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Today’s Highlights
Senate’s Crucial Tax and Spending Bill Under Review: Intense negotiations are underway in the Senate concerning the broad Republican tax and spending bill, backed by President Trump, who aims for its passage by Friday. With limited leeway, the GOP can afford to lose only three votes, following the initial rejection by two members, including Sen. Thom Tillis (N.C.). NPR’s Deirdre Walsh notes Tillis’ apprehensions regarding the potential Medicaid cuts, which could significantly burden state finances. Read more
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., (R) says he hopes to pass the Senate’s massive tax and spending bill this week. If he succeeds, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., (L), will have to sell the bill to holdouts in his own party if he hopes to meet President Trump’s goal of signing the bill on July 4.
Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images North America
Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images North America
- 🎧 Challenges Ahead for House Approval: If the Senate greenlights the bill, the House may face difficulties. The revised bill, which enhances funding for border security and military while raising the debt ceiling by $5 trillion, has already raised concerns among Republicans. Medicaid changes, including new work requirements and funding adjustments, could lead to nearly 12 million Americans losing coverage, as per Congress’ nonpartisan scorekeeper. Learn more
New National Citizenship Data System: The Trump administration has introduced a nationwide searchable citizenship database to aid election officials in validating voter eligibility. This initiative, developed by the Department of Homeland Security and the White House’s Department of Government Efficiency, leverages data from the Social Security Administration and immigration records. However, concerns have been raised about potential alternative uses of this information. Read the full story
Tragic Shooting in North Idaho: A sniper attack in Kootenai County, Idaho, resulted in the deaths of two firefighters. The suspect, whose body was found with a weapon nearby, is believed to be the sole perpetrator. The investigation continues to uncover the motives behind this shocking act. Sheriff Bob Norris highlights the challenging terrain of Canfield Mountain, where the incident occurred. Read more
- 🎧 Firefighters Targeted in Ambush: The incident unfolded shortly after the arrival of firefighters to tackle a grass fire. With the region’s history of anti-authority violence, this attack on firefighters has left the community grappling for understanding. Eliza Billingham from NPR network station Spokane Public Radio reports. Learn more
Health Insights
“Just say no to power peeing,” says pelvic floor physical therapist Sara Reardon. “You want to sit, relax and let it flow.” Tense pelvic floor muscles can cause constipation.
Antonio Hugo Photo/Getty Images
Antonio Hugo Photo/Getty Images
The pelvic floor is vital for bodily functions, supporting organs and collaborating with abdominal muscles. Despite its importance, many remain unaware of these muscles until issues arise. Research shows that one in three women will experience a pelvic floor disorder. Physical therapist Sara Reardon offers insights on addressing pelvic floor issues. Discover more
- ➡️ Avoid “power peeing” by allowing yourself to sit and relax during urination.
- ➡️ Pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to muscle tension, causing bowel movement difficulties.
- ➡️ Mitigate pelvic floor tension through posture awareness and varied movement.
For further advice on pelvic health, listen to this NPR Life Kit episode. Subscribe to the Life Kit newsletter for more expert advice.
Picture Show
Cindy and Jo share an intimate moment in their spare bedroom during a 120-degree summer day in Blythe, California.
Morgan Lieberman
Morgan Lieberman
“Hidden Once, Hidden Twice” is a visual documentary project by Morgan Lieberman, focusing on the lives of senior lesbian couples across the U.S. While younger LGBTQ+ generations have gained visibility, older lesbian women often remain in the shadows. The project highlights diverse women, from activists to writers, who have been pivotal in the fight for rights long before same-sex marriage was legalized. These women share stories of resilience, including surviving the AIDS crisis. Explore more about Lieberman’s project and view the featured couples.
3 Key Facts Before You Go
Karen de Boer in 1992.
Karen de Boer family photo
Karen de Boer family photo
- As a college freshman, Karen de Boer sometimes had loud conversations, disturbing her hallmate Pam. However, when de Boer missed a bus, Pam unexpectedly offered her a ride, showcasing a heartwarming act of forgiveness. Read the story
- Hamed Ramadan Bayoumy Aly Marie admitted guilt in federal court after he kicked a Customs and Border Protection dog at Washington Dulles International Airport. Read more
- Over 70 authors have signed an open letter urging publishers to refrain from releasing AI-generated books. Learn more
This newsletter was edited by Suzanne Nuyen.
