U.S. Senate Politics: Democrats largely skipped a Senate Homeland Security fraud hearing, leaving the dais nearly empty as Republicans pressed witnesses and accused the minority of dodging uncomfortable questions. Ballot Access Fight: A New Hampshire independent bid by Aaron Day is headed to federal court, arguing the state blocked his declaration of intent and could “spoil” the GOP race. Public Health: Trump’s nominee for CDC director, Dr. Erica Schwartz, faced sharp questioning on whether she’d resist political pressure tied to vaccine policy changes, even as she vowed to “never betray the science.” Education Policy: The Trump administration launched a crackdown on how districts handle teacher sexual misconduct claims, warning states could lose federal funding. State Government: Gov. Kelly Ayotte vetoed another “poorly drafted” bill that would have allowed sex-separated spaces based on biological sex. Consumer Data & Justice: AG Liz Murrill joined a multistate settlement with 23andMe over the genetic data breach, with limited recovery for claimants. Drug Prices: A multistate Glenmark settlement targets alleged generic drug price-fixing, with New Hampshire included among participating states. Local Health Access: A New England hospital in Brattleboro says it may close its birth center without new funding, sparking community pressure on Gov. Scott. Business & Growth: Bedford’s Primary Bank is set to be acquired by Hometown Financial Group/bankESB, expanding TruNorth Bank’s New Hampshire footprint. Energy & Industry: New Hampshire is among states seeing continued distributed solar policy action, including plug-in solar bills.