National
Thursday, August 20, 2026 · Fort Lauderdale
States Urge Supreme Court to Maintain Limits on Mail-in Voting Executive Order
A coalition of 23 states and the District of Columbia asked the Supreme Court to uphold a lower court's block on specific provisions of a presidential executive order concerning mail-in voting. They argued that implementing these provisions would create an 'unprecedented, legally indefensible voter-verification and ballot-interception program.'
Concepts of Equality and Liberty in U.S. Founding Documents Traced in New Column
A new column for SCOTUSblog examines the phrase 'born free and equal' as a core tenet of American constitutionalism. The author traces its origins in the Declaration of Independence and early state constitutions, highlighting its evolution and interpretations over time. The column also addresses instances where this principle was challenged or reasserted throughout U.S. history.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Hundreds of Buildings Destroyed, Thousands Evacuated in Washington Wildfires
Wildfires in Washington's Spokane County have destroyed hundreds of structures and forced up to 65,000 residents to evacuate. Authorities have made an arrest in connection with one of the blazes.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
GOP Dissension Emerges Over Proposed Budget Plan
A proposed $95 billion budget plan faces opposition from within the Republican Party, creating uncertainty around its passage. Key objections center on the spending's scope and the inclusion of specific provisions like the SAVE Act and foreign aid.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
U.S. and Saudi Arabia Reach Nuclear Cooperation Understanding
The United States and Saudi Arabia have reportedly reached an understanding on nuclear cooperation. This agreement could allow Saudi Arabia to enrich its own uranium, a key component in nuclear fuel production.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Pentagon Identifies Third Service Member in Jordan Attack
The Pentagon has identified a third service member killed in a drone attack on a U.S. base in Jordan. The Department of Defense previously named two other soldiers who died in the incident. The attack also injured dozens of U.S. military personnel.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Janesville Debates Future as AI Data Center Proposal Emerges
Janesville, Wisconsin, a city once hit hard by economic downturns, now faces a new debate. A proposed AI data center brings the promise of jobs and investment, but also raises questions about local resources and impact.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
EEOC Proposes End to Employer Demographic Reporting Requirement
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission plans to stop requiring private sector employers to submit annual workforce demographic data. This proposal would end a mandate that has been in place for six decades, affecting tens of thousands of businesses.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
House Passes Bill to Extend Government Funding
The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill to extend government funding. This action seeks to prevent a third government shutdown since last September. The legislation now proceeds to the Senate.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Supreme Court to Consider Benchmark Requirement in ERISA Lawsuits
The Supreme Court will review a case concerning retirement plan investments. The decision could affect how participants challenge investment performance and potentially impact employer-sponsored retirement plans nationwide. The case focuses on whether plaintiffs must identify a 'meaningful benchmark' when alleging underperforming funds.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
U.S. Trade Representative to Address Congressional Panel on Administration's Agenda
Jamieson Greer, the U.S. trade chief, is scheduled to testify before a congressional panel. This testimony follows the U.S. President's announcement of 50% tariffs on most Canadian goods and subsequent agreement with Canada to intensify trade negotiations.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Nolan Wells Family to Release Independent Autopsy Findings
The family of Nolan Wells, represented by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, will announce the preliminary results of an independent autopsy. Crump plans to hold a news conference at the annual NAACP National Convention in Chicago.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Trump-Endorsed Candidates Win Arizona Primary Races
Candidates endorsed by former President Donald Trump won primary elections in Arizona. These candidates had previously raised questions about the 2020 election results. The primary results establish the field for upcoming general election contests.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
U.S. Inflation Rate Reaches 3.5% in June
Annual inflation in the United States registered 3.5% in June. This figure represents a decrease from the previous month's high. Geopolitical developments in the Middle East introduce uncertainty for energy prices.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Family Seeks Answers After Fatal Shooting by Federal Agents
A family interviewed by NPR is seeking answers following the fatal shooting of a man by federal agents. This incident follows similar deaths involving agents in Maine, Texas, and Tennessee.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Federal Reserve Chair Addresses Inflation, Cyclosporiasis Cases Rise, New York Halts Data Center Construction
Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh told a House committee that inflation would become 'a thing of the past.' Meanwhile, national cyclosporiasis cases approach 7,000, and New York enacted a moratorium on new large data centers.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Ukrainian President Arrives in UK for Talks with New Prime Minister
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in the United Kingdom today. He will meet with Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who recently assumed office. The meeting represents Burnham's initial international engagement as prime minister.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Trump Addresses Economic Policy, Tariffs in Michigan Visit
Former President Donald Trump recently visited General Motors in Michigan. He spoke about his economic policies and the impact of tariffs on the auto industry. The visit highlighted differing views on economic recovery and trade practices.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Oil Prices Decline Amid U.S.-Iran Diplomatic Efforts
Oil prices experienced a drop on Monday. This decline occurred as the United States and Iran indicated a pause in recent hostilities to facilitate diplomatic engagement.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
U.S. and Iran Implement Pause in Military Actions Amid Calls for Diplomacy
Military activities between the United States and Iran have paused, creating conditions for potential diplomatic engagement. This development follows a period of heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Trump Administration Seeks Supreme Court Intervention on Mail-In Voting Restrictions
The Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to permit the full implementation of an executive order concerning mail-in voting. This action follows a federal judge's order that paused parts of the directive in 23 states and Washington D.C., and a subsequent appeals court decision upholding that pause.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Ukraine Dismisses Iranian Retaliation Threats After Caspian Sea Incident
Ukraine has dismissed warnings from Iran following an incident involving a vessel in the Caspian Sea. Iran's foreign minister stated the assault 'cannot go unanswered.' The incident has drawn attention to potential links between various conflicts.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
McConnell Provides Health Update, Will Miss Fancy Farm Event
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell released a new photo and provided an update on his health. He confirmed he will not attend the upcoming Fancy Farm picnic in Kentucky. McConnell is undergoing rehabilitation after sustaining a concussion and fractured rib in a fall earlier this year.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Trump Indicates Potential for 'Strong Military Action' if Iran Diplomacy Fails
Former President Donald Trump stated he is prepared for 'strong military action' if diplomatic efforts with Iran do not succeed. He also indicated that talks were occurring during a period of reduced military strikes.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Trump Administration Requests Supreme Court Action on Mail-In Voting Before Midterms
The Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to permit the implementation of an order impacting mail-in voting. This development occurs ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. The Department of Justice filed the request.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Senate Control: Democrats Target Four Republican Seats
Democrats aim to gain control of the U.S. Senate by securing four additional seats. Republicans are defending their current positions.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
U.S. Halts Iran Strikes Amid Signals for Diplomacy
The Trump administration has paused military strikes against Iran, signaling an openness to diplomatic talks. This decision followed concerns from advisors regarding potential escalation.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
U.S. Pauses Iran Strikes Amid Talks, Red Sea Conflict Intensifies
The United States has not initiated military strikes against Iran. U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz attributed this pause to ongoing diplomatic discussions. Meanwhile, conflict continues to escalate in the Red Sea region.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Waltz Addresses Military Munitions Supplies on 'Meet the Press'
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz stated the military possesses 'everything that it needs.' His remarks followed a report on military commanders selectively intercepting attacks to conserve weapons.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Tennessee Town Builds Components for Missile Production
A Tennessee town produces components for missile systems. This manufacturing work contributes to the local economy. The facility's operations reflect an ongoing defense production effort.
Thursday, August 20, 2026