USA TODAY is reporting that President Donald Trump's recent decision to ease tariffs on 300,000 metric tons of foreign beef imports for 90 days has drawn strong criticism from Montana cattle ranchers. The outlet said ranchers described the move as "absolutely idiotic" and a "perfect storm of crap," expressing concerns that the increased imports, coupled with a trade war with Canada and the war with Iran, are squeezing their profits ahead of a challenging fall season. Tim Brunner, president of the Montana Cattlemen's Association, told USA TODAY that the perception of more beef on the market is already leading to lower prices for cows at auction.
In other political news, USA TODAY reported that Iowa's two leading Democratic candidates, gubernatorial nominee Rob Sand and U.S. Senate nominee Josh Turek, have stated they do not want former Vice President Kamala Harris to campaign with them. The candidates are seeking statewide victories in Republican-leaning territory.
The outlet also noted that almost all of Trump's endorsed candidates won their 2026 Republican primaries. It said Usha Vance is keeping an "open mind" on a potential presidential run for Vice President JD Vance.
Regarding international affairs, USA TODAY reported that Washington and Tehran are grappling with the question of who is winning the war in Iran six months into the conflict. It said one side struggles to convert military superiority into political gains, while the other may only need to survive to claim victory.
Additionally, USA TODAY reported that President Trump signed an executive order directing his administration to change the name of Lake Ontario to Lake America during the trade war with Canada. It also said opponents criticized Trump's threat to demolish the Kennedy Center as "delusional."