Trump promises more than $5,000 checks and Russia frees U.S. citizen: Morning Rundown

Key Points:

• Former President Donald Trump is promising various benefits, including $5,000 checks and economic investments, contingent on Republican victories in the midterm elections, a strategy criticized by Democrats and met with public skepticism.
• Russia released retired American teacher Stephen Hubbard following talks between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and President Vladimir Putin, signaling a potential warming of U.S.-Russia relations amid ongoing tensions over the Ukraine conflict.
• The U.S. fertility rate reached a record low in 2025, with birth rates declining among women under 30 but increasing among those aged 30 to 44, sparking debate over the economic and social implications of population trends.
• Actress Christina Applegate disclosed she was misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis over five years ago, expressing frustration as she continues to face significant health challenges related to her symptoms.
• Southern California is experiencing severe coastal erosion and property damage due to record-setting king tides and storm surges, highlighting the escalating impact of climate change on vulnerable coastal communities.