The race for California governor remains too close to call as primary results pour in across the United States. With many ballots still uncounted, Republican Steve Hilton leads the field, followed by Democrats Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer. California's unique system means the top two candidates advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation.
Los Angeles Mayor Primary
In the heated primary for Los Angeles mayor, Karen Bass secured the top spot but fell short of a 50% majority. She will face either former reality TV star Spencer Pratt or city council member Nithya Raman in November's general election. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and former LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa conceded early.
Other Primary Races
In Iowa, Josh Turek won the Democratic primary, defeating state Senator Zach Wahls. On the Republican side, Randy Feenstra's second-place finish in the gubernatorial race ended Donald Trump's perfect endorsement streak. Voting experts say final results for tight races could take weeks.
CBS Fires Scott Pelley
Veteran 60 Minutes journalist Scott Pelley has been fired after clashing with CBS management over staff cuts. Pelley reportedly criticized Bari Weiss, the new editor-in-chief, saying she was 'murdering 60 Minutes.' The network cited Pelley's behavior in a meeting as the reason for his dismissal.
Pentagon Hires Jan 6 Rioter
The Department of Defense has appointed Elias Irizarry, convicted for his role in the January 6 Capitol insurrection, to a sensitive counter-terrorism role. Irizarry will join a team managing classified military operations. The Pentagon defended the hire, criticizing the Washington Post for reporting on it.
Other News
The federal government abandoned a $1.8bn fund for Trump allies but maintains an agreement barring IRS audits of Trump and his family. The Supreme Court ruled Alabama can use a redrawn congressional map eliminating a majority-Black district. Authorities investigate George Santos for insider trading. Far-right activists clashed with police in the UK over the murder of Henry Nowak. The White House correspondents' dinner is rescheduled for July 24.
Stat of the Day
One-tonne cocaine bust reveals secret US-Mexico tunnel. The Jalisco New Generation cartel used a fake retail store in San Diego as a front, with a 55ft-deep tunnel equipped with electricity and ventilation extending over 1,000ft to the border.
Well Actually
Elizabeth Smart, kidnapping survivor and activist, revealed she has been secretly competing in bodybuilding competitions under her married name. She advises: 'Get a good coach. Lift heavy. Eat tons of protein.'
Don't Miss This
'Dreams of Violets' becomes the first fully AI-generated 'live action' feature accepted at a major film festival. Director Ash Koosha argues AI allows him to depict Iran's anti-government protests without endangering real people.
Climate Check
The Trump administration plans to dismantle a $368m deep-sea observation system providing crucial climate data for over a decade. The notice came after Trump fired the independent board overseeing the National Science Foundation.
Last Thing
Jill Biden recalls pressure on Joe Biden to drop out of the 2024 race, saying he told her: 'Jilly, I had no choice.' She made the comments during a book event for her memoir 'View from the East Wing.'
