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Obituaries

Patrick Stewart, a perceptive patriarch in 'Star Trek' and 'X-Men,' dies at 86

Patrick Stewart was trained as a Shakespearean actor, and he brought that gravitas to all of his roles, along with a playful sense of purpose. He was knighted in 2010.

Patrick Stewart was trained as a Shakespearean actor, and he brought that gravitas to all of his roles, along with a playful sense of purpose. He was knighted in 2010. Jack Taylor/Getty Images hide caption

Jack Taylor/Getty Images
Patrick Stewart was trained as a Shakespearean actor, and he brought that gravitas to all of his roles, along with a playful sense of purpose. He was knighted in 2010.

Patrick Stewart was trained as a Shakespearean actor, and he brought that gravitas to all of his roles, along with a playful sense of purpose. He was knighted in 2010. Jack Taylor/Getty Images hide caption

Jack Taylor/Getty Images

Stewart was raised by an abusive father but became best known for playing kind, paternal leaders who united families of misfits.

Patrick Stewart, a perceptive patriarch in 'Star Trek' and 'X-Men,' dies at 86

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Elections

Justice Department issues subpoenas to California election workers

Los Angeles County Registrar Dean Logan speaks at a press conference at the Los Angeles County Ballot Processing Center on June 2, 2026. His office confirmed to NPR on Thursday that it received grand jury subpoenas last week directed at employees.

Los Angeles County Registrar Dean Logan speaks at a press conference at the Los Angeles County Ballot Processing Center on June 2, 2026. His office confirmed to NPR on Thursday that it received grand jury subpoenas last week directed at employees. Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images
Los Angeles County Registrar Dean Logan speaks at a press conference at the Los Angeles County Ballot Processing Center on June 2, 2026. His office confirmed to NPR on Thursday that it received grand jury subpoenas last week directed at employees.

Los Angeles County Registrar Dean Logan speaks at a press conference at the Los Angeles County Ballot Processing Center on June 2, 2026. His office confirmed to NPR on Thursday that it received grand jury subpoenas last week directed at employees. Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

Grand jury subpoenas sent to election workers in Los Angeles come amid escalating tensions between the Trump administration and California election officials over the state's voter rolls.

Elections

These are the House races to watch in the 2026 midterm election on Nov. 3

A beeswarm chart showing funding amounts for different House races

A beeswarm chart showing funding amounts for different House races Stephen Fowler, Alyson Hurt and Rahul Mukherjee/NPR hide caption

Stephen Fowler, Alyson Hurt and Rahul Mukherjee/NPR
A beeswarm chart showing funding amounts for different House races

A beeswarm chart showing funding amounts for different House races Stephen Fowler, Alyson Hurt and Rahul Mukherjee/NPR hide caption

Stephen Fowler, Alyson Hurt and Rahul Mukherjee/NPR

An NPR analysis finds 70 House districts where Democrats and Republicans are each investing more than six figures in advertising during the final few days of the election, including in deep red areas.

Global Health

What killed 500-plus penguins? How scientists solved the mystery

Adélie penguins. This photo shows a small group of Adelie penguins returning to the colony. This photo was taken at a time and different location, unrelated to the study. Photo credits: Ralph Vanstreels.

Adélie penguins. This photo shows a small group of Adelie penguins returning to the colony. This photo was taken at a time and different location, unrelated to the study. Photo credits: Ralph Vanstreels. hide caption

Adélie penguins. This photo shows a small group of Adelie penguins returning to the colony. This photo was taken at a time and different location, unrelated to the study. Photo credits: Ralph Vanstreels.

Adélie penguins. This photo shows a small group of Adelie penguins returning to the colony. This photo was taken at a time and different location, unrelated to the study. Photo credits: Ralph Vanstreels. hide caption

The penguins that perished lived on the Danger Islands in Antarctica. The prime suspect was avian flu. Researchers were surprised by what they found.

Statewide Races

Alaska's all-important Senate race is roiled by a report on alleged spoiler candidate

This combination photo shows Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, left, and another Senate candidate named Dan Sullivan.

This combination photo shows Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, left, and another Senate candidate named Dan Sullivan. Mark Thiessen, Becky Bohrer/AP hide caption

Mark Thiessen, Becky Bohrer/AP
This combination photo shows Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, left, and another Senate candidate named Dan Sullivan.

This combination photo shows Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, left, and another Senate candidate named Dan Sullivan. Mark Thiessen, Becky Bohrer/AP hide caption

Mark Thiessen, Becky Bohrer/AP

New reporting alleging Democratic efforts to prop up a spoiler candidate has roiled Alaska's all-important U.S. Senate race.

Alaska Senate spoiler candidate

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Business

With days to go before the midterms, data shows the U.S. economy is doing well

The U.S. economy grew 3.4% in the July to September quarter from a year earlier, a much faster pace of annual growth than in the second quarter. Consumer spending was one of the main drivers of growth — though many Americans continue to struggle with inflation.

The U.S. economy grew 3.4% in the July to September quarter from a year earlier, a much faster pace of annual growth than in the second quarter. Consumer spending was one of the main drivers of growth — though many Americans continue to struggle with inflation. Joe Raedle/Getty Images North America hide caption

Joe Raedle/Getty Images North America
The U.S. economy grew 3.4% in the July to September quarter from a year earlier, a much faster pace of annual growth than in the second quarter. Consumer spending was one of the main drivers of growth — though many Americans continue to struggle with inflation.

The U.S. economy grew 3.4% in the July to September quarter from a year earlier, a much faster pace of annual growth than in the second quarter. Consumer spending was one of the main drivers of growth — though many Americans continue to struggle with inflation. Joe Raedle/Getty Images North America hide caption

Joe Raedle/Getty Images North America

GDP grew at an annual rate of 3.4% in the third quarter in the last major read on the economy ahead of the midterm elections — but many Americans continue to struggle with affordability.

Animals

Even birds get jet lagged, study shows

Manx shearwaters race back to their nests after spending weeks hunting at sea. New research suggests they get jet lagged on their journey home.

Manx shearwaters race back to their nests after spending weeks hunting at sea. New research suggests they get jet lagged on their journey home. birdsonline/Getty images hide caption

birdsonline/Getty images
Manx shearwaters race back to their nests after spending weeks hunting at sea. New research suggests they get jet lagged on their journey home.

Manx shearwaters race back to their nests after spending weeks hunting at sea. New research suggests they get jet lagged on their journey home. birdsonline/Getty images hide caption

birdsonline/Getty images

A species of seabirds appears to become disoriented on flights back to its nest due to shifting time zones.

Even birds get jet lagged, study shows

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Your Turn with Allison Aubrey

Lost your spark? The 'silent sister' of depression, and a quiz to spot her

Getty Images

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Getty Images
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Always busy, but rarely joyful? Allison Aubrey and Juana Summers discuss a tool to spot "high functioning depression."

Lost your spark? The "silent sister" of depression, and a quiz to spot her

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Climate

Forecasters are predicting a warmer and wetter winter. Here's how El Niño will affect your region

Pedestrians walk through a flooded street caused by king tides and heavy rain Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in North Bay Village, Fla.

Pedestrians walk through a flooded street caused by king tides and heavy rain Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in North Bay Village, Fla. Marta Lavandier/AP hide caption

Marta Lavandier/AP
Pedestrians walk through a flooded street caused by king tides and heavy rain Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in North Bay Village, Fla.

Pedestrians walk through a flooded street caused by king tides and heavy rain Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in North Bay Village, Fla. Marta Lavandier/AP hide caption

Marta Lavandier/AP

El Niño years typically lead to more precipitation and higher-than-average temperatures. The latest data shows the different potential impacts by region.

Deep Dive News

Arizona's lifeline to the Colorado River is drying up. Its designers warned us decades ago

A worker surveys the construction of the Mark Wilmer pumping plant near Parker, Arizona in June 1982. The pump station pulls water from the Colorado River near Lake Havasu and sends it to the Phoenix area through the Central Arizona Project. In the 1960s, the system's architects warned that it would dry up in the 21st century, but their suggested fixes were ignored for decades.

A worker surveys the construction of the Mark Wilmer pumping plant near Parker, Arizona in June 1982. The pump station pulls water from the Colorado River near Lake Havasu and sends it to the Phoenix area through the Central Arizona Project. In the 1960s, the system's architects warned that it would dry up in the 21st century, but their suggested fixes were ignored for decades. Philip A Fortnam/Central Arizona Project Photo hide caption

Philip A Fortnam/Central Arizona Project Photo
A worker surveys the construction of the Mark Wilmer pumping plant near Parker, Arizona in June 1982. The pump station pulls water from the Colorado River near Lake Havasu and sends it to the Phoenix area through the Central Arizona Project. In the 1960s, the system's architects warned that it would dry up in the 21st century, but their suggested fixes were ignored for decades.

A worker surveys the construction of the Mark Wilmer pumping plant near Parker, Arizona in June 1982. The pump station pulls water from the Colorado River near Lake Havasu and sends it to the Phoenix area through the Central Arizona Project. In the 1960s, the system's architects warned that it would dry up in the 21st century, but their suggested fixes were ignored for decades. Philip A Fortnam/Central Arizona Project Photo hide caption

Philip A Fortnam/Central Arizona Project Photo

Arizona has now joined a lawsuit against the Trump administration's plan for sharing the Colorado River. But history shows water planners there saw big cuts to their water supply coming.

New World screwworm cases detected from Texas to Arizona, with dogs and cats among latest cases

Texas Public Radio
Screw-worm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) that has been coloured with fluorescent powder at a breeding program used to study and help control this parasitic insect.

Screw-worm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) that has been coloured with fluorescent powder at a breeding program used to study and help control this parasitic insect. Science Photo Library/Reuters hide caption

Science Photo Library/Reuters
Screw-worm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) that has been coloured with fluorescent powder at a breeding program used to study and help control this parasitic insect.

Screw-worm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) that has been coloured with fluorescent powder at a breeding program used to study and help control this parasitic insect. Science Photo Library/Reuters hide caption

Science Photo Library/Reuters

New World screwworm flies lay eggs in open wounds of animals and their larvae feed on living flesh.

NPR Shorts
Immigration

Hackers expose the identities of more than 40,000 DHS employees

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security emblem on the U.S.Immigration and Customs Enforcement building as seen on January 07, 2026 in Washington, D.C.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security emblem on the U.S.Immigration and Customs Enforcement building as seen on January 07, 2026 in Washington, D.C. Heather Diehl/Getty Images North America hide caption

Heather Diehl/Getty Images North America
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security emblem on the U.S.Immigration and Customs Enforcement building as seen on January 07, 2026 in Washington, D.C.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security emblem on the U.S.Immigration and Customs Enforcement building as seen on January 07, 2026 in Washington, D.C. Heather Diehl/Getty Images North America hide caption

Heather Diehl/Getty Images North America

A group of hacktivists calling themselves Distributed Denial of Secrets, said the unmasking of ICE agents, DHS operatives and contractors was fair play, given the government's lack of transparency.

Hackers expose the identities of more than 40,000 DHS employees

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LK
NPR
Life Kit

Can't decide on a Halloween costume? These 5 questions can help

LK
NPR
A little research can go a long way when brainstorming a Halloween costume. Personal stylist Sophie Strauss says she looks to recent pop culture — shows, movies, celebrities, trending news stories or phrases — as a fun place to start.
Enlarge this image

A little research can go a long way when brainstorming a Halloween costume. Personal stylist Sophie Strauss says she looks to recent pop culture — shows, movies, celebrities, trending news stories or phrases — as a fun place to start. Cavan Images/Getty Images/ hide caption

Cavan Images/Getty Images/
A little research can go a long way when brainstorming a Halloween costume. Personal stylist Sophie Strauss says she looks to recent pop culture — shows, movies, celebrities, trending news stories or phrases — as a fun place to start.

A little research can go a long way when brainstorming a Halloween costume. Personal stylist Sophie Strauss says she looks to recent pop culture — shows, movies, celebrities, trending news stories or phrases — as a fun place to start.

Cavan Images/Getty Images/
A little research can go a long way when brainstorming a Halloween costume. Personal stylist Sophie Strauss says she looks to recent pop culture — shows, movies, celebrities, trending news stories or phrases — as a fun place to start.
Enlarge this image

A little research can go a long way when brainstorming a Halloween costume. Personal stylist Sophie Strauss says she looks to recent pop culture — shows, movies, celebrities, trending news stories or phrases — as a fun place to start. Cavan Images/Getty Images/ hide caption

Cavan Images/Getty Images/
A little research can go a long way when brainstorming a Halloween costume. Personal stylist Sophie Strauss says she looks to recent pop culture — shows, movies, celebrities, trending news stories or phrases — as a fun place to start.

A little research can go a long way when brainstorming a Halloween costume. Personal stylist Sophie Strauss says she looks to recent pop culture — shows, movies, celebrities, trending news stories or phrases — as a fun place to start.

Cavan Images/Getty Images/

It's hard to nail down a costume idea. You could be anything from an alien to Taylor Swift! Here's how to pick a getup without spending big bucks, or buying a prepackaged 'fit from the Halloween store.

Can't decide on a Halloween costume? These 5 questions can help

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Food

Listen: Candy prices got you scared stiff? What to know about the cost of Halloween this year

A customer shops for Halloween candy at a Walmart Supercenter store on Oct. 24, 2023 in Austin, Texas. Halloween candy prices have risen 13% from the previous year with the increase being attributed to a warmer, less humid climate in cocoa-producing regions and the rising cost of ingredients impacted by inflation.

A customer shops for Halloween candy at a Walmart Supercenter store on Oct. 24, 2023 in Austin, Texas. Halloween candy prices have risen 13% from the previous year with the increase being attributed to a warmer, less humid climate in cocoa-producing regions and the rising cost of ingredients impacted by inflation. Brandon Bell/Getty Images hide caption

Brandon Bell/Getty Images
A customer shops for Halloween candy at a Walmart Supercenter store on Oct. 24, 2023 in Austin, Texas. Halloween candy prices have risen 13% from the previous year with the increase being attributed to a warmer, less humid climate in cocoa-producing regions and the rising cost of ingredients impacted by inflation.

A customer shops for Halloween candy at a Walmart Supercenter store on Oct. 24, 2023 in Austin, Texas. Halloween candy prices have risen 13% from the previous year with the increase being attributed to a warmer, less humid climate in cocoa-producing regions and the rising cost of ingredients impacted by inflation. Brandon Bell/Getty Images hide caption

Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Candy companies are responding to increase in cocoa costs this year with creative combinations that use less chocolate. Despite higher prices for candy, consumers are still spending on Halloween.

Halloween prices & spending

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Sports

Brewers beat the Rays to win the first World Series title in franchise history

Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras holds the MVP trophy after winning baseball's World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras holds the MVP trophy after winning baseball's World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Fla. Morry Gash/AP hide caption

Morry Gash/AP
Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras holds the MVP trophy after winning baseball's World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras holds the MVP trophy after winning baseball's World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Fla. Morry Gash/AP hide caption

Morry Gash/AP

The small-ball Milwaukee Brewers playing in the smallest market in the majors are World Series champions for the first time. The championship comes in the 58th season for a franchise that began as the Seattle Pilots in 1969.

World, reordering

US and Japan agree to establish a Japanese facility for joint missile production

From left, Philippines Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Australia Defense Minister Richard Marles, Japan Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and U.S.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prepare to leave after posing for pictures before holding a Quadrilateral Meeting on the sidelines of the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM-Plus Meetings in Cebu, Philippines, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026.

From left, Philippines Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Australia Defense Minister Richard Marles, Japan Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and U.S.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prepare to leave after posing for pictures before holding a Quadrilateral Meeting on the sidelines of the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM-Plus Meetings in Cebu, Philippines, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026. Rolex Dela Pena/Pool EPA via AP hide caption

Rolex Dela Pena/Pool EPA via AP
From left, Philippines Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Australia Defense Minister Richard Marles, Japan Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and U.S.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prepare to leave after posing for pictures before holding a Quadrilateral Meeting on the sidelines of the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM-Plus Meetings in Cebu, Philippines, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026.

From left, Philippines Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Australia Defense Minister Richard Marles, Japan Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and U.S.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prepare to leave after posing for pictures before holding a Quadrilateral Meeting on the sidelines of the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and 13th ADMM-Plus Meetings in Cebu, Philippines, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026. Rolex Dela Pena/Pool EPA via AP hide caption

Rolex Dela Pena/Pool EPA via AP

The announcement Wednesday is the latest action by the allies, who have repeatedly expressed alarm over China's growing assertiveness in Asia.

Business

Tariffs, diesel and computer chips are driving up costs for automakers

COLMA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 06: Ford pickup trucks are displayed on the sales lot at Serramonte Ford on January 06, 2026 in Colma, California.

COLMA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 06: Ford pickup trucks are displayed on the sales lot at Serramonte Ford on January 06, 2026 in Colma, California. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images/Getty Images North America hide caption

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images/Getty Images North America
COLMA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 06: Ford pickup trucks are displayed on the sales lot at Serramonte Ford on January 06, 2026 in Colma, California.

COLMA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 06: Ford pickup trucks are displayed on the sales lot at Serramonte Ford on January 06, 2026 in Colma, California. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images/Getty Images North America hide caption

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images/Getty Images North America

American auto companies say they are paying more for key components like computer chips, steel and copper — plus the fuel needed to transport their products.

Home Page Top Stories
Sources & Methods

Listen: Israel's election is deadlocked. Netanyahu may still bomb Iran

Home Page Top Stories

An aerial view shows a campaign billboard depicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Trump in Tel Aviv on Monday. Jack Guez/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jack Guez/AFP via Getty Images

An aerial view shows a campaign billboard depicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Trump in Tel Aviv on Monday. Jack Guez/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jack Guez/AFP via Getty Images

A majority of Israeli voters went against sitting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc, but he may not have to cede his office. It's not clear the opposition will be able to form a governing coalition. NPR journalists talk about how that could affect Netanyahu's calculus on the war in Iran.

Israel deadlocked / Trump, Iran and the midterms

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Midterm elections 2026

Poll Only on NPR

Democrats still poised to make gains, but poll shows warning signs for just how many

This is a graphic pulled from data in the October NPR/PBS News/Marist poll. The question is "Would you say you are very enthusiastic about voting?" Among likely voters overall, 59% reported being very enthusiastic, while 71% of Democrats did. For Republicans, it's 61% and 48% of independents say they are very enthusiastic to vote.

In the latest NPR/PBS News/Marist poll, Democrats show an enthusiasm advantage in the 2026 midterms while lagging enthusiasm among independents could hurt the Democratic Party's chances of taking control of Congress. NPR hide caption

NPR
This is a graphic pulled from data in the October NPR/PBS News/Marist poll. The question is "Would you say you are very enthusiastic about voting?" Among likely voters overall, 59% reported being very enthusiastic, while 71% of Democrats did. For Republicans, it's 61% and 48% of independents say they are very enthusiastic to vote.

In the latest NPR/PBS News/Marist poll, Democrats show an enthusiasm advantage in the 2026 midterms while lagging enthusiasm among independents could hurt the Democratic Party's chances of taking control of Congress. NPR hide caption

NPR

Democrats hold significant advantages going into Election Day, according to a new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll. But lagging enthusiasm among key groups is just one indicator that gains may not come easy.

Democrats still poised to make gains, but poll shows warning signs for just how many

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Explainer Voting

Why many student voters have a right to choose where to register to vote

Students at the University of Virginia help eligible voters register to vote in Charlottesville, Va., in 2024.

Students at the University of Virginia help eligible voters register to vote in Charlottesville, Va., in 2024. Ryan M. Kelly/AP hide caption

Ryan M. Kelly/AP
Students at the University of Virginia help eligible voters register to vote in Charlottesville, Va., in 2024.

Students at the University of Virginia help eligible voters register to vote in Charlottesville, Va., in 2024. Ryan M. Kelly/AP hide caption

Ryan M. Kelly/AP

Student voters studying outside their hometown have a right to choose where they register to vote. Advocates say a Montana legal fight is a reminder of a misunderstanding of those students' rights.

Report: Democrats recruited a spoiler 'Dan Sullivan' in Alaska Senate race

Alaska Public Media
From left, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Mary Peltola, Republican U.S. Sen. Dan S. Sullivan, the incumbent, and undeclared U.S. Senate candidate Dan J. Sullivan of Petersburg.

From left, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Mary Peltola, Republican U.S. Sen. Dan S. Sullivan, the incumbent, and undeclared U.S. Senate candidate Dan J. Sullivan of Petersburg. James Oh, Matt Faubion, Taylor Heckart/Alaska Public Media/KFSK hide caption

James Oh, Matt Faubion, Taylor Heckart/Alaska Public Media/KFSK
From left, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Mary Peltola, Republican U.S. Sen. Dan S. Sullivan, the incumbent, and undeclared U.S. Senate candidate Dan J. Sullivan of Petersburg.

From left, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Mary Peltola, Republican U.S. Sen. Dan S. Sullivan, the incumbent, and undeclared U.S. Senate candidate Dan J. Sullivan of Petersburg. James Oh, Matt Faubion, Taylor Heckart/Alaska Public Media/KFSK hide caption

James Oh, Matt Faubion, Taylor Heckart/Alaska Public Media/KFSK

A New York Times story details an effort by Democratic campaign operatives to recruit a spoiler candidate into the crucial Alaska U.S. Senate race. Democrats have denied involvement.

Elections 2026

Trump visits Lubbock and Corpus Christi as Republicans fight to hold Texas' U.S. Senate seat

KUT News
Supporters hold up signs during the Republican National Convention in Dallas on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026.

Supporters hold up signs during the Republican National Convention in Dallas on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026. Yfat Yossifor/KERA hide caption

Yfat Yossifor/KERA
Supporters hold up signs during the Republican National Convention in Dallas on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026.

Supporters hold up signs during the Republican National Convention in Dallas on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026. Yfat Yossifor/KERA hide caption

Yfat Yossifor/KERA

With just a week until Election Day, President Donald Trump is making his fourth trip to Texas this campaign season. At rallies in Lubbock and Corpus Christi, the president aims to boost Republican voter turnout and shore up support for U.S. Senate nominee Ken Paxton.

Elections 2026

Utah is still red, but an unaffiliated voter jump suggests some discontent

KUER 90.1
Republicans still hold a commanding lead in Utah voter registration, but a growing number of unaffiliated voters and signs of political discontent could signal trouble for the upcoming midterms. A Salt Lake County ballot listing political parties for the 2026 midterms, Oct. 27, 2026.

Republicans still hold a commanding lead in Utah voter registration, but a growing number of unaffiliated voters and signs of political discontent could signal trouble for the upcoming midterms. A Salt Lake County ballot listing political parties for the 2026 midterms, Oct. 27, 2026. Sean Higgins/KUER hide caption

Sean Higgins/KUER
Republicans still hold a commanding lead in Utah voter registration, but a growing number of unaffiliated voters and signs of political discontent could signal trouble for the upcoming midterms. A Salt Lake County ballot listing political parties for the 2026 midterms, Oct. 27, 2026.

Republicans still hold a commanding lead in Utah voter registration, but a growing number of unaffiliated voters and signs of political discontent could signal trouble for the upcoming midterms. A Salt Lake County ballot listing political parties for the 2026 midterms, Oct. 27, 2026. Sean Higgins/KUER hide caption

Sean Higgins/KUER

As more Utah voters abandon party labels, political observers say national dissatisfaction with Republicans could dim GOP turnout and reshape the electoral landscape in purple Salt Lake County.

Elections

Independent candidates sense a moment. Some Democrats hope they're right

Pins and bumper stickers supporting Nebraska's Dan Osborn's candidacy for U.S. Senate sit on a table where Nebraskans can sign-up to volunteer for his campaign September 3, 2026 at Pals Brewing Company in North Platte, Nebraska. Dan Osborn, a 51-year-old Navy veteran, is running as an independent for the US Senate. The industrial mechanic and former union leader is a relative political novice, and says he's always refused to define himself along party lines. (Photo by Austin Johnson / AFP via Getty Images)

Pins and bumper stickers supporting Nebraska's Dan Osborn's candidacy for U.S. Senate sit on a table where Nebraskans can sign-up to volunteer for his campaign September 3, 2026 at Pals Brewing Company in North Platte, Nebraska. Dan Osborn, a 51-year-old Navy veteran, is running as an independent for the US Senate. The industrial mechanic and former union leader is a relative political novice, and says he's always refused to define himself along party lines. AUSTIN JOHNSON/AFP via Getty Images/AFP hide caption

AUSTIN JOHNSON/AFP via Getty Images/AFP
Pins and bumper stickers supporting Nebraska's Dan Osborn's candidacy for U.S. Senate sit on a table where Nebraskans can sign-up to volunteer for his campaign September 3, 2026 at Pals Brewing Company in North Platte, Nebraska. Dan Osborn, a 51-year-old Navy veteran, is running as an independent for the US Senate. The industrial mechanic and former union leader is a relative political novice, and says he's always refused to define himself along party lines. (Photo by Austin Johnson / AFP via Getty Images)

Pins and bumper stickers supporting Nebraska's Dan Osborn's candidacy for U.S. Senate sit on a table where Nebraskans can sign-up to volunteer for his campaign September 3, 2026 at Pals Brewing Company in North Platte, Nebraska. Dan Osborn, a 51-year-old Navy veteran, is running as an independent for the US Senate. The industrial mechanic and former union leader is a relative political novice, and says he's always refused to define himself along party lines. AUSTIN JOHNSON/AFP via Getty Images/AFP hide caption

AUSTIN JOHNSON/AFP via Getty Images/AFP

As they look to win the Senate, Democrats are hoping that independent candidates in Nebraska and Montana can help them topple Republicans in a part of the country where their own brand is hurting.

A tale of two independent Senate hopefuls

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Elections 2026

If Missouri voters reject redistricting, will GOP just redraw map again next year?

St. Louis Public Radio
Supporters of former Rep. Cori Bush watch redistricting commentary during an election night watch party on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, at Family Haven Event Center in Dellwood.

Supporters of former Rep. Cori Bush watch primary election commentary on redistricting during an election night watch party on Aug. 4 at Family Haven Event Center in Dellwood. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio hide caption

Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio
Supporters of former Rep. Cori Bush watch redistricting commentary during an election night watch party on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, at Family Haven Event Center in Dellwood.

Supporters of former Rep. Cori Bush watch primary election commentary on redistricting during an election night watch party on Aug. 4 at Family Haven Event Center in Dellwood. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio hide caption

Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio

Opponents of the 2025 redistricting plan are vastly outspending and appear more organized than proponents, who may be looking to the 2027 legislative session to redraw maps.

prop a feature

Elections 2026

In Maine's Senate race, voters weigh opposing views of Susan Collins' power and influence

Maine Public News
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Troy Jackson gestures toward Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine at Maine Public's Your Vote 2026 debate at the Gracie Theater in Bangor on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026.

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Troy Jackson gestures toward Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine at Maine Public's Your Vote 2026 debate at the Gracie Theater in Bangor on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. Rebecca Conley/Maine Public hide caption

Rebecca Conley/Maine Public
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Troy Jackson gestures toward Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine at Maine Public's Your Vote 2026 debate at the Gracie Theater in Bangor on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026.

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Troy Jackson gestures toward Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine at Maine Public's Your Vote 2026 debate at the Gracie Theater in Bangor on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. Rebecca Conley/Maine Public hide caption

Rebecca Conley/Maine Public

Maine's Senate race could turn on a simple question: Are Maine voters angry enough at President Donald Trump that they'll part with Republican Sen. Susan Collins, the state's longest serving senator in more than a century?

steve20261029.mp3

Elections

State ballots let voters decide on abortion, taxes, transgender restrictions

VPM
A large room with brown wood paneling. There are a couple tables and a woman sits at one and writes something and people line up by another table.

A scene from early voting in Maryland, where voters can decide whether to allow congressional redistricting. It's one of more than 140 state ballot questions around the country this election. Allison Robbert/AP hide caption

Allison Robbert/AP
A large room with brown wood paneling. There are a couple tables and a woman sits at one and writes something and people line up by another table.

A scene from early voting in Maryland, where voters can decide whether to allow congressional redistricting. It's one of more than 140 state ballot questions around the country this election. Allison Robbert/AP hide caption

Allison Robbert/AP

Missouri voters could ban abortion - after they just removed a ban two years ago. California voters could tax billionaires 5% of their wealth.

Watch: Election Shorts

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The real reason it's going to take a while to know who won in some midterm races

Election workers process ballots for the California state primary at the Los Angeles County Ballot Processing Center on June 5. California's relatively slow vote count has put "a big target on its back,” as one election expert told NPR.

Election workers process ballots for the California state primary at the Los Angeles County Ballot Processing Center on June 5. California's relatively slow vote count has put "a big target on its back," as one election expert told NPR. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images hide caption

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Election workers process ballots for the California state primary at the Los Angeles County Ballot Processing Center on June 5. California's relatively slow vote count has put "a big target on its back,” as one election expert told NPR.

Election workers process ballots for the California state primary at the Los Angeles County Ballot Processing Center on June 5. California's relatively slow vote count has put "a big target on its back," as one election expert told NPR. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images hide caption

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Hint: It's not only because California counts slowly.

Your Money

Business as a liberal art? Some high schools say yes

Sophomore Damola Kukoyi fills out a worksheet in his AP Business with Personal Finance class at Hoover High School on October 6, 2026.

Sophomore Damola Kukoyi fills out a worksheet in his AP Business with Personal Finance class at Hoover High School on October 6, 2026. Stephan Bisaha hide caption

Stephan Bisaha
Sophomore Damola Kukoyi fills out a worksheet in his AP Business with Personal Finance class at Hoover High School on October 6, 2026.

Sophomore Damola Kukoyi fills out a worksheet in his AP Business with Personal Finance class at Hoover High School on October 6, 2026. Stephan Bisaha hide caption

Stephan Bisaha

Learning about money is becoming a growing part of the high school curriculum.

AP Business lessons are helping high school students learn how to manage money

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Politics

How a lifelong Republican came to lead the data center battle in Ohio

Nick Owens, an attorney in Brown County, Ohio, stands at the edge of a Mt. Orab neighborhood that abuts farmland that has been sold to a data center developer. Owens is leading an effort to halt the buildout of hyperscale data centers in communities like this one.

Nick Owens, an attorney in Brown County, Ohio, stands at the edge of a Mt. Orab neighborhood that abuts farmland that has been sold to a data center developer. Owens is leading an effort to halt the buildout of hyperscale data centers in communities like this one. Andrea Hsu/NPR hide caption

Andrea Hsu/NPR
Nick Owens, an attorney in Brown County, Ohio, stands at the edge of a Mt. Orab neighborhood that abuts farmland that has been sold to a data center developer. Owens is leading an effort to halt the buildout of hyperscale data centers in communities like this one.

Nick Owens, an attorney in Brown County, Ohio, stands at the edge of a Mt. Orab neighborhood that abuts farmland that has been sold to a data center developer. Owens is leading an effort to halt the buildout of hyperscale data centers in communities like this one. Andrea Hsu/NPR hide caption

Andrea Hsu/NPR

In Ohio, many people are displeased with the state's rapid buildout of data centers. It's a hot issue in the midterms, as political candidates from both parties try to ease voter concerns.

Candidates work to ease concerns as data centers become hot-button issue for Ohioans

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Utah files criminal charges against Kalshi founders

KUER 90.1
Kalshi co-founder and CEO Tarek Mansour speaks during the Economic Club of New York luncheon, Oct. 27, 2026, in New York.

Kalshi co-founder and CEO Tarek Mansour speaks during the Economic Club of New York luncheon, Oct. 27, 2026, in New York. Yuki Iwamura/AP hide caption

Yuki Iwamura/AP
Kalshi co-founder and CEO Tarek Mansour speaks during the Economic Club of New York luncheon, Oct. 27, 2026, in New York.

Kalshi co-founder and CEO Tarek Mansour speaks during the Economic Club of New York luncheon, Oct. 27, 2026, in New York. Yuki Iwamura/AP hide caption

Yuki Iwamura/AP

It's a significant escalation in the fight between prediction markets and Utah's laws (and moral opposition) against gambling. Both Mansour and Lopes Lara could face prison time if convicted.

WATCH

CMAT: Tiny Desk Concert

From top to (cheeky) bottom, CMAT's Tiny Desk has it all: captivating stage presence, sharp songwriting, vocal range, a great band and comedic timing.
Only on NPR

Are you an organ donor? Here are some rule changes you may want to know

Two hands embrace a heart for donation
Mary Long/Getty Images
Two hands embrace a heart for donation
Mary Long/Getty Images

Transplant teams can talk to families about organ donation before they've decided whether to continue life-sustaining medical care for loved ones. Until now, that has been forbidden.

Organ donation conversations are changing. Critics worry families may feel pressured

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Author Interviews

Can people on death row be redeemed? Lawrence Wright's new book explores this question

Author Lawrence Wright attends a screening of the HBO documentary "Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief" in Los Angeles on March 9, 2015.

Author Lawrence Wright attends a screening of the HBO documentary "Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief" in Los Angeles on March 9, 2015. Kevin Winter/Getty Images hide caption

Kevin Winter/Getty Images
Author Lawrence Wright attends a screening of the HBO documentary "Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief" in Los Angeles on March 9, 2015.

Author Lawrence Wright attends a screening of the HBO documentary "Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief" in Los Angeles on March 9, 2015. Kevin Winter/Getty Images hide caption

Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Author Lawrence Wright thought he knew the Texas justice system. But a closer look at the lives of women on death row made him question who deserves the death penalty.

Lawrence Wright's 'Redemption' shows how a group of inmates and nuns found sisterhood

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Review Movie Reviews

Thomas Mann returns to his 'Fatherland' in this practically flawless film

Sandra Hüller plays Erika and Hanns Zischler is Thomas Mann in Fatherland.

Sandra Hüller plays Erika and Hanns Zischler is Thomas Mann in Fatherland. Mubi hide caption

Mubi
Sandra Hüller plays Erika and Hanns Zischler is Thomas Mann in Fatherland.

Sandra Hüller plays Erika and Hanns Zischler is Thomas Mann in Fatherland. Mubi hide caption

Mubi

Fatherland imagines the Nobel Prize-winning author's 1949 return to Germany after years of exile. Just 82 minutes long, this gorgeous film is meticulously staged and shot in black and white.

FA: Film Review: Fatherland

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Life Kit: Tools to help you get it together

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Life Kit

The 5-minute daily playtime ritual that can get your kids to listen better

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Life Kit visuals editor Becky Harlan engages her 2-year-old son, August Grabowsky, in "special time." It's a kind of child-directed playtime that children's health professionals say can be helpful in treating disruptive conduct in kids.
Meredith Rizzo/NPR
Life Kit visuals editor Becky Harlan engages her 2-year-old son, August Grabowsky, in "special time." It's a kind of child-directed playtime that children's health professionals say can be helpful in treating disruptive conduct in kids.
Meredith Rizzo/NPR

Called "special time," the strategy is widely recommended by children's health professionals to help reduce behavioral issues in young children. Here's a guide on how to do it with your kids at home.

The 5-minute daily playtime ritual that can get your kids to listen better

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Life Kit

Achy from sitting at a desk all day? Try doing this

Woman demonstrating a side stretch during work break at home office.

Woman stretching back during remote work break at home office Olga Pankova/Getty Images/Moment RF hide caption

Olga Pankova/Getty Images/Moment RF
Woman demonstrating a side stretch during work break at home office.

Woman stretching back during remote work break at home office Olga Pankova/Getty Images/Moment RF hide caption

Olga Pankova/Getty Images/Moment RF

Sitting at a desk all day hurts. And it isn't good for us. Strategies to make it a little more comfortable, from eye muscle exercises to alleviate eye strain to a back pain-fighting body movement.

Only on NPR

Their colleges closed, but the government refuses to erase their debts, lawsuit says

Kendrick Gaussoin near his home in Winsted, Conn. Under a Biden rule change, Gaussoin's loans should be forgiven, but the Trump administration appears to be ignoring the change and has rejected him.

Kendrick Gaussoin near his home in Winsted, Conn. Under a Biden rule change, Gaussoin's loans should be forgiven, but the Trump administration appears to be ignoring the change and has rejected him. Raquel C. Zaldívar for NPR hide caption

Raquel C. Zaldívar for NPR
Kendrick Gaussoin near his home in Winsted, Conn. Under a Biden rule change, Gaussoin's loans should be forgiven, but the Trump administration appears to be ignoring the change and has rejected him.

Kendrick Gaussoin near his home in Winsted, Conn. Under a Biden rule change, Gaussoin's loans should be forgiven, but the Trump administration appears to be ignoring the change and has rejected him. Raquel C. Zaldívar for NPR hide caption

Raquel C. Zaldívar for NPR

Federal law requires the Education Department to erase the student loans of borrowers whose colleges close suddenly. A new lawsuit claims the department isn't fully following those rules.

Their colleges closed, but the government refuses to erase their debts, lawsuit says

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Exclusive
What It Takes

What's gone up even faster than gas or rent? The cost of caregiving

Cookie Jones, left, quit her job to provide care to her mother who has Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers often earn less as they take time off work to help aging family members.

Cookie Jones, left, quit her job to provide care to her mother who has Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers often earn less as they take time off work to help aging family members. Tyler Russell/Connecticut Public via Getty Images hide caption

Tyler Russell/Connecticut Public via Getty Images
Cookie Jones, left, quit her job to provide care to her mother who has Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers often earn less as they take time off work to help aging family members.

Cookie Jones, left, quit her job to provide care to her mother who has Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers often earn less as they take time off work to help aging family members. Tyler Russell/Connecticut Public via Getty Images hide caption

Tyler Russell/Connecticut Public via Getty Images

A new study from AARP shows caregivers' out-of-pocket costs rose about 60% in the last five years.

Short Wave podcast: Revealing the science behind everyday mysteries

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Short Wave

MAHA's midterm report card

SW
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Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stands at a podium and speaks at an event in Washington, DC.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at an event at HHS Headquarters. Win McNamee/Getty Images hide caption

Win McNamee/Getty Images
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stands at a podium and speaks at an event in Washington, DC.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at an event at HHS Headquarters. Win McNamee/Getty Images hide caption

Win McNamee/Getty Images

It's been just over two years since the rise of Make America Healthy Again, or MAHA. The movement united a coalition of moms, wellness influencers and voters across the political spectrum over concerns about chronic illness and childhood diseases. And when Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took over as Secretary of Health and Human Services, it seemed like MAHA would be front and center in Washington.But as we approach the midterm elections, has the Trump administration made good on the MAHA agenda? On today's episode, we dig into what's changed, what hasn't and what that means for your health.Interested in more health science? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.

MAHA’s midterm report card

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Short Wave

The American red wolf is endangered. These 'ghost genes' could save it

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Two "ghost wolves" — southeastern coyotes that carry a substantial amount of genetics from the critically endangered American Red Wolf — stand in front of some brush.
Enlarge this image

Two "ghost wolves" — southeastern coyotes that carry a substantial amount of genetics from the critically endangered American Red Wolf — stand in front of some brush. Bridgett vonHoldt hide caption

Bridgett vonHoldt
Two &quot;ghost wolves&quot; — southeastern coyotes that carry a substantial amount of genetics from the critically endangered American Red Wolf — stand in front of some brush.

Two "ghost wolves" — southeastern coyotes that carry a substantial amount of genetics from the critically endangered American Red Wolf — stand in front of some brush.

Bridgett vonHoldt
Two "ghost wolves" — southeastern coyotes that carry a substantial amount of genetics from the critically endangered American Red Wolf — stand in front of some brush.
Enlarge this image

Two "ghost wolves" — southeastern coyotes that carry a substantial amount of genetics from the critically endangered American Red Wolf — stand in front of some brush. Bridgett vonHoldt hide caption

Bridgett vonHoldt
Two &quot;ghost wolves&quot; — southeastern coyotes that carry a substantial amount of genetics from the critically endangered American Red Wolf — stand in front of some brush.

Two "ghost wolves" — southeastern coyotes that carry a substantial amount of genetics from the critically endangered American Red Wolf — stand in front of some brush.

Bridgett vonHoldt

Every American red wolf alive right now is descended from only 14 canids. In the 1970s, humans drove the red wolf to the brink of extinction. Because of that, red wolves today have low genetic diversity. But what if we could recover that diversity ... using "ghost genes"? That's right, today's episode is a ghost story. Along the way, we get into gene dictionaries, the possibilities of poo and how a photo of a common Texas coyote started it all.Have another animal you want us to dig into for a future episode? Email us at shortwave@npr.org!

The American red wolf is endangered. These 'ghost genes' could save it

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Short Wave

A sleep scientist on why we have nightmares

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A cartoon image of a woman sleeping in a blue bed. She is surrounded by ghoulish-looking shadows. At the top, the text "SHORT WAVE" appears with a stylized red and yellow wave pattern below it.

Dreams and nightmares may be important for processing emotional, even stressful, memories. Malte Mueller/Getty Images hide caption

Malte Mueller/Getty Images
A cartoon image of a woman sleeping in a blue bed. She is surrounded by ghoulish-looking shadows. At the top, the text "SHORT WAVE" appears with a stylized red and yellow wave pattern below it.

Dreams and nightmares may be important for processing emotional, even stressful, memories. Malte Mueller/Getty Images hide caption

Malte Mueller/Getty Images

Dreams of flying? Nightmares of teeth falling out? Falling off a cliff? As a sleep scientist at the University of Montreal, Michelle Carr has pretty much heard it all. In Michelle's new book Nightmare Obscura, she explores the science of dreams, nightmares – and even something called dream engineering, where people influence their own dreams while they sleep. Today on Short Wave, co-host Regina G. Barber dives into the science of our sleeping life with Michelle Carr.Interested in any upcoming science books? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

What's Up With Nightmares?

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Short Wave

You Can See Everything and the science of spotting liars

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Closeup of Elizabeth Holmes staring at Nathan Fielder.

Elizabeth Holmes Courtesy of A24 hide caption

Courtesy of A24
Closeup of Elizabeth Holmes staring at Nathan Fielder.

Elizabeth Holmes Courtesy of A24 hide caption

Courtesy of A24

It feels like everyone we know is talking about the new documentary You Can See Everything. It tracks the effort of comedian and documentarian Nathan Fielder to suss out how deceptive Elizabeth Holmes, disgraced founder of the company Theranos, is. And after watching the film, we all left the theater wondering -- what could we see? How possible is it to ever really spot someone lying? So we of course called up an expert in deception and counter-deception research, Maria Hartwig, a professor of psychology at CUNY, the City University of New York. For more on sussing out a liar, check out our episode about what's wrong with the polygraph. Interested in more deep dives on the science behind pop culture blockbusters? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.

You Can See Everything and the science of spotting liars

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Short Wave

Why some people love scary movies

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Some people with anxiety find horror movies helpful. The films can focus their minds in a controlled environment that they can overcome.
Enlarge this image

Some people with anxiety find horror movies helpful. The films can focus their minds in a controlled environment that they can overcome. Crazytang/Getty Images hide caption

Crazytang/Getty Images
Some people with anxiety find horror movies helpful. The films can focus their minds in a controlled environment that they can overcome.

Some people with anxiety find horror movies helpful. The films can focus their minds in a controlled environment that they can overcome.

Crazytang/Getty Images
Some people with anxiety find horror movies helpful. The films can focus their minds in a controlled environment that they can overcome.
Enlarge this image

Some people with anxiety find horror movies helpful. The films can focus their minds in a controlled environment that they can overcome. Crazytang/Getty Images hide caption

Crazytang/Getty Images
Some people with anxiety find horror movies helpful. The films can focus their minds in a controlled environment that they can overcome.

Some people with anxiety find horror movies helpful. The films can focus their minds in a controlled environment that they can overcome.

Crazytang/Getty Images

In human history, fear kept us safe when running from predators and anxiety kept us from going back to that lion-infested area. But what happens when these feelings get out of hand in humans today? And why do some of us crave that feeling from scary movies or haunted houses? For answers, we turn to Arash Javanbakht, a psychiatrist from Wayne State University. He likes studying fear so much, he wrote a whole book called Afraid. This episode, he gets into the difference between fear and anxiety, many of the reasons people feel afraid and why things like scary movies could even be therapeutic. Want to know more about the science behind what keeps you up at night? Email us at shortwave@npr.org — we might cover it on a future episode!

Why some people love scary movies

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Climate

Trump administration wants to remove regulations on a super planet-heating gas

Flares burn off methane and other hydrocarbons at an oil and gas facility in Lenorah, Texas, Oct. 15, 2021.

Flares burn off methane and other hydrocarbons at an oil and gas facility in Lenorah, Texas, Oct. 15, 2021. David Goldman/AP hide caption

David Goldman/AP
Flares burn off methane and other hydrocarbons at an oil and gas facility in Lenorah, Texas, Oct. 15, 2021.

Flares burn off methane and other hydrocarbons at an oil and gas facility in Lenorah, Texas, Oct. 15, 2021. David Goldman/AP hide caption

David Goldman/AP

The Trump administration wants to undo a Biden-era rule that would reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas industry.

Treatments and Tests

Trump administration will allow pharmacies to make popular peptides

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 09: U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at The Heritage Foundation on February 09, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Heritage Foundation held an event to celebrate one year of "Making America Healthy Again." (Photo by Heather Diehl/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 09: U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at The Heritage Foundation on February 09, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Heritage Foundation held an event to celebrate one year of "Making America Healthy Again." (Photo by Heather Diehl/Getty Images) Heather Diehl/Getty Images hide caption

Heather Diehl/Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 09: U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at The Heritage Foundation on February 09, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Heritage Foundation held an event to celebrate one year of "Making America Healthy Again." (Photo by Heather Diehl/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 09: U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at The Heritage Foundation on February 09, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Heritage Foundation held an event to celebrate one year of "Making America Healthy Again." (Photo by Heather Diehl/Getty Images) Heather Diehl/Getty Images hide caption

Heather Diehl/Getty Images

The Department of Health and Human Services will let small compounding pharmacies make six peptides that haven't been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. It may not be enough to meet demand.

World

A U.S. cruise ship suspends a global voyage due to fuel costs, stranding 200 passengers

A US cruise ship MV. Odyssey docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port in Sihanoukville southern Cambodia, Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026.

A US cruise ship MV. Odyssey docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port in Sihanoukville southern Cambodia, Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026. Heng Sinith/AP hide caption

Heng Sinith/AP
A US cruise ship MV. Odyssey docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port in Sihanoukville southern Cambodia, Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026.

A US cruise ship MV. Odyssey docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port in Sihanoukville southern Cambodia, Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026. Heng Sinith/AP hide caption

Heng Sinith/AP

A U.S. cruise ship on an around-the-world voyage that touted its cabins as floating homes suspended its three-year journey in Cambodia due to fuel costs, forcing hundreds of passengers to disembark.

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Machine Gods

Inside Anthropic's IPO + How AI agents spy on your messages

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Is the AI bubble about to burst? Anthropic's IPO filing offers some surprising clues. Plus, Signal's president has a stark warning about the future of our private conversations.

Inside Anthropic’s IPO + How AI Agents Spy on Your Messages

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Conservative influencers charged with voter fraud in Minnesota primary

MPR News
Conservative political activist James O'Keefe speaks during the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Maryland, on March 1, 2019.

Conservative political activist James O'Keefe speaks during the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Maryland, on March 1, 2019. Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images
Conservative political activist James O'Keefe speaks during the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Maryland, on March 1, 2019.

Conservative political activist James O'Keefe speaks during the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Maryland, on March 1, 2019. Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images

The Hennepin County Attorney has charged the prominent right-wing activist and another man for misrepresenting their identities at polling places during Minnesota's primary election in August.

Middle East

With most votes counted, Israeli election reaches a stalemate

Israeli flags hang at a shop as a bicyclist carrying children passes by, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in Tel Aviv, Israel, the day after Israel's general election.

Israeli flags hang at a shop as a bicyclist carrying children passes by, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in Tel Aviv, Israel, the day after Israel's general election. David Goldman/AP hide caption

David Goldman/AP
Israeli flags hang at a shop as a bicyclist carrying children passes by, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in Tel Aviv, Israel, the day after Israel's general election.

Israeli flags hang at a shop as a bicyclist carrying children passes by, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, in Tel Aviv, Israel, the day after Israel's general election. David Goldman/AP hide caption

David Goldman/AP

The remaining votes to be counted are not expected to change the outcome, paving the way for weeks of negotiations to form a coalition government and for a prime minister to be chosen.

Israeli election results show no clear winner between Netanyahu, opposition

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Remembering civil rights leader Dolores Huerta

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Dolores Huerta, influential labor leader, feminist and civil rights icon, dies at 96

Dolores Huerta, center, leads a rally in San Francisco's Mission District on Nov. 19, 1988, along with Howard Wallace, president of the San Francisco chapter of the UFW, left, and Maria Elena Chavez, 16, the daughter of Cesar Chavez, right.

Dolores Huerta, center, leads a rally in San Francisco's Mission District on Nov. 19, 1988, along with Howard Wallace, president of the San Francisco chapter of the UFW, left, and Maria Elena Chavez, 16, the daughter of Cesar Chavez, right. Court Mast/AP hide caption

Court Mast/AP
Dolores Huerta, center, leads a rally in San Francisco's Mission District on Nov. 19, 1988, along with Howard Wallace, president of the San Francisco chapter of the UFW, left, and Maria Elena Chavez, 16, the daughter of Cesar Chavez, right.

Dolores Huerta, center, leads a rally in San Francisco's Mission District on Nov. 19, 1988, along with Howard Wallace, president of the San Francisco chapter of the UFW, left, and Maria Elena Chavez, 16, the daughter of Cesar Chavez, right. Court Mast/AP hide caption

Court Mast/AP

Huerta co-founded the United Farm Workers union to improve working conditions in the nation's fruit and vegetable fields and coined the phrase "Sí, se puede!" that became a widespread rallying cry.

In Dolores Huerta's hometown, she's remembered as 'someone who challenged how things were'

KVPR
A mural of Dolores Huerta is painted outside a Bakersfield meat market.

A mural of Dolores Huerta is painted outside a Bakersfield meat market. Amaray Alvarez/KVPR hide caption

Amaray Alvarez/KVPR
A mural of Dolores Huerta is painted outside a Bakersfield meat market.

A mural of Dolores Huerta is painted outside a Bakersfield meat market. Amaray Alvarez/KVPR hide caption

Amaray Alvarez/KVPR

Within hours of Dolores Huerta's death on Wednesday at her home in Bakersfield, a makeshift altar was already gathering flowers and candles.

California leaders mourn, celebrate Dolores Huerta and her legacy

KQED
Dolores Huerta speaks onstage during the 2026 TIME100 Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 23, 2026 in New York City.

Dolores Huerta speaks onstage during the 2026 TIME100 Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 23, 2026 in New York City. Jemal Countess/Getty Images hide caption

Jemal Countess/Getty Images
Dolores Huerta speaks onstage during the 2026 TIME100 Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 23, 2026 in New York City.

Dolores Huerta speaks onstage during the 2026 TIME100 Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 23, 2026 in New York City. Jemal Countess/Getty Images hide caption

Jemal Countess/Getty Images

Elected officials and civil rights leaders hailed the farmworker activist, who died at age 96, as a hero, giant and legend.

Elections

Senate candidates built up massive campaign war chests with out-of-state donations

Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., speaks during a campaign event on October 17, 2026 in Marietta, Georgia.

Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., speaks during a campaign event on October 17, 2026 in Marietta, Georgia. Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images hide caption

Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images
Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., speaks during a campaign event on October 17, 2026 in Marietta, Georgia.

Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., speaks during a campaign event on October 17, 2026 in Marietta, Georgia. Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images hide caption

Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images

In several competitive U.S. Senate contests, candidates have built healthy campaign accounts with out-of-state donations. But the messages to those donors is very different from the one back at home.

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