In the news now: Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey’s 57th governor, is steering state policy after taking office as a former naval officer and ex-federal prosecutor. Bio: Democrat, born 1972.
A new national helpline, SafeCall, launched in January to support children in crisis, has helped prevent young people from going missing or experiencing exploitation. Meanwhile, West Virginia advances legislation to expand foster care options, and Connecticut considers ending a program that supports at-home care for disabled children. These efforts aim to improve youth welfare and independence.
Washington state has enacted a law banning non-transparent face coverings for law enforcement officers, citing community safety concerns. The law allows legal action against officers who flout the ban. Similar measures are being considered in other states, reflecting ongoing debates over police conduct and immigration enforcement.
Democrat Analilia Mejía has won New Jersey's 11th District special election, maintaining Democratic control in a narrowly divided House. Meanwhile, the House has voted 214-213 against a war powers resolution aimed at limiting President Trump's military actions in Iran, reflecting deep partisan divides as the Iran conflict continues with no clear end.
The SAVE America Act has become a central GOP priority as midterms approach. POLITICO polling shows core provisions have some support, notably voter-ID requirements, but overall enthusiasm for the sweeping elections bill remains limited and partisan divides are sharpening ahead of voting.
Three deaths have been reported from hantavirus linked to the MV Hondius; several states are monitoring residents who recently disembarked the ship. Health officials say the immediate public risk remains very low as investigations continue and evacuations are underway.
Drought and heat have deepened losses for U.S. wheat farmers as irrigation and drought conditions worsen. Growers report sharply lower yields and higher input costs, with USDA data forecasting a historically small crop and insurance considerations shaping farmer decisions.
The UN World Food Programme has intensified emergency food and nutrition aid as hunger risks rise amid conflict, climate shocks, and funding shortfalls across multiple regions, including Sudan and South Sudan. Delivery faces security and transport hurdles with the rainy season approaching.
Protests outside the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark have intensified as detainees report hunger strikes and harsh conditions. Officials have denied hunger strikes and access to inspectors, while lawmakers visit and clashes with police persist.
Bruce Springsteen has used a recent Washington show to critique U.S. immigration detention practices, calling out for-profit centers and urging action from the audience. He has performed politically charged songs and rallied the crowd around ICE and detention issues, with a forthcoming charity festival expanding the activism angle.
Adam Hamawy has won the Democratic primary in New Jersey’s 12th district, while facing scrutiny over past ties to the Blind Sheikh. He is running on healthcare and anti-war policies and is supported by progressive allies and a pro‑Palestinian PAC. The race reflects broader gains by progressive candidates in blue districts ahead of November.
Demonstrations outside Delaney Hall, a 1,000-bed detention center run by GEO Group, have intensified as detainees report moldy food, overcrowded cells, and lack of medical care. The Trump administration defends the facility; investigators press for full access as questions mount over conditions and use-of-force incidents.
New Jersey authorities confirm visitation partial restoration at the Delaney Hall immigration detention center amid protests and hunger strikes, after weeks of clashes with police and public scrutiny of conditions. Officials say access will expand in coming days, while demonstrations continue.