Political news from across the country

July 18, 2026
Troy Jackson Takes Commanding Lead in Maine's Democratic Senate Race

WISCASSET, Maine — In a whirlwind weekend, Troy Jackson, a progressive and former state Senate president, has surged to the forefront of the race to replace Graham Platner, the scandal-hit former Democratic nominee. Jackson’s rapid asce 👉 Full story

July 18, 2026
Small Towns, Big Games: How Suburban Mayors Navigate the World Cup Stage

From the glamorous pitches of the 2026 World Cup bid, where cities like Miami and San Francisco showcased their iconic landscapes, the reality of the tournament's geography played out differently. While anticipated to spotlight North Am 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration From Canceling Grants Retroactively

In a significant ruling on Friday, U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani stated that the Trump administration cannot retroactively cancel federal grants using new rules or objectives that were not in place at the time the grants were award 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
AIPAC Halts Online Donations to Democrats Who Supported Israel Aid Cut

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has taken a significant step by discontinuing online contributions to certain House Democrats who recently voted in favor of reducing U.S. aid to Israel. This decision marks a growing 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
House GOP Proposes Temporary Funding Bill to Avoid Shutdown, Skips Bipartisan Support

In a bold move that could define the political landscape ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, House Republican leaders have unveiled a new bill designed to fund the federal government from the beginning of the fiscal year on October 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
Alan Dershowitz Withdraws from House Oversight Interview on Epstein Case

Alan Dershowitz, the renowned Harvard Law School professor emeritus and criminal defense attorney, has unexpectedly pulled out of a scheduled interview with the House Oversight Committee. The interview, which was set for Monday, was par 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
Families Demand Tech CEOs Be Held Accountable for Child Safety on Platforms

A group of parents, united by tragedy and concern, is calling on the Senate Judiciary Committee to subpoena Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Google CEO Sundar Pichai. These parents, whose children have either died or suffered significant me 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
Darline Graham Weighs Bid for Full Term in South Carolina Senate Seat

Newly appointed Senator Darline Graham (R-S.C.) is reportedly considering a campaign for the Senate seat formerly held by her late brother, Lindsey Graham, sparking intrigue and speculation in South Caro 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
Navigating Divides: Democratic Leader Rep. Brad Schneider on Israel and Party Unity

In the shifting sands of American politics, the debate on Israel has emerged as a significant fault line within the Democratic Party. Rep. Brad Schneider of Illinois, a stalwart pro-Israel voice and leader of the House’s New Democrat Co 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
Trump's Election Security Push Could Complicate GOP Funding Strategy

In a prime time address Thursday, President Donald Trump urged Congress to pass his proposed election security legislation, the SAVE America Act, amidst ongoing concerns over U.S. election vulnerability to fraud and foreign interference 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
Platner's Political Collapse: A Cautionary Tale for Progressive Consultants

When Daniel Moraff, a political consultant, convinced Graham Platner, a Maine oyster farmer, to run for the U.S. Senate, expectations were sky-high. Moraff, along with other out-of-state consultants, had high hopes for Platner, describi 👉 Full story

July 17, 2026
Cartoonists Capture the Pulse of Politics: A Weekly Visual Commentary

Every week, a brigade of sharp-witted cartoonists from across the political divide dip their pens in satire to illustrate the quirks and quagmires of American politics. Their canvas stretches wide, sketching everything from policy flops 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche Faces Criticism After Meeting with Epstein Victims

Hours after Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina insisted, Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's pick for the permanent role of Attorney General, convened with survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's criminal activities. The meeting, which was 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Republicans Advance $95 Billion Budget Resolution Amid Intra-Party Disputes and Democratic Opposition

Reconciliation 3.0 has taken its first legislative strides as House Republicans push forward a contentious $95 billion budget resolution. The House Budget Committee secured party-line approval, 20-14, on Thursday afternoon, setting the 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Senate Crypto Bill Faces Democratic Opposition Amid Ethical Concerns

Senators are gearing up to unveil the latest draft of a cryptocurrency regulation bill known as the Clarity Act after a meeting with President Donald Trump scheduled for Thursday afternoon, according to Republican Senator Bernie Moreno 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Senate Gears Up for Potential July Vote on College Sports Reform Bill

The U.S. Senate is poised to possibly vote this July on a pivotal piece of legislation aimed at reshaping the landscape of college athletics. Senate Commerce Chair Ted Cruz, alongside the committee's top Democrat, Sen. Maria Cantwell of 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Trump-Endorsed Candidate in Arizona Faces Stiff Competition Amid Scandals

In Arizona’s 5th District, a deep-red stronghold, the upcoming House primary is not just a battle between candidates, but a test of loyalty and morality within the GOP. Daniel Keenan, a self-funded businessman, challenges former Sheriff 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Senate GOP Skeptical of House's $95 Billion Budget Plan

Senate Republicans are expressing significant reservations about a new $95 billion budget resolution proposed by House Republicans, casting doubts on Speaker Mike Johnson's assurance that the Senate will pass the budget before the Augus 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Sen. Thom Tillis Sets Condition for Supporting AG Nominee Todd Blanche: Meet Epstein Victims

Sen. Thom Tillis has issued an ultimatum that could significantly impact the confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General. Tillis, a Republican from North Carolina, declared that his vote hinges on Blanche meeting with victims of th 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Bipartisan Senate Bill Proposes Paid Leave Pilot Program to Aid American Workers

In a significant move toward supporting American workers, a bipartisan Senate duo, comprising Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York and Republican Senator John Boozman of Arkansas, has introduced a new legislative proposal a 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Speaker Johnson Eyes Midterm Strategy with Government Funding Extension

In a strategic move aimed at navigating the choppy political waters ahead of the November midterm elections, House Speaker Mike Johnson announced plans on Thursday for a House vote on a stopgap spending measure intended to fund the gove 👉 Full story

July 16, 2026
Democrats Lead in Senate Race Fundraising, But GOP Holds Strategic Advantages

Democrats are currently outperforming Republicans in fundraising across several key Senate races, a crucial factor as they aim to regain control of the Senate. However, the Republicans retain significant advantages, particularly in stat 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Cornyn's Crucial Vote: Todd Blanche's AG Confirmation in the Balance

In a pivotal Senate Judiciary Committee session, Todd Blanche, the acting attorney general, sought to cement his role permanently at the helm of the Justice Department. However, his past initiatives and the political dynamics of his pot

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July 15, 2026
High Stakes and High Spending in Michigan Senate Primary as Democrats Face Off

Democrats are fiercely competing in Michigan's high-tension Senate primary, with substantial campaign funds being spent as the August election approaches. This spending spree could leave the Democratic n 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
British Diplomat Charms with Evasive Wit Amidst Policy Grilling

In a polished setting of the United Kingdom's embassy in Washington, D.C., a scene unfolded that was less about the stiff upper lip and more about the agile tongue. The center of attention was a British diplomat, whose name was temporar 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Latino Politicians Cold Shoulder Argentina at Major Conference Amid World Cup

LOS ANGELES — At a key gathering of Latino-American leaders, the absence of Argentina’s blue and white jerseys was more than just a fashion statement. Tensions spilled over as Latino politicians openly expressed their lack of support fo 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Diplomacy on the Pitch: UK and Argentina Trade Ministers to Swap Soccer Shirts Amid World Cup Rivalry

In a charming display of sportsmanship that transcends the often cutthroat nature of international trade and politics, Britain's Trade Minister, Chris Bryant, has found a unique way to blend diplomacy with the universal love of soccer. 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
House Democrats Show Deep Divisions in Vote to End Aid to Israel

Nearly half of the House Democrats cast a vote on Wednesday to end U.S. aid to Israel, marking a significant shift in the party's stance towards the longstanding ally. The proposal, part of a State Department spending bill, sought to te 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Vance's Efforts Fall Short in Easing Fiscal Hawks' Concerns Over GOP Spending Bill

Vice President JD Vance faced significant pushback from fiscal conservatives within the GOP as he attempted to garner support for a contentious $95 billion spending bill. The bill, which is set to be reviewed by the House Budget Committ 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Steve Hilton Advocates for England's World Cup Victory on American Soil

LOS ANGELES — In a surprising twist at the annual conference of the National Association of Latino Elected Officials, British-born California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton voiced a playful yet patriotic plea for Americans to supp 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Global Leaders on the Football Field: Jamaican PM Meets Soccer Legend George Weah

In an unexpected yet captivating encounter, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Michael Holness recently shook hands with former Liberian president and football legend, George Weah. This remarkable meeting took place against the backdrop of 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Federal Judge Questions Trump's Immigration Ban Amid World Cup Visa Exceptions

In a recent judicial critique, U.S. District Judge John McConnell challenged the consistency of President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, pointing out exceptions made for the ongoing World Cup as undermining the administration's na 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Unity or Rivalry? Tory Leader Urges Cross-Border Support for England in World Cup Quest

In an uncharacteristically lighthearted session of Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs), Tory Leader Kemi Badenoch made a spirited appeal to all members of Parliament, urging them to rally behind England in their World Cup match against Ar 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
House Appropriations Chair Cole to Discuss Defense Budget at Camp David Amid Funding Shortfalls

House Appropriations Chair Tom Cole (R-Okla.) is set to visit the presidential retreat at Camp David to engage in critical discussions regarding defense funding. This meeting comes as lawmakers struggle to align with President Donald Tr 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Senate Fiscal Showdown: Ron Johnson Pushes for Budget Offsets Amidst GOP Spending Dispute

As the U.S. Senate gears up for a potential fiscal face-off, the expected next chair of the Senate Budget Committee, Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, is bracing for a challenging tenure. With the House Republicans advancing a hefty $95 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Football Fever and Royal Watch: Prince William to Stay Home Unless England Reaches the Final

In a blend of sports passion and royal duty, Prince William, the heir to the British throne, is keeping his schedule clear for the potential grand finale of the World Cup — but only if England is playing. A fervent football aficionado,

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July 15, 2026
Calls for UK Bank Holiday Surge as England Nears World Cup Glory

In a wave of national excitement, England's potential victory at the World Cup is stirring up more than just sports fans—it's reigniting a debate about bank holidays across the United Kingdom. As the Three Lions edge closer to potential 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Historic Border Change: Gibraltar's Frontier with Spain Opens Up

LONDON — While soccer enthusiasts in Atlanta might be caught up in discussions about the Falklands, it’s Gibraltar, another British Overseas Territory, that is grabbing headlines today. In a monumental change spurred by Brexit, the cent 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Booker Confronts AG Nominee Blanche Over Meeting with Maxwell and Refusal to Meet Epstein Victims

In a heated exchange during Wednesday's Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) challenged Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee for attorney general, on his previous engagements with convicted sex traffi 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Democrats Challenge Kathy Ruemmler on Alleged Epstein Connections in Fiery Oversight Hearing

In a contentious session of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on Wednesday, Democrats grilled former Goldman Sachs top counsel Kathy Ruemmler about her alleged connections with the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
House Budget Chair Jodey Arrington Chooses Diplomacy Over Pressure in New Budget Reconciliation

In a notable shift from previous tactics, House Budget Committee Chair Jodey Arrington has expressed a more collaborative approach as he leads the push for a new $95 billion budget reconciliation plan. Unlike in past sessions where hard 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Soccer as a Battlefield: Argentina vs. England Stirs Deep National Sentiments Ahead of World Cup Semifinal

Soccer is just a game, insists Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, downplaying the intense anticipation surrounding the World Cup semifinal against England. But for many Argentinians, the match transcends sports, representing a chance to re

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July 15, 2026
World Cup Fever and Political Drama: Keir Starmer's Colorful Finale in Parliament

In an unusual blend of sports enthusiasm and political theatre, the House of Commons was abuzz on Wednesday, not just with the usual political debates but with the palpable excitement of the upcoming World Cup semifinal between England 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Senators Converge with President Trump to Forge Path on Pivotal Crypto Bill

Several key U.S. senators are slated to meet with President Donald Trump at the White House this Thursday to discuss the Clarity Act, a comprehensive bill aimed at regulating the cryptocurrency landscape. Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
House Set for Vote on Controversial Stock-Trading Ban Among Lawmakers

The U.S. House of Representatives is poised to vote next week on a significant piece of legislation aimed at curbing stock trading activities among its members. This move comes after prolonged discussions and could potentially reshape t 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Beneath the Atlantic Seabed: England and Argentina Both Stand to Lose Amid Falklands’ Oil Windfall

It's a high-stakes evening in Atlanta where England and Argentina face off, yet beyond the sports arena, a more complex battle looms beneath the waves of the Atlantic. As the Financial Times recently highlighted, the onset of oil drilli 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Cornyn Probes Blanche on Revival Chances of Controversial Anti-Weaponization Fund During Confirmation Hearing

In a pivotal Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on Wednesday, Senator John Cornyn of Texas critically questioned Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche about the permanence of the cessation of the controversial $1.8 billion " 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
House Oversight Committee Urges Swift Testimony from Acting AG Todd Blanche in Epstein Case

House Oversight Chair James Comer of Kentucky expressed a pressing desire on Wednesday for Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to testify before the committee regarding the mishandling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. This call for action 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Confirmation Hearing for Attorney General Nominee Todd Blanche Begins Amid Controversy and Praise

Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche faced a divided Senate Judiciary Committee as he opened his confirmation hearing, pledging to restore trust in the Justice Department and distance it from past controversies. Blanche, currently acti 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark Advocates for Cutting Aid to Israel, Citing American Values

Rep. Katherine Clark of Massachusetts, the second-ranking Democrat in the House, announced on Wednesday her intention to support a contentious amendment that would cut U.S. aid to Israel. This declaration marks a significant divergence 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Todd Blanche Faces Criticism Over Handling of Epstein Case Files During Senate Confirmation

During a contentious Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on Wednesday, Todd Blanche was pushed into the spotlight over his management of the Jeffrey Epstein case files. Blanche, a key figure in the ongoing investigation, was 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Blanche's Brief Blunder: A Slip of the Tongue Stirs Controversy at Attorney General Confirmation

In a high-stakes moment that could have lasting implications, Todd Blanche inadvertently reignited concerns about his capacity to impartially lead the Justice Department during his confirmation hearing to become the next attorney genera 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
House GOP Unveils $95 Billion Budget Plan Amid Legislative Tensions

House Republican leaders presented a $95 billion budget framework on Wednesday, setting the stage for a contentious summer of legislative efforts as they aim to pass the package solely with GOP votes.

The budget, spearheaded by Budge

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July 15, 2026
Capitol Strife: House GOP Divided Over Reconciliation Bill as Vance and Johnson Rally for Unity

In the bustling corridors of the Capitol, tension mounts among House Republicans as they grapple with the contents of their third reconciliation bill. The rough outline, which has been the subject of intense debate, includes $67 billion 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Maine Democrats Face Divisions in Choosing Successor to Graham Platner's Progressive Movement

As the Maine Democratic Party gears up for an essential U.S. Senate race, the quest to find a candidate who can successfully inherit Graham Platner’s progressive legacy has led to a splintered field. The late July nominating convention 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Chuck Schumer Stays on the Sidelines in High-Stakes Maine Senate Race

The balance of power in the U.S. Senate may hinge on a group of 601 undecided Maine Democrats, and surprisingly, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer is taking a back seat in the unfolding drama. Known for his assertive role in shapin 👉 Full story

July 15, 2026
Spy Agency Scrutiny Expected to Dominate Jay Clayton's Confirmation Hearing

At the upcoming confirmation hearing for Jay Clayton as the Director of National Intelligence, the spotlight is likely to shine as much on the embattled Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) as on Clayton himself. Recen 👉 Full story

July 14, 2026
Turbulence Ahead: Todd Blanche Faces Contentious Confirmation Hearing

As the Senate Judiciary Committee gears up for a critical confirmation hearing, President Donald Trump's attorney general nominee, Todd Blanche, is poised on a precarious edge. With a history as Trump’s personal lawyer and recent contro

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July 14, 2026
Vice President Vance to Discuss Key GOP Initiatives with House Republicans

Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to convene with House Republicans this Wednesday at the Capitol, as confirmed by two anonymous sources. This meeting is set to focus on rallying congressional support for a significant new funding pr 👉 Full story

July 14, 2026
Reviving Dreams: Afghan Women's Soccer Team Finds New Life in Exile

Farkhunda Muhtaj has been the cornerstone for the revival of the Afghanistan women's national soccer team, a squad that faced dissolution after the Taliban’s prohibition of women in sports. This year marked a significant breakthrough, a 👉 Full story