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Medicare Update: New Estimate of How Much Premiums Will Increase

Medicare Update: New Estimate of How Much Premiums Will Increase

Summary

The Medicare Trustees Report estimates that the monthly Medicare Part B premium will increase by about $6.60, or 3.25 percent, from $202.90 in 2026 to roughly $209.50 in 2027. This rise is smaller than last year’s nearly 10 percent jump and reflects ongoing growth in healthcare costs.

Key Facts

  • The standard Medicare Part B premium is projected to increase from $202.90 (2026) to about $209.50 (2027).
  • The increase of $6.60 represents a 3.25 percent rise, smaller than the 10 percent hike from 2025 to 2026.
  • Over 68 million Americans are enrolled in Medicare, with most premiums automatically deducted from Social Security benefits.
  • Medicare Part B covers doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical equipment, and preventive services.
  • Premiums cover about 25 percent of Medicare’s costs; the rest is paid by the government.
  • Rising healthcare use, higher medical costs, and more aging beneficiaries contribute to premium increases.
  • The trustees’ latest report lowered the previous estimate for 2027 premiums by about $9 compared to last year.
  • Higher premiums reduce the actual amount seniors receive from Social Security cost-of-living adjustments (COLA).
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West Bank quarry owner appeals to Trump after settler raid

West Bank quarry owner appeals to Trump after settler raid

Summary

A Palestinian-American who owns a quarry in the West Bank asked President Trump to help after Israeli settlers attacked his property. The settlers damaged machines and harmed security guards during the raid. This happened shortly after a period of violent attacks by settlers in the region.

Key Facts

  • The quarry owner holds both Palestinian and American citizenship.
  • Israeli settlers attacked his quarry in the occupied West Bank.
  • The settlers set some machinery on fire during the attack.
  • Guards at the quarry were physically attacked.
  • The incident occurred soon after several violent acts by settlers in the area.
  • The quarry owner is seeking help directly from President Donald Trump.
  • The West Bank is a territory under Israeli occupation.
  • Settler violence has been a recent problem in the region.
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Displacement of students, school evaluations violate federal law, Arizona education agency says

Displacement of students, school evaluations violate federal law, Arizona education agency says

Summary

The Arizona State Department of Education found that the Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (ASDB) broke federal disability law by limiting where blind and visually impaired students could attend school. This happened as ASDB planned to close its Tucson campus and move students 15 miles away, without giving families all placement options required by law.

Key Facts

  • ASDB is closing its west Tucson campus and moving services to Oro Valley for the 2026-27 school year.
  • ASDB told blind and low-vision students and those in dorms they must attend schools in their home districts starting in 2026-27.
  • The Arizona Department of Education said ASDB violated the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) by deciding student placements ahead of time.
  • The Department appointed a special monitor to oversee ASDB's actions and corrective measures.
  • Families filed a lawsuit to delay the school closure, but a judge denied it.
  • The University of Arizona’s Education Advocacy Clinic helped families file the complaint and observed that parents were not given all legal placement options.
  • Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), which detail special services for students, were not handled with full transparency according to the state’s investigation.
  • ASDB is reviewing the findings with legal counsel and must respond to the state by August 28.
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Senate to move on Russia sanctions bill named after Sen. Lindsey Graham

Senate to move on Russia sanctions bill named after Sen. Lindsey Graham

Summary

The U.S. Senate is set to advance a sanctions bill against Russia and Iran named after Senator Lindsey Graham, who recently passed away. The bill targets Russian officials, banks, and energy sectors, and extends Iran sanctions until 2031. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy will be in Washington for a meeting before the vote.

Key Facts

  • The bill is called the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026.
  • It was negotiated by Senator Graham and the White House before his death.
  • The bill imposes sanctions on Russian political figures, oligarchs, banks, and the "shadow fleet."
  • It restricts funding for Iran’s energy and weapons sectors and extends sanctions until 2031.
  • The bill allows tariffs on top importers of Russian oil and gas and countries helping Russia evade sanctions.
  • More than 60 senators support the bill, making its passage likely in the Senate.
  • The House is on recess until August 31, so the bill will wait for House action before reaching President Trump.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy will meet with senators in Washington ahead of the procedural vote.
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Minnesota water systems hit with cyberattack, state officials say

Minnesota water systems hit with cyberattack, state officials say

Summary

More than 30 water systems in Minnesota experienced a cyberattack over the weekend, state officials said. Authorities are investigating the attacks but have not asked residents to change how they use or drink water.

Key Facts

  • The cyberattacks occurred on Sunday and Monday and targeted over 30 water systems in Minnesota.
  • Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) is leading the investigation but has not shared detailed information about the attacks.
  • Residents have not been asked to change their water drinking or usage habits.
  • State investigators are currently assessing which systems were affected.
  • MNIT is working with federal agencies, including the FBI, to investigate and respond to the attack.
  • Efforts include sharing intelligence, supporting communities, restoring water utility operations, and improving defenses against future cyberattacks.
  • John Israel is the MNIT assistant commissioner and chief information security officer.
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The Larry Millete Verdict | Case by Case

The Larry Millete Verdict | Case by Case

Summary

A jury found Larry Millete guilty of first-degree murder in the disappearance of his wife, Maya Millete, who went missing more than five years ago in Chula Vista. The trial included various evidence such as witness accounts, digital data, and unusual testimony, but Maya Millete’s location remains unknown.

Key Facts

  • Maya Millete has been missing for over five years.
  • Larry Millete was charged and found guilty of first-degree murder.
  • The trial did not recover Maya Millete’s body.
  • Evidence included witness testimony and digital records.
  • The case involved allegations of control and marital problems.
  • A witness referred to as a "spellcaster" gave testimony during the trial.
  • The case attracted attention in Southern California and beyond.
  • Despite the verdict, Maya Millete’s whereabouts are still unknown.
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Verdict Soon in the Larry Millete Trial | Case by Case

Verdict Soon in the Larry Millete Trial | Case by Case

Summary

The trial of Larry Millete is approaching a verdict after both the prosecution and defense have finished presenting their cases. Jurors heard about various pieces of evidence, including secret relationships, social media accounts, and digital communications, that relate to the disappearance of Maya Millete.

Key Facts

  • Both the prosecution and defense have completed their presentations in the Larry Millete trial.
  • Jurors were told about Maya Millete’s secret relationship and a hidden Instagram account.
  • Larry Millete’s communications with an online spiritual adviser were discussed.
  • Prosecutors presented digital evidence to help explain the events around Maya’s disappearance.
  • Witnesses testified about where investigators searched for Maya.
  • CBS News analysts discussed how witness testimony might affect the trial’s outcome.
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"It's a serious clusterf*ck": Behind-the-scenes fury and panic roil key House primary

"It's a serious clusterf*ck": Behind-the-scenes fury and panic roil key House primary

Summary

In Michigan's 7th Congressional District, three Democrats are competing in a primary to challenge Republican incumbent Tom Barrett. Party leaders are divided, causing tension as endorsements split between candidates, which may affect the Democrats' chances in this closely contested district.

Key Facts

  • Michigan's 7th district was won by President Trump by about one percentage point in 2024.
  • Three Democrats are running: Bridget Brink, William Lawrence, and Matt Maasdam.
  • Bridget Brink is a former ambassador to Ukraine and supported by the Democratic Women's Caucus.
  • William Lawrence is a progressive climate activist backed by the Congressional Progressive Caucus and Senator Bernie Sanders.
  • Matt Maasdam is a retired Navy SEAL and former military aide to President Obama, endorsed by Senator Elissa Slotkin.
  • Senator Slotkin's support for Maasdam has upset some Democrats who wanted her to back Brink.
  • Some Democrats worry that infighting and lack of unity might make it easier for the Republican incumbent to win.
  • Centrist Democrats are concerned about Lawrence’s progressive positions and past controversial comments.
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India’s ‘cockroach’ protesters explain how they toppled one of Modi’s ministers

India’s ‘cockroach’ protesters explain how they toppled one of Modi’s ministers

Summary

Students in India protested under the name "Cockroach Party," a youth group that turned a negative term into a symbol of resistance. Their protests led to the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on July 25, after weeks of demonstrations against issues in the education system and exam scandals. The protests included a mix of students, young adults, and older supporters.

Key Facts

  • The Cockroach Party is a youth protest group in India named after a comment by the Chief Justice calling Indian youth "cockroaches."
  • Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on July 25 due to pressure from these protests.
  • The protests mostly took place at Jantar Mantar, a public area in New Delhi.
  • The protesters criticized problems in India’s higher education system and scandals related to competitive exams.
  • This is only the second time a minister from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP party resigned because of public pressure; the first was MJ Akbar in 2018.
  • The protests included students, millennials (people in their 30s and 40s), and older people.
  • Protesters shared videos showing celebrations and police violence during the demonstrations.
  • Some protesters worry about future government repression using technology like facial recognition to identify them.
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Watch: Sean Hannity eulogizes late friend Lindsey Graham at funeral

Watch: Sean Hannity eulogizes late friend Lindsey Graham at funeral

Summary

Sean Hannity spoke at the funeral of Lindsey Graham, honoring his friend and frequent guest on his show. The funeral took place in Washington, D.C.

Key Facts

  • Sean Hannity gave a eulogy at Lindsey Graham’s funeral.
  • Lindsey Graham was a U.S. senator.
  • Hannity and Graham were friends and often appeared together on Hannity’s show.
  • The funeral happened in Washington, D.C.
  • Hannity spoke about Graham’s life and their friendship.
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White House responds to John Mellencamp criticizing ‘Gulf of America’ name change

White House responds to John Mellencamp criticizing ‘Gulf of America’ name change

Summary

Singer John Mellencamp criticized changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico during his recent concerts. The White House responded to his comments about this change.

Key Facts

  • John Mellencamp is a singer and songwriter.
  • He mentioned the Gulf of Mexico in his song “Pink Houses.”
  • Mellencamp criticized the name change at two of his recent concerts.
  • The concerts were part of his “Dancing Words Tour.”
  • The White House replied to Mellencamp’s criticism.
  • The article does not specify what the new name of the Gulf is.
  • President Donald Trump is the current U.S. President at the time of this event.
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Americans face higher back-to-school costs. Here's what's pricier.

Americans face higher back-to-school costs. Here's what's pricier.

Summary

Back-to-school costs in the U.S. are rising, with prices for school supplies and lunches increasing compared to last year. Families are expected to spend about $4,000 per student this year, driven by higher tariffs on imported goods and rising energy costs linked to global events.

Key Facts

  • The price for a typical set of school supplies is up nearly 8% compared to last year.
  • School lunches are about 11% more expensive than in the previous year.
  • Families may spend around $175 on school supplies and $3,800 on packed lunches per student this year.
  • Many school supplies like notebooks, pens, and glue are made overseas and face higher U.S. tariffs, raising prices.
  • Energy cost increases from conflicts in the Middle East have raised production expenses for supply companies.
  • Some companies, like Newell Brands and Logitech, have raised prices due to tariff and energy cost increases.
  • A survey found 45% of parents expect to borrow money to cover back-to-school spending, and half plan to cut household expenses.
  • Common back-to-school items such as notebooks, index cards, and lunch staples like bread and blueberries have all seen significant price increases.
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Watch: Trump eulogizes Lindsey Graham at late senator's funeral

Watch: Trump eulogizes Lindsey Graham at late senator's funeral

Summary

President Donald Trump gave a eulogy at the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham. The service was held at the Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday.

Key Facts

  • Senator Lindsey Graham passed away before the funeral.
  • President Trump spoke to honor Senator Graham's life.
  • The memorial service took place at the Washington National Cathedral.
  • The event occurred on a Tuesday.
  • CBS News provided coverage of the service.
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Newly released Biden recordings show memory struggles, references to ‘classified’ material

Newly released Biden recordings show memory struggles, references to ‘classified’ material

Summary

Audio recordings from 2016 and 2017 interviews with President Biden were made public on Monday. In the recordings, President Biden admitted that some notes at his home contained classified information and showed difficulty recalling important details and names.

Key Facts

  • The recordings come from interviews at President Biden’s home with his memoir writer.
  • These interviews happened in 2016 and 2017.
  • The recordings were kept private until their recent release on Monday.
  • President Biden said he had notes with classified material stored at home.
  • He had trouble remembering some key facts and names during the interviews.
  • The recordings last over two hours.
  • The interviews were made before Biden became president.
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WSJ editorial board calls Trump wrong about nixing Senate filibuster for SAVE America Act: ‘A terrible trade’

WSJ editorial board calls Trump wrong about nixing Senate filibuster for SAVE America Act: ‘A terrible trade’

Summary

The Wall Street Journal editorial board disagreed with President Trump’s effort to remove the Senate filibuster rule to pass the SAVE America Act. The editorial called this move a bad idea and a poor trade-off for Republicans.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants to end the Senate filibuster to pass the SAVE America Act.
  • The filibuster is a Senate rule that requires a supermajority (60 votes) to move forward on most laws.
  • The WSJ editorial board said ending the filibuster for this bill is a mistake.
  • They called President Trump’s campaign to remove it part of many bad ideas in Washington.
  • The editorial suggests removing the filibuster could harm Republican interests in the long run.
  • The SAVE America Act focuses on voter eligibility rules.
  • Discussions about changing Senate rules often involve debates over minority rights and legislative power.
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Building a 'different kind of forest' after devastating wildfires

Building a 'different kind of forest' after devastating wildfires

Summary

French President Emmanuel Macron visited an area in southwest France damaged by wildfires and promised to rebuild the forest in a new way. He warned that the next few weeks will be difficult as the region recovers from the fires.

Key Facts

  • Wildfires caused heavy damage to forests in southwest France.
  • President Macron visited the affected area on July 28, 2026.
  • He pledged to rebuild a "different kind of forest," suggesting changes in how forests are restored.
  • The coming weeks after the visit are expected to be challenging for the region.
  • The article includes expert insights from a Swedish ecology researcher.
  • The fires and rebuilding are discussed in connection with climate change issues.
  • Related regional problems include heatwaves that complicate firefighting efforts.
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How much interest are you losing by keeping $10,000 in a traditional savings account?

How much interest are you losing by keeping $10,000 in a traditional savings account?

Summary

Keeping $10,000 in a traditional savings account pays much less interest than other types of accounts. High-yield savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and money market accounts offer much higher rates, helping savers earn more money over time.

Key Facts

  • The average interest rate for traditional savings accounts is about 0.38%.
  • A $10,000 amount in a traditional savings account will earn about $38 in one year.
  • A $10,000 certificate of deposit (CD) at 4.17% interest would earn $417 in one year.
  • A high-yield savings account at 4.10% would earn $410 on $10,000 in one year.
  • A money market account at 3.80% would earn $380 on $10,000 in one year.
  • By keeping money in a traditional savings account, savers could lose between $342 and $379 in potential interest earnings per year.
  • Interest rates on other savings options might change, but the difference in earnings is already large.
  • Savers can easily compare accounts online to find better rates and increase their savings growth.
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Pentagon to rename Charleston base for Graham: Report

Pentagon to rename Charleston base for Graham: Report

Summary

The Pentagon plans to rename a military base in South Carolina after Senator Lindsey Graham, who served in the Air Force and Congress. This change recognizes his long service to the military and the country.

Key Facts

  • The South Carolina military base will be renamed for Senator Lindsey Graham.
  • Lindsey Graham is a Republican senator and Air Force veteran.
  • The renaming honors his many years of service in Congress and to the armed forces.
  • Air Force Secretary Troy Meink sent a memo on July 27 directing staff to start the renaming process.
  • The work will involve Air Mobility Command and Joint Base Charleston.
  • Lindsey Graham has a long history of supporting military and defense issues.
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Shootout that killed 3 at festival in Seattle possibly gang-related, investigators say

Shootout that killed 3 at festival in Seattle possibly gang-related, investigators say

Summary

A shootout at a busy food festival near the Space Needle in Seattle killed three people and injured four others, including a toddler. Police believe at least three suspects were involved, and the shooting may have been gang-related.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened around 6 p.m. on Sunday during the Bite of Seattle festival.
  • Three people died: a 19-year-old shooter, Carlos Israel Sanchez Villalba (44), and Ashley Whitehead (56).
  • At least three suspects fired guns, including a 15-year-old who was arrested and held in juvenile detention.
  • Investigators think two groups may have been involved in the gunfire, possibly linked to gangs.
  • Four others were injured, including a 2-year-old boy, but all injured were released from the hospital.
  • Police and city officials gave mixed information early on about the number of suspects and arrests.
  • The victims included a father of three and a woman who had recently moved to Washington and was attending the festival with her daughter.
  • A vigil was held to honor those killed, with people gathering to remember them peacefully.
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Civil War-era artifact turns out to be live explosive, Texas officials say

Civil War-era artifact turns out to be live explosive, Texas officials say

Summary

A man in South Texas discovered that a Civil War-era ammunition he thought was a fake was actually a live explosive. Officials safely removed and destroyed the explosive with the help of a military disposal team.

Key Facts

  • The man owned the Civil War-era ordnance for years, believing it was a dummy round.
  • A military friend suspected the artifact was active and alerted authorities.
  • The Atascosa County Sheriff's Office called an explosive disposal team from Lackland Air Force Base.
  • The live explosive was a "parrot round," a type of cannon ammunition used during the Civil War.
  • The device was taken to Camp Bullis and safely destroyed.
  • No one was hurt and no charges were made related to the incident.
  • The Parrott rifle cannon was invented by Robert Parrott and widely used by the Union Army.
  • It is not clear how large the live explosive was.
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