Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon is throwing his weight behind Trump’s $4 trillion tax bill, calling it a win for the middle class—even as some fellow Republicans fret over potential Medicaid cuts and ballooning deficits. Bacon’s pushing House GOP members to get on board, framing the bill’s benefits as outweighing the risks.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about taxes—it’s a political tightrope walk. Bacon’s trying to rally GOP support for a bill that could reshape spending and healthcare, but the debate highlights a split in the party: boost the economy now or worry about long-term costs? For voters, it’s a reminder that policy trade-offs are messy, and even allies don’t always agree on the math.

A federal judge just hit pause on the Trump administration’s controversial asylum ban, which had barred migrants who crossed the southern border illegally from seeking protection in the U.S. The ruling, out of D.C., is a major setback for the administration’s hardline immigration policies—at least for now.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a legal technicality—it’s a big deal for thousands of migrants fleeing violence and persecution. The judge’s decision keeps the door open (for the moment) to asylum claims that would’ve been automatically rejected under Trump’s rule. But expect appeals and more political fireworks, since immigration remains a fierce battleground.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia's lawyers claim he endured brutal treatment—including beatings—while locked up in El Salvador's CECOT prison. The allegations were laid out in a legal filing this week, painting a grim picture of his detention.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another allegation—it’s a stark reminder of the human rights concerns swirling around El Salvador’s crackdown on gangs. If true, it raises serious questions about how far the government is willing to go in the name of security, and who gets caught in the crossfire. Stories like this put international scrutiny on whether tough-on-crime policies are crossing into outright abuse.

As summer temperatures soar, American zoos are getting creative to keep their animals cool and comfortable. From icy treats to misting stations and shaded habitats, zookeepers are pulling out all the stops to help creatures—big and small—weather the heat. Whit Johnson takes us behind the scenes to show how these efforts are making a difference.

Editor’s Note: Extreme heat isn’t just tough on humans—it’s a real challenge for zoo animals, too. This story highlights the thoughtful, often playful ways zoos are stepping up to protect their residents. It’s a reminder of how caretakers adapt to climate challenges while keeping animal well-being front and center. Plus, who doesn’t love seeing a tiger chomp on a frozen popsicle?

A shooting at a mall in Savannah, Georgia, left three people wounded on Wednesday, according to local police. Details are still emerging, but authorities are actively investigating the incident.

Editor’s Note: Shootings in crowded public spaces like malls shake communities and raise urgent questions about safety. While we don’t yet know the full circumstances, incidents like this often reignite debates over gun violence and security measures in shared spaces. For Savannah residents, it’s another reminder of how quickly everyday life can be disrupted by gunfire.

Former leaders from the CDC are sounding the alarm about deep budget cuts slated for 2026—a 54% reduction that could gut essential health programs and strain local health departments nationwide. They argue this isn’t just about dollars and cents; it’s a gamble with public safety that might leave Americans more vulnerable to outbreaks, chronic diseases, and other health crises.

Editor’s Note: Budget fights in Washington often feel abstract, but this one hits closer to home. If these cuts go through, your local health clinic’s ability to track diseases, respond to emergencies, or even maintain basic services could take a serious hit. It’s a stark reminder that funding debates aren’t just political theater—they ripple out to real lives.

The jury has started deliberating in the high-profile trial of music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, who faces serious charges including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. The outcome could have major repercussions for his career and legacy.

U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran may have backfired, according to nuclear experts, who warn that Tehran could now double down on aggression—potentially speeding up its nuclear program or escalating regional conflicts. This could be a turning point where diplomacy becomes even harder.

Editor’s Note: The stakes just got higher. If Iran responds by ramping up its nuclear ambitions or retaliating through proxy forces, it could destabilize an already tense Middle East—and drag global powers into deeper conflict. This isn’t just about tit-for-tat strikes; it’s about whether the region tips into a full-blown crisis.

A pair of B-2 stealth bomber pilots, hailed as "heroes" for their role in a recent mission, have been invited to the White House for July 4 celebrations. But the event comes amid controversy—President Trump is using their presence to deflect criticism over a called-off strike against Iran, while also claiming the pilots were emotionally "devastated" by the decision. Expect these aviators to stay out of the spotlight, as their visit is tangled in political messaging.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a feel-good story about honoring service members. The pilots’ visit is being weaponized in a broader debate over military decisions and presidential authority. It’s a reminder of how quickly recognition for troops can turn into a political tool—especially when tensions with Iran are already so high.