World News: Can Dems win in Florida?

Tuesday, August 18

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The Daily Briefing

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Welcome to the Daily Briefing. Here's Tuesday's news:

•	These maps capture the strain on the USS Abraham Lincoln.
•	Luigi Mangione's state murder trial was postponed.
•	AI is accelerating elder fraud.

Nicole Fallert here. "Won't you be my neighbor?"

Can democratic-socialism survive in Florida?

Three democratic socialist candidates in Florida are looking to upset mainstream liberals on Tuesday, when the state holds primaries for House, Senate, governor. The underdogs are running in House and Senate contests with a platform that has already toppled Democratic incumbents this year. And they'll have to overcome Florida's recently redrawn Congressional map that favors Republicans.

Also today: Democrats are putting up former Rep. Mary Peltola in Alaska's nonpartisan Senate primary, in the hopes of ousting Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan; Wyoming holds primaries; and a special election in California to fill former Rep. Eric Swalwell's seat.

More news to know now

•	How did Hayden Panettiere die? According to 911 dispatch audio obtained by TMZ, emergency responders referenced a possible overdose and cardiac arrest while responding to the call about Panettiere.
•	Trump puts South Korea on notice: South Korea is the latest U.S. ally Trump threatened to penalize with reduced American military support over what he says is insufficient support of the war in Iran.
•	Penn State students accused of operating drug ring: Prosecutors said large quantities of cocaine were transported, and the alleged operation involved members of the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities.

Lindsay Clancy Trial

Clancy's mother takes the stand

"I love my grandchildren with all my heart." Lindsay Clancy's mother was called to testify by her defense team and appeared to choke up when talking about her grandkids. Pool via Reuters

Lindsay Clancy's mother took the stand on Monday, as her daughter's murder trial entered its fourth week of testimony. Here's a recap of the trial so far and how to watch live.

Health & Wellness

AOC, egg freezing sparks conversation

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, 36, is documenting on social media the process of freezing her eggs, and her comments about the challenges women face when family planning are something many can relate to. Some people have been quick to chime in with negativity − but many are sharing their appreciation for her transparency. AOC says she does not regret posting about freezing her eggs.

Before you go

•	ACOTAR book 6 and 7 titles were revealed.
•	Are you going to a party school?
•	"Eco-friendly" food labels might not mean what you think.

Have feedback on the Daily Briefing? Shoot Nicole an email at NFallert@usatoday.com.

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DON'T MISS

Sophie Cunningham controversy spills onto Reddit, prompting WNBA response

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) reacts against the Atlanta Dream during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena on Aug 16, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia. Colin Hubbard, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The WNBA addressed a Sophie Cunningham subreddit controversy, saying the league isn't involved.