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Wisconsin judge says voters who have returned absentee ballot for state primary cannot get a new one

Wisconsin judge says voters who have returned absentee ballot for state primary cannot get a new one

July 29, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

A Wisconsin judge ruled that voters who have already sent in their absentee ballots for the state primary cannot cancel those ballots and ask for a new one. This decision affects the ongoing governor’s primary and was made after Democrats asked for voters to have the chance to change their ballots due to changes in the race.

Key Facts

  • The judge ruled that Wisconsin law does not allow voters to “spoil” (cancel) an absentee ballot once it has been returned.
  • Democrats had filed a lawsuit seeking to let voters change their ballots because some candidates had dropped out after ballots were sent.
  • Over 117,000 absentee ballots had already been returned by the time of the ruling.
  • The ruling is expected to be appealed as voting continues in the state’s governor primary.
  • The Wisconsin Elections Commission had told local clerks that absentee ballots cannot be changed once returned.
  • The ruling follows past legal battles over ballot spoiling in Wisconsin, including a 2022 lawsuit from a Republican group.
  • The winner of the Democratic primary will likely face Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany in the November general election.
  • Incumbent Democratic Governor Tony Evers is not running for a third term.
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AP News PBS NewsHour
‘It isn’t sustainable.’ Casper, Wyoming, OB-GYN weathers maternity care shortage

‘It isn’t sustainable.’ Casper, Wyoming, OB-GYN weathers maternity care shortage

July 29, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

Wyoming is facing a shortage of obstetricians and gynecologists (OB-GYNs), particularly in Casper, the state’s second-largest city. The number of OB-GYNs there has dropped from six to two, making work schedules very demanding and causing delays in non-urgent care like annual exams. This shortage reflects wider problems in Wyoming’s maternity care system, worsened by hospital closures and workforce challenges.

Key Facts

  • Casper, Wyoming, had six OB-GYNs but now only has two serving around 80,000 people.
  • The two remaining OB-GYNs cover emergency room calls nearly every other day.
  • Non-urgent services such as annual exams are often delayed due to emergency care demands.
  • Four Wyoming hospitals have closed labor and delivery units since 2022, leaving 16 birthing hospitals statewide.
  • Wyoming’s rural setting makes it harder to recruit OB-GYNs and maintain delivery services.
  • Nearly 150 rural U.S. labor and delivery units have closed or plan to close since 2020.
  • More than 35% of U.S. counties are considered “maternity care deserts,” areas with little or no access to maternity care.
  • Despite legislative attention, Wyoming’s maternity care shortages remain a serious concern.
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AP News
Michigan’s Mystery Hill defies gravity — and the demise of roadside attractions

Michigan’s Mystery Hill defies gravity — and the demise of roadside attractions

July 29, 2026 • Business • AP News

Summary

Mystery Hill, a roadside attraction in Onsted, Michigan, is one of the few remaining attractions in the Irish Hills area. Nathan Wakefield recently bought the site to preserve it and keep the tradition of local roadside attractions alive despite many others closing.

Key Facts

  • Mystery Hill is known for its gravity-defying house on three acres of land.
  • Nathan Wakefield, who grew up nearby, purchased Mystery Hill in 2026.
  • Many roadside attractions along US 12 in Michigan have closed due to less traffic after I-94 opened.
  • Attractions like Frontier City and Stagecoach Stop closed in 1974 and 2007.
  • Mystery Hill survives partly because it does not have high costs or require many employees.
  • New entertainment options like putt-putt golf or go-kart racing help modern attractions stay popular.
  • Prehistoric Forest, a dinosaur-themed park, closed in 2002 and was not successfully restored after being sold.
  • The area around Irish Hills still draws visitors for natural beauty and events like car races at Michigan International Speedway.
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AP News
Schumer urges Fetterman not to leave Senate Democratic caucus

Schumer urges Fetterman not to leave Senate Democratic caucus

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer asked Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania to stay in the Senate Democratic caucus. Schumer praised Fetterman as a good congress member, despite some disagreements between Fetterman and progressive Democrats.

Key Facts

  • Chuck Schumer is the Senate Democratic Leader from New York.
  • Senator John Fetterman represents Pennsylvania.
  • Schumer wants Fetterman to remain part of the Senate Democratic caucus.
  • There are tensions between Fetterman and progressive members of the Democratic Party.
  • Schumer described Fetterman as a “very good” member of Congress.
  • The request to stay came during a public statement on Wednesday.
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The Hill
Scientists Just Studied Whether Pets Make You Healthier

Scientists Just Studied Whether Pets Make You Healthier

July 29, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

A study by the University of Basel found little proof that simply owning a pet improves overall physical or mental health. Instead, how much time people spend with their pets and the emotional support they feel from them may affect their well-being more.

Key Facts

  • The study surveyed 2,328 adults in Switzerland about their pet ownership and health.
  • Researchers looked at pet ownership, contact with animals, emotional attachment, and perceived support from pets.
  • Pet ownership alone was not linked to better physical health, mental well-being, lower loneliness, or higher life satisfaction.
  • Women, dog owners, and those spending more time with pets reported stronger emotional bonds and more support.
  • Surprisingly, pet owners reported slightly worse health and smoked a bit more than non-owners.
  • People with greater emotional support from pets sometimes had lower psychological well-being and more loneliness, possibly because those struggling may rely more on pets.
  • The study was observational, so it cannot prove that pets cause any health effects.
  • Spending more time with animals was linked to better psychological well-being, showing that different parts of the pet relationship matter.
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Newsweek
Ice cream for education: Gaza cafe raises funds for studies

Ice cream for education: Gaza cafe raises funds for studies

July 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

A group of Palestinian students in Gaza started an ice cream shop called Flora to help pay for their university fees and support their families. The cafe also provides them with a break from the difficult conditions caused by ongoing conflict in the region.

Key Facts

  • The ice cream shop is named Flora.
  • It was opened by Palestinian students living in Gaza.
  • The shop helps students pay for their university education.
  • The business also supports the students' families financially.
  • Working at Flora gives the students some relief from the challenges of living in a war-affected area.
  • Gaza is currently experiencing ongoing conflict and difficult living conditions.
  • The students work long shifts to run the cafe successfully.
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Al Jazeera
Fathers' Diets Could Shape Their Baby's Health Before Birth

Fathers' Diets Could Shape Their Baby's Health Before Birth

July 29, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

A study in Brazil found that fathers who eat many ultra-processed foods before conception may affect their newborns' growth, leading to higher birth weight and more body fat in some areas. Researchers suggest that both mothers and fathers should follow healthy diets before trying to have children.

Key Facts

  • The study looked at 43 sets of fathers, mothers, and newborns in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
  • Ultra-processed foods include items like processed meats, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks.
  • Fathers' intake of ultra-processed foods averaged 30% of their calories.
  • Higher consumption of these foods by fathers was linked to heavier babies with more body fat in certain places.
  • Mothers' diets showed different effects, like babies with lower birth weight and smaller size when mothers ate more ultra-processed foods early in pregnancy.
  • Researchers say fathers' diet may affect babies through epigenetic changes, which can turn genes on or off without changing DNA.
  • The study recommends both parents avoid ultra-processed foods before conception.
  • The research was small and based on self-reported food intake, so results need cautious interpretation.
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Newsweek
TMZ’s Levin backs ‘amazing public servant’ Fauci following hearing

TMZ’s Levin backs ‘amazing public servant’ Fauci following hearing

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Harvey Levin, founder of TMZ, defended Dr. Anthony Fauci after Republicans criticized him during a Senate hearing. Levin expressed his support for Fauci publicly, highlighting Fauci’s service in public health.

Key Facts

  • Dr. Anthony Fauci is a top infectious disease expert in the U.S.
  • Fauci faced attacks from Republican senators during a Senate hearing.
  • Harvey Levin, who started TMZ, spoke out in favor of Fauci.
  • Levin shared his support on TMZ’s YouTube channel.
  • This defense was notable because Levin rarely shares personal opinions on that platform.
  • The hearing was described as tense and contentious.
  • Fauci has been a prominent figure during health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The Hill
Thousands of America’s Historic Landmarks Face Growing Wildfire Threat

Thousands of America’s Historic Landmarks Face Growing Wildfire Threat

July 29, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

A new study shows that over half of the historic sites in the U.S. face some risk from wildfires, with thousands facing severe danger. Wildfires have already destroyed important cultural landmarks, causing permanent loss to heritage that is hard or impossible to rebuild.

Key Facts

  • Researchers studied 100,117 historic sites listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
  • 3,446 of these sites face a severe risk of wildfire damage.
  • About 36% of the endangered sites are nationally significant landmarks.
  • Recent wildfires destroyed the Will Rogers Ranch House, Andrew McNally House, and Grand Canyon Lodge.
  • Historic buildings are especially vulnerable because they cannot be moved and often have features like old wood or open gaps that catch fire easily.
  • High-risk historic sites are mainly in the western U.S., but threats are increasing in the southeast and south-central states.
  • Preventing damage requires efforts like reducing nearby flammable plants, strengthening buildings, and improving firefighting resources.
  • The study warns that destruction of these historic sites leads to permanent loss of cultural heritage and community identity.
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Newsweek
Senate unanimously agrees to oppose pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell

Senate unanimously agrees to oppose pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

The U.S. Senate unanimously voted to oppose any pardon or clemency for Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted of sex crimes. The resolution was introduced by Senator Jacky Rosen to block a potential pardon by President Donald Trump.

Key Facts

  • The Senate voted unanimously against pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell.
  • Maxwell was convicted of sex offenses related to her association with Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Senator Jacky Rosen sponsored the resolution.
  • The resolution aims to prevent Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche from supporting a pardon.
  • President Donald Trump nominated Todd Blanche to remain in his role.
  • The move shows strong Senate opposition to pardons for individuals convicted of serious crimes.
  • Ghislaine Maxwell’s crimes have received wide public and political attention.
  • The Senate’s decision is a clear statement about pardons related to this case.
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The Hill
Comcast store punished low sales by smashing pies in workers' faces, lawsuit claims

Comcast store punished low sales by smashing pies in workers' faces, lawsuit claims

July 29, 2026 • Business • Ars Technica

Summary

A lawsuit claims a Comcast store manager in Connecticut forced low-selling employees to have cream pies smashed in their faces as a punishment and motivation method. The lawsuit says the manager made others take part in and record these actions, creating a hostile work environment that led to an employee’s resignation.

Key Facts

  • The lawsuit alleges a Comcast store manager made the lowest salespeople monthly get a cream pie smashed in their face.
  • Employees were tied to chairs and assaulted as part of this punishment ritual.
  • The manager also made other employees participate in and video record the pie attacks.
  • The plaintiff, David Figueroa, said he was not told about this at hiring and resigned due to the hostile environment.
  • The lawsuit claims Comcast failed to supervise the store and should have known about the harmful policies.
  • Comcast said it disagrees with the claims and has zero tolerance for harassment.
  • The lawsuit seeks compensation for lost income and emotional harm.
  • A chart was kept ranking employees and marking those who were or would be assaulted.
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Ars Technica
Sheriff blasts FBI’s Patel over ‘inaccurate’ claims in Nancy Guthrie case

Sheriff blasts FBI’s Patel over ‘inaccurate’ claims in Nancy Guthrie case

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Sheriff Chris Nanos said that FBI Director Kash Patel was wrong about details in the Nancy Guthrie case. Sheriff Nanos also said he and Patel have never talked to each other.

Key Facts

  • Sheriff Chris Nanos criticized FBI Director Kash Patel’s statements.
  • Nanos said Patel’s claims about the Nancy Guthrie case were inaccurate.
  • The sheriff said he and Patel have never had a conversation.
  • The disagreement concerns details of a specific case involving Nancy Guthrie.
  • The article focuses on communication and accuracy between local and federal officials.
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The Hill
Americans split on understanding of democratic socialism: Survey

Americans split on understanding of democratic socialism: Survey

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

A recent poll shows Americans are divided in how well they understand democratic socialism. While some see value in the ideas, others are unsure or do not understand the term, even as candidates linked to democratic socialism win key Democratic primary races.

Key Facts

  • The poll was conducted by Reuters/Ipsos.
  • 27% of Americans said democratic socialists hold several valid beliefs.
  • 23% of respondents were unsure about or did not understand democratic socialism.
  • Candidates associated with democratic socialism have won elections in Democratic Party primaries.
  • The poll reflects differing views on democratic socialism across the United States.
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The Hill
Haberman knocks Trump ‘bullying campaigns’

Haberman knocks Trump ‘bullying campaigns’

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman described President Donald Trump’s $15 billion lawsuit against her newspaper as an attempt to intimidate them. In a TV interview, she spoke about the challenges she and her colleagues face from the Trump administration’s actions.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump filed a $15 billion lawsuit against The New York Times.
  • Maggie Haberman is a White House reporter for The New York Times.
  • Haberman called the lawsuit a “bullying campaign.”
  • She spoke about the pressure faced by journalists from the Trump administration.
  • The interview took place on MS NOW’s show called “The Weeknight.”
  • Host Michael Steele asked Haberman how she and her team handle the administration’s tactics.
  • President Trump reportedly tries to get the reporters’ attention by calling them directly.
  • The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and some media outlets.
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The Hill
Two people accuse Epstein of sexual conduct at Michigan fine arts school

Two people accuse Epstein of sexual conduct at Michigan fine arts school

July 29, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

Two people who attended Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan reported inappropriate sexual behavior by Jeffrey Epstein, a former donor to the school. An investigation also found many allegations of sexual abuse by nearly 50 staff members going back decades at the school.

Key Facts

  • Interlochen Center for the Arts runs a performing arts school and summer camp with students from around the world.
  • The school hired a law firm in 2024 to investigate sexual abuse reports by faculty and staff.
  • The investigation expanded to include allegations against Jeffrey Epstein, who donated over $400,000 to Interlochen between 1990 and 2003.
  • Epstein attended the school as a camper in 1967 and had a lodge named after him, later renamed and demolished.
  • Two women said Epstein behaved sexually inappropriately toward them during their time connected to the school.
  • The investigation collected 70 accounts from alumni alleging sexual misconduct by 47 faculty or staff members from the 1950s to 2010s.
  • Interlochen gave the names of accused individuals to local authorities for review; none currently work at the school.
  • School leaders apologized and said they have since changed policies to improve safety for students.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Cornyn cancels meeting with Blanche ahead of key committee vote on AG nomination

Cornyn cancels meeting with Blanche ahead of key committee vote on AG nomination

July 29, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

Senator John Cornyn canceled a meeting with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche before a Senate Judiciary Committee vote on Blanche’s nomination. Cornyn wants clearer, written proof that a fund linked to President Donald Trump’s IRS settlement will be ended and that IRS audits on Trump and his associates will be limited.

Key Facts

  • Senator John Cornyn canceled a meeting with Todd Blanche one day before a committee vote on Blanche’s AG nomination.
  • Cornyn’s main concerns involve President Donald Trump’s settlement with the IRS.
  • The Department of Justice created a $1.8 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund” connected to the settlement, which Blanche called “dead” during his hearing.
  • Cornyn wants proof in writing that the fund will be formally rescinded.
  • The DOJ provided drafts rescinding the fund but did not offer changes related to limiting IRS audits on Trump and his associates.
  • Cornyn says the DOJ has not provided satisfactory documents that meet his requests.
  • Blanche’s confirmation as Attorney General depends on support from senators like Cornyn.
  • The dispute involves issues of government oversight and trust regarding enforcement actions connected to President Trump.
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ABC News
DoorDash expands beyond drivers with new drone delivery program

DoorDash expands beyond drivers with new drone delivery program

July 29, 2026 • Technology • The Hill

Summary

DoorDash is starting a new program to deliver items using drones. Right now, drone delivery works in some areas of Dallas-Fort Worth and Charlotte.

Key Facts

  • DoorDash is using drones to deliver packages.
  • The drone delivery service is active in parts of Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas.
  • It is also available in some areas of Charlotte, North Carolina.
  • This program is an expansion beyond DoorDash’s usual driver-based deliveries.
  • The drones increase delivery options beyond traditional methods.
  • The program is part of DoorDash's effort to use new technology for deliveries.
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The Hill
Customize Ars your way with an Ars Pro subscription

Customize Ars your way with an Ars Pro subscription

July 29, 2026 • Technology • Ars Technica

Summary

Ars Technica offers a subscription called Ars Pro that lets readers customize how they view news articles on the site. Subscribers can choose different layouts, filter topics, and enjoy an ad-free experience with extra features like full-text RSS feeds and access to forums.

Key Facts

  • Ars Pro subscribers can pick from different page layouts, including classic and minimalist styles.
  • Customization options include filtering topics and adjusting the text layout.
  • Subscribers get an ad-free and tracker-free browsing experience.
  • Full-text RSS feeds are available only to subscribers.
  • Subscribers gain access to special forums and receive user badges.
  • An Ars Pro membership costs $25, while Ars Pro++ costs $50.
  • The article encourages users to set Ars Technica as a preferred news source on Google to support the site amid traffic drops caused by AI-generated summaries.
  • The subscription helps support Ars Technica’s journalism at a challenging time.
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Ars Technica
Study suggests the threat of mold-associated illnesses may be underappreciated

Study suggests the threat of mold-associated illnesses may be underappreciated

July 29, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

A new U.S. study shows that serious mold infections may be more common and dangerous than previously known. Researchers found about 450 cases in hospitals near Atlanta over five years, with about one-third of those patients dying in the hospital.

Key Facts

  • The study was done by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • Invasive mold infections can be life-threatening, especially for older people and those with weak immune systems.
  • Researchers looked at hospital data from 2020 to 2024 in the Atlanta area.
  • They found about 450 confirmed cases out of nearly 1,000 possible ones initially identified.
  • Hospitals can expect 3 to 5 mold infection cases per 100 inpatient beds each year.
  • Mold infections often affect people weakened by conditions like COVID-19 or cancer.
  • Mold exposure risks may increase due to climate change and natural disasters like floods and hurricanes.
  • The study results provide a new estimate but may not apply the same way in other parts of the country.
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AP News
Charlie Kirk killing suspect awaits trial decision from judge

Charlie Kirk killing suspect awaits trial decision from judge

July 29, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

Tyler Robinson is waiting for a judge’s decision on whether he will stand trial for the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Prosecutors say there is enough evidence for a trial and plan to seek the death penalty. The case involves video evidence and witness statements.

Key Facts

  • Tyler Robinson is accused of killing Charlie Kirk with a rifle shot at a rally in Utah on September 10, 2025.
  • Prosecutors say the evidence clearly supports moving forward to a trial.
  • The judge’s decision is expected after a hearing scheduled for September 1, 2026.
  • Robinson faces charges including aggravated murder and firearm offenses.
  • Videos allegedly show Robinson on the roof where the shot was fired.
  • Robinson's roommate said Robinson confessed to the killing in messages and in person.
  • Defense attorneys have until August 11, 2026, to submit arguments.
  • Prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty in this case.
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ABC News
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