Hot-air balloon crash kills at least eight people in Brazil – video

Texas Governor Greg Abbott just signed a law requiring every public school classroom in the state to display the Ten Commandments—making Texas the biggest state to push such a rule. But it’s already gearing up for a legal fight, with critics calling it a blatant violation of church-state separation.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about posters in classrooms—it’s a high-stakes clash over religion’s role in public schools. Opponents argue it crosses a constitutional line, while supporters see it as promoting "moral values." Either way, the lawsuits coming next could shape similar battles nationwide.

NPR correspondent Frank Langfitt recently had a day that perfectly captured America’s political tensions—covering both a military parade featuring tanks rolling through D.C. and nationwide "No Kings" protests against what demonstrators called the politicization of the military by a leader they view as authoritarian. It’s a stark contrast: one event celebrating military might, the other warning against its misuse.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about a parade or a protest—it’s about how deeply divided the country feels over symbols of power and who controls them. The military, often seen as a unifying force, is now a flashpoint in the debate over democracy and authoritarianism. Langfitt’s dual coverage throws that tension into sharp relief, showing how differently Americans interpret the same institutions.

Former President Trump took to Truth Social to blast the green energy tax credits included in a major legislative package he once championed, calling them a "giant scam." His fiery post highlights growing tensions within the GOP over the bill, which he previously praised as "big" and "beautiful."

Editor’s Note: Trump's sudden reversal on a bill he once supported adds fuel to the Republican Party's internal divisions, especially around climate policy. It also signals how volatile political alliances can be—even a "big, beautiful" deal isn't safe from backlash. For voters, it’s another reminder that energy policy remains a lightning rod in U.S. politics.

Dodger Stadium became the latest flashpoint in LA's ongoing unrest as protesters demonstrated against ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) operations. Amid the outcry, the Dodgers announced a $1 million pledge to support families impacted by immigration arrests—a move that underscores the deepening tensions over federal enforcement policies in immigrant-heavy communities.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about a baseball game—it's a sign of how polarizing immigration enforcement has become, even spilling into spaces like sports. The Dodgers' financial commitment shows how local institutions are being pulled into the debate, but the protests highlight the raw frustration many feel over ICE's tactics. With LA's large immigrant population, this clash could fuel wider conversations (and conflicts) about reform.

Senator Alex Padilla fired back after Ohio Senator JD Vance referred to him as "Jose" during a heated exchange, emphasizing that the VP knows his actual name. Padilla dismissed the slip-up as part of a "petty and unserious" administration, while tensions simmer over ongoing immigration raids in L.A.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about a name mix-up—it’s a flashpoint in the broader culture wars, where casual disrespect can signal deeper divisions. With immigration raids already stirring unrest, Padilla’s pushback highlights how personal slights can amplify political friction. It’s a small moment with big implications for how lawmakers engage (or don’t) in good faith.