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Election Tensions Rise in California
28 green card holders in California face charges for allegedly registering or voting unlawfully in U.S. elections, as per the Justice Department’s recent announcement. This move intensifies the ongoing dispute between the Trump administration and California concerning voting procedures, especially with midterm elections on the horizon. Additionally, the DOJ has sought an emergency order to halt California from processing ballots from individuals it deems “likely noncitizens.” Despite California’s requests for more information on these claims, clarity from the federal side remains absent. The DOJ’s actions follow a lawsuit against California and Los Angeles County due to their refusal to probe alleged noncitizen voting activities.
People vote in Norwalk, Calif., during early voting in California’s primary election on June 1, 2026. The Department of Justice has charged 28 green card holders in the state for allegedly illegally registering to vote or voting in U.S. elections, in an escalation of a feud with California officials over the state’s voting system. Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images
DOJ’s Request and Expert Opinions
- 🎧The DOJ aims to segregate and delay counting ballots of those on its list until full investigations are conducted. Miles Parks from NPR’s Up First explains that experts are skeptical about the DOJ’s chances of success, considering previous efforts to change voting processes at the state level. Parks notes the surprise if such changes occur just two weeks before elections, with ballots already out. Experts suggest misunderstandings often lead to legal permanent residents registering to vote. Concerns have been raised about federal law enforcement potentially seizing ballots during counts, prompting local election officials to have legal support ready.
Political Campaign Priorities
With the election two weeks away, both Democrats and Republicans are strategizing on which races to focus their resources. President Trump will be concentrating on key swing states such as Georgia, North Carolina, Kansas, Iowa, and Florida this week.
- 🎧 Trump’s rallies in Kansas and North Carolina are scrutinized by NPR’s Stephen Fowler, who points out that Kansas traditionally favors Republican candidates, and many GOP groups have ceased advertising in North Carolina, considering the Senate race there a lost cause. The Republican Party is prioritizing the Senate over the House, whereas Democrats are seeking gains in traditionally conservative areas. In Georgia, where early voting has seen a significant turnout, Fowler notes a rise in Black voter participation statewide.
- ➡️ The NPR App consolidates all election coverage — From top national stories to local issues, explore the 2026 Election tab for comprehensive coverage.
TikTok Safety Concerns
Internal concerns from TikTok employees revealed risks to minors, including exposure to inappropriate content and loopholes that bypass age restrictions. Depositions from March 2026 highlight frustrations with leadership’s handling of these issues. Employees warned management about sexual content engagement by minors, which the company reportedly profited from. They also found that the platform avoided age surveys to prevent sharing data with the Federal Trade Commission. For detailed insights into TikTok’s child safety measures since 2018, read more here.
Preparing for Cold and Flu Season
As the U.S. enters its cold and flu season, which spans from October to May, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises preparing a cold-and-flu kit. Cooler and drier weather heightens vulnerability to illnesses like the common cold, flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Here are recommended essentials for your medicine cabinet:
- 🤒 Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve symptoms like headaches and fever. Always adhere to recommended dosages.
- 🤒 Honey can soothe sore throats and serves as an anti-inflammatory, beneficial for young children who can’t take cough syrups. However, avoid giving honey to infants under 12 months due to botulism risk.
- 🤒 A thermometer is crucial for monitoring body temperature. Rectal thermometers are advised for children under three.
- 🤒 Nasal saline sprays or rinses can maintain mucous membrane moisture and alleviate cold symptoms by loosening thick mucus.
For more tips on stocking your medicine cabinet, listen to this episode of NPR’s Life Kit. Subscribe to the Life Kit newsletter for expert advice on health and wellness.
American Girl’s Legacy Celebrated
Marking the 40th anniversary of American Girl, author Fiona Davis has penned Samantha: The Next Chapter, a historical fiction novel for adults. The story revisits Samantha Parkington, now 25, in 1920, shortly after the ratification of the 19th Amendment. Facing financial challenges, Samantha transitions from socialite to shopgirl. NPR’s Samantha Balaban explored the evolution of American Girl dolls at the flagship store in New York, with insights from staff and Davis. Discover more about the history of American Girl dolls.
Three Things to Know Before You Go
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has revised its menopause treatment guidelines for the first time since 2014, endorsing hormone replacement therapy among other treatments.
- With wedding costs soaring, some couples are opting for grocery-store cakes over pricier options from specialty bakers.
- An Australian inmate is suing the state of Victoria for denying him Vegemite, claiming the breakfast staple as a right. The state bans Vegemite due to potential misuse in alcohol brewing, causing complications for detection dogs. Read more here.
