NPR News: 07-11-2026 6PM EDT

This episode of NPR News Now covers a mix of political, international, and public health developments, with the dominant story being the reshaping of Maine’s Senate race after a sudden withdrawal. Other major items include a disputed fatal shooting by ICE in Houston, a confirmed Ebola case in an American aid worker in Congo, and a fresh island-wide blackout in Cuba.

Maine Senate Race Reshapes After Accusation

Maine Senator Susan Collins hit the campaign trail today, one day after her Democratic opponent, Graham Platner, officially withdrew from the race. Platner’s exit followed an accusation of rape by a former romantic partner, which he denies. Collins acknowledged the challenge of an off-presidential year election, telling Maine Public Radio, “You always worry about voter turnout. So we've placed a lot of effort on encouraging people to vote and having a lot of direct voter contact.” Maine Democrats are now regrouping and have scheduled a nominating convention for July 25th to choose a new candidate to take on Collins in November.

Disputed ICE Shooting in Houston