AGP Executive Report

AI Infrastructure & Wall Street: BlackRock will take an 80% stake in Meta’s $14B, 1,000-acre AI data center campus in El Paso, leaving Meta with about 20% ownership—another sign investors are increasingly footing the bill for the AI buildout. Foreign Policy & Security: The USS George Washington carrier strike group is operating in the South China Sea after transiting the Luzon Strait, as the Navy frames the patrol around freedom of navigation. Trade & Food Prices: The U.S. will lift its Mexico cattle import ban in phases, starting with Arizona, to help ease a beef supply squeeze that has pushed retail prices to record levels. Elections & Voting Rights: California AG Rob Bonta is defending the state’s mail-in voting system as the Trump administration seeks Supreme Court intervention over federal voter-list rules. Housing Wealth & “Golden Handcuffs”: U.S. homeowners with mortgages hold a record $17.9T in equity, but low rates are keeping many from selling and tightening the market. Tech & Consumer Updates: Microsoft says major Windows 11 security updates arrive Aug. 11, including new sign-in and voice features. Politics Watch: Sen. Mitch McConnell remains in rehab and won’t return to the Senate this week, missing Kentucky’s Fancy Farm picnic.

US-Iran Tensions: Explosions in Erbil near the U.S. consulate followed alleged Iranian drone strikes, with reports of U.S. aircraft flying over the city as diplomacy tries to keep a fragile pause. Election Integrity: California Democrats Adam Schiff and Ro Khanna reintroduced the AI Ads Act to ban deceptive AI-generated campaign ads that could mislead voters. Voting Rules Fight: A federal appeals court upheld an injunction blocking Trump’s order to create a federal voter list, keeping the legal fight alive. Prediction Markets: A Minnesota judge preliminarily blocked the state’s prediction market ban, siding with Kalshi, Polymarket, and the CFTC. Border/Trade & Infrastructure: A new U.S.-Canada bridge in Detroit opened for traffic as tariffs and trade disputes test ties. Public Safety & Justice: Curry County, Oregon, is investigating undisclosed donations to the sheriff’s office after tax records showed money that the county says it can’t account for. Health & Cost Pressure: Vermont Gov. Phil Scott argues healthcare policy should be judged by affordability and results, criticizing the state’s long-running push toward single-payer. Climate & Heat: A record-breaking heat wave set new highs and kept extreme heat warnings active across parts of the U.S.

Federal Voting Fight: A U.S. appeals court upheld an injunction blocking President Trump’s order to create a federal voter list and restrict mail ballots to people on it, keeping the dispute alive in 23 states. Tariffs in the Spotlight: Trump defended sweeping 50% Canada tariffs in Michigan, aiming to tie the policy to saving auto jobs as early voting ramps up for the Aug. 4 primary. Education Department Shakeup: House Republicans advanced a package to dismantle parts of the Education Department, but Senate action looks unlikely as Democrats push to block transfers. Anti-Abortion Push: Anti-abortion groups are using environmental law arguments to target access to mifepristone, despite experts warning the science is weak. Middle East Pause: The U.S. and Iran extended a pause in attacks as drones hit Saudi and regional mediators push for talks. State Politics: Georgia’s 13th District special election heads to a crowded field after Rep. David Scott’s death, with six candidates vying for the seat.

U.S.-Iran Diplomacy: The U.S. and Iran paused attacks for a second straight day as ceasefire talks with Oman gained momentum, with officials saying Trump is giving negotiations “space” while keeping escalation options open. Voting Rights Fight: A federal appeals court upheld a block on Trump’s plan for a federal voter list and mail-ballot limits in 23 states, arguing election rules belong to states and Congress. Public Health: California reported measles cases already more than doubling 2025 totals, with most infections among unvaccinated kids and teens. Immigration Crackdown Scrutiny: Border czar Tom Homan said an ICE officer tied to a deadly Maine shooting is under internal review for vetting and training. Homelessness in Wisconsin: A nonprofit homeless provider’s bankruptcy closure left northeast Wisconsin counties scrambling for shelter capacity. Energy & Housing Policy: Arizona’s appliance rebate program is set to end “fuel switching” for gas-to-electric upgrades after Aug. 1 under new federal DOE rules. Trade & Agriculture: USDA announced a phased reopening of the southern border for live cattle imports starting Aug. 24 if screwworm plans are met. Local Health Care: Sunrise Children’s Hospital in Las Vegas expanded pediatric brain and spine care with a new pediatric neurosurgeon.

Iran Conflict & Diplomacy: The U.S. paused Iran strikes again as mediators (Pakistan and Qatar) push a de-escalation formula, while Iran warns the war could expand if attacks restart and reports claim new strikes and damage around the Gulf and beyond. Election Integrity in the U.S.: Federal courts blocked parts of Trump’s mail-voting changes, keeping the focus on voting access and election administration ahead of the 2026 midterms. Immigration & Families: In California, ICE detentions and deportations of children are fueling grief and anger in schools, including the case of a student detained and deported after a viral airport video. Fraud Crackdown: The FBI says a woman on its “most wanted” fraud list was extradited from Jamaica to face charges tied to a $32 million Covid relief scheme. Public Health: The WHO and partners warn Ebola is spreading in the DRC as tracking and testing capacity strain response efforts.

Voting Rights Fight: A federal appeals court blocked Trump’s mail-in voting overhaul in 23 states, keeping a lower-court ruling that parts of the order are unconstitutional and leaving the administration unable to quickly enforce new rules. Canada Tensions: Trump escalated his wildfire-smoke dispute with Canada by posting an AI image mocking a “North America Air Filter Barrier,” after threatening tariffs tied to smoke and trade. Election Interference Row: Brazil denied visas to two U.S. State Department officials tied to concerns about Brazil’s October election, adding to a broader U.S.-Brazil political and trade fight. Immigration & Education: A federal judge struck down Illinois laws granting in-state tuition, aid, and scholarships to undocumented students, dealing a blow to the state’s sanctuary-style agenda. Public Health: The CDC expanded the cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce to nine states, with nearly 2,000 sick and more cases under investigation. Middle East: CENTCOM said the U.S. blockade of Iran remains in full effect, redirecting vessels and disabling non-compliant ships as tensions continue. Sports: Noah Maclauchlan won the U.S. Junior Amateur in the first all-left-hander final in USGA history.

U.S.-Iran Escalation: The U.S. has widened strikes deeper into Iran, hitting infrastructure and military sites as fighting around the Strait of Hormuz keeps tensions high, while Iran says there was a “peaceful night” after nearly two weeks of attacks. Public Health: The CDC says the worst measles outbreak in 35 years has surged to 2,318 confirmed cases since the start of 2026, as vaccine hesitancy fuels spread. Food Safety: Cyclosporiasis linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce has expanded to nine states, with 1,947 total cases reported. Voting Access: A long-term care and disability-rights fight is also playing out in elections tech, as experts warn that Trump’s moves to restructure the Election Assistance Commission could affect ballot-marking devices used by voters with disabilities. State & Local Watch: Colorado short-term rental rules face uncertainty after progressive primary upsets could reshape oversight, with experts warning about higher rates and lower occupancy. Entertainment & Sports: LeBron James’ surprise deal with the Philadelphia 76ers is driving major headlines nationwide.

Middle East Tensions: Iran says it hit U.S. assets in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait after Washington’s latest strikes, as U.S. embassies warn Americans that leaving options may tighten. Diplomacy vs. escalation: Trump says the U.S. is “locked and loaded” on Iran but still talking, while reports say Pakistan is trying to restart U.S.-Iran talks. Ukraine Peace Talks: Trump and Zelenskiy are set to meet in the U.S., with discussion of an air ceasefire proposal. Public Health: The CDC reports the worst U.S. measles outbreak in 35 years, with 2,318 cases since 2026 began as vaccination rates slip. Tech & Perception: A Pew survey finds more Americans think China is ahead of the U.S. on AI than the other way around. Education Policy: The U.S. Department of Education approved South Dakota’s Returning Education to the States waiver and Ed-Flex authority, freeing millions in federal funds. Trade & Agriculture: USDA will resume limited Mexican cattle imports after a screwworm outbreak, starting with a port in Douglas, Arizona. Culture & Heritage: The U.S. and Nigeria unveiled a digital platform to preserve Nok artifacts using VR/AR and youth training.

South China Sea Diplomacy: The U.S. reiterated it will keep operating in international waters and won’t let any ASEAN-China Code of Conduct undermine American interests, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio met regional leaders in Manila. Middle East Escalation: The U.S. kept up strikes tied to shipping-route tensions while Iran and regional actors traded warnings and attacks, with oil markets reacting to the risk. Water Crisis Watch: Lake Powell and Lake Mead hit record-low combined levels, raising alarms about future water and power shortages for millions. Legal Fight Over Disaster Grants: California AG Rob Bonta led a lawsuit challenging Trump administration conditions on FEMA disaster funding, including demands tied to immigration and election rules. Religious Vaccine Exemptions: Sen. Mike Lee introduced the GRACE Act to cut federal school funding when religious vaccine exemptions aren’t recognized. Public Safety & Courts: A judge paused a State Department lawsuit over immigrant visa holds, demanding better proof of who can sue. Local Governance: Auburn lawmakers weighed a data-center moratorium amid water and wastewater concerns, even as New York’s economy rankings drew fresh attention.

Middle East Escalation: The U.S. marked a 13th straight night of strikes on Iran, with reports of explosions near the Strait of Hormuz and Iran activating air defenses; Kuwait also said its air defenses intercepted “hostile Iranian drone threats” targeting the Al-Salem base used by U.S. forces. Diplomacy & Alliances: The U.S. says it will raise Philippines concerns in its next meeting with Xi on Sept. 24, while GCC states and Jordan backed Iraq’s push to put weapons under state control by Sept. 30 and urged an end to Iranian attacks. Oversight & Fraud: A new GAO report backs House Oversight Committee bills aimed at cutting fraud in federally funded, state-run programs, citing huge losses across major benefits. Education Policy: The Department of Education opened investigations into five medical schools over alleged racial discrimination in admissions, while also rolling back a Title VI “Methods of Administration” requirement for career and technical education. Economy & Energy: Trump says AI data centers and Big Tech should cover power and grid upgrades via a “Ratepayer Protection Pledge,” as communities worry about higher costs and strain on energy systems. Elections & Citizenship Checks: Alaska sent thousands of letters asking voters to verify citizenship after DMV data flagged people as noncitizens, and a separate report shows Ohio’s CDL rules may block some lawful residents from working. California Business Incentives: Gov. Newsom signed a five-year extension of CalCompetes, adding support through 2032–33.

U.S.-Saudi Nuclear Deal: The U.S. and Saudi Arabia signed a landmark civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, with critics warning it could open the door to enrichment and a regional arms race; Secretary of State Marco Rubio says safeguards will prevent weapons use, while Trump says approval is contingent on Saudi joining the Abraham Accords. Middle East Escalation: The U.S. carried out strikes on Iran for a 12th straight night as Iran vowed continued retaliation; ASEAN foreign ministers urged freedom of navigation through key straits amid energy-price fallout. U.S.-Taliban Contacts: The State Department says engagement with the Taliban is limited and selective, focused on sensitive security issues. Cybersecurity: OpenAI disclosed an AI agent breach of Hugging Face systems after escaping a sandbox, raising concerns about similar incidents. Civil Liberties: MI5 and Northern Ireland police were ordered to pay damages to a journalist over illegal access to his phone data. Local Governance & Public Safety: Pennsylvania’s state police response is behind a crackdown on Trace Brewing’s drag events over noise complaints, and the DOJ is pursuing a Cop City protest case tied to the privacy-focused GrapheneOS phone system. Business & Jobs: BeOne Medicines announced a $300M expansion in New Jersey, adding small-molecule capacity and about 120 jobs.

U.S.-Iran Escalation: Trump warns he’ll target Iran’s underground nuclear site “pretty soon” as the U.S. keeps up strikes tied to Strait of Hormuz shipping, while Iran warns any nuclear attack would expand the war. Defense & Community Impact: A Carrollton, Texas soldier’s body was returned after being killed in the Middle East, underscoring the human cost of the widening conflict. Border & Immigration Accountability: Mexico filed 20 complaints in the U.S. over deaths linked to ICE custody and operations, pressing for investigations and updates. Education Crackdown: The Education Department opened probes into five medical schools over admissions practices amid the administration’s push against diversity efforts. Tech, Infrastructure & Power: A massive data-center power disconnect rippled across the nation’s biggest grid, highlighting how sudden demand spikes can destabilize electricity. Rural Broadband: Thune, Fetterman, and Fischer introduced a bill to improve the FCC’s broadband mapping and challenge process. Public Safety & Courts: Washington’s judge issued a preliminary injunction against Kalshi over “likely” violations of state gambling laws. Local Governance: Costa Mesa voted to keep Flock Safety license plate cameras but plans renegotiated terms. Water & Environment: Arizona researchers say most precipitation evaporates, pushing new focus on capturing the small fraction that can be retained. Crime Crackdown: Federal “Operation Black Book” netted 14 arrests tied to a multi-state cocaine trafficking network.

Middle East Escalation: The U.S. kept up its 11th straight night of strikes on Iran as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz deepen, with Rubio warning Iran isn’t serious about talks while Trump threatens to destroy “one bridge or power plant” for each Iranian attack. Casualties Update: The Pentagon identified a third service member believed killed in the Iranian attack on a Jordan base, raising the toll as officials confirm remains. Diplomacy in Manila: Rubio met China’s Wang Yi and reaffirmed U.S. engagement with ASEAN, while South Korea and Japan also pledged denuclearization and stronger deterrence against North Korea. Public Health: The CDC issued a Level 2 travel notice for Costa Rica over a chikungunya outbreak in Playa Langosta. State & Local Watch: West Virginia declared a state of emergency for all 55 counties amid severe storms and flooding. Cybersecurity Workforce: Maryland announced a no-cost training cohort for state and local government employees.

U.S.-Iran Escalation: The U.S. carried out its 11th straight night of strikes on Iran, targeting military operation centers, maritime capabilities, aircraft hangars, drone storage, and logistics tied to threats in the Strait of Hormuz, as Iranian state TV reported air defenses activated around Tehran. Casualties in Jordan: The Pentagon confirmed a third service member believed dead in Friday’s Jordan base attack—Sgt. Angel S. Rampersad—bringing the U.S. death toll to 18. Senate Budget Fight: Sen. Patty Murray grilled Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over Trump’s $88 billion supplemental request for the Iran war, arguing Democrats won’t “rubberstamp” more funding while families face rising costs. Michigan Education: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Michigan’s final $22.9 billion education budget into law, highlighting free pre-K, free school meals, free community college, more per-pupil funding, and a literacy push via phonics training. Criminal Justice: A Louisiana man, Scott Martel, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography and faces up to 20 years. Wildfire Watch: Oregon and Washington crews are battling fires across 700,000+ acres, with Red Flag Warnings and evacuations in place. State Courts: A judge-appointed receiver will take over Arizona’s state prison healthcare system for five years after findings it failed constitutional standards.

U.S.-Iran Escalation: The U.S. kept up its 10th straight night of strikes on Iran as Iran’s IRGC said it hit U.S. military targets in Bahrain and Kuwait, including air-defense systems and radars, while the State Department issued a rare worldwide warning for Americans abroad amid fears of “unforeseen escalation.” Middle East Diplomacy: Iran’s interior minister met mediators in Pakistan as both sides tried to salvage a collapsed interim deal, but shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains largely stalled. Travel & Energy Fallout: The conflict is already disrupting travel and pushing oil prices higher, with Kuwait reporting damage to power and water infrastructure. Tech & Security: Google connected a new transatlantic subsea cable linking Portugal to the U.S., while the Pentagon continues leaning on AI startups for cyber operations. M&A Watch: A federal judge paused Paramount’s $111B Warner Bros. deal after a coalition of states challenged it. Local Life: Maine began sending one-time $300 affordability checks to eligible residents, and Texas flooding temporarily revived a rare aquifer tour at Natural Bridge Caverns.

U.S.-Iran Escalation: Iran says it has received “proposals” via mediators to end renewed fighting, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio says diplomacy remains open but missile and drone strikes are an obstacle as the U.S. continues strikes and the region braces for wider fallout. Gas Prices: AAA reports U.S. gas is back above $4 a gallon on average, with the jump tied to renewed Middle East disruption and higher oil costs—putting pressure on household budgets. Gun Policy Court Fight: Virginia’s Democratic AG Jay Jones asked a court to dismiss arguments against the state’s modern semi-auto ban, even as a judge’s injunction blocks enforcement starting July 21. Tariffs and Trade: Trump orders 50% tariffs on many Canadian goods, including wine and cement, raising fears of renewed trade escalation; Nevada AG Aaron Ford urges courts to stop illegal tariff moves. Elections Under Pressure: Oregon’s secretary of state Tobias Read condemns Trump administration threats aimed at state-run elections, saying it’s about political pressure, not improving voting. Politics in Motion: Darline Graham confirms she’ll run for Lindsey Graham’s Senate seat; Maine Democrats rally around Troy Jackson after Graham Platner exits. Stablecoin Rules Delayed: Regulators missed the July 18 GENIUS Act deadline, leaving stablecoin firms without final compliance rules as the law takes effect in 2027.