Review of a popular newborn vaccine and a red district stops a blue offensive: Morning Rundown

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advisory committee is set to decide whether to reconsider its long-standing guidance that all newborns receive a hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth. This vaccine has been a standard recommendation in the U.S. since the early 1990s and has dramatically reduced childhood hepatitis B infections by 99%.

Hepatitis B can be transmitted from mother to child during delivery and may lead to severe liver disease or premature death. Despite its proven effectiveness, some critics now question whether the benefits outweigh potential risks. A comprehensive review of over 400 studies by the Vaccine Integrity Project, affiliated with the University of Minnesota, found no evidence of health problems from the birth dose and credited the vaccine with preventing over 6 million infections and nearly 1 million hospitalizations. The review has not undergone peer review.

The CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will convene this week to vote on potential changes. Their recommendation could influence insurance coverage, though doctors would still be able to administer the vaccine even if guidance is altered.

Republican Matt Van Epps Wins Tennessee Special Election

In a heavily Republican Tennessee district, Matt Van Epps secured victory in a closely watched special election, maintaining GOP control despite Democratic efforts to flip the seat. Van Epps, a former state official and Army veteran, campaigned on MAGA-aligned policies and pledged to continue the work of previous GOP representative Mark Green.

While Democrats invested heavily in the race, the districts conservative leaning proved decisive. The result comes after President Donald Trump carried the district by 22 points in 2024, though both parties poured significant resources into the contest this year.

Trump Criticizes Minnesotas Somali Community

During a Cabinet meeting, former President Trump made controversial remarks about Somali immigrants in Minnesota, criticizing Rep. Ilhan Omar and calling for Somalis to return to their home country. Local leaders condemned the statements, while a senior law enforcement official noted that upcoming Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area are not specifically targeting the Somali community.

Author: Olivia Parker