Palmer Luckey, co-founder of defense company Anduril Industries, has been a major fundraiser for the Republican Party, especially on the U.S. west coast. His company has won large government contracts, including a $20 billion sole-source deal for drones and involvement in a multi-billion-dollar missile defense project under President Trump’s administration.
Key Facts
Palmer Luckey helped organize a $50,000-per-seat Republican fundraising event called “Keep the Senate.”
He is considered a top Republican fundraiser, especially in California.
Luckey’s company, Anduril Industries, was founded nine years ago and works on military technology like drones and autonomous aircraft.
The U.S. Army gave Anduril a $20 billion sole-source contract for drone technology.
Anduril is also involved in the “Golden Dome” missile defense project, estimated to cost between $185 billion and $1.2 trillion.
Luckey has donated $5.9 million to Republican campaigns since 2017.
He both donates money and hosts fundraising events, increasing his influence beyond his personal contributions.
Luckey is known for his informal style and is seen as a leading figure in defense technology innovation.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Katie Miller, a former official in President Trump’s administration, once relied on Dr. Anthony Fauci during the Covid-19 pandemic but now supports efforts to hold him in contempt of Congress. This shift shows how public health has become politically divisive in the US, which experts warn could weaken the country’s ability to handle future health crises.
Key Facts
Katie Miller previously depended on Dr. Fauci for Covid-19 advice while working in the Trump administration.
The US Senate committee is voting on whether to hold Fauci in contempt after he refused to answer questions during a hearing by invoking his Fifth Amendment rights.
The political fight over Fauci comes as the US faces outbreaks of diseases like measles, whooping cough, cyclosporiasis, and Ebola.
Senator Rand Paul released Fauci’s notes from the pandemic, showing the confusion and fear at the time.
Experts say blaming Fauci distracts from the government’s overall responsibility for the pandemic response.
Fauci was director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and an adviser to seven presidents.
Fauci maintained friendly and supportive contact with Miller during the pandemic, including when she was pregnant and sick.
Early in the pandemic, the Trump administration limited Fauci’s public appearances while he continued advising officials privately.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
US Democratic senators from six states sent a letter to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) asking the agency to regulate prediction markets where people bet on wildfires. They are concerned that allowing such bets might encourage people to start fires to win money. The US is currently facing a severe wildfire season with millions of acres burned and many evacuations.
Key Facts
Senators from Oregon, California, and Nevada wrote to the CFTC about wildfire betting platforms.
Prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi allow users to bet on wildfire outcomes, such as when fires will end or how much land will burn.
Over $1.2 million was wagered on Los Angeles wildfires in early 2025 on these platforms.
There is concern betting on wildfires could motivate people to commit arson (setting fires on purpose).
The US is experiencing a severe wildfire season with over 2 million acres burned in Washington and Oregon.
Polymarket is currently under multiple investigations by the CFTC and was fined in 2022 for operating without a license.
Senators gave the CFTC a deadline of August 14 to respond and asked if betting on wildfires serves the public interest.
Experts support regulating these markets to prevent people from profiting off dangerous events like wildfires.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A group called the Cultural Landscape Foundation (TCLF) is suing the Trump administration over repairs made to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. They say federal officials are about to do more work that could destroy important evidence needed to understand damage caused during a recent renovation.
Key Facts
TCLF filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court about changes made to the Reflecting Pool during a renovation overseen by the Department of the Interior and National Park Service.
The lawsuit claims the renovation violated federal historic preservation laws by changing the pool’s historic basin without proper review.
After renovations, issues appeared like rapid algae growth and the peeling of the pool’s new blue coating.
Federal officials said damage occurred because someone cut the new lining with sharp knives or razors.
TCLF wants to examine the pool’s condition before any more repairs happen, to preserve evidence for the case.
The National Park Service plans to do further work that TCLF says could remove or change key evidence.
The dispute centers on whether the damage was caused by vandalism or problems with the renovation materials.
President Donald Trump publicly mentioned the alleged vandalism explaining the pool lining damage.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The ongoing Iran conflict has increased concerns about traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) among U.S. troops. Many soldiers injured by drone and missile attacks on bases have suffered TBIs, sometimes with long-lasting effects that are hard for doctors to predict.
Key Facts
Joe Shearer, a Marine who fought in Iraq in 2005, was recently diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries from blasts he experienced.
Symptoms of TBIs include dizziness, migraines, memory loss, and difficulty with daily tasks.
About 700 U.S. service members have been wounded by drone and missile attacks during the Iran conflict.
Most of these injuries have been described by the Pentagon as “minor concussions.”
Even mild TBIs can cause lasting problems such as headaches, dizziness, and “brain fog.”
Doctors cannot reliably predict who will have long-term effects after a TBI.
Repeated brain injuries can increase the risk of serious brain diseases like chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
The article includes information on available suicide prevention resources due to the serious impact of TBIs on mental health.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The U.S. Senate is preparing to vote on whether to hold Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress after he refused to answer questions during a hearing about the origins of COVID-19, citing his Fifth Amendment rights. The hearing was led by Republican Senator Rand Paul, who has long criticized Fauci, while many scientists and Democrats have defended Fauci against attacks.
Key Facts
The Senate will vote on holding Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress.
Fauci refused to answer questions at a Senate hearing on COVID-19 origins by invoking the Fifth Amendment, which protects against self-incrimination.
Senator Rand Paul, a Republican, called the hearing and has investigated Fauci for years.
Fauci previously described Senator Paul’s focus on him as an “unhinged obsession.”
Rand Paul shared a diary with critical descriptions of President Trump, written by Fauci.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Department of Health and Human Services gave Fauci’s phone records to the Senate panel.
Kennedy wrote a book critical of Fauci that sold over a million copies and was supported by some public figures with no scientific background.
A group of 155 scientists signed a letter asking the government to stop harassing scientists like Fauci.
Democratic Senator Gary Peters said attacks on Fauci may discourage scientists from working in public service.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Abdul El-Sayed won the Democratic primary in Michigan by creating a diverse group of supporters and attracting new voters. His campaign shows a way for Democrats to build a strong, inclusive team to win elections, especially in important states like Michigan.
Key Facts
Abdul El-Sayed won the Democratic primary in Michigan.
His campaign brought together people beyond usual Democratic voters.
He focused on issues like Medicare for All, better public schools, and fighting political corruption.
If elected, he would be the first Muslim U.S. senator.
El-Sayed has already faced Islamophobia during his campaign.
Some voters disagree with his stance on U.S. military aid to Israel.
Democrats see Michigan as a key state to build a strong, diverse voter coalition.
MAGA opponents are expected to try to divide the coalition El-Sayed is building.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Rupert Lowe, leader of the political group Restore Britain, avoided saying whether he considers King Charles a “white Briton” based on a definition involving parents’ birthplace. In a BBC interview, Lowe focused on his claim that white British people will be a minority by 2063 and discussed tensions with politician Nigel Farage.
Key Facts
Rupert Lowe leads Restore Britain and was interviewed on the BBC’s Today programme.
The term “white Briton” was defined as someone with both parents born in the UK.
King Charles’s father, Prince Philip, was born in Greece, which by that definition means King Charles is not a “white Briton.”
Lowe declined to confirm if King Charles fits this category and said people interpret it differently.
Lowe repeated his claim that white British people will become a minority by 2063 according to current trends.
Lowe mentioned a conflict with Nigel Farage and said they should cooperate politically against the left wing.
He referred to a 219-page report from Restore Britain about “rape gangs,” claiming it linked to issues with Islam, and said the BBC ignored it.
Lowe avoided directly providing proof that Britain is “hurling towards becoming an Islamic country.”
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Progressive Democrat Abdul El-Sayed won the Michigan Senate primary, beating centrist Haley Stevens. He will run against Republican Mike Rogers in the November midterm elections.
Key Facts
Abdul El-Sayed is a progressive Democrat who won Michigan’s Senate primary.
He defeated Haley Stevens, a centrist candidate.
El-Sayed supports universal healthcare for everyone.
He wants to raise taxes on billionaires and big companies.
He calls for stopping military aid to Israel.
His narrow win shows some division within the Democratic Party.
El-Sayed will face Republican Mike Rogers in the midterms this November.
The result shows a shift toward more left-leaning views among some Democrats.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill is using her political action committee to support Democratic candidates with military service in key House and Senate races for the upcoming midterm elections. She aims to help Democrats win competitive seats and influence the party’s future direction ahead of the 2028 presidential race.
Key Facts
Governor Mikie Sherrill launched Mission to Deliver PAC to back Democratic candidates who have military or national security backgrounds.
The PAC is endorsing 13 Democratic candidates running in important midterm congressional races.
Some endorsed candidates include Massachusetts Rep. Seth Moulton and former Rep. Elaine Luria of Virginia.
Most candidates are aiming to challenge Republicans in closely contested districts.
Mission to Deliver PAC raised about $1.2 million from late 2023 to June 2024, including donations from labor-linked PACs.
Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot, became New Jersey governor last year after serving in Congress.
She criticizes President Trump’s military decisions and highlights the importance of candidates with military experience.
This effort is part of the Democratic Party’s ongoing strategy to recruit veterans in swing districts.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Three Virginia teenagers rescued a family of three from drowning in a lake during golf tryouts. After saving them, the teens returned to finish tryouts and made the high school golf team.
Key Facts
The teenagers are Andrew Tuggle (15), Gavin Cain (17), and Jackson Castro (17).
The rescue happened on July 27 at Culpeper Country Club during Eastern View High School golf tryouts.
A preschooler and two adults capsized their kayaks and struggled in the lake.
The teenagers heard screams, quickly ran to the lake, and jumped in to save the family.
All three victims were wearing life vests; the teens were not.
The teens brought the family safely to shore before emergency crews arrived.
After the rescue, the teens returned to dry off and completed their tryouts, earning spots on the golf team.
Police and the golf coach praised the teenagers’ quick action and bravery.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A group of senior Democratic lawmakers has accused President Donald Trump’s administration of enabling violent actions by Israeli settlers in the West Bank by lifting sanctions against them. They have asked the US government to restore sanctions and start independent investigations into the deaths of nine US citizens killed in the area since 2022.
Key Facts
19 Democratic senators and representatives sent a letter to US officials including the acting attorney general and the secretary of state.
They claim Trump’s policies have allowed Israeli settlers to expand control over West Bank areas and commit violence without consequences.
Trump removed sanctions on over 30 settlers and groups linked to violence on his first day back in office.
The UN reported 1,835 attacks on Palestinian communities in 2025, the highest ever recorded.
Nine US citizens have died in West Bank-related violence since 2022, including journalists and teenagers.
The Justice Department reportedly has not started investigations into any of these killings since 2025.
Several US citizens have been detained by the Israeli military, including a young woman whose medical access was interrupted.
The letter calls for stronger US diplomatic and economic actions to stop violence and settlement expansion.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Tennessee voters are choosing their candidates for governor and congressional districts after the state’s districts were redrawn to favor Republicans. Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn, U.S. Rep. John Rose, and state Rep. Monty Fritts are competing for the GOP governor nomination, while five Democrats are also running.
Key Facts
Tennessee voters are picking nominees for governor and congressional seats on Thursday.
The state’s congressional districts were redrawn to favor Republicans and break up a majority-Black district in Memphis.
Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn is running for governor, challenged by U.S. Rep. John Rose and state Rep. Monty Fritts.
Blackburn would be Tennessee’s first female governor if she wins the November election.
Five Democrats are competing for the chance to face the GOP nominee this November.
Current Republican Governor Bill Lee cannot run again due to term limits.
Trump has not endorsed a governor candidate but all GOP candidates promote their support for Trump’s agenda.
Tennessee’s congressional races include close contests, with districts now favoring Republicans.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Hasan Piker is a popular political commentator who connects mostly with Generation Z. His views and style have caused upset among some moderate Democrats. The article explores how younger people like Piker influence politics today.
Key Facts
Hasan Piker is a political commentator popular with Generation Z.
He uses social media and streaming platforms to share his views.
Many in Generation Z follow him for political news and opinions.
Some moderate Democrats disagree with Piker’s views and tone.
The discussion shows a divide between younger progressives and older moderates.
Generation Z is becoming an important voice in U.S. politics.
The article is written by three editors from Generation Z who try to explain their generation’s political habits.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A recent poll shows Democratic candidate Rob Sand leading Republican Zach Lahn in Iowa’s governor race. In the Senate race, Democrat Josh Turek is behind Republican Ashley Hinson, who is supported by President Donald Trump.
Key Facts
Rob Sand is the Democratic candidate for Iowa governor.
Zach Lahn is the Republican candidate for Iowa governor.
A poll by Emerson College Polling and Nexstar Media shows Sand ahead of Lahn.
Josh Turek is the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate from Iowa.
Ashley Hinson is the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate from Iowa.
President Donald Trump supports Ashley Hinson in the Senate race.
The poll surveyed Iowa voters’ preferences for governor and Senate candidates.
Poll percentages show Sand with 48% support in the governor race.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Colorado River's water levels are dropping, which risks less water and electricity for the Western U.S. The federal government created a plan to manage the river's water use, but some people from different political views say cutting water use too much could cause problems.
Key Facts
The Colorado River supplies water and electricity to many Western U.S. states.
Water levels in the river have been going down significantly.
The federal government introduced a plan to control how much water can be used from the river.
The plan includes deep cuts to how much water users can take.
Critics from various political groups say these cuts may have negative effects.
The river's shrinking affects farming, cities, and power generation.
Managing the river is important for the Western U.S. to avoid shortages.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Senate Republicans had tough disagreements on several topics during a meeting. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said these disputes could cause major problems for passing laws.
Key Facts
Senate Republicans argued among themselves and with the White House.
The conflicts involved different issues, causing tension within the party.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune warned of a possible "train wreck" in making laws.
Senator Ron Johnson, who leads the Senate Budget Committee, had a disagreement with another senator.
The disputes happened during a Senate Republican conference meeting.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A mother and her wife faced legal problems when their newborn was in intensive care because state laws did not recognize the wife as a legal parent. Outdated family laws often do not protect families formed through modern methods like fertility treatment, causing problems in emergencies and everyday life.
Key Facts
Emily had an emergency C-section at 29 weeks and was sedated after surgery.
Her wife, Colleen, was not legally recognized as the baby's parent and couldn’t make medical decisions.
The hospital allowed Colleen into the NICU, but this depended on hospital staff discretion.
Many state laws haven’t kept up with how families are made today, especially families formed through fertility care.
Without legal recognition, children may lack medical decision-makers, insurance coverage, and inheritance rights.
Some parents must adopt their own biological children, a costly and slow process.
Surrogacy laws vary by state and can complicate family recognition, as seen in Michigan where surrogacy agreements are banned.
Advocates say states need to update family laws to protect all parents and children equally.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer aims to lead the Democrats to a Senate majority in 2027. However, some strong Democratic candidates who could help him win do not fully support his leadership, creating a challenge for him to unite the party.
Key Facts
Abdul El-Sayed won the Democratic primary in Michigan by a narrow margin over Rep. Haley Stevens.
El-Sayed positions himself as a progressive candidate critical of certain political groups, making him a challenging ally for Schumer.
Schumer quickly endorsed El-Sayed and other progressive candidates despite past disagreements.
Upcoming key primaries include Minnesota, where the progressive Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan faces establishment-backed Rep. Angie Craig.
Some new candidates, including El-Sayed and others, have not clearly promised to support Schumer’s leadership.
Schumer recruited strong candidates in Ohio and Alaska, two important states for gaining Senate seats.
Schumer’s leadership challenge is similar to the current majority leader John Thune’s, as both will work with new senators aligned with different political groups.
Schumer’s main goal is winning elections, even if some party members question his leadership.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A new AP-NORC poll shows that extreme heat is affecting many Americans' daily lives more now than in 2024. People report changes in travel, electricity bills, sleep, and outdoor activities, especially in the Western and Midwestern U.S.
Key Facts
Many Americans say extreme heat has had a major or minor impact on their travel and vacation plans.
About 80% of people report their electricity bills have increased due to extreme heat.
People also say heat affects their sleep and family outdoor activities.
The Western and Midwestern regions of the U.S. see the biggest impacts from extreme heat.
Democrats are more likely than Republicans to say the heat has had a major impact.
Earth’s average temperature in 2025 was among the top three hottest on record.
Extreme heat causes more deaths annually than other weather disasters.
Heat worsens problems like wildfires, damages infrastructure, and affects farming.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
