American senator and Army National Guard veteran
The backlog at USCIS has surged to over 12.1 million people, with 5.6 million waiting six months or more for decisions on citizenship, residency, and work permits. A growing number of military families are being detained or deported as protections for service members’ relatives are rolled back across this period.
Democrats have launched a formal inquiry into whether the Pentagon and Homeland Security are coordinating to deport service members and their families, citing DHS and DoD friction and new AP findings. The letter questions policies that have led to deployments delayed to care for detained relatives, while lawmakers demand accountability and policy restoration.
The U.S. beef supply has tightened amid an historic cattle shortage driven by drought and economic pressures. Tyson Foods is closing two beef plants and seeking buyers for another as it reshapes its beef operations. Retail beef prices have climbed while overall meat sales dip; the industry is prioritizing capacity and resilience to rebuild herds.
Arab American and Muslim candidates have won Democratic primaries in New Jersey and Michigan, backed by a pro-Palestinian funding network. Adam Hamawy in New Jersey and Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan have secured nominations in races that could shift campaign finance and foreign-policy debate within the party. Both men would be the first Muslim members of Congress if elected.
The upcoming US-China talks are focusing on artificial intelligence safety and governance as leaders consider dialogue mechanisms and potential safety standards, with a chorus of tech executives weighing in on how to pace AI development.
The Independent and AP News report that Matthew Unglesbee has been charged after sending four white envelopes with a powdery substance to Chicago-area elected officials. Substances tested as non-dangerous; investigators say the suspect knew the method could provoke a hazmat response. Court appearances have begun.
Egyptian-American surgeon Adam Hamawy has won a seat in the U.S. House, becoming New Jersey’s first Muslim congressman. His campaign emphasized healthcare funding and opposition to arms funding for Gaza. His background includes Army service and humanitarian medical work in Gaza, Haiti, and other conflict zones.