AFBytes Quarter Rundown — Friday, August 21, 7:00 PM ET

Here's what's been making headlines today. President Trump defended Sen. Darline Graham during a South Carolina campaign event after she struggled in a national security debate. The endorsement could influence voter choices and party direction on national security policy. It's a move that highlights the importance of candidates aligned with strong domestic security positions. The Census Bureau's report on citizenship data does not substantiate claims of large-scale noncitizen voting in 2020. Analysts note it lacks the detail needed to prove such claims. This is crucial for maintaining public confidence in election administration and voter rolls. Accurate citizenship verification supports the integrity of elections that determine U.S. policy direction. Iran is examining a request to lift tanker restrictions for Iraqi oil exports via the Strait of Hormuz. This development follows ongoing regional discussions on energy transit. Oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz directly influence global energy prices and U.S. fuel costs. Any easing of restrictions could stabilize supply and moderate household energy bills. The United States is moving toward implementing tariffs on Canadian imports as a deadline approaches. Trade talks continue after a three-day extension granted by the administration. The measures target economic leverage in ongoing bilateral negotiations. Tariffs on Canadian goods raise costs for U.S. importers and can increase prices for consumers on everyday items. Russian drones hit a shopping mall in President Zelenskyy's hometown, killing 15 people. Ukrainian officials described the attack as a double-tap strike targeting rescue workers. Continued strikes on civilian sites sustain pressure on U.S. weapons supplies and European energy security tied to the conflict. The strike underscores debates over the scale of U.S. involvement and border security priorities. That's the day from where we sit — thanks for spending part of it with us. Stay with us at AFBytes for what's next.