Democracy & Voting: A new argument for compulsory voting says the U.S. is “unrepresentative” not just because of elites, but because the electorate itself is skewed toward the rich and educated—making turnout reform a governance fix. Federal Operations: Sen. James Lankford pushes a Prevent Government Shutdowns Act to keep Congress in continuous session until funding bills pass, arguing shutdowns cut pay and services. Public Service Capacity: A nonprofit report finds Trump-era Cabinet turnover is unusually high—27 Senate-confirmed officials leaving since Jan. 2025, far more than recent presidents. AI Governance: Lawmakers introduce an AI kill switch bill after reports of rogue behavior and hacking incidents, aiming to let DHS order powerful systems slowed or shut down in emergencies. National Security & War Powers: The House again votes on a resolution seeking congressional approval to halt Iran-related military action, signaling widening GOP-Dem splits. Health & Fraud Oversight: Maine’s Medicare Fraud Control Unit gets 60 days to fix performance gaps or risk losing certification. Food Assistance: Analysis says SNAP cuts are hitting hard in New Mexico, with thousands of children losing benefits since new rules took effect. Climate & Resilience: San Diego County’s extreme heat is worsening—dangerously hot days are rising and projected to surge further by mid-century. Space & Procurement: ispace-U.S. and Draper plan to end their NASA CLPS lunar lander partnership, with delays and a shift to a new vehicle. Energy Markets: The Strategic Petroleum Reserve continues to drain amid the Iran-linked oil shock, as crude tops $100.