Good morning. It's Saturday, July 25, 2026. New numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show weekly wages for median earners climbed 4.6 percent in the past year. At the same time, the Senate heard emotional testimony from a combat veteran opposing a resolution on Iran as several key races head toward November.
The Top Stories
New data released this week by the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows weekly wages for workers at or below the median rose 4.6 percent over the past year. The poorest quarter of workers saw even stronger gains.
The figures point to continued improvement in take-home pay for many American families. Why it matters: Higher wages help older Americans on fixed incomes stretch their savings and cover rising costs for food, medicine, and housing.
Senator Tim Sheehy, a former combat veteran now serving in the Senate, spoke against the Iran War Powers Resolution on the Senate floor. He became emotional while remembering a fallen friend.
The speech highlighted the human cost of potential conflict in the Middle East. Why it matters: Lawmakers from both parties continue to debate the limits of presidential power when it comes to military action.
The Senate race in Maine remains rated as a toss-up between Democratic candidate Troy Jackson and Republican incumbent Susan Collins. Jackson has centered his campaign on protecting Medicare and lowering drug prices.
Collins has pointed to her long record of delivering results for the state. Why it matters: Control of the Senate could shape tax policy, health care rules, and retirement programs that directly affect Americans over 50.
Washington & the Nation
The White House put new tariffs in place this week to replace an emergency tariff system struck down by the Supreme Court. Officials say the updated measures are expected to raise about 105 billion dollars a year in revenue.
The change aims to protect American industries while following court guidance. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Haley Stevens in the Democratic Senate primary.
Whitmer released a video praising Stevens record on manufacturing jobs and health care. The endorsement could help Stevens in a crowded primary field. In New York, the Times removed Nicolás Maduro from its style list after a meme showing the former Venezuelan leader in a tracksuit spread online.
The move reflects how quickly public images can change. These stories show how courts, governors, and cultural shifts continue to shape national life.
Around the World
A wildfire in Spain forced the evacuation of NASA's Deep Space Network complex this week. Teams will assess any damage once it is safe to return. The complex helps communicate with spacecraft far beyond Earth orbit.
UK Prime Minister Burnham completed a busy first week in office. He traveled across England and Scotland, spoke with more than a dozen world leaders, and visited his Manchester office.
The new leader is working to build ties at home and abroad. Senator Sheehy's remarks on the Iran resolution drew attention in foreign capitals. Many observers watch closely to see whether Congress will limit or expand options for military action in the region.
These events remind us that decisions made in Washington often reach far beyond our borders.
Your Money
Markets showed mixed results on Friday. The Dow and the S&P 500 closed higher while the Nasdaq and Russell 2000 finished lower. Gold prices rose and oil prices fell. The 10-year Treasury yield stood near 4.69 percent.
Wage growth of 4.6 percent for median earners offers some relief for households. Many retirees and near-retirees rely on part-time work or pensions that do not always keep pace with living costs.
The new tariff plan is expected to bring in 105 billion dollars a year. That money could reduce the federal deficit or support new spending. Higher costs from suppliers are pushing Qualcomm to raise prices by a double-digit percentage on products shipped after September 1.
Companies that use those chips may pass some of the increase on to buyers. Consumers should continue to watch inflation numbers and interest rates closely in the months ahead.
Health & You
A new pillow designed as an alternative to expensive sleepbuds is now available for side-sleepers. Traditional sleepbuds can cost several hundred dollars and need regular charging.
This pillow lets users listen to audio or calming sounds without putting anything in their ears. The design uses built-in speakers that direct sound upward toward the ear while blocking noise from a partner.
Many adults over 50 report trouble sleeping because of joint pain or a partner's snoring. Better rest improves heart health, memory, and mood. Doctors often recommend keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
This pillow offers one practical tool to help reach those conditions without high cost. Users should check with their doctor if sleep problems last more than a few weeks, as they could signal issues like sleep apnea.
One Good Thing
Meta decided this week to pause its plan for a 20-dollar monthly subscription fee on a helpful feature in its smart glasses. The feature uses on-device processing to make it easier for people to hear each other clearly in noisy places.
By holding off on the fee, the company keeps the tool free for now. Many older adults value clear conversations with family and friends. Small improvements in hearing technology can reduce isolation and support stronger relationships.
In a world full of complicated gadgets, keeping useful functions within reach for everyone is a welcome step.
On This Day
In 1956, The ocean liner Andrea Doria sank off Nantucket after colliding with the Stockholm. In 1978, Louise Brown, the first baby conceived through in vitro fertilization, was born in England.
In 1924, Estelle Getty, the American actress known for The Golden Girls. In 1934, Engelbert Dollfuss, the chancellor of Austria assassinated by Nazi conspirators. (From the 50PlusHub Nostalgia archive.)
Higher wages, careful debate over military powers, and steady progress on everyday problems mark this week. Take time to review your own budget in light of the latest wage and price figures.
Small changes today can protect your savings for years to come. Stay informed, talk with your neighbors, and vote in the upcoming primaries and general election. And that's the way it is.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, 'Employment Cost Index,' July 2026
- U.S. Senate Floor Remarks, Senator Tim Sheehy, July 2026
- The New York Times, Style Desk Update, July 2026
- White House Office of the Press Secretary, Tariff Announcement, July 2026
- NASA Public Affairs, Deep Space Network Statement, July 2026
- Meta Company Blog, Smart Glasses Feature Update, July 2026
- U.S. Treasury (Treasury yields)
- Yahoo Finance (delayed market quotes)