President Donald Trump is promoting his economic policies ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, but many voters are unhappy with high prices and the current state of the economy. Polls show most Americans disapprove of how President Trump is handling the economy and inflation, and economic concerns are an important issue for voters this year.
Key Facts
About 35% of Americans approve of President Trump's handling of the economy; 65% disapprove (CBS News/YouGov poll).
Only 29% approve of how he is handling inflation; 71% disapprove.
Just 24% of Americans rate the economy as good or excellent under President Trump, a drop from 32% in July 2025 (Fox News poll).
29% of voters say the economy should be the main focus in their local elections (Pew Research Center).
Both parties have similar support on economic issues: 37% agree more with Democrats, 36% with Republicans (Pew Research Center).
More voters (54%) think Democrats would manage the economy better than Republicans (45%) (Fox News poll).
Democrats currently have higher voter enthusiasm (68%) than Republicans (57%), with Independents at 41%.
Independent voters are crucial for control of Congress after the midterm elections.
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Former FBI Director James Comey asks a judge to dismiss charges accusing him of threatening President Donald Trump with a social media photo showing seashells arranged as "86 47." Comey's lawyers say the image was political speech, not a real threat, and is protected by the First Amendment.
Key Facts
James Comey faces federal charges for posting an Instagram photo of seashells arranged as "86 47."
The numbers "86 47" are slang for "get rid of" or "eject," but are not always taken as a direct threat.
Comey’s lawyers argue the photo is political speech protected by the First Amendment.
The charges say Comey knowingly threatened to harm President Trump, but no evidence proves this intent.
Comey deleted the post and said he opposes all violence.
President Trump has publicly called for Comey’s prosecution and said the image clearly meant assassination.
The case is part of a larger series of investigations by the Justice Department targeting people criticized by President Trump.
A previous case against Comey in Virginia was dropped because of issues with the prosecutor’s appointment.
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Senator Mitch McConnell has not yet been cleared to return to work six weeks after a fall at his home. He is receiving intense physical therapy and remains in a rehabilitation center, working hard to recover before resuming his Senate duties.
Key Facts
Mitch McConnell fell at his home on June 14 and was briefly unconscious.
He was hospitalized and treated for a mild case of pneumonia.
McConnell has not been seen in public or returned to the Senate since mid-June.
He has missed 38 Senate votes due to his health.
McConnell is undergoing multiple daily physical therapy sessions to regain strength.
His past childhood polio affects his mobility and recovery.
He is still in rehab and not medically cleared to return to work.
McConnell will retire from the Senate at the end of his term in January 2027.
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Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Van Hollen are leading a discussion about President Trump’s cryptocurrency investments. This follows a recent report showing that President Trump earned more than $2 billion last year from different sources.
Key Facts
Senators Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut and Chris Van Hollen from Maryland are organizing a forum.
The forum focuses on President Trump’s investments in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
This event is happening on a Monday afternoon.
President Trump’s financial disclosure report revealed earnings of over $2 billion last year.
The disclosure was published by the U.S. Office of Government Ethics.
The forum aims to examine details and implications of these crypto investments.
Cryptocurrency refers to digital or virtual money that uses encryption for security.
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President Donald Trump criticized a female reporter aboard Air Force One after she asked why senators should stay in Washington to pass his voting bill, calling her question “stupid.” Trump is pushing Senate Majority Leader John Thune to keep the Senate in session until the SAVE America Act, a voting restrictions bill, passes.
Key Facts
President Trump called a female reporter’s question “stupid” during a press session on Air Force One.
The reporter asked why senators should stay in Washington instead of campaigning ahead of the 2026 midterms.
The SAVE America Act requires voters to show proof of citizenship and ID, and limits mail-in voting.
The bill is stalled in the Senate, with all Democrats opposed and several Republicans voting against it.
Trump wants Senate Majority Leader John Thune to keep the Senate in session until the bill passes.
Trump suggested ending the filibuster, a Senate rule that requires 60 votes to pass most laws, to approve the bill by majority vote.
The Senate is scheduled to recess on August 7 and return on September 14.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump’s “patience is running out” for passing the bill.
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Reform UK is reporting Green Party leader Zack Polanski to the police after he shared an Instagram post showing a man wearing a t-shirt with the name "Nigel" next to a guillotine image. Polanski removed the post and said he does not support any dangerous messages. Reform UK says the post could be seen as encouraging violence.
Key Facts
Zack Polanski shared a post on Instagram featuring a photo of a man wearing a t-shirt that said "We're only making plans for Nigel" with a guillotine image.
Polanski reposted this after accepting a collaboration request with another account.
After the image was noticed, Polanski removed the post.
A Green Party spokesperson stated Polanski does not support dangerous messages.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage criticized Polanski on social media for the post.
Reform UK is formally reporting Polanski to the police.
Reform UK’s home affairs spokesperson called the post "incitement to murder."
The incident involves tensions between Reform UK and the Green Party.
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President Donald Trump visited a General Motors facility in Milford, Michigan, to highlight his economic policies and defend tariffs that have affected local businesses. He also watched a drag race demonstration ahead of an IndyCar race connected to America's 250th birthday celebrations.
Key Facts
President Trump spoke in a suburb of Detroit, Michigan.
He focused on his economic policies and tariffs during the visit.
Michigan is a key swing state with many businesses affected by tariffs.
The visit took place at a General Motors testing and proving grounds facility.
Trump attended a drag race demo before his speech.
The drag race is related to an IndyCar race planned for next month in Washington.
The IndyCar race is part of events marking America’s 250th birthday.
Michigan’s early voting began for the August 4 primary election.
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A recent Gallup poll shows that fewer Americans feel negative about the U.S. economy this month compared to last month. About 22% of people say the economy is good or excellent, while 44% still say it is poor.
Key Facts
22% of Americans describe the economy as “excellent” or “good.”
32% say the economy is “only fair.”
44% of people say the economy is “poor.”
Last month, only 19% said the economy was good or excellent, so the number has increased slightly.
The poll reflects how people feel about overall economic conditions in the U.S.
Gallup conducted the poll to measure public opinion about the economy.
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Matthew Torbitt, a former advisor to Labour MP Christian Wakeford, admitted to making false claims for travel expenses on the Parliamentary booking system. He pleaded guilty to two fraud counts involving more than £6,000 in charges not related to official parliamentary work.
Key Facts
Matthew Torbitt worked for MP Christian Wakeford from 2022 to 2024.
He claimed rail tickets and accommodation expenses that were not for official parliamentary purposes.
Torbitt admitted making a false claim on 2 October 2024.
The total amount in fraudulent claims is estimated to be over £6,000.
He pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation at Thames Magistrates' Court.
The sentencing hearing will be held later at Snaresbrook Crown Court, with a date not yet set.
Torbitt has also worked as a political commentator on several UK news channels.
An investigation began after police were informed about suspicious expense claims involving an MP staff member.
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Bryan Kohberger, who pleaded guilty to killing four University of Idaho students in 2022, now says he wants to take back his guilty plea and is claiming he is innocent. However, Idaho law makes it very hard to undo a plea after sentencing unless there is clear proof of a serious injustice.
Key Facts
Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty in 2022 and received four life sentences without parole.
He now claims his guilty plea was based on false promises and incorrect information.
Kohberger says he is actually innocent and wants a new trial, even if it means risking the death penalty.
Idaho law allows withdrawal of guilty pleas more easily before sentencing, but after sentencing, it is allowed only to fix clear injustice.
Courts require strong evidence like involuntary plea, poor legal help, or bad actions by prosecutors to cancel a plea after sentencing.
Kohberger previously admitted under oath that he understood the plea and pleaded guilty voluntarily.
He also waived his right to appeal when he made the plea deal.
Legal experts say it is very unlikely the court will overturn his plea without strong new proof.
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A trial began for Lindsay Clancy, who is accused of killing her three children in Massachusetts after suffering from severe mental health problems following childbirth. Her lawyers say she had postpartum psychosis, a rare condition linked to childbirth, while prosecutors argue she acted deliberately and should be held responsible.
Key Facts
Lindsay Clancy killed her three children in January 2023, shortly after being treated for mental health issues following the birth of her third child.
Clancy was diagnosed with postpartum psychosis, a rare mental illness affecting about 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 women after childbirth.
After the killings, Clancy tried to end her own life and is now paralyzed from the waist down.
Prosecutors say Clancy acted intentionally and should be fully responsible for the deaths of her children.
Her defense team says she was deeply affected by psychiatric symptoms, including hallucinations and harmful thoughts.
The trial will focus on Clancy’s mental state and whether she can be held legally accountable.
Clancy’s former husband found the children and has publicly said he forgives her.
Postpartum psychosis is different from postpartum depression; it can include severe symptoms like hallucinations and paranoia, but most women with this illness do not harm their children.
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A funeral director named Robert Bush in Hull admitted to 67 crimes after families discovered that their loved ones’ bodies were left in poor conditions and sometimes uncremated. The court heard from victims who were deeply hurt when they received the wrong ashes or found out their family members’ bodies were not treated respectfully.
Key Facts
Robert Bush owned Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull.
He pleaded guilty to 67 offenses including stopping proper burials.
Families reported trauma, nightmares, and emotional pain due to his actions.
Police found many bodies decomposing at his funeral home.
Some families received ashes that did not belong to their relatives.
The remains of a stillborn baby were also found, though the family believed it was cremated.
Bush apologized but victims described him as dishonest and uncaring.
Bodies had to be identified by dental records, DNA, or fingerprints after police investigation.
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Andy Burnham, the prime minister, plans to work with different political parties to find a long-term solution to England's social care system. The Conservative Party has refused to support changes that would be paid for by tax increases or borrowing. Burnham wants quick progress and hopes for talks that lead to lasting agreements accepted by all parties.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham aims to lead talks with multiple parties about fixing social care.
The Conservative Party opposes funding reforms through tax rises or borrowing.
Labour and Liberal Democrats have doubts about finding agreement under current conditions.
Burnham supports a care system free at the point of use, similar to the NHS model.
Possible care models include one like Scotland’s, where the state pays for personal care but people pay for accommodation and food.
Talks may start with short-term agreements and build toward a long-term solution.
Liberal Democrats want to include family carers in reforms in exchange for tax changes.
A review of social care is expected to finish by the end of the year, earlier than planned.
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US Senator Mitch McConnell has left the hospital but is still not medically cleared to return to his Senate work. He continues intensive physical therapy at a rehabilitation center and has no set date to go back to his duties.
Key Facts
Senator Mitch McConnell was hospitalized in mid-June after a fall and mild pneumonia.
He is 84 years old and represents Kentucky as a Republican.
Doctors say he needs ongoing physical therapy to regain strength and prevent falls.
McConnell's past polio infection affects his mobility and recovery.
He is still in a rehab center and has not been cleared to return to work.
His office shared a recent photo showing him smiling with his wife, Elaine Chao.
McConnell will miss an upcoming event in western Kentucky.
He has had several health issues recently, including a flu-related hospital stay earlier this year.
McConnell plans to retire at the end of his current Senate term.
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Ken Paxton has remained in office as Texas attorney general despite years of scandals and legal challenges. James Talarico, a Democrat, now faces Paxton in a high-profile U.S. Senate race, hoping to change voters’ views about Paxton’s record.
Key Facts
Ken Paxton has faced several scandals, including charges of securities fraud and accusations of abusing his office.
Past opponents, including Democrat Justin Nelson and Republican George P. Bush, challenged Paxton but lost their races.
Paxton has never been convicted of any charges against him.
Paxton supports conservative positions on issues like immigration, abortion, and transgender rights.
He portrays himself as a victim of political attacks, similar to President Donald Trump.
James Talarico won a competitive Democratic primary and is trying to link Paxton to corruption.
Paxton’s campaign says accusations against him are political distractions following his acquittals.
Paxton was first elected attorney general in 2014 and narrowly won reelection despite ongoing legal troubles.
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Newly released documentary footage shows Senator Lindsey Graham's close involvement with President Donald Trump and other world leaders during debates over military action against Iran. The footage reveals Graham’s strong support for war with Iran, his relationships with key figures like Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and his changing opinions about the conflict.
Key Facts
Senator Lindsey Graham recently passed away, and this documentary footage covers three years of his political activities.
The footage was filmed by Alex Holder and reviewed by The Wall Street Journal.
Graham spoke on calls with President Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Ukrainian President Zelensky, and former U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan.
Netanyahu persuaded Graham not to push President Trump to extend military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Graham celebrated the start of U.S. strikes on Iran and said that President Trump was very pleased with the military action.
He met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and was treated with respect similar to that given to a head of state.
Graham criticized two of Trump’s aides, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, saying they were conflicted and ineffective in Middle East diplomacy.
Graham’s prediction that the war with Iran would quickly lead to widespread changes did not happen as he expected.
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A new platform from the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) calls for major changes to the U.S. government, including replacing the Senate and presidential system with new structures and expanding voting rights. Republicans are using this platform to criticize Democrats, labeling them as extremists ahead of upcoming elections, although not all Democrats or progressive candidates support the DSA’s full agenda.
Key Facts
The DSA released a platform called "Workers Deserve More" proposing a new U.S. constitution and structural government changes.
Proposed changes include abolishing the Senate, replacing the president and Supreme Court with Congress-appointed leaders, and extending voting rights to all permanent residents.
The platform also suggests public ownership of large corporations and ending Immigration and Customs Enforcement detentions.
Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Ted Cruz, have condemned the platform and called Democrats communists.
The GOP uses the DSA platform to argue Democrats are too extreme, aiming to influence voters ahead of the midterm elections.
Not all Democratic candidates support or align with the DSA platform, and the Democratic Party remains divided between progressive and moderate wings.
President Donald Trump has resumed rhetoric calling Democrats communists who threaten traditional American values.
The DSA co-chair confirmed parts of the platform but noted some proposals are long-term goals rather than immediate plans.
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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani plans to open five city-owned grocery stores, one in each borough, offering a 30% discount on meat, produce, and other kitchen staples. The first store is expected to open in the Bronx by late 2027, with all five operational by the end of his term.
Key Facts
Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a plan for city-run grocery stores to offer food at 30% below market price.
The stores aim to help New Yorkers afford groceries amid rising food prices in an expensive city.
Five stores will open, one in each of the five boroughs of New York City.
The first store will open in the Bronx by the end of 2027.
The city will provide the storefronts and pay rent and property taxes; private operators will run the stores.
The stores will not sell hot food, beer, or cigarettes to avoid harming private store businesses like bodegas.
Some local grocery and corner store owners worry the discounts will hurt their business.
Mamdani sees the stores as a way to guarantee affordable food for working-class New Yorkers.
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Democratic insiders name several top potential candidates for the 2028 presidential primary, led by Vice President Kamala Harris. Other strong contenders include Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Gavin Newsom, and a possible moderate candidate from the party establishment.
Key Facts
Kamala Harris is the frontrunner among Black voters, a key group in the Democratic primary.
Harris performed better in the 2024 campaign than in 2020 and is working to be more genuine in 2028.
South Carolina will be the first Democratic primary state in 2028, which may help Harris.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) is seen as Bernie Sanders' successor and could raise large funds if endorsed by him.
Gavin Newsom is considered skilled and has strong Silicon Valley connections but faces challenges due to his California background.
A moderate, center-left candidate is expected to emerge, with possible contenders like Josh Shapiro and Wes Moore.
There is uncertainty about how much support a moderate candidate will attract amid current political anger.
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James Carville, a Democratic political strategist, said on Sunday that David Hogg, a former vice chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), should replace the current DNC chair, Ken Martin. He described the DNC as not working well and shared his thoughts in a video on YouTube.
Key Facts
James Carville is a Democratic political strategist.
Carville said David Hogg should become the new chair of the DNC.
David Hogg previously served as vice chair of the DNC.
The current DNC chair is Ken Martin.
Carville called the DNC “dysfunctional,” meaning it is not functioning properly.
Carville made these remarks in a YouTube video.
Carville mentioned he was recovering from hernia surgery at the time.
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