🇺🇸 US Politics

July 11th, 2026

Today's top 5 stories, curated by Daily Direct.

NPR Politics

Trump dismisses election commissioners, his latest step to shape voting

Trump has fired the three remaining members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, eliminating the bipartisan body responsible for setting federal voting standards and certifying election equipment. The move is the latest in a series of actions aimed at reshaping the administration of American elections. Critics warn the dismissals leave a significant gap in federal oversight heading into future election cycles.

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The Hill

Trump ‘left instructions’ to bomb Iran ‘at levels that they’ve never seen’ if he’s assassinated

Trump told the New York Post he has left standing orders to strike Iran at unprecedented levels in the event of his assassination, citing Tehran's long-standing targeting of him as justification. The statement raises the stakes in an already tense U.S.-Iran relationship, effectively framing his personal security as a matter of national deterrence policy. Whether such instructions carry legal or operational weight remains an open question, but the message is unmistakably aimed at Tehran.

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The Hill

Trump election commission firings spark interference concerns ahead of midterms

The Trump administration's removal of Democratic members from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission has raised alarm among critics who see the move as an attempt to consolidate partisan control over federal election infrastructure. The EAC plays a key role in setting voting standards and distributing election security funding to states. With midterms approaching, the timing has intensified scrutiny over whether the White House intends to influence the mechanics of how elections are run.

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NPR Politics

Largest housing affordability bill in decades becomes law without Trump's signature

The most significant housing affordability legislation in decades has been enacted without President Trump's signature, after he withheld his approval as leverage to pressure Congress on voter ID reform. The standoff highlights the growing tension between Trump's immigration and election-integrity agenda and urgent domestic policy priorities. The bill's passage nonetheless marks a rare legislative win for Americans struggling with record housing costs.

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The Hill

Platner officially withdraws from Maine Senate race

Graham Platner has formally withdrawn from Maine's U.S. Senate race, opening the door for Maine Democrats to select a new nominee this month. The progressive oyster farmer announced his decision via social media, confirming his name should be removed from consideration. The move shifts attention to who the party will rally behind as they work to field a competitive candidate.

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