Attorney General Fight: Todd Blanche heads into a Senate Judiciary confirmation hearing as Democrats warn he’s acting like Trump’s personal lawyer, with questions looming over DOJ investigations, IRS settlement handling, and the Epstein files. U.S.-Iran Escalation: Trump says the U.S. is resuming pressure in the Strait of Hormuz, including a 20% shipping charge, as strikes and retaliation raise fears of a return to all-out war. Immigration Enforcement Fallout: Protesters and immigrant-rights groups demand answers after an ICE officer’s fatal shooting of a Maine driver, with concerns about lack of body cameras and whether the warrant matched the victim. Competition & Antitrust: States led by California sue to block Paramount’s Warner Bros Discovery merger, arguing it could squeeze local theaters and raise cable bills. Religious Liberty Ruling: The Second Circuit upheld New York’s removal of a religious exemption to school vaccination, dealing a blow to families seeking broader exemptions. Public Health Travel Rule: U.S. citizens returning from the DRC face a new 21-day stay requirement before flying home amid Ebola spread concerns. Energy & Climate Politics: New York orders a moratorium on large data-center permits, while a new analysis shows solar generating more electricity than coal for the first time. Economy Watch: The June budget deficit jumped to $120B after tariff refunds surged, and markets steadied after inflation came in less bad than expected. Tech & Trade: Nvidia tightened AI chip approvals for Asian buyers as U.S. export enforcement ramps up; separate reporting highlights a Chinese seismologist detained on espionage charges. Election/Politics: Blackburn holds a 31-point lead in Tennessee’s GOP governor primary, and Kansas KDOT reminds candidates that political signs can’t be placed on state highway right-of-way.