Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has urged lawmakers to “lead by example” amid escalating campaign rhetoric as Election Day nears. He recounted threats against his family following an arson attack on the governor’s residence and called the current atmosphere “dangerous” and “hateful.”

Donald Trump held campaign rallies in Iowa and Kansas ahead of the midterm elections, energising supporters. Meanwhile, rising airfares and gas prices are causing concern among travellers, impacting plans as the holiday season approaches.

A Miami judge has dismissed President Trump’s defamation lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal regarding a story about his association with Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. District Judge Darrin Gayles ruled the lawsuit lacked evidence of actual malice, rendering it permanently closed. Trump’s legal team plans to appeal the decision.

Control of Congress hinges on the 2026 midterm elections, with all 435 House seats and 35 Senate races contested. Voters in 39 states will also select governors. CBS News will provide extensive live coverage and analysis across multiple platforms starting at 7 p.m. ET on election night.

Supporters of Mary Peltola, the Democratic Senate nominee in Alaska, affirmed their backing despite criticism over a report claiming campaign operatives were linked to a recruitment effort involving Dan Sullivan. Peltola denied involvement, while observers questioned the potential impact on late voters and called the allegations exaggerated.

The U.S. attorney for Alaska, Michael Heyman, described revelations about independent Senate candidate Daniel J. Sullivan as “troubling,” resulting in increased law enforcement resources. Investigations are ongoing, focusing on allegations of election integrity, while Sullivan’s eligibility remains contentious amid claims of voter confusion.