President Donald Trump has criticized Democrats as extremists during the Republican midterm convention. He defended the war in Iran and made the extraordinary pledge to give every American $5,000 if Republicans retain control of Congress — without providing details on how such a thing would be possible. Trump emphasized making the elections about himself, despite low approval ratings. Many Republicans skipped the event in Dallas, while others aimed to rally Trump supporters. Trump pledged to visit key states and hold rallies. He also defended tariffs and promised a "Trump dividend" if Republicans win. The convention aimed to boost enthusiasm despite economic concerns and dissatisfaction with the Iran war.

President Donald Trump has picked Dr. Heidi Overton to lead the Food and Drug Administration. Overton is a deputy director of the White House Domestic Policy Council and a trusted figure in Trump's administration. Overton has worked on several of Trump's health initiatives. But the new FDA commissioner will face challenges balancing Trump's priorities, traditional Republican interests and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s anti-corporate stance. Overton will need Senate confirmation and face questions from the Senate health committee. The previous FDA head, Dr. Marty Makary, resigned in May, leaving unfinished projects like work on ultra-processed foods, antidepressants and COVID-19 shots.