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Trump ally pledges to ‘work with people’ he disagrees with after Arizona primary win – US politics live

Trump ally pledges to ‘work with people’ he disagrees with after Arizona primary win – US politics live

Summary

Andy Biggs, a Republican congressman endorsed by President Donald Trump, won the Arizona governor primary and said he will cooperate with people he disagrees with. The U.S. House passed a temporary government funding bill to avoid a shutdown before the November elections. A global survey also found that more Americans see politics as a personal safety risk than people in any other country.

Key Facts

  • Andy Biggs won the Republican nomination for Arizona governor and will face Democrat Katie Hobbs this fall.
  • Biggs was previously chair of the House Freedom Caucus and supported efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.
  • The U.S. House approved a spending bill to keep the government funded until December 4, preventing a shutdown.
  • The spending bill passed mostly along party lines with a 220-205 vote and now goes to the Senate.
  • Republicans said passing the bill early avoids a government shutdown caused by Senate Democratic delays.
  • A global poll showed 10% of Americans view politics as the biggest daily threat to their personal safety.
  • This is the first time the U.S. has topped the global ranking for politics seen as a safety risk.
  • The spending bill includes a $95 billion package, mostly supported by Republicans.
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Scoop: "Regime Change" sells 500,000 — on track for nonfiction bestseller of '26

Scoop: "Regime Change" sells 500,000 — on track for nonfiction bestseller of '26

Summary

The book "Regime Change," about President Trump's second term, has sold over 500,000 copies across different formats within a month. It is expected to become the bestselling nonfiction book of 2026 and has reached No. 1 on bestseller lists in several countries.

Key Facts

  • "Regime Change" is written by Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan.
  • The book has sold 500,000 units (hardcover, audio, e-book) in one month.
  • Simon & Schuster has ordered a seventh printing, totaling 460,000 hardcover copies.
  • The book is number one on the New York Times nonfiction bestseller list for three weeks.
  • It also ranks number one in Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, and number two in the UK.
  • Experts say this success is unusual because political nonfiction books usually sell less nowadays.
  • The book reveals new details about President Trump’s second term and has not been disputed by Trump or his team.
  • Sales of nonfiction books about politics have declined due to alternative media like audiobooks, newsletters, documentaries, and podcasts.
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‘Our hearts are crushed’: Hannah Rapp’s violent death sparks outpouring of grief

‘Our hearts are crushed’: Hannah Rapp’s violent death sparks outpouring of grief

Summary

Hannah Rapp, a 26-year-old US boxer, died after being struck by a car while cycling in Navasota, Texas. The driver, Charles Medina, was charged with manslaughter and remains in jail as the investigation continues.

Key Facts

  • Hannah Rapp was a professional boxer who recently fought for a world title.
  • Rapp was cycling with her boyfriend on 18 July when a car driven by Charles Medina hit her.
  • Medina initially sped past them, then reversed his car and struck Rapp with enough force to break the rear windshield.
  • Police found Rapp unresponsive and she later died at the hospital.
  • Medina claimed he didn’t see Rapp before hitting her and thought the couple was signaling him, but this was contradicted by evidence like skid marks and vehicle damage.
  • Medina has a history of arrests related to dangerous behavior, including firearm misuse and reckless driving.
  • He is held on a $250,000 bond and faces 2 to 20 years in prison if convicted of manslaughter.
  • A petition called "Justice for Hannah Rapp" has over 3,300 signatures, asking Texas lawmakers to toughen bond rules for defendants with violent driving records.
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Australia to warn China it won’t be bulled by ‘provocative‘ actions as it builds military and nuclear arsenal

Australia to warn China it won’t be bulled by ‘provocative‘ actions as it builds military and nuclear arsenal

Summary

Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong will tell China that Australia and nearby countries will not accept aggressive behavior, especially after China tested a nuclear-capable missile in the South China Sea. She will also warn regional leaders about the risks to the Strait of Hormuz amid rising conflict between Iran and the US, which has pushed fuel prices higher.

Key Facts

  • Penny Wong will speak at the ASEAN foreign ministers meeting in the Philippines.
  • China launched a nuclear-capable missile in the South China Sea with little notice, which Australia called provocative.
  • Australia criticized China’s growing military power and lack of transparency.
  • The Philippine military accused China Coast Guard of attacking a Filipino sailor near a disputed area.
  • Australia recently signed a defense deal with Fiji, shortly before China’s missile test in the South Pacific.
  • Fighting between the US and Iran has increased, affecting the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route.
  • Rising tensions in the Middle East have raised global fuel prices and hit energy costs in Southeast Asia.
  • Wong urged ASEAN countries to help Australia with supply and trade challenges caused by these conflicts.
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Has Trump dragged the US into a forever war in Iran? | Mohamad Bazzi

Has Trump dragged the US into a forever war in Iran? | Mohamad Bazzi

Summary

President Donald Trump started a military conflict with Iran about five months ago, promising a quick victory and regime change. Recent fighting and broken ceasefire agreements have increased violence, causing US and Iranian casualties and risking a long, ongoing war.

Key Facts

  • President Trump launched military action against Iran five months ago, expecting a fast win.
  • He promised to stop wars during his 2024 election campaign, but instead started this new conflict.
  • A ceasefire deal in April collapsed by mid-June, with disagreements over control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route.
  • The US and Iran have attacked each other’s military targets, including airstrikes and missile strikes.
  • The US imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ships, slowing trade and raising oil prices above $90 a barrel.
  • Nineteen US service members have died and about 430 have been wounded since the war started.
  • Iran has threatened to attack Gulf countries’ energy infrastructure in retaliation.
  • President Trump has threatened further strikes on Iran’s power plants and civilian infrastructure.
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The world is on fire, and who does Trump blame? The Canadians | Arwa Mahdawi

The world is on fire, and who does Trump blame? The Canadians | Arwa Mahdawi

Summary

Wildfires in Canada caused smoky air in over 20 US states, leading to health warnings and disruptions in daily life. President Donald Trump blamed Canada for the pollution and suggested Canada should pay damages or face tariffs, while Canadian leaders pointed to the climate crisis as the cause of the increasing wildfires.

Key Facts

  • Canadian wildfires caused poor air quality alerts in more than 20 US states.
  • In Philadelphia, the smoke was so bad people stayed indoors, schools canceled outdoor activities, and public services paused.
  • President Donald Trump called the air pollution "totally unacceptable" and blamed Canada for the smoke.
  • Trump said he spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, asking him to stop the fires and suggested Canada might pay damages or face tariffs.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Carney said the wildfires are linked to the climate crisis, which affects everyone.
  • US Republican Senator Bernie Moreno proposed a bill to sanction Canadian officials over wildfire smoke.
  • Fox News discussed Canada’s role but avoided talking about climate change.
  • Smoke from wildfires can cross borders, affecting both Canada and the US.
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Democrats claim Social Security email included "misleading information"

Democrats claim Social Security email included "misleading information"

Summary

Democratic senators say a July email from the Social Security Administration gave wrong information about a tax law's benefits for seniors. The email claimed that seniors got $7,500 in tax relief due to a Republican bill, but the senators say that figure is wrong and misleading.

Key Facts

  • The email was sent on July 2 by Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano.
  • It praised the Republicans' One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) for giving seniors tax relief.
  • The email said more than 35 million seniors received an average of $7,500 in relief this tax season.
  • Democratic senators argue the email exaggerated the tax benefits of the OBBBA.
  • The OBBBA did not eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits but created a $6,000 tax deduction for seniors.
  • Tax experts say the actual average tax benefit is around $1,100, not $7,500.
  • About half of seniors owe no federal income tax and cannot use the deduction.
  • Senators asked Commissioner Bisignano to respond to their concerns by August 11.
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ICE detentions hit highest monthly total in June since crackdown began

ICE detentions hit highest monthly total in June since crackdown began

Summary

In June, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained more than 43,000 people, the highest monthly number since President Trump returned to office. Arrests continue to rise amid White House pressure, despite recent deadly shootings involving ICE agents and calls for a pause on vehicle stops.

Key Facts

  • ICE detained over 43,000 people in June 2024, averaging 1,438 arrests per day.
  • Arrests increased further in early July, averaging 1,593 daily arrests in the first 11 days.
  • ICE agents were told to arrest 2,000 people per day, but a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson denies official arrest quotas.
  • After deadly shootings involving ICE agents, a pause on most vehicle stops was ordered but quickly reversed by President Trump.
  • The average number of people in ICE detention rose to about 59,400 in June and over 65,600 in early July.
  • Arrests include many people without criminal records, referred to as "collateral" arrests by DHS.
  • The detention population briefly declined after a crackdown operation ended in February but has since rebounded.
  • Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin aims to enforce immigration laws without excessive public attention but supports strong arrest numbers.
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States play defense amid Trump’s latest election fraud claims

States play defense amid Trump’s latest election fraud claims

Summary

State officials across the United States are responding to President Trump's recent claims of election fraud. President Trump pointed to problems in election systems, including a 2020 case in Michigan, as he prepares for the upcoming midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • President Trump has made new claims about election fraud across the country.
  • He mentioned "shocking vulnerabilities" in how elections are run.
  • One example he gave was a voter registration case from Michigan in 2020.
  • California was also mentioned as having election issues by President Trump.
  • State officials are working to defend and explain their election processes.
  • These developments come ahead of the U.S. midterm elections.
  • The focus is on maintaining trust and security in the election system.
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Republicans lean into anticommunism midterm argument

Republicans lean into anticommunism midterm argument

Summary

House Republicans are focusing on warning voters about a growing communist threat in their campaign for the midterm elections. They accuse some Democratic candidates of supporting ideas like democratic socialism and collective ownership of resources.

Key Facts

  • House Republicans are making concerns about communism a major part of their midterm election message.
  • They warn that the most left-wing Democrats promote collective ownership, which they link to communism.
  • The Republican leadership is emphasizing these fears to appeal to voters.
  • The term "democratic socialism" is used by some Democrats but is being equated with communism by Republicans.
  • Republicans aim to highlight the dangers they believe communism could bring to society.
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Your Dog's Crate Escapes May Be a Sign of Something Deeper

Your Dog's Crate Escapes May Be a Sign of Something Deeper

Summary

Some dogs try to escape from their crates or yards, which can be dangerous. Experts say this behavior might mean dogs are bored, anxious, or uncomfortable, and owners should find out why to help their pets feel safe.

Key Facts

  • Dogs escaping from crates or yards may be trying to challenge boundaries or respond to boredom or anxiety.
  • After an escape, owners should check the dog for injuries and contact a vet if needed.
  • Owners should also check if the dog got into anything harmful while loose.
  • Common causes for escape include separation anxiety, loud noises, or discomfort with the crate.
  • Making the crate a positive, safe space with treats and toys can help dogs feel more comfortable.
  • Working with a veterinarian or pet behavior expert can help if anxiety or fear is causing the escape attempts.
  • Some dogs feel safer with their "pack," like family members or other pets, and struggle when separated.
  • Owners may need to adjust routines and environments to reduce escape behavior.
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Trump rivalry with Ossoff looms over visit to Georgia

Trump rivalry with Ossoff looms over visit to Georgia

Summary

President Donald Trump is visiting Georgia and will talk about the cost of living. His growing rivalry with Senator Jon Ossoff is attracting attention as Trump focuses on election security before the midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • President Trump plans to visit Georgia on Wednesday.
  • He will discuss affordability and the cost of living during his visit.
  • Trump’s rivalry with Senator Jon Ossoff is becoming more noticeable.
  • Trump is emphasizing election security ahead of the midterm elections.
  • The visit is important for Republican supporters in Georgia.
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The Memo: Democrats confident about Senate despite Platner, left-wing drama

The Memo: Democrats confident about Senate despite Platner, left-wing drama

Summary

Democrats face internal challenges but remain hopeful about winning control of the Senate. The recent withdrawal of former Democratic nominee Graham Platner has influenced the election race.

Key Facts

  • Democrats are experiencing internal conflicts and disagreements.
  • Despite problems, party members think they still have a good chance to win the Senate.
  • Graham Platner, a former Democratic Senate candidate, has recently dropped out of the race.
  • Platner’s withdrawal has affected the political strategies and focus of the Democratic Party.
  • The Senate race remains competitive and important for control of the U.S. Senate.
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D. Rykner says the Louvre needs to be 'refurbished', Macron's big project is 'useless and expensive'

D. Rykner says the Louvre needs to be 'refurbished', Macron's big project is 'useless and expensive'

Summary

Didier Rykner, an art historian and journalist, says the Louvre museum needs repairs and better use of its money. He believes that spending on security is necessary, but funds should not be wasted on a costly new building project promoted by President Macron.

Key Facts

  • Didier Rykner is an art historian and editor of La Tribune de l’Art.
  • He critiques the Louvre’s current priorities and use of money.
  • He says the museum needs refurbishment, meaning repairs and maintenance.
  • Security costs at the Louvre are necessary and unavoidable.
  • Rykner thinks funding is being poorly used on a political architectural expansion.
  • He describes President Macron’s project as expensive and unnecessary.
  • The main concern is the decay of the Louvre’s historic building, not lack of resources.
  • The article is connected to cultural issues in France and the Louvre museum.
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Pete Hegseth asks US Senate for 'urgent' Iran war funding increase

Pete Hegseth asks US Senate for 'urgent' Iran war funding increase

Summary

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told the Senate that the military campaign against Iran has cost $37.5 billion so far. He asked for an additional $67 billion in funding to continue the effort, which received criticism from both Democrats and Republicans.

Key Facts

  • The US military campaign against Iran has cost $37.5 billion to date.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made the funding request during a Senate appearance.
  • He asked for an extra $67 billion to support the ongoing military operations.
  • Both Democratic and Republican senators criticized the request.
  • The issue involves ongoing conflict and military actions in the Middle East.
  • President Donald Trump has discussed targeting Iran’s nuclear sites recently.
  • The funding request is linked to the broader US strategy in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and Lebanon.
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America’s decades-old bipartisan consensus on Israel has been shattered

America’s decades-old bipartisan consensus on Israel has been shattered

Summary

More than 100 House Democrats voted to cut military aid to Israel, showing that the long-standing bipartisan support for Israel in the U.S. Congress is changing. This shift grew stronger after the recent war in Gaza, with younger Democrats and progressive activists questioning the traditional support and demanding more accountability.

Key Facts

  • Over 100 House Democrats supported ending military aid to Israel, although the amendment failed.
  • For decades, both Democratic and Republican leaders strongly supported military aid to Israel as a key U.S. policy.
  • Representative Nancy Pelosi, a longtime supporter of Israel, voted to cut aid, reflecting changing views within the Democratic Party.
  • Many younger Democrats disagree with Israel's settlement expansions and alliances with far-right parties.
  • The war in Gaza and the resulting civilian suffering sparked a stronger call for change among Democrats.
  • Campus activism played a major role in challenging traditional views on Israel and pushed the issue into national politics.
  • Democratic leaders often responded harshly to student protests, which alienated younger voters.
  • In the 2024 elections, Democrats lost the presidency and control of the Senate, partly due to internal divisions over Israel.
  • Progressive candidates who oppose unconditional aid to Israel have recently won Democratic primary contests.
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French mayor secreted away under threat by notorious DZ mafia drug gang

French mayor secreted away under threat by notorious DZ mafia drug gang

Summary

The mayor of Alès, a town in southern France, was secretly moved from his home by police due to threats from a drug gang called the DZ Mafia. This gang, once only active in Marseille, has grown into one of France’s biggest security problems as authorities increase efforts against drug crime.

Key Facts

  • The mayor of Alès was taken away from his home at night by police.
  • He received several threats from the DZ Mafia drug gang.
  • The DZ Mafia started as a local group in Marseille's drug market.
  • The gang has expanded and is now a major security threat in France.
  • French authorities are stepping up their fight against rising drug crime.
  • The incident highlights growing concerns about organized crime in France.
  • The news was reported by France Televisions and journalist Bryan Quinn.
  • The event took place in July 2026.
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Russia reports injuries after top online retailer Wildberries hit again

Russia reports injuries after top online retailer Wildberries hit again

Summary

Ukrainian drones attacked warehouses of Wildberries, Russia’s largest online retailer, in southern Russia, injuring eight people and causing fires. Ukraine says it targeted facilities supporting the Russian military as part of a wider campaign using long-range drones to pressure Russia.

Key Facts

  • Ukrainian drones hit Wildberries warehouses in Krasnodar and Nevinnomyssk, causing evacuations and injuries.
  • Eight people were injured in the recent attacks; some received medical treatment for injuries from drone debris and fires.
  • A previous attack on Wildberries warehouses killed eight night-shift workers and caused fires.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said the strikes hit logistics centers supplying Russia’s army with drone parts and other equipment.
  • Ukrainian drones also attacked 13 Russian vessels in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov in the last two days.
  • Ukraine calls these actions part of “40-day influence operations” aimed at pushing Russia to negotiate.
  • Ukraine has retaken about 700 sq km of territory this year.
  • Russian authorities have not made public statements responding to the Ukrainian strikes inside Russia.
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Ossoff challenges Hegseth on cost and duration of Iran war

Ossoff challenges Hegseth on cost and duration of Iran war

Summary

Senator Jon Ossoff questioned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth about statements that Iran’s military had been destroyed and could no longer fight. Ossoff raised concerns as U.S. forces continue military actions involving Iran, questioning how long the conflict might last and how much it could cost.

Key Facts

  • Senator Jon Ossoff challenged Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s earlier claims about Iran’s military being destroyed.
  • Hegseth had said Iran’s forces were made combat ineffective.
  • Ossoff questioned if those claims were correct since U.S. military activity involving Iran is still ongoing.
  • The discussion includes concerns about the cost of a possible war with Iran.
  • Ossoff also questioned how long such a conflict with Iran might last.
  • The article focuses on U.S. government officials debating the Iran military situation.
  • This highlights ongoing U.S. military involvement and policy questions related to Iran.
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Michelin-starred restaurant owner in South Korea faces jail for serving ants in dessert

Michelin-starred restaurant owner in South Korea faces jail for serving ants in dessert

Summary

South Korean prosecutors want to send the owner of a Michelin-starred restaurant to prison for serving ants on a dessert, which is illegal under local food safety laws. The restaurant used ants imported from abroad without approval and faces fines and possible jail time.

Key Facts

  • The restaurant has two Michelin stars and is in Seoul’s Gangnam district.
  • Serving ants as food is not allowed in South Korea unless approved; only 10 insect species are approved.
  • The restaurant served a sorbet dessert with ants for about four years and sold it around 12,200 times.
  • Prosecutors say about 49,000 ants were used, but the restaurant argues fewer customers accepted the ants.
  • The ants were imported from the United States and Thailand.
  • The chef had experience using ants in dishes abroad and did not know it was illegal in South Korea.
  • The company faces up to one year in prison and a fine of 20 million won (£10,108).
  • Sentencing is set for 2 September.
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