USA TODAY is reporting the Senate convened for the first time since the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham, 71, on Saturday due to heart-related issues. Graham, an influential Republican, chaired the Senate Budget Committee and served on Judiciary and Appropriations. His death leaves a significant leadership vacancy, prompting questions about succession and the process for filling his seat. It also increased urgency for the return of Mitch McConnell, 84, who stated he is well.
In other news, USA TODAY said the U.S. launched new strikes on Iran. It also reported a bison tossed a tourist at Yellowstone National Park, and "Jurassic Park" star Sam Neill died at 78.
Three witnesses are disputing the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's account of a fatal shooting of a Mexican national by an agent, calling the agency's version "simply false." Former U.S. officials told USA TODAY that water could be key to understanding where an "explosive diarrhea" bug might hide. Critics say President Donald Trump is attempting to tighten federal control of elections through alternative means, as the SAVE America bill remains stalled.
On the entertainment front, four couples reached the "Love Island USA" Season 8 finale, which aired July 12, 2026, after nearly six weeks of competition. WNBA referee Angelica Suffren discussed her dual life as a competitive ballroom dancer, noting both roles require grace. The "Moana" live-action project took a nosedive, Jay-Z's hometown concert was packed with fans, and Will and Kate attended Wimbledon for a family day.
Polling indicates declining support for President Donald Trump among his white working-class base, raising questions about its impact on Republicans in the midterms. Residential water bills in some U.S. regions could dramatically increase in the coming decades due to hotter, drier weather caused by climate change. Jannik Sinner secured his second consecutive Wimbledon crown on Sunday, defeating Alexander Zverev in the men's final. Police in Cape Town, South Africa, are investigating the death of 25-year-old South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams, whose body was found in a house. Liberty forward Betinjah Laney-Hamilton was ejected from a WNBA game after throwing a shoe at Tempo guard Marina Mabrey.