State News
Thursday, June 18, 2026 · Valencia
CDC Links Infant Botulism Cases to Nara Organics Formula
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified a connection between infant botulism cases and Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula. Health officials recommend parents discontinue use of the product.
Ebola outbreak disrupts daily life in eastern Congo
An Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has altered routines across the region, with hospitals converting to containment centers and residents grappling with competing sources of information.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell Hospitalized
Mitch McConnell, the former Republican Senate Majority Leader, entered a hospital on Sunday, according to his spokesman. McConnell has used a wheelchair in the Capitol in recent months.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
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.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
U.S. and Israeli strikes degrade Iran's military; administration claims strategic goals met
Joint U.S. and Israeli military strikes have significantly weakened Iran's armed forces and resulted in deaths of senior commanders. The Trump administration said Friday it has met its stated objectives, though details on specific goals have not been disclosed.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Responds to Iranian Funeral Rhetoric with Social Media Post
President Donald Trump posted on social media overnight regarding potential missile strikes against Iran. This came after attendees at the funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reportedly called for the U.S. leader's death. International mediators continue efforts to preserve a nuclear deal.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Proposed Legislation Aims to Combat Financial Fraud Against Older Americans
Incidents reported to the Federal Trade Commission reveal older Americans lost nearly $2.4 billion to financial fraud in 2024. A bill introduced in Congress intends to bolster efforts combating these scams. The legislation focuses on increased training and inter-agency cooperation.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Advocates Shift Focus After Recent Federal Court Rulings on Transgender Rights
Following recent Supreme Court decisions affecting LGBTQ rights, including a ruling on transgender athletes, advocates are re-evaluating their strategies. Legal teams are now focusing efforts on specific areas following these federal court outcomes.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Board Game Manufacturer Explores Domestic Production Amid Tariff Pressures
Jonathan Silva, head of WS Game Company, sought to produce a Monopoly edition in the United States. This came after tariffs impacted his imported board game products. The company explored domestic manufacturing options for the game.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Campaigns Deploy AI for Personalized Text Messages
Political campaigns now utilize artificial intelligence to generate personalized text messages for voters. These bots aim to mimic a candidate's communication style, engaging recipients in tailored conversations. This strategy represents a new method for campaigns to connect with the electorate.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Judge Vacates Remaining Jan. 6 Proud Boys Convictions
A federal judge has vacated the remaining convictions against four individuals associated with the Proud Boys. This action follows a request from the Department of Justice and impacts some of the last cases standing after presidential pardons issued in January 2025.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Colorado River Basin Farmers Confront Water Shortages After Dry Winter
Farmers in Colorado face increased water allocation challenges following a dry winter, which reduced snowpack feeding the Colorado River. This situation compounds an ongoing drought affecting communities across the Western U.S. and Mexico. Scientists attribute the drought's increasing severity to climate change.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
U.S. Designates Two Mexican Cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations
U.S. authorities designated two additional Mexican cartels as foreign terrorist organizations in February 2025. This designation expands the government's ability to act against these groups and individuals aiding them. The measure targets Latin American cartels.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Intel Nominee Jay Clayton Faces Senate Committee
Jay Clayton, the nominee for a senior intelligence position, appeared before the Senate. Democratic lawmakers expressed concerns regarding potential interference in upcoming elections. This hearing occurs as the current intelligence chief prepares to conclude his term.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Pentagon Addresses Costs Amid Airstrikes in Iran
U.S. forces continued airstrikes against Iran for a fourth consecutive day. Lawmakers questioned the Pentagon regarding the financial resources allocated for these military operations. The discussions focused on the costs associated with the ongoing actions.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Buy Now, Pay Later Providers Face New Authorization Requirements
Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) lenders must now secure authorization to operate, marking a change in consumer credit regulation. This shift aims to establish increased protections for individuals using these payment options. The Financial Conduct Authority will oversee these firms.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Former White House Attorney Discusses Potential Emergency Declaration
A former White House attorney, Ty Cobb, discussed the possibility of President Trump declaring a national emergency. Cobb reviewed the limits of presidential authority and the potential consequences for future elections. His comments precede President Trump's speech given Thursday night.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Iran Announces Potential Trade Route Blockade Amid U.S. Statements
Iran has indicated it could block additional trade routes. This development follows remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump about potential targets in Iran.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Cyclospora Infections Reported Across More Than 30 States
A parasitic illness, cyclospora, has spread to over 30 states. Health authorities are investigating potential connections to fresh produce. Michigan's top health official suggested a possible link to lettuce.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
ICE Temporarily Suspends Most Vehicle Interceptions Following Fatal Shootings
Immigration and Customs Enforcement has suspended most vehicle stops nationwide, a direct order from the Trump administration. This policy change follows two separate incidents in which ICE agents fatally shot individuals during vehicle encounters.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Administration Considered, Then Dropped, Strait of Hormuz Toll Plan
A proposal during the Trump administration to impose a toll on ships traversing the Strait of Hormuz was considered and subsequently abandoned after a rapid internal pushback. The plan aimed to fund increased security for commercial shipping in the critical waterway. Officials worked for a full day to present concerns about the potential economic and geopolitical fallout.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
India and UK Implement Free Trade Agreement
India and the United Kingdom have implemented a free trade agreement. This accord connects the fifth and sixth largest global economies. Officials anticipate changes for consumers and industries in both nations.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche Faces Confirmation Hearing
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche will undergo a confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill. Senators will question Blanche for his permanent appointment to head the Justice Department.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
U.S. House Passes Legislation to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent
The United States House of Representatives voted to make Daylight Saving Time permanent across the country. This legislation would eliminate the bi-annual clock change, establishing a year-round Daylight Saving schedule. The bill now awaits a vote in the Senate.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Housing Bill Advances to Law Without Presidential Signature
A new housing bill is set to become law without the president's signature after clearing Congress with bipartisan support. The measure introduces new housing regulations and incentives. President Trump withheld his signature in protest of a separate legislative matter.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
U.S. President Demands Iran Reopen Strait of Hormuz
President Donald Trump has demanded that Iran publicly commit to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The demand follows what the United States identified as an Iranian violation of an existing ceasefire agreement. That alleged violation involved firing on commercial ships.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
ICE Temporarily Halts Vehicle Pursuits Nationwide
Immigration and Customs Enforcement has issued a temporary, nationwide directive to its officers. The order instructs personnel to cease pursuing individuals in vehicles. This action comes after an ICE-involved shooting incident in Maine.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
New Regulations Require Buy Now Pay Later Lenders to Seek Authorization
Buy Now Pay Later lenders must now obtain authorization to operate. This change introduces new obligations for companies and offers consumers additional safeguards, including potential refunds for transactions.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Trump Replaces Election Commission Members Ahead of Midterms
President Trump has removed the remaining members of a bipartisan federal agency. This agency assists state and local officials with election administration and voting equipment certification. The dismissals occur as preparations for the upcoming midterm elections are underway.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Housing Affordability Legislation Enacted
A new housing affordability bill has become law in the United States. President Donald Trump did not sign the measure; however, he did not veto it. The legislation aims to increase housing access and reduce costs.
Thursday, June 18, 2026