Axios

Progressive Democrats taking hardline positions against AI are getting louder.

Why it matters: Five influential progressives are shaping a confrontational Democratic message on AI, distinguishing themselves from party centrists by openly challenging data centers and AI-linked political money.

AI companies, the cryptocurrency industry and pro-Israel groups are spending like never before to sink their least favorite members of Congress and congressional candidates.

Why it matters: The volume cannot be ignored. It's the kind of spending that can kill careers and stop political movements in their tracks.

Vice President JD Vance said Thursday that the U.S. and Iran were "very close" to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that would extend the ceasefire by 60 days, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and launch talks on limiting Tehran's nuclear program.

Why it matters: The signing of the MOU would be the most significant diplomatic breakthrough since the war started, but a final agreement tackling President Trump's nuclear demands would require further intensive negotiations.