World Cup Countdown (NJ angle): With kickoff 48 hours away, the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins June 11 in Mexico City and ends July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, bringing 48 teams and 104 matches across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico—plus fresh off-field friction over ticket prices and access. Immigration & security spotlight: New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned a planned ICE buildup as the tournament nears, while the broader World Cup security push is also colliding with visa disputes, including a Somali referee denied entry to the U.S. Courts & federal policy: A federal judge blocked the Trump administration’s proposed $100,000 H-1B fee, calling it an unauthorized tax—an issue that lawmakers say could hit rural schools and healthcare staffing. NJ governance & tech: In Hammonton, officials postponed an AI data center public hearing and will instead review Pinelands rules after approving consultant spending to study zoning and risks. NJ politics watch: State Sen. Gordon Johnson confirmed he’ll seek re-election in 2027 for the 37th District. Business & biotech: Johnson & Johnson agreed to buy Firefly Bio for $1 billion to expand its oncology pipeline.