Midday news, Oct 31, 2026, 12:00 ET

Early midterm voting surges with more than 50 million ballots cast so far – live The Guardian · Oct 31, 2026, 11:31 ET
Explain the Big Deal: Counting continues as election officials and campaigns watch whether early turnout holds through Election Day. The votes will help decide control of Congress, but the result is not yet known.
How Trump and his allies seek to interfere in the US midterm elections The Guardian · Oct 31, 2026, 10:00 ET
Explain the Big Deal: Officials and voting experts say the main risk is delay, not a blocked election result. Courts and state election workers will likely determine whether any challenges go anywhere.
California police investigate deadly shooting at Spirit Halloween store Fox News · Oct 31, 2026, 07:00 ET
Explain the Big Deal: Police are still trying to identify a suspect or suspects, and detectives are asking witnesses for help. Officials have not announced any arrests.
Maurene Comey ruling offers hope of check on Trump’s assault on rule of law The Guardian · Oct 31, 2026, 11:00 ET
Explain the Big Deal: An appeal is likely, and other judges may look to this ruling when deciding similar challenges to politicized dismissals.
Trump boosted half of US coal plants with taxpayer dollars and ‘free passes to pollute’, report says The Guardian · Oct 31, 2026, 09:00 ET
Explain the Big Deal: The report is likely to intensify debate over coal support, but it does not say whether the administration will change course or face court challenges.

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