Political Tension, Health Policy, Maritime Power...

Former Sen. Joe Manchin urged lawmakers to abandon “attack mode” and temper rhetoric as the United States grapples with a surge in politically motivated shootings, including the recent killing of activist Charlie Kirk. Manchin, an independent who often sides with Democrats in the Senate, echoed widow Erika Kirk’s plea that all elected officials share responsibility for reducing hatred. The Guardian notes that such intra‑governmental tension threatens both legislative cooperation and public safety. The Guardian

With less than three weeks before the COVID‑era enhanced tax credits for the Affordable Care Act lapse, millions of Americans face sharply higher premiums or loss of coverage in 2026. The Senate rejected two bipartisan proposals to extend the subsidies, and a Republican health‑care package in the House omits any extension, leaving families in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Nevada uncertain about their medical expenses. BostonGlobe (citing the AP) highlights the stark personal impact—ranging from downgraded plans to complete uninsured status—underscoring the broader governance challenge of sustaining health‑care affordability. bostonglobe.com

The U.S. seizure of the Skipper oil tanker, reportedly carrying nearly 2 million barrels of Venezuelan crude and en route to Galveston, Texas, has been condemned by Cuban officials as “piracy and maritime terrorism.” While the Guardian frames the incident as a serious breach of international law, the New York Times provides internal data from PDVSA confirming the cargo’s origin, adding weight to the diplomatic backlash. The episode raises questions about the executive’s use of maritime power and its implications for U.S. foreign‑policy norms. The Guardian