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Maine Democrats rally around Troy Jackson to replace Graham Platner in crucial Senate race – US politics live

Maine Democrats rally around Troy Jackson to replace Graham Platner in crucial Senate race – US politics live

July 20, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

Troy Jackson is becoming the main Democratic candidate for the Maine Senate race after several opponents quit the race. Democrats want to unite quickly to defeat Republican Senator Susan Collins in the upcoming November election.

Key Facts

  • Troy Jackson is a former state legislator and ex-president of Maine’s senate.
  • Several Democratic candidates, including Shenna Bellows and Nirav Shah, dropped out and endorsed Jackson.
  • The original Democratic nominee, Graham Platner, suspended his campaign due to multiple scandals.
  • Over two-thirds of delegates at county-level meetings have pledged to support Jackson at the state convention.
  • The nominating convention will be held on 25 July in Bangor to choose the new Democratic candidate.
  • Maine is seen as a key state that Democrats need to win to gain control of the US Senate.
  • Jackson unsuccessfully ran for governor earlier this year with endorsement from Platner.
  • The democratic party is aiming to quickly unify behind Jackson to strengthen their chances in the midterm elections.
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Guardian World Guardian US
West's Energy Trade With Russian Ally Must Address Rights: Jailed Dissident

West's Energy Trade With Russian Ally Must Address Rights: Jailed Dissident

July 20, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

A jailed Azerbaijani opposition leader, Ali Karimli, has called on the West not to ignore human rights abuses while pursuing energy trade with Azerbaijan. The U.S. and Europe are exploring oil and gas deals with Azerbaijan, a key energy supplier in the Caucasus region, amid ongoing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Key Facts

  • Ali Karimli, leader of Azerbaijan’s opposition party, was arrested in November 2025 and charged with attempting a coup.
  • Karimli and his lawyers say the charges are politically motivated and false.
  • Azerbaijan is rich in oil and natural gas and supplies energy to Europe.
  • The country is led by President Ilham Aliyev, whose government is described by rights groups as authoritarian.
  • The U.S. brokered a peace deal in 2025 between Azerbaijan and Armenia after decades of conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.
  • Vice President JD Vance visited Azerbaijan to promote economic cooperation and trade routes like TRIPP, linking Azerbaijan through Armenia.
  • Karimli urges the West to address human rights alongside energy and security issues in the region.
  • The U.S. State Department supports continued engagement with Azerbaijan, emphasizing benefits from peace agreements.
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Newsweek
Police attack Cockroach activists as thousands march on Indian parliament

Police attack Cockroach activists as thousands march on Indian parliament

July 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Over 10,000 protesters gathered in New Delhi to demand the resignation of India’s education minister and address corruption in the exam system. Police used tear gas and batons to stop the protest, which was organized by the youth-led Cockroach movement.

Key Facts

  • The protest was the largest by the Cockroach movement, with more than 10,000 people marching toward the Indian parliament.
  • Protesters want Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to resign over corruption claims in the exam system.
  • Police used tear gas and baton charges against the protesters to disperse the crowd.
  • The movement’s founder, Abhijeet Dipke, was detained by police during the protest.
  • The Cockroach movement started online, mocking the government after a Supreme Court judge called unemployed youths “cockroaches.”
  • The protest was triggered by anger over leaked medical entrance exam questions that forced 2.2 million students to retake the test, leading to great stress and several suicides.
  • Veteran activist Sonam Wangchuk, who supported the movement by going on hunger strike, was forcibly hospitalized, increasing public anger.
  • The government offered talks with two activists but did not meet the protesters’ demand to remove the education minister.
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Al Jazeera
Andy Burnham expected to focus on UK's cost-of-living in first speech

Andy Burnham expected to focus on UK's cost-of-living in first speech

July 20, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Andy Burnham has been confirmed as the new leader of the UK Labour Party and is expected to become the next UK Prime Minister. In his first speech at 10 Downing Street, he plans to focus on the cost-of-living and other issues affecting people’s daily lives.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham was confirmed as the new leader of the UK Labour Party on July 17, 2026.
  • He is set to become the UK's next Prime Minister.
  • Burnham’s first speech as Prime Minister will be delivered at 10 Downing Street on July 20, 2026.
  • The main topic of his speech will be the cost-of-living crisis in the UK.
  • Burnham is likely to focus on domestic issues affecting ordinary people.
  • The UK has had seven Prime Ministers in the past decade.
  • The Labour Party held a special conference to confirm Burnham’s leadership.
  • Media coverage highlights Burnham’s plans to bring hope and change to the UK.
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France24
Turkiye and Libya’s Haftar are boosting military ties. Is Egypt worried?

Turkiye and Libya’s Haftar are boosting military ties. Is Egypt worried?

July 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Turkey is increasing its military cooperation with Libya’s eastern forces led by Khalifa Haftar, a shift from its previous support for the Tripoli government. Despite Turkey’s growing presence near Libya’s eastern border, Egypt is not showing concern because Ankara and Cairo coordinate closely on their actions in the region.

Key Facts

  • Turkey previously backed Libya’s government in Tripoli but is now working with the eastern Libyan National Army (LNA) led by Khalifa Haftar.
  • The LNA has been in conflict with the Tripoli government since the Libyan civil war began in 2014.
  • Turkey and eastern Libyan forces are cooperating on military facilities, advanced surveillance systems, and training programs for Libyan officers.
  • Haftar’s deputy regularly meets with Turkey’s defense officials to coordinate military ties.
  • Egypt, which has supported Haftar for years, is not alarmed by Turkey’s presence near its border.
  • Turkish and Egyptian officials coordinate their activities in Libya and Sudan to avoid conflicts.
  • Turkey’s cooperation with Haftar may help limit support for rebel groups threatening Egypt’s interests.
  • Potential Turkish bases in southern Libya are seen as opportunities for joint security efforts rather than threats by Egypt.
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Al Jazeera
Gas again tops $4 per gallon as Iran fighting persists

Gas again tops $4 per gallon as Iran fighting persists

July 20, 2026 • Us • Axios

Summary

The national average price for gasoline has risen back to $4 per gallon as conflict between the U.S. and Iran increases. President Trump is considering expanding military actions in Iran, which has affected oil supplies and caused gas prices to rise.

Key Facts

  • The national average gas price reached $4.00 per gallon again, according to AAA.
  • Fighting between Iran and the U.S. has escalated, interrupting tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The U.S. reinstated a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions.
  • Oil prices increased as the agreement between the U.S. and Iran ended.
  • President Trump held meetings to discuss possibly expanding military strikes on Iran.
  • Recent U.S. strikes targeted Iranian attacks on commercial shipping and aimed to weaken Iran’s military.
  • Two-thirds of surveyed households reported financial difficulty due to rising gas prices.
  • Countries and companies are seeking alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz to avoid disruptions.
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Axios
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Indian police beat ‘Cockroach’ march protesters

Indian police beat ‘Cockroach’ march protesters

July 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Indian police used force against protesters from the Cockroach Janata Party who planned to march to Parliament. The protesters want changes in education and this event is among the largest recent public protests against Prime Minister Modi’s government.

Key Facts

  • The Cockroach Janata Party organized a march to the Indian Parliament.
  • Police were filmed beating the protesters before the march.
  • The protesters demand reforms in the education system.
  • This protest is one of the largest public protests against Prime Minister Modi’s government in recent years.
  • The event highlights growing public dissent in India related to government policies.
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Al Jazeera
How AI is supercharging drug development

How AI is supercharging drug development

July 20, 2026 • Technology • Axios

Summary

Artificial intelligence (AI) is helping drug companies develop medicines much faster and cheaper before testing them on people. A recent survey shows AI tools could reduce early research costs and time by up to 70%, leading to more new drugs in the next five years.

Key Facts

  • A survey of 80 biopharma leaders found AI cuts preclinical drug development costs and timelines by about 70%.
  • AI tools include software, gene sequencing, and computer models that run many virtual experiments quickly.
  • AI supports research before human testing but cannot replace scientists’ judgment or lab work.
  • New U.S. policies aim to reduce animal testing by using computers and 3D human tissue models instead.
  • Spending on AI and lab technology in drug research could increase by $1 billion over a few years.
  • Despite advances, no AI-discovered drug has yet been approved by the FDA.
  • Challenges include accounting for how different humans respond to drugs, keeping failure rates high around 90%.
  • China is investing heavily in biotech, competing with the U.S. by offering lower costs and faster results.
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Axios
The secret Trump administration battle to fight Chinese AI

The secret Trump administration battle to fight Chinese AI

July 20, 2026 • Technology • Axios

Summary

The Trump administration is considering banning advanced Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) models to protect U.S. companies and national security. This move aims to limit the use of Chinese open-source AI technology, which is becoming popular due to its low cost and good performance, and to support domestic AI innovation.

Key Facts

  • The Commerce Department looked into adding Chinese AI labs to an "Entity List" that restricts U.S. access without a special license.
  • Other government agencies, including the National Security Agency, discussed warnings about security risks from Chinese AI models.
  • The White House considered rules requiring U.S. companies to guarantee security and take responsibility if they use Chinese AI technology.
  • Earlier efforts to restrict Chinese AI were blocked to avoid hurting innovation, but recent security concerns have renewed interest in restrictions.
  • Instead of an outright ban, the government may use rules and public pressure to discourage companies from using Chinese AI models.
  • Chinese AI technology is cheaper and often as effective as U.S. alternatives, making it popular among U.S. businesses.
  • Some U.S. AI leaders support safety measures and licensing, but critics worry this could reduce competition by favoring large companies like OpenAI.
  • The debate reflects growing tensions in the global race for AI leadership between China and the United States.
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Axios
Hungary PM Magyar proposes chess grandmaster Judit Polgar for president

Hungary PM Magyar proposes chess grandmaster Judit Polgar for president

July 20, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Hungary's Prime Minister Peter Magyar proposed chess champion Judit Polgar for president after a constitutional amendment removed the previous president from office. Polgar, known as the greatest female chess player, will be asked if she wants to take the position, which requires election by parliament within 30 days.

Key Facts

  • Prime Minister Peter Magyar wants Judit Polgar to be Hungary's next president.
  • The current president was removed by a new constitutional amendment.
  • Magyar accuses the removed president of being loyal to former prime minister Viktor Orban.
  • Judit Polgar is a retired chess champion, considered the best female player ever.
  • Polgar was top-ranked among women players for 25 years and competed successfully against men.
  • Hungary's parliament must elect a new president within 30 days.
  • Until then, the speaker of parliament, Agnes Forsthoffer, will act as the temporary head of state.
  • Some human rights groups criticized the constitutional change as similar to actions under Orban's previous government.
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France24
War in Iran expands as third US soldier killed since end of ceasefire

War in Iran expands as third US soldier killed since end of ceasefire

July 20, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

A third U.S. soldier was killed in Iraq during the controlled explosion of a downed Iranian drone, increasing the total U.S. military deaths in the conflict to 17. The fighting in and around Iran has grown after a 60-day ceasefire ended earlier in July 2026.

Key Facts

  • The third U.S. soldier died during a controlled detonation of an Iranian drone in Iraq.
  • Total U.S. military deaths in the conflict have risen to 17.
  • The 60-day ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran ended in early July 2026.
  • Following the ceasefire expiration, the war in Iran and related areas has escalated.
  • The U.S. Central Command released video footage of airstrikes against Iranian military sites.
  • Other countries in the region, like Kuwait and Bahrain, are responding to Iranian attacks.
  • Israel reported intercepting an Iranian missile aimed near Jordan’s Aqaba.
  • Despite the fighting, the U.S. says that diplomacy is still possible.
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France24
Prisons minister Lord Timpson quits government

Prisons minister Lord Timpson quits government

July 20, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Lord James Timpson, the UK prisons minister appointed in July 2024, has resigned from his government position. During his tenure, he managed difficult issues like overcrowded prisons and early prisoner releases, and he highlighted improvements in prison safety and probation services.

Key Facts

  • Lord Timpson was appointed prisons minister in July 2024 after being CEO of a company that employs many former prisoners.
  • He resigned without giving a specific reason but stated he felt he had done all he could in the role.
  • Prisons in England and Wales were nearly full and facing a crisis when he began.
  • He managed a controversial early release program to reduce prison overcrowding.
  • Assaults on staff and self-harm incidents in prisons have decreased during his time as minister.
  • Around 75% of prisons and 90% of probation teams reportedly improved under his leadership.
  • He founded the Women’s Justice Board to help divert women from prison to supportive services.
  • Critics remain concerned about ongoing prison violence and overcrowding, and his resignation comes before new sentencing laws take effect in 2026.
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BBC Top Stories
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UK prepares to get its seventh prime minister in a decade

UK prepares to get its seventh prime minister in a decade

July 20, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

The United Kingdom is about to have its seventh prime minister in ten years. Prime Minister Keir Starmer will resign on July 20, and Andy Burnham will be officially appointed as the new prime minister by King Charles.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer is resigning as UK prime minister on July 20, 2026.
  • Andy Burnham will become the UK's new prime minister after Starmer's resignation.
  • This will be the seventh person to hold the role of prime minister in the UK in the last ten years.
  • The formal appointment of Andy Burnham will happen at Buckingham Palace.
  • King Charles will receive Andy Burnham for the official prime minister appointment.
  • This change marks another political leadership shift in the UK within a decade.
  • The article notes this as a significant political moment for the country.
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France24
US gas prices hit an average of $4 a gallon again as the US and Iran launch attacks

US gas prices hit an average of $4 a gallon again as the US and Iran launch attacks

July 20, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

Gas prices in the U.S. have risen back to an average of $4 per gallon. This increase comes as tensions between the U.S. and Iran escalate, leading to new attacks and higher oil prices.

Key Facts

  • The national average price for regular gasoline is now $4 per gallon.
  • A year ago, the average gas price was $3.14 per gallon.
  • Gas prices vary by state due to supply differences and state taxes.
  • Gas prices first passed $4 per gallon at the end of March but dropped below that in mid-June.
  • Prices went down when the U.S. and Iran reached a temporary deal.
  • Oil prices have recently increased as the U.S. and Iran move closer to renewed conflict.
  • Brent crude oil reached about $90.95 per barrel, and U.S. crude oil hit around $84.04 per barrel.
  • President Donald Trump expressed frustration about gas prices not falling as quickly as oil prices.
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ABC News
Trump could ‘do something positive’ rather than fixate on 2020 loss, Fetterman says

Trump could ‘do something positive’ rather than fixate on 2020 loss, Fetterman says

July 20, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

Senator John Fetterman said President Trump should focus on positive actions instead of repeatedly talking about the 2020 election, which ended six years ago. Fetterman emphasized that the 2020 election results are secure and urged attention on current issues, like the war involving Iran.

Key Facts

  • Senator John Fetterman criticized President Trump for focusing on the 2020 election loss.
  • Fetterman suggested Trump could help by addressing important topics such as the US war in Iran.
  • Trump recently gave a televised speech claiming China interfered in the 2020 election, a claim not supported by US intelligence.
  • US intelligence reports found no evidence that China tried to influence the 2020 election results.
  • Fetterman confirmed Pennsylvania’s 2020 election results were fair and accurate, with Biden winning the state's electoral votes.
  • Fetterman considered switching parties only if the Democratic party became "anti-Israel," but he disagrees with most Republican policies.
  • Trump admitted losing the 2020 election on a podcast but later said his admission was sarcastic.
  • More than 100 US House lawmakers recently voted to halt Israeli military aid amid conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Inside House Democrats' fear-driven turn against Israel

Inside House Democrats' fear-driven turn against Israel

July 20, 2026 • Us • Axios

Summary

Many House Democrats recently voted to block U.S. aid to Israel, reflecting growing progressive anger and changing views within the party. Some Democrats supported the measure to send a message to Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu, while party leaders like Hakeem Jeffries opposed it, showing a split in opinion.

Key Facts

  • 103 House Democrats voted for an amendment to stop U.S. funding to Israel, including military aid.
  • The amendment was introduced by Republican Rep. Thomas Massie and had no exceptions for diplomatic funds.
  • Progressive Democrats are gaining influence and pressuring the party to take a harsher stance on Israel.
  • Some Democrats supported the amendment due to concerns about Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
  • House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries opposed the amendment and influenced about 30-40 Democrats to vote against it.
  • At least one Democrat said that public opinion has shifted because people see the destruction in Gaza.
  • Some party members worry that leadership is not fully recognizing the changing views of Democratic voters on Israel.
  • There is a political risk for Democrats on both sides of the issue, with no clear winning strategy at the moment.
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Axios
Map Shows Donald Trump's Approval Rating in Every State After 18 Months

Map Shows Donald Trump's Approval Rating in Every State After 18 Months

July 20, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

New polling data shows that 18 months into President Donald Trump's second term, his overall approval rating is 37 percent nationally, with 58 percent disapproval. His approval is higher in Republican strongholds but below 50% in all major battleground states, where it has declined since he took office.

Key Facts

  • President Trump’s net approval nationwide is -21 (37% approve, 58% disapprove).
  • He has positive net approval mainly in Republican-leaning states like Wyoming (+24), North Dakota (+18), and Idaho (+14).
  • Many states that started his term with positive approval are now underwater, including Florida and Ohio.
  • In every major battleground state (such as Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin), Trump’s approval is below 50%, with net approval ratings ranging from -11 to -21.
  • The biggest drops in approval happened in key swing states vital for future elections.
  • Democratic-leaning states like Hawaii, Vermont, and Maryland show very low approval ratings for Trump, some under -50.
  • Younger voters (ages 18-34), independents, and college graduates are among Trump’s weakest support groups.
  • The shift in approval in swing states could affect control of Congress in 2026.
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Newsweek
Andy Burnham: UK PM's 'Socialist' Style May Be Red Flag for Trump

Andy Burnham: UK PM's 'Socialist' Style May Be Red Flag for Trump

July 20, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Andy Burnham is becoming the new prime minister of the United Kingdom and leader of the Labour Party. His style, called "Manchesterism," combines support for business with strong government involvement in public services and local control. President Trump described Burnham as very liberal and said he might not support more oil drilling in the North Sea.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham replaced Keir Starmer as UK prime minister and Labour leader.
  • Burnham was previously mayor of Greater Manchester and is known for a business-friendly approach.
  • His "Manchesterism" policy focuses on investment in transport, housing, and infrastructure using both public and private money.
  • He supports giving more power to local city and regional leaders.
  • Burnham aims to create new industrial jobs and improve education.
  • He wants greater public control over privatized water and energy companies.
  • Experts say Burnham’s policies align with European social democracy, not radical socialism.
  • President Donald Trump described Burnham as very liberal and doubted he would support increased oil drilling.
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Newsweek
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Israel criticises Labor’s draft Palestine policy in rare foreign intervention ahead of party conference

Israel criticises Labor’s draft Palestine policy in rare foreign intervention ahead of party conference

July 20, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

Israel's embassy in Canberra publicly criticized the Australian Labor Party's draft policy on Palestine, saying it unfairly blames Israel for the Gaza conflict and does not focus enough on Hamas's role. This unusual intervention highlights tensions between Israel and Labor ahead of the party's national conference where the policy will be debated.

Key Facts

  • Israel's embassy issued a four-page statement opposing parts of Labor's draft Palestine policy.
  • The draft platform criticizes Israeli actions like settlement annexation and calls to end settler violence in the West Bank.
  • The embassy said the draft overly blames Israel and underplays Hamas's responsibility for terrorism.
  • The draft removed a line saying “Hamas must disarm,” but still singles out Hamas for violent extremism.
  • Israel called settler violence “marginal” and said it gets too much attention in the draft policy.
  • The intervention by Israel is unusual because foreign states rarely comment on internal political party debates.
  • Labor's 2023 policy on Israel-Palestine was shorter and focused only on recognizing a Palestinian state.
  • Labor’s conference will see debates between pro-Palestine and pro-Israel supporters within the party.
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Guardian World
Ukraine drone attack on Moscow region wounds 10 people

Ukraine drone attack on Moscow region wounds 10 people

July 20, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

A Ukrainian drone attack struck the Moscow region on Monday night, injuring at least 10 people, including a child. Ukraine said the strikes targeted an oil depot and logistics facilities, while Russia reported having shot down many drones during the attack.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine launched dozens of drones into the Moscow region on the night of July 19-20, 2026.
  • At least 10 people were wounded in the attacks, including one child and three Chinese citizens.
  • Damage occurred to homes and industrial sites in the towns of Podolsk, Domodedovo, and Odintsovo near Moscow.
  • Ukraine said it targeted logistics facilities and an oil depot more than 400 km from its border.
  • Russia reported shooting down nearly 400 drones near Moscow during the incident.
  • The attack followed recent Russian missile strikes on Kyiv and Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian warehouses.
  • Ukrainian strikes have increased in effort to disrupt Russian activities and pressure Moscow amid the ongoing conflict.
  • Moscow’s airport area and nearby towns reported fires and damage from the drone strikes.
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France24
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