What's Happening

Politics

It's Official: 'Coach Walz' Joins Democratic Ticket

What's going on: After just a couple weeks of searching, VP Kamala Harris chose Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN) as her running mate. A quick glance at the 60-year-old’s resume reveals that he’s a former teacher and football coach, former congressman, and Army National Guard veteran. A look at the memes will show you he’s an avid hunter, enjoys state fairs, is a Swiftie, and a member of the Beyhive. As Minnesota governor, Walz signed legislation that codified abortion, expanded medical and family paid leave, increased protections for gender-affirming health care, and required universal background checks for gun purchases. At their first rally together in Philadelphia yesterday, Harris called Walz “the kind of vice-president America deserves.” Up next for the Harris-Walz ticket: a seven state tour.

What it means: Walz could boost Harris’ support in key midwestern states, including Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania (aka the “blue wall” states). He’s expected to appeal to working-class people, a voting bloc that’s tilted more to the right in recent years. Walz has also been outspoken about the Republican Party, calling its members “weird,” and has gone after their policies in reproductive health care and education. While Democrats widely praised Harris’ VP pick, Trump’s campaign described Walz as “dangerously liberal.” With less than 90 days before Election Day, Walz’s time in the spotlight will undoubtedly put his background under intense scrutiny.

Related: How Does Tim Walz's Approval Rating Compare to JD Vance's? (Newsweek)

Politics

Another Member of the “Squad” Loses Their Seat 

What's going on: Last night, incumbent Rep. Cori Bush (D-MO) lost against St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell in the Democratic primary for Missouri’s 1st District. It’s the second loss for the progressive “Squad” in Congress, coming after Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s (D-NY) primary defeat in June. Bush faced an extremely tough race, which was the second most-expensive House primary in history. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the US’s largest pro-Israel lobby, spent $8 million on pro-Bell ads. One reason AIPAC got involved: Bush has been staunchly pro-Palestinian and reluctant to classify Hamas as a “terrorist” organization.

What it means: The outcome of this race could be a bellwether for future elections and demonstrates the Democratic Party’s divisions over the Israel-Hamas war. Bush has warned other members of the Squad, like Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), the only Palestinian American member of Congress, could face similar scrutiny. Groups like AIPAC have been aggressive with election spending in efforts to block candidates who they don’t deem supportive of Israel, specifically targeting members of the Squad. For instance, AIPAC also backed the candidate who ousted Bowman. Other factors could have contributed to Bush’s loss, including that she’s under federal investigation for campaign spending.

Related: Why This Michigan Senate Race Has Democrats’ Attention (NYT)

US News

The EPA (Finally) Suspends Use Of Dangerous Pesticide

What's going on: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is plucking a popular weed killer from the market over concerns it can cause damage to unborn fetuses. In its emergency order yesterday, the agency said exposure to dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA) can change fetal thyroid hormone levels in pregnant mothers, particularly those working on farms or living in farm-working communities. The exposure could result in low birth weight, impaired brain development, and a decreased IQ. The EPA said pregnant women working with DCPA products could be exposed to levels four to 20 times higher than what is deemed safe for fetuses. Only one company manufactures DCPA: AMVAC Chemical Corporation. The Washington Post reports the company refused to share data with the EPA over the safety of the herbicide.

What it means: The EPA is being hailed for its decision to suspend DCPA but is getting criticized for taking so long to act. The pesticide has been on the market since 1958 despite safety concerns from health advocacy groups. In 1990, the agency itself published a report highlighting some of the risks associated with DCPA exposure. Meanwhile, the European Union banned the use of DCPA on crops in 2009. Some farmers argue they need the herbicide to control weeds. Without it, they may have to manually remove unwanted plants, driving up labor costs at a time when farmers are struggling financially. The EPA said it’s going to try to permanently keep DCPA products off of shelves, but the process could take years if AMVAC contests the decision.

Related: Pregnancy Doesn’t Just Change Your Body. It Also Changes Your Brain (Nature)