Sunday, Jul 19 · Morning Edition

The latest U.S. political news, from military strikes in the Middle East to a legislative standoff on Capitol Hill.

Morning Edition: July 19, 2026 · Morning Edition
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The Briefing
  1. 1
    Military & Defense

    U.S. Military Launches Retaliatory Airstrikes Against Iran

    President Trump has ordered a new wave of airstrikes targeting Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The strikes are in retaliation for an attack in Jordan that killed two American service members and aim to degrade Iran's blockade capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz.

  2. 2
    Congress

    Trump's SAVE America Act Stalls Congressional Agenda

    A major standoff is underway in Congress over the SAVE America Act, a sweeping election reform bill heavily pushed by President Trump. The deadlock has delayed critical legislation, including the national defense budget, as Republicans struggle to find consensus.

  3. 3
    Department of Justice

    DOJ Civil Rights Division Shifts Focus to California Institutions

    Under the leadership of Harmeet Dhillon, the Department of Justice's civil rights division has aggressively targeted California universities and state agencies. Critics argue the pivot reflects a partisan agenda in the second Trump administration, leading to an exodus of veteran attorneys.

  4. 4
    U.S. Senate

    Darline Graham Sworn In to Replace Late Brother Lindsey Graham

    Following the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham, his sister Darline Graham has been appointed and sworn in to fill his South Carolina Senate seat. The disability advocate brings no prior political experience but will serve the remainder of his term through January 2027.

  5. 5
    Joe Biden

    Former President Biden Announces Post-Election Memoir

    Former President Joe Biden has revealed plans to publish a new memoir titled "Promise Me, America." Scheduled for release shortly after the November midterm elections, the book will detail his presidency and his decision to drop his 2024 reelection bid.

  6. 6
    White House

    President Trump Prepares to Present World Cup Trophy

    President Trump is set to present the 2026 World Cup trophy at the final match between Argentina and Spain today. Speaking at a FIFA reception in New York, he celebrated the North American-hosted tournament as a major victory for the United States.

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Mother Jones
Mother Jones

War’s Escalation in Iran Is an Attack on Civilians’ Basic Needs

As the US military announced an eighth consecutive night of strikes on Saturday against Iran’s military systems, it also reportedly hit the country’s water and energy facilities, food storage sites, and bridges. Iran’s energy ministry told citizens to reduce their usage of electricity and air conditioning following the American strikes. Iran has also struck American […]