The U.S. government has signaled a plan to close the Strait of Hormuz to commercial traffic amid escalating tensions with Iran. Officials say the move would trigger a rapid deployment of naval assets and impose sanctions on shipping that refuses to comply. The decision follows a spike in Iranian drone activity near the Gulf and heightened concerns over oil flows.

Meanwhile, former congressman Eric Swalwell halted his campaign after several women accused him of sexual misconduct. The allegations, detailed in a lawsuit, claim repeated unwanted advances during the 2020 election cycle. Swalwell’s withdrawal removes a potential Democratic contender in California’s 15th district, reshaping the field for the upcoming primary. This shift opens chances for rivals to win the seat June.

The two stories converge on the theme of geopolitical and political turbulence. A naval blockade could tighten oil prices, squeezing energy markets and prompting investors to reassess exposure to Middle East supply risks. Swalwell’s exit, meanwhile, reshapes California politics, potentially shifting voter dynamics in a swing district. Both developments underscore the volatility that can ripple through markets and elections alike.