Facing tough economic realities, Maryland state officials gave the thumbs up this week to Governor Wes Moore's proposal to slash $150 million from the budget. Moore joined Kojo and Tom to explain why the cuts are necessary. Plus, Moore made the case for cooler rhetoric after the failed assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump and explained why he's sticking with Biden as his party's presidential nominee.

The Prince George's County Council finally approved permanent rent stabilization legislation, capping rent increases at 3% plus inflation. The agreement comes after compromises and even some animosity between the more moderate and progressive blocks on the council. District 6 Councilmember Wala Blegay weighed in. Plus, the latest on next month's special election to replace councilmember Mel Franklin, who resigned last month and is facing embezzlement charges.

Last month, tech executive and NEWSMAX commentator Mike Clancy secured the Republican nomination in Virginia's 10th congressional district. He's now set to challenge Democratic nominee state Sen. Suhas Subramanyam in November's general election. Clancy got behind the mic to discuss the race and whether Virginia could swing red in the fall.

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