Good morning. It's Friday, August 7, 2026. President Trump signed two executive orders Thursday aimed at limiting birthright citizenship and ending birth tourism by denying visas to foreigners who come to the United States solely to give birth.
The moves mark a major step in long promised immigration policy changes. At the same time, new data showed American businesses cut far fewer jobs in July than in any month over the past two years.
Stock markets ended the week lower with the Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Russell 2000 all down while gold and oil prices rose. Mortgage rates also eased slightly on Thursday.
These developments touch on immigration, jobs, and the cost of living, three issues that matter deeply to Americans over 50.
The Top Stories
President Trump signed executive orders on Thursday that seek to change how the United States handles birthright citizenship and birth tourism. One order directs federal agencies to stop recognizing automatic citizenship for children born in the United States to parents who are not citizens or legal permanent residents.
The second order bars visas for people entering the country for the purpose of giving birth. Officials say the measures will close loopholes long criticized by supporters of stricter immigration rules.
Why it matters: These orders could affect thousands of families and set up legal fights that may reach the Supreme Court. July layoffs dropped to the lowest level in two years according to the outplacement firm Challenger Gray and Christmas.
Employers announced 45,000 job cuts last month, down sharply from earlier in the year. Artificial intelligence played a role in about one third of those cuts as companies replaced some workers with new technology.
Why it matters: Fewer layoffs signal a steadier job market for older Americans who often worry about sudden job loss near retirement. At least six people died in a school shooting in Thailand on Thursday.
A teenager first killed his grandparents then opened fire at a school in the northeastern province of Nong Bua Lamphu. Classmates described the suspect as troubled and said he had been bullied.
Why it matters: The attack is a reminder that school violence remains a global concern even in nations known for low crime rates.
Washington & the Nation
A bipartisan bill in Congress would give the president new power to place tariffs of up to 100 percent on countries that import large amounts of Russian energy. The measure is attached to a larger package of Russia sanctions and has support from both parties in the Senate.
Lawmakers hope it will cut off funding for the war in Ukraine. New York Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul filed a lawsuit against the betting platform Kalshi.
State officials claim the company is operating an illegal gambling business inside New York. Kalshi has not yet commented publicly on the suit. Bari Weiss, the new editor in chief of CBS News, has completed a major overhaul of the 60 Minutes staff.
She replaced several longtime correspondents and producers ahead of the show's new season that begins next month. The changes are meant to bring fresh voices and tighter production standards to the program that has aired for nearly six decades.
Around the World
The deadly school shooting in Thailand left at least six dead and several others wounded. Police said the 14 year old suspect used guns legally owned by his family. Officials in Bangkok expressed shock because mass shootings are rare in the country.
The government promised a full investigation and better mental health support for young people. In Europe, Barclays Bank reported an 18 percent increase in profit for the most recent quarter and raised its income forecast for the rest of the year.
The British lender said strong performance in its consumer and investment banking units drove the gains. Separately, the rail ticket seller Trainline raised its profit guidance for the second time in 2024 citing higher demand for travel across the continent.
Plus500, the online trading platform, also lifted its expectations after quarterly revenue grew 11 percent.
Your Money
Markets finished lower on Thursday. The Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Russell 2000 all closed down. Gold rose as investors sought safety while oil prices moved higher on supply concerns.
The 10 year Treasury yield stood near 4.69 percent. The number of homes selling for one million dollars or more continues to grow as home values rise across the country. This shift means what once counted as a luxury house is now more common in many suburbs.
Buyers in that price range often pay cash which can make it harder for families using mortgages to compete. Mortgage rates eased on Thursday, August 6. The modest drop could help buyers lock in slightly better terms although rates remain above levels seen a few years ago.
Freddie's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers announced plans to open 60 new restaurants this year with many of them in Northern California. Company leaders say the state offers good growth despite its reputation for high costs.
Hibbett shares fell after the sporting goods retailer missed sales targets in its first quarter.
Health & You
Adults over 50 can protect their balance and reduce fall risk with a simple daily habit. The National Institutes of Health recommends standing on one foot for 10 seconds at a time while brushing your teeth.
Switch feet each time you brush. This easy exercise strengthens leg muscles and improves stability. Falls cause more than 36,000 deaths among older Americans each year according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Adding this short balance drill takes almost no extra time yet can make a real difference. Try it twice a day, morning and night. If you feel unsteady, hold onto the sink at first and build up slowly.
Talk with your doctor before starting any new exercise if you have had recent falls or balance problems.
One Good Thing
Small acts of kindness still brighten lives every day. In communities across America, volunteers continue to deliver free meals to neighbors over 65 who cannot easily get out.
One program in Ohio delivered its one millionth meal last month. The drivers often spend a few extra minutes chatting with recipients who live alone. These visits provide both food and friendship.
Many older adults say the simple hello at the door means as much as the hot meal itself. It is a quiet reminder that neighbors still look out for one another.
On This Day
In 1959, Explorer 6 transmitted the first photographs of Earth taken from an orbiting satellite. In 1964, Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, granting President Johnson broad authority to expand the Vietnam War.
In 1974, Philippe Petit walked a high wire strung between the towers of the World Trade Center, captivating onlookers far below. In 1941, Rabindranath Tagore, Indian poet and Nobel laureate.
(From the 50PlusHub Nostalgia archive.)
Take a moment today to check your own balance and maybe try the one foot stand while you brush your teeth. Small habits like this can help you stay independent longer. Markets may have dipped but layoffs are down and new businesses are still opening doors.
Steady work and careful money choices remain the best path for a secure retirement. We will be back with you on Monday with the latest news that affects your life. Until then stay safe and stay informed.
And that's the way it is.
Sources
- The White House, 'Executive Orders on Immigration,' August 6, 2026
- Challenger Gray and Christmas, 'Monthly Job Cuts Report,' July 2026
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 'Older Adult Falls,' 2025
- Barclays PLC, 'Q2 2026 Earnings Release,' August 2026
- National Institutes of Health, 'Balance Exercises for Seniors,' 2024
- Reuters, 'Thailand School Shooting Update,' August 7, 2026
- U.S. Treasury (Treasury yields)
- Yahoo Finance (delayed market quotes)