NPR is reporting that the State Department has begun issuing commemorative passports featuring President Donald J Trump's image to celebrate America's 250th birthday. It said these limited-edition passports have drawn long lines from supporters and faced backlash from critics.
Democratic lawmakers are calling on Graham Platner to withdraw from the U.S. Senate race in Maine after a former girlfriend alleged he sexually assaulted her in 2021, NPR is reporting. Politico reported the allegation, stating Platner allegedly entered her home while intoxicated and forced her to have sex despite her objections. Platner denied the allegations to NPR, calling them "troubling, serious, and false," and is assessing his next steps, NPR's Elena Moore tells Up First. Moore said this is the first major news outlet report of an assault allegation against Platner, whose race is crucial for Democrats to regain Senate control.
President Trump and NATO leaders are gathering in Ankara, Turkey, for the defense alliance's annual summit, NPR is reporting. Ahead of his arrival, the president expressed dissatisfaction with the organization on social media, citing disproportionate U.S. spending. NPR's Hadeel Al-Shalchi says the summit aims to showcase unity, but it comes as the U.S. plans to shrink its presence in Europe. Al-Shalchi said NATO leaders are expected to discuss increasing defense spending, Ukraine support, and reaffirm a commitment to spend 5% of GDP on defense.
The dangerous heat wave that swept across much of the eastern U.S. over the July Fourth weekend could be the nation's new normal, according to experts cited by NPR. Scientists said climate change is driving more extreme temperatures and heavier rainfall, contributing to costly damage to roads. Engineers suggest using a more durable asphalt blend as a solution, as the traditional U.S. approach to infrastructure is no longer sufficient.
NPR is also reporting on the World Cup, noting the U.S. men's national team lost 4-1 to Belgium. The tournament marks the end of an era for several prominent players, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, who both confirmed their last World Cup appearances. Ronaldo, 41, made his sixth World Cup appearance and scored three goals. Neymar, whose team lost 2-1 to Norway, said, "It started here... and I finished here. It is now over," according to the AP. Host city report cards are emerging, with Seattle's infrastructure handling increased traffic well and Boston's soccer bars planning for future events. Cape Verde, despite a 3-2 loss to Argentina, found victory in defeat.