Public Health Oversight: Senate health lawmakers grilled CDC nominee Dr. Erica Schwartz, pressing how she’ll resist political pressure on vaccines and CDC policy, as she promised “radical transparency” and said she’ll “never betray the science.” Immigration Courts: A Rhode Island judge refused to pause a ruling blocking a Trump administration freeze on asylum processing for nearly 40 countries, rejecting claims that the halt is needed for national security screening. National Security & War Powers: The U.S.-Iran conflict keeps widening, with renewed strikes reaching farther north and toward Tehran, while Democrats blocked a $1 trillion defense bill over the administration’s Iran strategy. Trade & Election Fallout: The U.S. imposed 25% tariffs on most Brazilian imports under Section 301, escalating a fight that’s already reshaping Brazil’s October presidential race. Energy & Grid Reliability: PJM issued emergency alerts as a heat wave strained the nation’s largest electricity grid, pushing demand near record levels and raising the risk of price spikes. State Governance & Climate: Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced a Clean Fleet Policy requiring alternative-fuel vehicles for new state purchases, aiming to cut emissions and fuel costs. Civic Life & Education Politics: Kansas State Board of Education candidates in a rural district sparred over school funding and DEI, with the GOP majority potentially at stake. Public Safety: Michigan issued guidance as wildfire smoke pushed air quality into hazardous territory, urging residents to stay indoors and limit exposure.