[The 7] Georgia primaries; fermented food benefits; Lionel Messi hat trick; and more

Georgia held key primary elections Tuesday, with several competitive races drawing national attention ahead of the November midterms. Voters chose candidates for congressional and statewide offices, and results are expected to signal which direction the state’s political landscape is shifting. Some incumbent lawmakers faced strong challenges from within their own parties.

Analysts say the outcomes could shape the balance of power in Congress, making Georgia once again a critical battleground state.

New research suggests that regularly eating fermented foods — such as yogurt, kimchi, and kefir — can significantly improve gut microbiome diversity. The study found that participants who increased their intake of fermented foods showed measurable improvements in immune markers compared to those who ate more high-fiber foods alone.

Scientists noted that the findings lend credence to the idea that diet plays a direct role in regulating inflammation throughout the body.

Lionel Messi delivered a stunning hat trick, scoring three goals to lead his side to a commanding victory. The performance drew widespread praise and reignited debate about whether Messi, now well into his late career, remains the preeminent figure in world football.

Highlights from the match quickly spread across social media, with fans celebrating what many described as a reminder of Messi’s undiminished brilliance at the highest level.

Fresh economic data released Wednesday pointed to a mixed picture for the U.S. economy. Consumer spending showed modest growth, but persistent inflation and a cooling labor market have prompted some economists to revise their forecasts downward. Federal Reserve officials are expected to weigh the data carefully before their next policy meeting.

Analysts warn that the economy risks a soft landing scenario becoming harder to achieve if wage growth continues to outpace productivity gains.

Diplomatic efforts in the Middle East continued Wednesday, with international mediators pushing for a ceasefire agreement. Talks remain fragile, and officials cautioned that significant gaps persist between the parties on core issues including hostage releases and border security arrangements.

The United States and several European governments are reported to be pressing hard for a deal before the situation escalates further.

Extreme heat warnings were issued across parts of the American Southwest on Wednesday as temperatures climbed well above seasonal averages. Climate scientists noted that such events are becoming more frequent and intense, consistent with long-term warming trends driven by greenhouse gas emissions.

Officials urged residents in affected areas to take precautionary measures and check on vulnerable neighbors, particularly the elderly and those without air conditioning.

Lawmakers in Washington moved forward Wednesday with a new proposal aimed at regulating artificial intelligence in high-stakes sectors such as healthcare and financial services. The bill seeks to require companies to disclose how AI systems make consequential decisions and to establish independent oversight mechanisms.

Tech industry groups pushed back against the proposal, arguing that overly strict rules could stifle innovation and put American companies at a competitive disadvantage globally.