Good morning. You're reading the Up First newsletter. Subscribe here to get it delivered to your inbox, and listen to the Up First podcast for all the news you need to start your day.
President Trump isn't the only one hitting key states in the last days before the midterm elections. Democrats are bringing out big names, too. Former President Barack Obama will be in Ohio and Michigan this weekend, and next week he heads to Georgia. Today, former Vice President Kamala Harris is set to visit Mississippi, which has a surprisingly competitive Senate race.
People walk by a polling place at Denver's Central Library on June 30, 2026. Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images hide caption
The U.S. and Israel are preparing plans for a possible attack on Iran early next month , a person briefed on the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity so they could discuss the preparations, told NPR today. This potential strike would occur after the U.S. midterm elections and Israel's elections next week. The development comes after Israeli security forces in the occupied West Bank detained about 80 people yesterday, including U.S. Democratic congressional nominee for New York Brad Lander and more than a dozen American rabbis.
Tesla and SpaceX are exploring a merger. Together, Elon Musk's two companies would potentially amplify his influence as one of the wealthiest individuals on Earth. The new company would become one of the largest globally, boasting a combined market cap of approximately $3.7 trillion.
Cardi B performing at the NPR Tiny Desk. NPR Tiny Desk hide caption
When news broke that Cardi B would be at the NPR Music office, so many people came to see the rapper perform an intimate set that staff had to turn some away, which is a rare occurrence. People flocked to see the unfiltered rap star, who arrived in leather pants and a power blazer, bringing a mix of humility and humor. She opened her performance with the haunting synths of "Hello" and closed with two pivotal hits from her catalog: the breakout single "Bodak Yellow" and the boogaloo-heavy "I Like It." Don't miss out — catch her entire electrifying Tiny Desk Concert here .
Chip Thomas, a retired physician on the Navajo Reservation, is well known for his large photograhpic murals. Now, he's been recognized with a MacArthur "genius" grant. John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation hide caption
Chip Thomas has been creating public art in rural areas of the Navajo Nation for nearly two decades. Last month, he received a MacArthur Foundation "genius" award for the social impact of his work. His artwork features large black-and-white images depicting life on the reservation. Thomas moved to the Navajo Nation in 1987 as a family physician and grew close to the community, helping with everyday tasks and eventually started photographing them. His art reflects the beauty and resilience of the people who live on the land. Don't miss these stunning photos .
Gary Tyler speaks about his work at the Grand Rapids Art Museum in Michigan. Behind Tyler are his quilts Big Toe , (2024) and Enduring , (2025). They feature two individuals who are incarcerated. He hopes his work draws attention to their plight and humanity. Sea Stachura for NPR hide caption
NPR does not offer or accept money for coverage or interviews. Anyone who makes such an offer or request is not an NPR employee and does not represent NPR.