G20, Asheville: U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Japan’s finance minister Satsuki Katayama met in Asheville, agreeing that “orderly” yen moves are key to global stability, as Japan’s central bank chief also joined talks. Foreign policy & sanctions: European officials pushed back on Russia’s return to G20 finance meetings after Anton Siluanov’s unexpected appearance, with EU leaders saying it’s not time to “normalize” Moscow while the war in Ukraine continues. Trade tensions: Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney fired back at U.S. officials blaming Canada for the tariff standoff, saying talks can move forward when Americans stop “throwing shade” and get serious. North Carolina politics & voting: A USPS whistleblower says rushed, insufficiently tested mail-ballot technology could cause “catastrophic failure,” potentially blocking ballots in the fall; the dispute is tied to Trump’s mail-voting overhaul and ongoing court fights. Local government: Mecklenburg Sheriff Garry McFadden discussed jail overcrowding and the impact of “Iryna’s Law” as the county jail population remains far above capacity. Statehouse/economy: Gov. Josh Stein promoted North Carolina’s ties to Ireland during meetings in Dublin, highlighting investment and exports. Public safety & courts: A North Carolina teen was indicted for allegedly aiding and abetting a San Diego mosque livestream attack that killed three people. Tech & elections: The U.S. is set to urge G20 countries to take a hands-off approach to AI regulation, promoting “Carolina Principles” instead of new rules.