A new Gallup poll shows national pride is dropping—especially among Democrats and Gen Z. Tesla sales continue to decline amid political backlash tied to Elon Musk. Tinder rolls out mandatory facial scan verification in California to fight scams. And despite growing divisions, Fourth of July fireworks celebrations are still happening across L.A., from the Hollywood Bowl to Catalina Island.

Sean “Diddy” Combs avoids the most serious charges in a closely watched federal case. A new poll shows Kamala Harris is a clear favorite in the California governor’s race—if she runs. Jane Fonda and other celebrities call out Amazon over treatment of pregnant warehouse workers. And Microsoft announces layoffs, joining a growing list of tech companies cutting jobs in California.

Gas prices in California are set to jump this July, with new taxes and refinery rules adding costs at the pump. Meanwhile, illegal fireworks are already lighting up L.A., raising safety and environmental concerns ahead of the Fourth of July. Across the U.S., consumers are pulling back on spending as inflation outpaces income growth, affecting travel, recreation, and more. And in the face of growing energy demands, big batteries are emerging as a key tool in preventing summer blackouts.

President Trump reaffirms NATO support and signals openness to aiding Ukraine if Russia resists a ceasefire. In California, lawmakers strike a $321-billion budget deal—hinging on a housing reform vote. A judge rules the state’s FAIR insurance plan illegally limited wildfire smoke claims, opening the door for thousands of homeowners to seek compensation. And Tesla’s new robotaxis draw federal scrutiny after test videos show alarming safety lapses.

A Pentagon report challenges claims that U.S. strikes destroyed Iran’s nuclear program, with experts saying the damage may only set them back a few months. A federal judge orders the Trump administration to hand over records related to military deployments in California. In housing news, Southern California sees its first year-over-year price dip since 2023. And In-N-Out sues a YouTuber for impersonating an employee and posting a prank video the company says spread false and harmful information.