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Major Developments of the Day
As the midterm elections approach, key political figures are visiting crucial states. While President Trump is on the campaign trail, Democrats are also mobilizing significant figures. Former President Barack Obama is scheduled to make appearances in Ohio and Michigan, with plans to travel to Georgia next week. Meanwhile, former Vice President Kamala Harris is visiting Mississippi today, highlighting the competitive Senate race there.
People walk by a polling place at Denver’s Central Library on June 30, 2026.
Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images
Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images
- 🎧 Democrats are focusing efforts on key areas nationwide, reports NPR’s Stephen Fowler on Up First. Key figures like Obama, Harris, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Cory Booker, and former DNC chair Jaime Harrison are actively campaigning. Fowler notes this resembles a “shadow primary” for the 2028 presidential race, with a notable increase in Black voter turnout during early voting. Learn more.
- ➡️ The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has decided to cease issuing endorsements, PAC contributions, or earmarking funds for candidates. The group has faced increasing resistance and criticism, especially regarding its positions on conflicts in Gaza and Iran. Read more.
- ➡️The Department of Justice has begun informing counties about Election Day monitoring plans. This initiative aims to ensure adherence to voting laws, particularly in light of concerns over the Trump administration’s election oversight efforts. Details here.
- ➡️ The NPR App consolidates election coverage in one convenient location. Explore stories, podcasts, videos, and more on the 2026 Election tab.
Plans for a U.S. and Israel military strike on Iran are being prepared, according to a source who wishes to remain anonymous. This operation is slated for after the U.S. midterm elections and Israeli elections. Recent detentions by Israeli forces in the West Bank, including U.S. Democratic congressional nominee Brad Lander and several American rabbis, have raised tensions. More information.
- 🎧 Israel’s initial strike plans were delayed due to objections from President Trump, according to an NPR source. The current preparations might be a strategy to pressure Iran into a diplomatic agreement. NPR’s Ruth Sherlock notes that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could leverage the threat of military action to form a unity government if election results are indecisive. Find out more.
Tesla and SpaceX are considering a merger, potentially amplifying Elon Musk’s global influence as a leading billionaire. The combined entity would have a market cap of approximately $3.7 trillion.
- 🎧 The merger concept was revisited by Musk during SpaceX and Tesla earnings calls. Analysts suggest this could enable Musk to gain a controlling stake in Tesla, with enhanced voting power compared to SpaceX. The merger could help Musk meet growth targets linked to a trillion-dollar pay package approved by Tesla shareholders. Shareholders’ approval is required, but they might request a higher share price. Explore the details.
Today’s Listen
Cardi B performing at the NPR Tiny Desk.
NPR Tiny Desk
NPR Tiny Desk
In a rare occurrence at the NPR Music office, Cardi B’s intimate performance drew such a large crowd that some attendees had to be turned away. Appearing in leather pants and a power blazer, the rapper captivated with her blend of humility and humor. The set opened with “Hello” and concluded with hits “Bodak Yellow” and “I Like It.” For those who missed it, watch her entire Tiny Desk Concert here.
Picture Show
Chip Thomas, a retired physician on the Navajo Reservation, is well known for his large photograhpic murals. Now, he’s been recognized with a MacArthur “genius” grant.
John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
For nearly two decades, Chip Thomas has been creating impactful public art on the Navajo Nation, earning him a prestigious MacArthur Foundation “genius” award. His artwork, which showcases life on the reservation through large black-and-white images, reflects the community’s beauty and resilience. Having moved to the Navajo Nation in 1987 as a family physician, Thomas became an integral part of the community. Explore his stunning work here.
3 Things to Know Before You Go
Gary Tyler speaks about his work at the Grand Rapids Art Museum in Michigan. Behind Tyler are his quilts Big Toe, (2024) and Enduring, (2025). They feature two individuals who are incarcerated. He hopes his work draws attention to their plight and humanity.
Sea Stachura for NPR
Sea Stachura for NPR
- Gary Tyler, a quilt artist once on death row for a crime he didn’t commit, now celebrates his first solo exhibit at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
- New research suggests psilocybin might offer potential benefits for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s.
- Arizona’s Chiricahua National Monument has been elevated to a national park, following recent legislation signed by President Trump. (via AZPM)
This newsletter was edited by Suzanne Nuyen.
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