Texas city of growth, Western heritage, and federal court ties
The AP-NORC poll shows broad disapproval of the war and Trump’s Iran policy, while voters weigh economic concerns ahead of the midterms as a Washington stopover highlights Pennsylvania’s swing-state status.
Federal court in Fort Worth has handed down lengthy prison terms to nine protesters linked to the July 4 Prairieland protest outside a Dallas immigration detention center. Defendants face sentences from 30 to 100 years after being convicted or pleading guilty to terrorism-related charges amid a government push to curb anti-ICE protests. The cases are seen as a potential test of First Amendment rights for protesters nationwide.
A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows Americans are skeptical about lasting peace with Iran even as a deal opens shipping lanes. Trump’s popularity on Iran-related issues has slipped, and gas prices remain elevated. The Reuters/Ipsos poll covers 1,262 U.S. adults and highlights bipartisan concerns ahead of midterms.
Across the United States, the 250th anniversary is being marked with large city celebrations and small-town gatherings as Americans celebrate liberty amid heat waves and political divisions. The government has organized big-city events while thousands join parades, concerts, and community activities from Nebraska to Texas.
The Miami judge has issued a default judgment against Maduro, Saab and others for failing to respond to a civil action tied to alleged torture and a network dubbed the Cartel of the Suns. The actions seek damages under the Anti-Terrorism Act as Americans sue Venezuelan officials over imprisonment and abuse. A related ruling targets the group’s leaders as part of ongoing accountability efforts.
The Sunshine Protection Act has passed the House to make daylight saving time permanent in most of the United States. Senate consideration is uncertain and health experts warn permanent DST could disrupt sleep, while some communities push for permanent standard time. The decision hinges on balancing public health, regional impacts, and the logistics of time-zone alignment.
The Supreme Court is being pressed as states challenge President Trump’s March executive order to create a national voter list and restrict mail ballots. Courts have blocked key provisions, while the administration seeks emergency relief ahead of the midterms.
Nazira Haji Zada, a 47-year-old permanent resident, appears in the Alien Terrorist Removal Court after her relatives were convicted in Oklahoma for an ISIS-inspired plot to attack voters on Election Day 2024. The court, created in 1996, has yet to hear a petition. The government argues she pledged loyalty to ISIS and aided the conspiracy, while her counsel argues the case violates due process.