In Alaska's upcoming Senate race, Democrat Mary Peltola is challenging Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan, leveraging the issue of salmon scarcity in the Yukon River as a central campaign focus.
Politics Today · Oct 16, 2026
Latest News
Reporting across politics, policy and public affairs
Nine former FBI employees, dismissed for their involvement in the investigation into former President Trump's handling of classified documents, have filed a federal lawsuit seeking reinstatement. They allege the firings were politically motivated and lacked due process. The lawsuit describes the dismissals as part of a broader campaign of political retribution initiated following Trump's return to the presidency in 2025. The plaintiffs seek reinstatement, back pay, and a court declaration that their dismissals were unlawful.
The ex-fiancé of Representative Nancy Mace and two other individuals have been charged with sex crimes in South Carolina. The charges include sexual assault and exploitation. Mace has stated that she is cooperating with authorities and is focused on her congressional duties. The charges have raised questions about the handling of sexual misconduct allegations within political circles and the broader issue of sexual violence in the military.
The Cook Political Report has moved 18 U.S. House races toward the Democratic Party, indicating increasing momentum for Democrats ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. The updated projections suggest Democrats might gain between 9 to 19 seats, potentially securing a House majority with 224 to 234 seats. Key races in states like Iowa, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Michigan have moved in the Democrats' favor, underscoring the GOP's challenging political environment.
An opinion piece in Le Monde criticizes President Donald Trump's handling of the U.S. military, asserting that his actions have undermined its stability, professionalism, and democratic foundations. The article highlights politically motivated purges and reckless military actions.
The Texas Senate race between incumbent Republican Senator Ken Paxton and Democratic challenger James Talarico has attracted tens of millions of dollars in campaign contributions. The race is considered one of the most closely watched in the country, with both parties investing heavily in the outcome. Recent polls show a tight contest, with Talarico slightly ahead. The outcome of this race could have significant implications for the balance of power in the Senate.
Former adversaries Elon Musk and Donald Trump have rekindled their political alliance ahead of the 2026 U.S. midterm elections. Their previous fallout in mid-2025 appeared irreparable, but recent events suggest otherwise, including Musk's presence at a White House tech summit and his receipt of the National Medal of Science from Trump on October 8. Musk has invested over $366 million in this election cycle, primarily to block Democratic gains in the Senate, particularly in Texas, where he has substantial business interests.
In Alaska's upcoming Senate race, Democrat Mary Peltola is challenging Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan, leveraging the issue of salmon scarcity in the Yukon River as a central campaign focus.