State News
Thursday, June 18, 2026 · Pikeville
Samaritan's Purse Opens Two Ebola Treatment Centers in Congo
Samaritan's Purse has opened two treatment centers for Ebola patients in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The facilities in Bunia and Nyankunde are equipped to provide specialized care during the outbreak.
MP Plans New Push for Assisted Dying Bill in Parliament
Labour MP Lauren Edwards announced plans to bring forward the same assisted dying bill that cleared the House of Commons but ran out of time in the House of Lords. The move signals a renewed effort to advance the contentious end-of-life care legislation.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Georgia Faces July Deadline to Replace QR Code Ballot System
Georgia's legislature passed a law two years ago that prohibits the state from using QR codes on ballots after July 1, 2024. Lawmakers have not yet implemented a replacement system, prompting legislative action this week to address the deadline.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump and Pakistani Premier Announce U.S.-Iran Peace Agreement
President Donald Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced Sunday that the United States and Iran have reached a peace agreement. Iranian state media broadcast confirmation of the announcement.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Israel launches air strikes on Lebanon as Iran signals progress toward US deal
Israel carried out air strikes against targets in Lebanon, according to Lebanese state media. Iran's foreign minister said negotiators were nearing a deal with the United States.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Senator Lindsey Graham Dies at 68
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham died Saturday at 68. He served more than 30 years in Congress and was a prominent voice on foreign policy. Graham became a close ally of President Donald Trump.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
US Sanctions Entities Supporting Ransomware Operations
The United States has sanctioned a VPN service and two individuals for allegedly providing critical support to ransomware groups. These groups have reportedly targeted American hospitals, schools, businesses, and local governments. The sanctions represent a coordinated international effort to disrupt cybercrime networks.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
HHS Drops Plan to Withhold Funding Over Gender-Affirming Care
The Department of Health and Human Services has decided against a directive that would have allowed the agency to cut Medicare and Medicaid funding. This decision affects hospitals providing gender-affirming care to minors nationwide.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Judge Voids Trump IRS Settlement, Cites 'Improper Purposes'
A federal judge has invalidated a $1.8 billion settlement between Donald Trump and the IRS. The court found the legal action behind the settlement served 'improper purposes' and referred a Trump attorney for potential disciplinary review.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Oil Prices Rise Following US Statement on Strait of Hormuz
Oil prices experienced a noticeable increase after President Trump's social media announcement concerning compensation for US assistance in the Strait of Hormuz. The statement outlined a US expectation for reimbursement related to shipping security.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Says U.S. Will Impose 'Iranian Blockade' in Strait of Hormuz
President Trump stated the United States will reinstate a naval 'blockade' on Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement follows reports of ongoing incidents between the U.S. and Iran. The strait represents a key waterway for global oil shipments.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Report: Free School Meal Students Face Widening Academic Gap
A new report from the Education Policy Institute indicates students eligible for free school meals are experiencing a growing academic achievement gap compared to their peers. The organization recommends the incoming prime minister prioritize addressing these educational disparities.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Consumers Find Switching Providers Simpler for Banking, Energy, and Internet
Individuals now face fewer hurdles when changing their broadband, energy suppliers, or banking institutions. Reports suggest the process has become less complicated, reflecting developments in consumer services.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Declines to Sign Bipartisan Housing Affordability Legislation
President Donald Trump announced he would not sign a bipartisan housing affordability bill. The legislation will become law Friday without his signature. Presidents have 10 days to veto a bill before it automatically enacts.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
FCC Chairman Calls for Review of E-Rate Program
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has requested a review of the E-Rate program, a federal initiative that assists public and some private schools, as well as libraries, in covering their monthly internet expenses. The program relies on consumer fees for its funding. Carr previously advocated for ending the program.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
U.S.-Iran Hostilities Reportedly Pause Amid Ceasefire; Israel Expands Gaza Control Zones
A ceasefire has reportedly paused direct conflict between the United States and Iran following two days of hostilities. Meanwhile, reports detail life inside Israel's expanding zones of control across Gaza.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
ACLU Legal Director Discusses Supreme Court Work at SCOTUSblog Event
Cecillia Wang, National Legal Director of the ACLU, discussed her work on cases before the Supreme Court at a recent SCOTUSblog event. She addressed the organization's involvement in a birthright citizenship challenge and forthcoming litigation regarding a Texas Ten Commandments law. Wang also reflected on the organization's increasing caseload.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
U.S. and Iran Exchange Strikes Amid Ceasefire Uncertainties
Military engagements between the United States and Iran have increased. These actions follow a statement from the American president indicating an ongoing ceasefire had concluded. Iran has communicated intentions to retaliate.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Mexico Seeks Criminal Charges Following Deaths Tied to ICE Actions
Mexico announced its intention to pursue criminal charges related to deaths involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The move follows criticism from the Mexican government regarding the treatment of its citizens.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Older Adults Without Close Family Connections Face Unique Challenges
A rising number of older adults age independently, lacking immediate family support. Experts suggest societal adjustments can benefit this expanding group and the broader population.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Oil Prices Rise Following US Sanctions on Iran
Crude oil prices increased by over 9% on Monday after the United States reinstated sanctions against Iran. President Trump stated the U.S. would seek reimbursement for protecting shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Lindsey Graham's Death Alters Senate Dynamics
Senator Lindsey Graham's death introduces new variables into ongoing Senate proceedings. His absence affects committee assignments and future legislative priorities during a period of active congressional work.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Election Assistance Commission Faces Operational Challenges
Thomas Hicks, a former chairman of the Election Assistance Commission, stated the agency currently faces operational impediments. The EAC assists state and local jurisdictions with election preparations.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Senate Democrats Block Defense Bill Amid Iran Concerns
Senate Democrats blocked the annual National Defense Authorization Act. Democratic leaders cited concerns about the current US stance on Iran as a reason for their opposition. The vote prevents the bill from moving forward.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Environmental Groups Challenge Changes to Endangered Species Act Definition
Environmental organizations have initiated legal action against the federal government. The lawsuits address a recent change in the definition of 'harm' within the Endangered Species Act, which advocates argue could alter wildlife protection measures.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Upcoming Ballot Measures Address State Constitutional Amendment Process
Voters in multiple states will consider ballot measures this year proposing changes to the thresholds for state constitutional amendments. These initiatives aim to adjust the process for amending state constitutions.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
TSCL Projects 3.8% COLA for 2027
The Senior Citizens League (TSCL) projects a 3.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2027. This figure represents a 1.0 percentage point increase over the current year's COLA.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Announces Resumption of Iran 'Fighting,' Proposes Gulf Tolls
Former President Donald Trump declared a resumption of 'fighting' with Iran. He outlined plans for a blockade and proposed tolls for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump suggested Gulf nations should pay for U.S. naval protection.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Supreme Court Justices Testify on Budget, Security Concerns
Supreme Court Justices Elena Kagan and Amy Coney Barrett appeared before congressional subcommittees to discuss the Court's budget and security needs. Their testimony focused on a $228 million request for the upcoming fiscal year, with a significant portion allocated to security enhancements.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Gasoline Prices Fluctuate Amidst Middle East Conflict
Gasoline prices have seen fluctuations in recent periods. These changes coincide with global events impacting maritime commerce, particularly in key oil transit routes. Drivers have experienced uncertainty regarding fuel expenses.
Thursday, June 18, 2026