Today’s Sponsor: Ground News
Today’s Rundown:
- TEXAS FLOOD DEATHS TOP 100 AS RESCUES CONTINUE: Heavy rains over July 4–7 caused flash flooding across Central Texas, pushing the death toll past 100—84 confirmed in Kerr County alone, including 28 children—with 11 still missing as of July 8. Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing in the Hill Country, where fast-rising rivers have isolated homes and campsites. Officials are warning of more rain in the week ahead, complicating rescue efforts. A federal disaster declaration is in place, and FEMA has been deployed to aid local teams
- TRUMP HITS JAPAN & SOUTH KOREA WITH 25% TARIFFS IN TRADE WAR REVIVAL: Former President Donald Trump announced he will impose 25% tariffs on imports from Japan and South Korea starting August 1, reigniting concerns of a global trade war. The move is part of a broader “reciprocal tariff” plan targeting countries the U.S. has no free trade agreements with. Trump claims the new tariffs will protect American jobs and manufacturing, especially in auto and electronics sectors. Japan’s yen fell sharply after the news, and South Korea is scrambling to respond through new trade talks. Critics say the tariffs could increase costs for U.S. consumers and strain key diplomatic relationships.
- TRUMP TO REVOKE TPS FOR HONDURAN & NICARAGUAN IMMIGRANTS: The Trump administration announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for about 72,000 Hondurans and 4,000 Nicaraguans, effective early September. DHS says improved conditions in both countries no longer justify the emergency designation, though critics warn it could lead to thousands of deportations. About 22,000 already have green cards and can stay, while others are offered voluntary departure assistance and a $1,000 incentive. Immigration advocates and lawmakers are mobilizing legal challenges
- FANNIE MAE & FREDDIE MAC TO COUNT CRYPTO AS ASSETS: The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has directed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to develop proposals allowing mortgage lenders to count cryptocurrency holdings—like Bitcoin and Solana—as assets in loan applications. FHFA Director William Pulte framed it as part of making the U.S. a global crypto hub. This could help crypto-rich borrowers qualify for mortgages without converting their holdings to cash. Detailed guidelines are expected later this year
- TROOPS & FEDERAL AGENTS SWEEP MACARTHUR PARK IN IMMIGRANT HUB: On July 7, around 90 California National Guard troops and dozens of federal immigration agents descended on MacArthur Park in Westlake, Los Angeles — a neighborhood known for its large immigrant community operation, which involved Humvees, tactical vehicles, and officers on horseback, lasted about an hour and coincided with nearby day camps being hurried to safety. No arrests were confirmed, and DHS did not comment, though residents were left rattled and local leaders called it a political stunt meant to intimidate. Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Newsom criticized the show of force, calling it unnecessary and “reality TV–style,” while legal actions are being considered . Opponents say it highlights the risks of deploying military-style forces in U.S. cities under Trump’s immigration crackdown.
- COLLEGE FOOTBALL 26 OMITS SANDERS AND BELICHICK FROM GAME: EA Sports’ upcoming College Football 26 game—releasing July 10—will not feature high-profile coaches Deion Sanders (Colorado) and Bill Belichick (North Carolina), according to early-access users. Both coaches reportedly opted out, prompting speculation and disappointment among fans. Their absence has sparked conversations across social media about licensing agreements and personal preference.
- AUSTRALIAN WOMAN CONVICTED OF MUSHROOM POISONING MURDERS: In Victoria, Australia, Erin Patterson (50) has been found guilty of murdering three relatives—and attempting to murder a fourth—by serving beef Wellington laced with fatal death cap mushrooms. The victims, including her former in-laws, died in July 2023 while a fourth guest survived. Evidence such as discarded dehydrator parts with her fingerprints and inconsistencies in her account convinced the jury. Sentencing details are still pending.
- US TO RELEASE STERILE FLIES OVER MEXICO AND TEXAS TO FIGHT MAGGOT THREAT: The USDA plans to release millions—potentially billions—of sterile New World screwworm flies via aerial drops over southern Texas and Mexico. The sterile-fly method, successful in past decades, disrupts the pest’s breeding and helps protect livestock, wildlife, and humans from flesh-eating larvae. A breeding facility is slated for Mexico by mid-2026, with a distribution center coming to southern Texas by year’s end. Officials say this science-based solution is urgent to stop a creeping infestation.
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