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Wealthy celebrities like Barbra Streisand, Elon Musk, and Seth MacFarlane are donating money to candidates in important U.S. Senate races ahead of the November midterm elections. Democrats hope to gain control of the Senate by winning seats in states where President Trump has mixed approval ratings, while Republicans are targeting certain Democratic-held seats.
Key Facts
Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate; Democrats need to flip four seats to take control.
Democrats are focusing on Republican-held seats in states like Maine, North Carolina, Alaska, Iowa, Ohio, and Texas.
Republicans consider Democratic seats in Georgia, Michigan, and New Hampshire potentially competitive.
President Trump’s approval rating is low, with 58% of Americans disapproving of his job performance.
Celebrities like Barbra Streisand have donated thousands of dollars to Democratic Senate candidates.
Actress Cynthia Nixon has supported progressive candidates in Maine and Michigan.
Melinda French Gates and Seth MacFarlane have also made significant donations to Democrats in key races.
Celebrity donations can provide financial support and influence public opinion during elections.
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A veterinarian warns that many dog owners give too many treats, which can add extra calories beyond a dog’s regular diet. Experts suggest treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories to keep them healthy and prevent weight gain.
Key Facts
Treats, table scraps, and chews often add 15-30% more calories to a dog’s diet than owners realize.
The “10 percent rule” says only 10% of a dog's daily calories should come from treats.
Dog food is made to give balanced nutrients, but most treats lack this balance.
Giving too many treats can cause obesity, joint problems, pancreatitis, and stomach issues in dogs.
Signs of overfeeding treats include less visible waist, hard-to-feel ribs, more begging, and less interest in regular meals.
Multiple people in a household often contribute to giving too many treats without realizing it.
Lower-calorie treats like plain vegetables or using regular dog food as rewards can help control calorie intake.
Non-food rewards like praise and play can also motivate dogs without adding calories.
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Seven people were sentenced to prison for their roles in a protest outside a Texas immigration detention center where a police officer was shot. The protest involved accusations of terrorism linked to the antifascist group antifa, though the defendants and their lawyers denied such ties and argued they had constitutional rights to carry firearms and protest.
Key Facts
The protest happened on July 4, 2025, outside the Prairieland Detention Center near Dallas, Texas.
The demonstration opposed President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, especially mass deportation.
Former Marine reservist Benjamin Song shot and wounded a police officer during the protest and was sentenced to 100 years in prison.
Seven others were sentenced to prison terms ranging from nearly two to 70 years on charges including providing material support to terrorism, rioting, and conspiracy.
The Trump administration labeled the protest and those involved as linked to antifa, which it calls a domestic terrorist group.
Some defendants were charged despite not being physically present at the protest.
Lawyers for the defendants deny antifa connections and say their clients acted within constitutional rights.
Civil liberties groups warn the case may affect future protests and free speech rights under the First Amendment.
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The U.S. Energy Department has issued emergency orders to increase power production during a heat wave in the mid-Atlantic region. These orders allow the grid operator PJM to use more electricity from fossil fuel plants, even if it means bypassing usual environmental rules.
Key Facts
The Energy Department is responding to a heat wave causing possible power shortages.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued the emergency orders.
The orders direct PJM, a grid operator, to produce more electricity.
Power plants using fossil fuels will be used more, despite environmental limits.
The goal is to prevent blackouts and keep power steady during high demand.
The emergency orders temporarily override usual environmental restrictions.
This action is taken under the Trump administration’s direction.
The focus is on the mid-Atlantic power grid area affected by the heat wave.
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Scientists have found many dead seabirds along the California coast, likely because warm ocean waters have reduced the cold, nutrient-rich areas where their food lives. With a strong El Niño weather pattern developing, experts worry the situation could get worse and more seabirds may die.
Key Facts
Scientists and volunteers regularly survey dead seabirds on California beaches.
Many seabirds, like brown pelicans and cormorants, died from starvation due to warm ocean temperatures.
The warm water reduces the cold, nutrient-rich surface layer where small fish and krill live.
El Niño, a natural warming of the Pacific Ocean, formed in June and is expected to become very strong.
Similar die-offs have happened before but are becoming more frequent with global warming.
Scripps Institution of Oceanography recorded some of the highest coastal water temperatures on record.
Warm ocean water drives cold-water animals deeper or farther north, disrupting the food chain.
Wildlife rescue groups treated hundreds of very thin birds in the spring as the heat wave intensified.
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A Pew Research Center survey found that 56% of American adults support banning social media use for people under 16 years old. Around 21% disagreed with this idea, and 23% were unsure.
Key Facts
The survey was published on a Wednesday by the Pew Research Center.
More than half (56%) of Americans support banning social media for youth under 16.
21% of people surveyed do not support a ban on social media for under-16 users.
23% of respondents were uncertain or did not have a clear opinion about the ban.
The survey focuses on how Americans feel about social media access for adolescents.
No details were given about specific social media platforms or enforcement methods.
The survey reflects public concern about youth and social media use.
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The Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil transport, is central to U.S.-Iran peace talks. Oman has suggested a payment system like one used in the Strait of Malacca for managing the strait, but the U.S. and Iran disagree on whether Iran can charge fees for ships passing through.
Key Facts
The Strait of Hormuz carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil shipped by sea each year.
Iran controls the strait and has used this to influence global energy markets.
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped sharply due to fears of Iranian attacks and higher insurance costs.
Some ships pay fees to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard for safe passage in a designated lane.
Oman has proposed a payment system modeled on the Strait of Malacca’s cooperative funding system for navigation and safety.
The U.S., led by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, opposes Iran charging fees after the current two-month negotiation period.
Iran says it wants a "maritime service" fee for maintenance and protection, not a toll.
Oman, which controls the southern part of the strait, has remained neutral and helps mediate talks.
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A 1-year-old boy named Kohen Wiley died after being shot in the chest by a Mississippi police officer during a traffic stop. An independent review confirmed the death was a homicide, sparking calls for transparency and the release of police body camera footage.
Key Facts
Kohen Wiley was shot on June 14 while sitting in a car with his mother during a police encounter in Senatobia, Mississippi.
An independent pathologist found the shotgun blast entered the right side of Kohen’s chest and exited his left side, injuring major organs like the heart and lungs.
The shot was fired through the passenger side window, meaning the officer shot from the side, not head-on.
Kohen’s family and attorneys dispute police claims that the driver was moving toward officers; they say the vehicle was backing up.
The involved police officer was placed on administrative leave after the incident.
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is conducting the ongoing investigation, which may take six to nine months to complete.
Police body camera footage has not been released yet, pending the investigation’s conclusion.
The shooting has drawn public attention and fundraising efforts for Kohen’s family have raised over $27,000.
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Vice President Vance said the United States might restart military conflict with Iran if a current ceasefire ends without a peace deal. He emphasized that President Donald Trump would only send U.S. forces back into war if there is a clear reason to do so.
Key Facts
There is a 60-day ceasefire currently in place between the U.S. and Iran.
Vice President Vance suggested the war could resume if no peace agreement is reached by the end of the ceasefire.
President Donald Trump will not send U.S. troops back to fight unless there is a clearly defined goal.
The decision to restart conflict depends partly on Iran's actions.
The U.S. is waiting for a peace deal before considering military action again.
Vice President Vance spoke about this position in a statement on Wednesday.
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At least three Palestinians died in an Israeli drone strike in northern Gaza despite a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The strike and other Israeli military actions came amid stalled negotiations over prisoner releases, disarmament, and military withdrawal.
Key Facts
The drone strike killed three Palestinians near a hospital and a fuel station in northern Gaza.
The Israeli military said it killed four people it called Hamas fighters in separate strikes but gave no proof.
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas started in October 2023 but many attacks on Palestinians have continued.
Since the ceasefire began, over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed and more than 3,400 wounded, according to Gaza authorities.
The Israeli military has expanded control over Gaza, forcing many Palestinians to leave large areas known as the “Yellow Line.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed the military to control more than 70% of Gaza as of late May.
A second phase of the ceasefire, including disarmament of Hamas and Israeli withdrawal, has not started because of stalled talks.
The ongoing conflict has caused tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties since October 2023.
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Powerful earthquakes in Venezuela on June 24, 2026, have caused at least 2,295 deaths and injured over 11,000 people. Nearly 50,000 people are still missing, and many homes and buildings have been destroyed, leading to ongoing rescue and relief efforts.
Key Facts
Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on June 24, 2026.
At least 2,295 people died and 11,267 were injured.
Nearly 50,000 people are unaccounted for after the earthquakes.
More than 26,400 people have been directly affected by damage or loss of homes.
Rescue teams continue searching for survivors, sometimes using their hands to dig through rubble.
Children are among those missing and affected.
Water systems in some areas have failed, making it hard for survivors to get safe drinking water.
Volunteers and organizations are providing supplies and aid to those impacted.
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Opening a certificate of deposit (CD) account in July 2026 can be a good choice for savers because interest rates are relatively high and may rise. CDs offer a fixed interest rate and protection of your deposit, making them a secure way to earn money amid current economic challenges.
Key Facts
CD interest rates in July 2026 are over 4%, with some long-term CDs offering rates up to 4.20%.
Higher rates mean you can earn about $4 in interest for every $100 you deposit.
The Federal Reserve may raise interest rates soon, which could lead banks to offer even higher CD rates.
CDs guarantee a fixed interest rate and protect your original deposit amount for the term of the account.
CD accounts are insured by the FDIC up to $250,000, which helps keep your money safe.
Inflation has increased recently, wages are not keeping up, and borrowing costs are high, making secure savings more important.
You can earn hundreds or even thousands of dollars in interest depending on your deposit and the CD term.
Opening a CD now may be better than waiting because rates might not stay this high for long.
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A study led by a Harvard professor found that women who lost weight using GLP-1 drugs were hired more often. The research showed a 27% increase in employment rates for these women.
Key Facts
The study was conducted by a Harvard professor.
It focused on women who used GLP-1 medications to lose weight.
GLP-1s are drugs that help with weight loss.
Women who lost weight on GLP-1s had a higher chance of getting hired.
Employment rates for these women increased by 27%.
The research suggests a link between weight loss and job opportunities.
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France is approaching its 2027 presidential election amid political tensions and divisions. Three main political groups—liberals, nationalists, and new left—are competing, while legal investigations and public distrust affect the political scene. Experts say voter interest and campaign leadership will matter more than court cases in deciding the election.
Key Facts
France’s next presidential election is about 300 days away.
The political system in France is fragmented into three main groups: liberal, nationalist, and new left.
The National Rally, a far-right party, is facing legal investigations over alleged wrongdoing.
These legal issues highlight broader questions about law, democracy, and politics in France.
Many French voters feel distrustful of traditional political parties and prefer outsiders.
Experts believe campaign events and voter enthusiasm will have more impact than court rulings.
France’s political environment is influenced by complex institutions and changing electoral dynamics.
The current political mood favors more extreme right or left positions.
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The Resolute Desk is a famous White House desk made from wood taken from a British ship called the HMS Resolute. It has been used by U.S. presidents for nearly 150 years, witnessing many important moments in American history. The desk symbolizes the close friendship between the United States and Britain.
Key Facts
The Resolute Desk is made from timbers of the British naval ship HMS Resolute.
The HMS Resolute was stuck in Arctic ice in the 1850s and abandoned, then found by an American ship.
The U.S. repaired and returned the HMS Resolute to Queen Victoria, who had the timbers made into furniture.
The desk was given to President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1880.
It was mostly kept out of view until First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy moved it to the Oval Office in 1961.
Since President Jimmy Carter, most presidents have used the desk in the Oval Office except President George H.W. Bush.
Presidents often leave a letter for their successor on Inauguration Day at this desk.
The desk represents both the U.S. presidency and the long-standing friendship between the U.S. and Britain.
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Floods in Ivory Coast have killed at least 59 people so far in 2026, with recent heavy rains causing deadly flooding and landslides in the capital, Abidjan. Neighboring Ghana also experienced severe flooding, killing at least 24 people and cutting off access to parts of its capital, Accra.
Key Facts
At least 59 people have died due to floods in Ivory Coast this year.
Recent heavy rains caused floods and landslides in Abidjan, mostly affecting the Attécoubé and Yopougon areas.
In Ghana, floods on June 29 and 30 killed at least 24 people and left some missing.
Flooding in Accra and the city of Tema submerged buildings and roads, blocking access.
Ivory Coast government officials urged people to follow safety rules and avoid high-risk areas.
Flooding and landslides were triggered by days of very heavy rain.
Africa is vulnerable to extreme weather like floods despite contributing little to global greenhouse gas emissions.
The World Meteorological Organization highlights the region’s high risk due to climate-related events.
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EU prosecutors are investigating alleged misuse of European Union funds by a now-closed far-right group in the European Parliament called Identity and Democracy (ID). Police have conducted searches in France and other countries connected to the case.
Key Facts
The investigation focuses on accusations that EU funds were wrongly taken by the far-right ID group.
The ID group no longer exists and included members from several Eurosceptic parties.
Parties involved were from France (National Rally), Italy (League), and Germany (Alternative for Germany).
EU prosecutors carried out raids and searches in multiple European countries, including France.
The group had members in the European Parliament, the EU’s lawmaking body.
The searches occurred recently, as reported on July 1, 2026.
The alleged crime is called embezzlement, which means stealing money that is meant for specific purposes.
The case is part of a wider EU effort to oversee how funds provided by the union are used.
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Many cities in the central and eastern United States are experiencing very high temperatures caused by a heat dome. This weather pattern is expected to break daily heat records in several locations.
Key Facts
A heat dome is causing very hot weather across large parts of the central and eastern US.
Daily heat records are likely to be broken in several cities.
The heat dome traps hot air over the region, raising temperatures.
This event impacts millions of people living in affected areas.
Heat domes can increase risks of health problems like heat exhaustion.
Officials may issue heat warnings to help people stay safe.
Such weather patterns can also strain power grids due to higher use of air conditioning.
The exact cities with record temperatures can change daily as the heat dome moves.
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US homeowners installed more home batteries than ever in early 2026, mainly because of state programs and rising electricity prices. These batteries help store solar energy and can also support the electric grid and large data centers.
Key Facts
In the first quarter of 2026, US home battery installations reached a record 673 megawatts of storage.
California and Hawaii led in new residential battery setups, with Texas and Arizona also increasing installations.
California offers better prices for electricity sent back to the grid at night, while Hawaii pays $400 per kilowatt for batteries.
The federal solar tax credit for homeowners ended, causing slower growth in new solar panel installations.
Residential electricity costs in the US rose over 7% in April 2026 compared to the previous year.
Home batteries help homeowners save money by storing energy when it’s cheap and using it during peak times.
Virtual power plants, which connect many home batteries to balance electricity demand, grew by 153% in 2025.
Companies like Sunrun, Tesla, and Renew Home plan to combine hundreds of thousands of home batteries to create the largest distributed power plant in the US, providing power to data centers and utilities.
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