World Cup Fallout in Seattle: After the U.S. men’s team was knocked out 4-1 by Belgium in the Round of 16, the Balogun red-card saga and Trump’s reported FIFA pressure kept dominating headlines, while Belgium players celebrated with a “Trump dance” mockery. Homelessness & School Safety: Seattle Public Schools says it used concrete eco-blocks to stop recurring RV encampments and drug use near its Sodo HQ—pushing back on a Seattle Times narrative that framed the move as wrongdoing. Small Business Warning: A new NFIB report finds Washington small businesses lag the nation on optimism, hiring plans, and expansion—calling it a “bright red warning sign,” with labor costs a top drag. Middle East Tensions: The U.S. and Iran resumed hostilities after ceasefire violations, with Trump calling Iran’s leaders “scum” and oil prices ticking up. EV Dealership Fight: Washington auto dealers sued Scout Motors in federal court to block direct-to-consumer EV sales, arguing it undermines the franchise system. State Politics: Backers of a repeal initiative for Washington’s high-earner income tax turned in 500,000+ signatures, setting up a likely ballot fight. Courts & Appointments: Gov. Bob Ferguson appointed Kelly Wood to Thurston County Superior Court, filling a vacancy from Judge Carol Murphy’s retirement.