What happens if Israel allows humanitarian crisis to worsen
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What happens if Israel allows humanitarian crisis to worsen

Global affairs analyst Laura Ballman joined The Final 5 to break down the U.S. and Israel cutting off ceasefire talks with Hamas and France’s surprise decision to recognize a Palestinian state. Ballman says Israel must address the humanitarian crisis to avoid losing global support—and blasts Macron’s move as “unconscionable” political pandering.

House may have shut down over Epstein flap, but Senate still at work
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House may have shut down over Epstein flap, but Senate still at work

NOTUS reporter Riley Rogerson joined The Final 5 to explain why the Jeffrey Epstein files have consumed Washington and how a bipartisan push to force a vote is putting House Republicans—and Speaker Johnson—in a tough spot. Rogerson also breaks down why the maneuvering isn’t over and why this could come back even stronger after the August recess.

Tariffs, trust, and Trump: What voters care about now
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Tariffs, trust, and Trump: What voters care about now

Cliff Young of Ipsos joined The Final 5 to break down new polling on the biggest issues for Americans. Political extremism and threats to democracy top the list at 25%, while the economy remains a key concern. Young says tariffs are gaining attention as voters worry about inflation, and consumer confidence among younger Americans has dipped amid student debt and economic uncertainty. Despite that, Trump maintains approval in the mid-40s and strong support from Republicans, though only 38% of Americans overall believe his economic policies will pay off long term.

What's next for Mexico as Trump's USMCA turns 5
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What's next for Mexico as Trump's USMCA turns 5

Karthik Sankaran of the Quincy Institute joined The Final 5 to discuss the U.S.’s evolving trade policy with Mexico as the USMCA review approaches in 2026. He highlighted how Trump’s first term reshaped NAFTA into USMCA, adding labor protections and wage requirements, and explained why Mexico’s new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, could provide a key opportunity for deeper cooperation despite ongoing global trade uncertainty.

Rural public broadcasters prepare for funding cuts
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Rural public broadcasters prepare for funding cuts

The $9 billion recission package that cleared Congress effectively claws back at least a billion dollars previously approved for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. While supporters cite the ideological tilt of NPR and PBS as a major reason, many local and rural broadcasters are caught in the crossfire. How will they adapt? Jim Lokay discusses that and more with Julie Newman of PBS Appalachia in southwestern Virginia.

Fmr. Rep. Garret Graves discusses energy, climate, and the future of U.S. policy
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Fmr. Rep. Garret Graves discusses energy, climate, and the future of U.S. policy

Former GOP Congressman Garret Graves joined The Final 5 to talk about key issues shaping the country’s future, from energy independence and climate strategy to government spending and economic growth. He explained why he believes the U.S. needs a comprehensive energy plan that balances traditional resources with renewables, while avoiding reliance on China for critical minerals. Graves also shared his perspective on the Congressional Budget Office and life after Congress.

EPSTEIN FILES: What’s driving the renewed focus in Epstein case?
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EPSTEIN FILES: What’s driving the renewed focus in Epstein case?

Investigative journalist Dave Levinthal joined The Final 5 to discuss why Jeffrey Epstein’s name is back in the headlines nearly six years after his death. With calls to release grand jury transcripts and growing scrutiny over government transparency, Levinthal explained how the case intersects with politics, conspiracy theories, and the 2024 election landscape. He also highlighted the bipartisan nature of Epstein’s connections—and the lingering question of whether any new revelations will actually emerge.