Today's News with Larry Schweikart

TODAY'S NEWS, June 24, 2026

Episode Summary

The Democratic Party is facing a growing internal struggle as socialist and progressive candidates continue gaining ground over establishment Democrats, particularly in New York City. These developments are seen as strengthening Republican prospects nationally and potentially making it harder for Democrats to compete in key swing states. The Trump administration continues advancing its agenda through immigration enforcement, government workforce reductions, election integrity measures, and intelligence agency reforms. AI remains a major theme, bringing both economic opportunities and concerns about cybersecurity, employment disruption, and growing public reliance on AI tools. Economic discussions focused on nuclear energy expansion, data center growth, and market volatility, while cultural debates continued around religion, education, gender policies, and free speech. Internationally, attention remained on counterterrorism efforts and energy security, while ongoing disputes over COVID-19 policies and vaccine safety continued to fuel political and public health debates.

Episode Notes

Political News

• Socialist and progressive candidates won several key Democratic primary races in New York City.
• Democratic establishment figures suffered notable defeats, raising concerns about the party's direction.
• Maine Senate and House races remain competitive, with Republicans viewed as gaining opportunities.
• Trump maintains extremely strong support among self-identified MAGA voters.
• The Supreme Court ruled that certain green card holders accused of crimes can be deported while cases proceed.
• Intelligence agencies and federal departments continue undergoing staffing and leadership changes.
• Three Florida residents admitted voting despite being ineligible.
• A large federal Medicaid fraud investigation resulted in hundreds of charges.
• Los Angeles school leadership changed following scrutiny over AI chatbot programs.
• Millions of borrowers are being moved off a Biden-era student loan repayment plan.
• Dr. Anthony Fauci faces additional congressional scrutiny.
• A sixth suspect was arrested in the alleged White House UFC drone attack plot.
• Jack Schlossberg lost a New York primary election.

AI News

• Concerns continue growing over AI-generated cyberattacks.
• Data center expansion remains controversial despite increasing AI demand.
• President Trump signed orders aimed at accelerating quantum computing development.
• Many people are increasingly using AI chatbots for medical guidance.
• Oracle announced major layoffs tied to AI restructuring.
• Chevron and Microsoft reached a long-term agreement to power data centers.

Immigration & Border Security

• Texas courts handed lengthy prison sentences to individuals convicted in violent anti-ICE demonstrations.
• DHS proposed higher citizenship application fees.
• Border wall construction is reportedly progressing toward completion.

Cultural & Social Issues

• Research suggests Gen Z is becoming more risk-averse.
• Companies are finding it harder to outlast public controversies in the social media era.
• A Phoenix Christian ministry sued after restrictions affected its homeless meal services.
• Carnival Cruise Line permanently banned 16 passengers involved in a large fight.
• Trump tied support for a housing bill to passage of the SAVE Act.

Gender & Education Issues

• A federal appeals court struck down parts of a California law involving student gender identity privacy from parents.
• MLB is reconsidering restrictions on religious messages and Bible verses on uniforms.
• Several Michigan school districts face federal Title IX investigations related to gender and DEI policies.

Economic News

• Federal energy programs are supporting additional nuclear power development.
• SpaceX experienced a significant decline in valuation after a period of rapid growth.

International News

• Reports surfaced of asbestos being found in some Chinese-made wind turbine components.
• U.S. forces killed another senior ISIS leader in Syria.

Entertainment News

• California regulators are examining emissions from Disneyland attractions.
• Reports highlighted expensive escort activity surrounding international soccer events.
• Daryl Hall received a kidney transplant.
• Jim Kelly suffered a stroke after previously beating cancer.
• The Washington Wizards selected AJ Dybantsa with the first overall NBA draft pick.

Medical News

• Debate continues over COVID-19 policies, vaccine safety, and the actions of public health officials during the pandemic.
• Additional studies and congressional investigations are being cited by critics of past pandemic responses.

And Finally...

• A modular construction project reportedly completed a 26-story apartment building in just five days, showcasing advances in prefabricated construction technology.