U.S.-Iran Escalation: Iran says it struck an unmanned U.S. vessel trying to enter the Strait of Hormuz, calling the U.S. denial a “total lie,” while U.S. Central Command disputes the claim and warns of “increased speed and severity” in retaliation. Middle East Security: Iran’s foreign ministry says South Korea’s military role in the Gulf would bring “serious consequences,” as the U.S. continues strikes tied to attacks on Navy warships and oil tankers. Texas Politics: Democratic Rep. Gina Hinojosa is polling within the margin of error against Gov. Greg Abbott, with a potential historic win for Texas Democrats and the state’s first Latina governor. Election Fallout (Germany): Germany’s far-right AfD won a historic Saxony-Anhalt vote with 44% but fell short of a majority, setting up tough coalition talks and testing Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s standing. Supreme Court Fight (Voting): A mail-in ballot restriction dispute is headed back to the nation’s highest court, with Minnesota officials warning about staffing burdens if new federal limits take effect. Higher Ed & Crypto: San Francisco State University received a $25M gift largely in XRP, one of the biggest crypto donations to U.S. colleges. Labor Day Basics: Federal offices, banks, USPS, and stock markets are closed for the holiday, while many retailers keep operating. Space Coast Push: A new U.S. Space Academy is being backed for Florida’s Space Coast as President Trump signs an executive order creating a commission to set it up.