Welcome to our daily newsletter delivering the latest insights and analysis from the NBC News political team on matters concerning the White House, Capitol Hill, and election campaigns.
In today’s edition, we delve into the repercussions of the escalating conflict in Iran on the oil markets and political discourse in Congress. Additionally, Scott Wong and Matt Dixon provide profiles of South Carolina’s newly appointed senators.
Oil Prices Surge Amid Congressional Divisions Over Iran War
Oil prices reached their highest levels in nearly two months, driven by increasing tensions from the Iran conflict, which threatens to disrupt global energy supplies. Brent crude oil, a key global benchmark, surged by 7%, closing at $100.69 per barrel, peaking at $102 during early trading—its highest mark since late May.
Meanwhile, U.S. crude oil also experienced an upward trend, closing 6.2% higher at $92.19 per barrel, the highest since June 4. This jump in prices follows the announcement by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels of a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia and claims of attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea.
The implications of ship attacks expanding beyond the Strait of Hormuz represent a significant escalation in the volatile conflict, marking a new front in the ongoing hostilities since the beginning of the Iran war.
On Capitol Hill, the House of Representatives has approved a non-binding proposal to end involvement in the Iran war. This vote saw support from four Republicans alongside all Democrats, demonstrating a rare bipartisan agreement. Conversely, the Senate’s joint resolution to formally end the war faced rejection, with Senator Susan Collins joining the majority of Democrats in favor, while four Republican senators opted not to vote.
The pressure to register critical votes stems from Democrats intending to hold Republicans accountable regarding an unpopular war ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. Several Senate Republicans contend that military engagement should not exceed 60 days without Congressional authorization, with notable dissent from Senators Thom Tillis and John Curtis, both of whom voted against the recent resolution.
Senator Tillis articulated concerns over the need for congressional approval for operations extending beyond the 60-day threshold, emphasizing the importance of legislative oversight on military actions.
Introducing South Carolina’s New Senator, Darling Graham
Written by Scott Wong and Matt Dixon
Senator Darling Graham (R-S.C.) finds herself unexpectedly in the national spotlight, a position her brother frequently occupied. Despite never running for office before and lacking previous involvement in local Republican politics, the 62-year-old mother of two boasts three decades of experience in public service in South Carolina.
Darling Graham has stepped into the role following the sudden passing of her brother, Lindsey Graham. Now, she is campaigning for a full six-year term, buoyed by support from former President Donald Trump. Countless articles have emerged discussing her familial connections, yet few address her policy positions or legislative intentions, raising concerns among some Republican factions in South Carolina and beyond.
The silver lining for many Republicans is that Trump’s backing has not deterred other candidates from entering the race. Former South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford recently announced his candidacy, joining a crowded Republican primary that features Congressmen Ralph Norman and Russell Frey, as well as businessman Mark Lynch.
More Top News Today
- Wisconsin’s Democratic gubernatorial race is nearing its conclusion ahead of next month’s primary.
- In Michigan, Republican Rep. John James faces a challenge from Perry Johnson in another pivotal gubernatorial primary.
- Tensions appear to be rising between Homeland Security’s Markwayne Mullin and the White House after early missteps.
- President Trump revealed new conditions regarding the nuclear deal between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.
- The House Judiciary Committee has requested a criminal investigation into former special counsel Jack Smith.
- Investigations into security breaches involving members of Vice President J.D. Vance’s security detail are underway.
This wraps up our update from the political desk. Today’s newsletter was edited by Adam Wolner and Annelise Hanson. Your thoughts are important to us; feel free to reach out with any feedback.
