Fox News Hourly Update – 10AM ET | June 29, 2025

Host: Jack Callahan
Produced by: Fox News Radio

Senate Deliberates 940-Page Budget Bill Amidst Political Tensions

In the early hours of June 29, the U.S. Senate commenced the meticulous reading of the extensive 940-page budget bill, a move insisted upon by Democrats. Jack Callahan reported at [00:02] that the Senate narrowly voted to advance the bill to its final debating hours, setting the stage for a prolonged legislative process.

Trey Youngst provided further insight at [00:17], explaining that senators are still several hours away from initiating debates, with clerks having read approximately 350 pages since the process began around 11 PM the previous night. Youngst highlighted Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's strategy, stating, "Senator Schumer is using this as a delayed tactic to hold up the bill's passing." The report emphasized the significant role played by GOP leaders, including President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, who exerted considerable pressure to secure the necessary support. Their efforts successfully persuaded previously hesitant Senators Rick Scott, Mike Lee, Cynthia Loomis, and Ron Johnson to alter their votes to "yes."

Despite these efforts, resistance remains among certain factions. Jack Callahan noted at [00:59] that Republican Senators Rand Paul and Thom Tillis joined all 47 Democrats in voting against the bill, underscoring the deep partisan divides hindering legislative progress.

Israel Targets Key Hamas Figure Amid Prolonged Conflict

Switching focus to international affairs, Jack Callahan introduced a significant development from the Middle East at [00:59], informing listeners that Israel's military has successfully eliminated Hakam Mohammed Issa, a co-founder of Hamas's Al Qassam Brigades and a key planner of the October 7th terror attacks. Deborah Valentine elaborated on this at [01:14], detailing ongoing Israeli operations within Gaza aimed at dismantling Hamas leadership.

Valentine reported, "Israeli forces continue to operate inside Gaza, killing the co-founder of Hamas's Al Qassam Brigades, Hakam Mohammed Issa," highlighting the strategic moves to weaken militant capabilities. The report also touched on domestic sentiments, noting that "thousands of Israelis gathered in the streets of Tel Aviv calling for an end to the war and the return of the remaining hostages taken on October 7th."

Despite over 630 days of conflict, there is a burgeoning hope for peace. President Trump expressed optimism at [01:53], stating, "A ceasefire deal could be reached within the next week to end the war in Gaza." He aims to build on the momentum achieved following the recent cessation of hostilities between Israel and Iran, seeking to establish a lasting resolution to the prolonged violence.

Tragic Loss: Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband Shot in Targeted Attack

Tragedy struck in Minnesota as Jack Callahan reported at [02:32] the shooting death of state lawmaker Melissa Hartman and her husband, Mark Hartman, in their Brooklyn Park home on June 14th. The attack also left State Senator John Hoffman and his wife injured. Federal and state charges have been filed against the alleged gunman, intensifying the investigation into this targeted act of violence.

A private funeral held at The Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis witnessed an outpouring of support, with approximately 1,500 attendees, including former President Biden and former Vice President Harris. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz delivered a heartfelt eulogy at [02:48], reflecting on the Hartmans' legacy:

"More kids in pre K, fewer in poverty. More schools with the tools and teachers they need. Fewer with hungry students... That's the legacy that Mark and Melissa will leave behind for all Minnesotans."

Proposed Renaming of Delaware Bay Sparks Debate

In a move reminiscent of President Donald Trump's renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, Senator Michael Testa introduced legislation to rename the Delaware Bay to the Bay of New Jersey. Jack Callahan reported at [03:29] that the bay, crucial to New Jersey's fishing and recreational industries, has been known as Delaware Bay since 1610.

Michael Testa defended the proposal, stating, "The bay is vital to the state's fishing and recreational industries," emphasizing the economic and cultural significance of the name change. This initiative has sparked debates over tradition, regional identity, and political symbolism, highlighting the ongoing discussions about heritage and modernization.

France Enacts Comprehensive Ban on Smoking in Public Areas

Turning to public health, Jack Callahan announced at [04:01] that France has implemented a new health decree banning smoking in various public spaces. The ban encompasses parks, sports venues, beaches, bus stops, and areas surrounding schools, aiming to protect public health without instituting an outright prohibition on smoking.

French officials clarified, "We're not banning smoking, just ending it in places where it could affect people's health." This regulation comes at a time when over 30% of French adults continue to smoke cigarettes, reflecting the country's ongoing efforts to balance individual freedoms with community health standards.

Conclusion

The June 29, 2025, edition of the Fox News Hourly Update provided comprehensive coverage of significant national and international events. From the contentious Senate budget bill debates and pivotal developments in the Israel-Gaza conflict to the heartbreaking loss of Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hartman and the proposed renaming of Delaware Bay, the update encapsulated a wide array of pressing issues. Additionally, France's latest public health measures underscored global efforts to improve societal well-being. For detailed coverage and more updates, listeners are encouraged to follow Fox News Podcasts at foxnewspodcast.com.

Notable Quotes:

• Senate Budget Bill:

  • “[Senator Schumer is using this as a delayed tactic to hold up the bill's passing.]” – Trey Youngst [00:17]

• Minnesota Lawmakers' Eulogy:

  • “More kids in pre K, fewer in poverty. More schools with the tools and teachers they need. Fewer with hungry students... That's the legacy that Mark and Melissa will leave behind for all Minnesotans.” – Governor Tim Walz [02:48]

• France Smoking Ban Clarification:

  • “We're not banning smoking, just ending it in places where it could affect people's health.” – French Official [04:01]

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