USA News

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced he will commute the death sentences of 548 individuals to life without parole, citing moral objections to state-sanctioned killing. While this action does not abolish the death penalty, it aims to address perceived inequities within the legal system. Reactions from officials vary significantly.

Democrat Cait Conley has won a tightly contested seat in New York’s Hudson Valley, defeating two-term Republican Rep. Mike Lawler, according to CBS News projections. Lawler conceded, acknowledging Conley as the next member of Congress, as the House is set to shift to a Democratic majority in January.

William Lawrence, a progressive candidate, has won against incumbent Republican Rep. Tom Barrett in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, according to CBS News projections. Lawrence’s campaign focused on living costs and opposition to data centres, while Barrett had support from Donald Trump and aimed for local control on data centre regulations.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei dismissed the implications of the U.S. midterm elections, asserting that no changes in U.S. policy towards Iran are expected. He stated that any hopes for shifts in American behaviour are misguided, while Iran’s chief negotiator claimed the results indicated U.S. citizens rejected war.

Democrat Rebecca Bennett has defeated Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, as projected by CBS News. Kean’s recent absence from Congress due to undisclosed health issues had raised concerns about transparency, impacting his campaign. Bennett outperformed Kean in fundraising, raising approximately £8.2 million.

Millions of Americans are participating in the 2026 midterm elections today, with polling hours varying by state. Early voting options are available in 47 states, while over 57 million ballots have been cast ahead of Election Day. Polls close across the country from 6 p.m. ET onwards.

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