Iran Policy: ND Rep. Julie Fedorchak backs the administration’s economic pressure strategy on Iran, arguing embargoes can curb nuclear and military capabilities without costly direct conflict. Local Elections: Fargo residents can’t vote early for the Oct. 6 special election; absentee ballots are the only way to vote before Election Day, with a measure on switching from a commission to a council form of government. State Government & Environment: The EPA has proposed fully approving North Dakota’s regional haze plan, a move that would keep baseload power operating without added emissions controls, with a 30-day public comment period. Public Health: FirstLink reports more North Dakotans are using the 988 suicide hotline, with calls/texts/chats up versus last year and most answered in-state. Legislative Politics: A Minot editorial criticizes Democratic-NPL chair Adam Goldwyn’s temporary House appointment, saying party leadership and lawmaking don’t mix well during a special session. Tax & Economy: ND Tax Commissioner Brian Kroshus reports Q2 2026 taxable sales and purchases rose 3.86% year over year, led by retail trade and real estate. Military/Personnel: Sanford Bismarck CEO Todd Schaffer was promoted to brigadier general and appointed assistant for Mobilization and Reserve Affairs in the Office of the Undersecretary of War for Personnel and Readiness. Energy Costs: National coverage highlights record-high Labor Day gasoline expectations tied to Middle East-driven supply pressures and campaign-season politics.