In Today's Times:
- A rare flop of an investment by Mitt Romney in Texas real estate had a happy ending for one couple, who borrowed money from Mr. Romney to buy their home in 1997, Mike McIntire reports.
- Conservatives are publicly pressing Mr. Romney to pick Representative Paul D. Ryan to be his running mate, pushing for a vice-presidential candidate who can promote their fiscal position and demonstrate Mr. Romney's commitment to their agenda, Michael D. Shear and Trip Gabriel report.
- A nasty House race in Florida pitting two Republican incumbents against each other has largely come to illustrate the differences between the two factions of the party: the old earmarking guard and the antispending Tea Party, Jennifer Steinhauer reports.
- In preparation for hosting the Democratic National Convention, Charlotte, N.C., is steeling itself for all manner of protests, hiring extra law enforcement officers, building barriers and banning items from backpacks to water guns, Kim Severson reports.
Washington Happenings:
- President Obama will host an annual dinner Friday in celebration of Ramadan.
