Newsom calls the Democratic brand ‘toxic’ as he defends his podcast

A North Carolina teenager, 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier, has been missing for nearly a week after disappearing under suspicious circumstances while vacationing in Florida. He sent distress texts to his family shortly after being picked up by cousins, and his belongings were later found abandoned; the family is offering a $10,000 reward for information. Want More Context? 🔎

Hundreds gathered in Brooklyn to honor Aland Etienne, a security guard killed in a shooting at an NFL headquarters in Manhattan. Remembered as a hero and a dedicated immigrant father, Etienne's sacrifice highlights the contributions of essential workers and immigrants in New York City, alongside three other victims, including NYPD Officer Didarul Islam. Want More Context? 🔎

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that President Trump will assess Russian President Putin's seriousness in their upcoming meeting on Friday, aimed at negotiating a ceasefire in Ukraine. Rutte emphasized Ukraine's essential involvement in future discussions and lauded Trump's prior engagement with Putin as a pivotal step, despite concerns about the meeting's format excluding Ukrainian leadership. Want More Context? 🔎

A 25-year-old tourist from New York, Kevin Mares, was fatally shot in La Perla, Puerto Rico, while attending a Bad Bunny concert. The incident occurred at a nightspot during an argument that escalated into gunfire, injuring two others; police are investigating the motive, noting that Mares was an innocent bystander visiting with friends. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure over his controversial plan to seize Gaza City amidst rising malnutrition deaths in Gaza, with critics arguing it could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and endanger hostages. Protests have erupted in Israel, and foreign condemnation of the plan has emerged, while Netanyahu maintains that the situation is exaggerated and insists on a military offensive to defeat Hamas. Want More Context? 🔎

NASCAR driver Connor Zilisch, the Xfinity Series points leader, broke his collarbone after falling from his car while celebrating his sixth win of the season at Watkins Glen. After being treated at a hospital, Zilisch, who expressed gratitude for the quick medical response, will miss the Cup race but plans to return on Aug. 22 at Daytona International Speedway. Want More Context? 🔎