Year: 2026

Democrat Scott Colom holds a narrow lead over incumbent Republican Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith in Mississippi’s Senate race, with under 3,000 votes separating the two as 98% of ballots are reported. Seven counties have yet to upload results, with certified figures expected by Friday.

A Metro investigation has revealed that foreign gangs are selling DIY kits for synthetic cannabinoids, known as spice, on TikTok and Instagram, despite a substantial rise in related deaths. This trend is increasingly prevalent among schoolchildren, as these kits facilitate local production of the dangerous drug.

Pro-Palestinian protests erupt at Trinity College Dublin during Joe Biden’s visit, resulting in at least two arrests as students express opposition to his presence.

What’s happening?
The House of Representatives has blocked an impeachment effort against Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth, following a vote amid significant partisan divides. The initiative was spearheaded by certain Republican members but faced swift rejection from the majority, reflecting ongoing tensions within the party.

Coverage analyzed: The New York Times: “Impeachment Live Updates: House Reads Accusations Against Pete Hegseth” | AP News: “Pete Hegseth impeachment effort blocked by House Republicans” | The Guardian: “House Republicans block effort to impeach Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth” | The Seattle Times: “House blocks Hegseth impeachment effort; Strickland absent for vote”
The New York Times emphasizes the process by highlighting “House Reads Accusations,” focusing on the proceedings and accusations. In contrast, AP News frames the situation with “blocked by House Republicans,” stressing the impact of political decision-making. Similarly, The Guardian addresses the action taken, while The Seattle Times notes the absence of a member during this critical vote, underscoring procedural aspects and fallout.

Greta Thunberg addressed the COP31 conference in Antalya, criticising world leaders for prioritising profit over environmental concerns. She highlighted the hypocrisy in climate negotiations, emphasising that climate change threatens everything and urging action to protect people and the planet. The summit runs until 20 November.

Divers from the Nomad Exploration Team have located the wreck of the S.S. Cornwallis in the Gulf of Maine, confirming it was torpedoed by a German U-boat in 1944. This discovery provides closure for families of the 48 crew members, five of whom survived.

House Republicans elected Jim Jordan as their party leader for the next Congress, defeating Majority Leader Steve Scalise by a vote of 106 to 73. Jordan, a close ally of President Trump, aims to revitalise the party following significant midterm losses, asserting a commitment to fighting for American families.

A British teenager, Harry Marchant, is in stable condition after being shot during a mass shooting in Kraków, Poland, which left six dead and 16 injured.

The United States again boycotted the UN Human Rights Council’s review of its human rights record, resulting in a delay until January. This marks the second consecutive year of US absence, following its withdrawal from the council in February 2025, amidst allegations of increasing human rights violations.

Calgary’s proposed budget for 2027 includes a 15 per cent property tax increase, contributing to an anticipated total rise of 37 per cent over four years. Key allocations include $188 million for the Calgary Police Service and $134 million for Calgary Transit, amid significant capital spending plans.