with spot gold reaching $4,008.94 per ounce, indicating a significant quarterly decline. The decrease is attributed to inflation concerns and expectations of interest rate hikes by the U.S. Federal Reserve. Other metals also saw declines, with silver and platinum prices dropping.

Axios

House Republicans Block Defense Bill Vote Over SAVE Act Dispute

Fourteen House Republicans voted against a procedural rule for the National Defense Authorization Act due to the exclusion of the SAVE Act, an election bill. This incident reflects ongoing tensions within the GOP regarding the SAVE Act, which has previously stalled other legislative efforts. The path forward for the defense bill remains unclear as the July 4 recess approaches.

The Hill

House votes against war powers resolution regarding Lebanon

The House of Representatives rejected a war powers resolution on June 30, 2026, that sought to direct President Trump to remove troops from Lebanon. The vote was 189-235, with two Republicans supporting the resolution and 22 Democrats voting against it.

Fox News — Politics

House Rejects Rashida Tlaib's Resolution on U.S. Military Involvement in Lebanon

The House of Representatives voted 189-235 against a resolution from Rep. Rashida Tlaib aimed at prohibiting U.S. military involvement in Lebanon. The vote saw bipartisan opposition, with 22 Democrats joining Republicans against the measure, which was largely symbolic and did not reference Hezbollah.

BBC — World

US Supreme Court affirms birthright citizenship

The US Supreme Court has affirmed the principle of birthright citizenship, which grants citizenship to those born in the country. The decision is viewed as a notable development in immigration policy, with civil rights groups expressing support.

Fox News — Politics

House Conservatives Block Legislative Progress Amid SAVE America Act Dispute

On June 30, 2026, House conservatives, led by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, blocked a procedural vote on the SAVE America Act, causing a legislative standstill. Speaker Mike Johnson is attempting to merge the Act with the National Defense Authorization Act to advance it in the Senate, while conservatives demand prioritization of the election measure. The House is facing challenges in reaching consensus on key legislative items ahead of the July 4 recess.