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From missile shortages and Middle East diplomacy to tariff refunds, a battered CDC, and one congressional custody fight that’s become national news, here’s what you need to know today.
Iran says it’s close to a Strait of Hormuz agreement with Oman, but fighting across the Middle East continues to threaten any hope of stability. Shipping remains disrupted, Israeli troops were killed in Lebanon, Iraq is moving against Iran-backed militias, and the region remains one bad decision away from another major escalation.
President Trump reportedly confronted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over dwindling U.S. missile stockpiles that are limiting military options against Iran. The White House disputes the report, but the Pentagon is already asking Congress for billions to rebuild inventories after months of heavy combat operations.
Rep. Max Miller’s custody battle has become a political liability after court records challenged his public defense over a stuffed blue bunny. What started as a family dispute is now fueling campaign troubles, sinking poll numbers and criticism from fellow Republicans.
Billions of dollars in tariff refunds are flowing back to major corporations, but consumers who paid higher prices are seeing almost none of that money. While companies promise lower prices or future investments, don’t expect a refund check to show up in your mailbox.
The Senate confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as the new CDC director as the agency battles low morale, staffing losses and growing public health threats. She inherits an organization trying to rebuild credibility while confronting measles outbreaks, declining vaccination rates and deep political divisions.
A federal judge held the Department of Homeland Security in contempt after officials failed to produce text messages from agents’ personal phones used during Los Angeles immigration raids. The ruling adds another legal challenge as questions grow over recordkeeping and immigration enforcement practices.
That’s your Morning Sixpack. Six stories, one quick briefing, and enough headlines to make your coffee work overtime.
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