The Political Markup for August 15, 2026
Politics
Dick Cheney’s cardiologist assesses the available information on Trump’s health and concludes that he’s probably not doing well.
There is worry that prediction markets may influence or manipulate political elections.
Mary Peltola wants Kamala Harris to stay out of her Senate race.
UFC lost $30 million on the fight night at the White House in June.
The new season of Lioness from Taylor Sheridan premiered on Paramount+. New episodes come out every Sunday through September 20.
Economy
In a notable interview with Joe Kernen and Becky Quick, a clueless Scott Bessent says the economy is doing better because hourly-wage workers are earning 2.0-5.5 percent more per hour, and that the K-shape economy — a widening gap between rich and poor — is over.
Two people died from cyclosporiasis in Michigan, where cases of infection are nearing 11,500 people.
U.S. manufacturing activity is at its strongest pace since 2022, despite ongoing supply chain and consumer challenges.
Trump is criticizing oil companies for high gas prices, though his misguided war with Iran is at fault.
Amazon reached a valuation of $3 trillion.
International
Mideast experts say Iran sees the U.S. as weak each time Trump backs off on attacks.
Senators asked to visit the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln after reports of various malfunctions and sailor mental health issues. The aircraft carrier has been at sea for so long because a U.S. base in Bahrain was destroyed early in the Iran war.
Denmark is expanding its military presence in the Arctic.
An Australian tungsten mine that first opened before World War I, and has only operated during times of war, has reopened.
Minnesota
A record 1.1 million people voted in the recent primary election.
Peggy Flanagan says she is “running to make sure people can afford the lives they want to live.”
The governor’s race may be close, with Lisa Demuth being the biggest challenger Amy Klobuchar has faced.
If Klobuchar resigns or gets elected, who would get appointed to her U.S. Senate seat?
American Action Network is running ads in support of Brad Finstad.
Control of the state legislature will come down to races in Clay County, the Iron Range, St. Cloud, St. Peter, Rogers, Farmington, and Rochester.
Autism centers have faced allegations of fraud and been scrutinized for the public funding they receive. Turns out some of their owners are also involved in prostitution and sex trafficking.