Top Stories • April 30, 2026

Oil prices have surged above $120 a barrel, reaching wartime highs as tensions with Iran disrupt global supply and raise concerns about rising inflation and slowing economic growth. U.S. military commanders are preparing options for President Donald Trump as the standoff with Iran escalates and the risk of a wider conflict grows. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to testify before the Senate Armed Services Committee, where he is expected to face questions on military strategy, costs, and the potential expansion of the conflict. Meanwhile, the U.S. Supreme Court has issued a major ruling limiting parts of the Voting Rights Act, a decision that could reshape congressional maps and impact control of the House in the years ahead. Lawmakers warn the ruling may reduce minority representation as redistricting battles intensify across several states.

Daniel Compatangelo reports.