Mid-Michigan News Update: Middle East Conflict, Canada Trade Tensions, Michigan Budget & Election Numbers

Here are today's top headlines from Michigan and around the world.

U.S. Strikes in Iran Continue

The U.S. military carried out its 11th consecutive night of strikes in Iran as violence across the Middle East continues to escalate, overshadowing diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring a collapsed ceasefire agreement.

U.S. Central Command says the latest strikes targeted aircraft hangars and drone storage facilities.

U.S. and Canada Trade Talks Continue

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says he and President Donald Trump have agreed to intensify negotiations on a new trade agreement between the two countries.

The announcement comes just one day after President Trump unveiled 50% tariffs on most Canadian goods, saying Canada has unfairly discriminated against American automobiles, alcohol, and dairy products.

The trade dispute is also affecting a major cross-border celebration. A planned joint U.S.-Canada ceremony Friday marking the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which connects Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, is no longer expected to happen. Canada now plans to hold its own opening ceremony.

Governor Whitmer Signs Final State Budget

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed her eighth and final balanced bipartisan state budget into law.

The $85 billion budget will fund Michigan's fiscal year 2027 and was approved by lawmakers two days after the July 1 deadline.

Michigan Absentee Voting Surges

With Michigan's August primary election less than two weeks away, voter participation is already running well ahead of previous midterm elections.

State officials say nearly 2 million absentee ballots have been requested, while more than 570,000 ballots have already been completed and returned.

That's a 69% increase in ballot requests and a 44% increase in returned ballots compared to the 2022 midterm election.

Sports

The Chicago Cubs defeated the Detroit Tigers 11-2.

In Midwest League action, the Lansing Lugnuts erupted for seven runs in the sixth inning to defeat the Great Lakes Loons 9-6.

Mid-Michigan Weather

Much cooler air settles into the region today with sunny skies, a breezy afternoon, and a high near 75.

Tonight will be clear and cool with temperatures dropping below 52 degrees.

Thursday brings plenty of sunshine and a high around 79, followed by another beautiful summer day Friday with sunny skies and highs near 82.