New York Times

1. With Midterms Coming Up, G.O.P. Is Bogged Down in Congress

   Republican majorities are at odds on big issues as the Senate resorts to extraordinary measures to pass homeland security funding over a Democratic blockade.

2. In Virginia Redistricting Win, Democrats Play Hardball to Thwart Trump

   “We cannot bring a stick to a knife fight”: Democrats are increasingly open to extreme measures, including gerrymandering, when the stakes are high.

3. Pakistani Officials Remain Hopeful About U.S.-Iran Talks

   The seizure of two cargo vessels by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday cast doubt on plans for a second round of talks in Pakistan’s capital.

4. A $440,000 Breast Reduction: How Doctors Cashed In on the No Surprises Act and Arbitration

   A law meant to end surprise medical billing accidentally created a multibillion-dollar industry that is making doctors richer.

5. Pace of N.I.H. Funding Slows Further in Trump’s Second Year

   The agency has approved far fewer new grants than it did in years past. A renewed effort to screen for disfavored terms and a loss of personnel are contributing.