States head to the polls. And, global conflicts are on the rise, new report says

States head to the polls as the world confronts rising conflicts, placing voters at a moment when foreign policy and domestic politics converge. Israel and Iran pledged yesterday to stop attacking one another after exchanging missiles and heightening tensions across the Middle East. Israel said troops would continue operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, while Iran argued its strikes were a response to Israeli actions and warned of harsher retaliation if fighting persists. Tehran also indicated it would pause for now but cautioned that renewed Israeli attacks in Lebanon could trigger more aggression. President Trump urged de-escalation as diplomats seek a path forward.

Meanwhile, Maine, North Dakota, South Carolina, and Nevada hold primaries today, with voters weighing Senate races, governorships, and other contests. In Maine, Democratic hopeful Graham Platner faces scrutiny over past conduct raised by The New York Times, while Republican Sen. Susan Collins seeks a seventh term after 30 years. Nevada's gubernatorial race could pit Gov. Joe Lombardo against Attorney General Aaron Ford in November. In South Carolina, a MAGA-aligned field competes for influence as primary season advances, and observers watch how international tensions color local elections.