US midterms: the races to watch

Today 11:52 Key points summarised by AI

Americans vote on November 3 in midterm elections to determine whether President Donald Trump's Republicans retain control of Congress or face Democratic majorities.
High living costs, the war with Iran, and President Trump's approval ratings have fueled competitive races, expanding the electoral map even into Republican strongholds.
The outcome remains highly uncertain due to factors like potential polling errors, newly redrawn districts, and record-breaking campaign spending.
Democrats aim for a net gain of four seats to control the Senate and need at least 218 seats to secure a majority in the House of Representatives.
Key battleground races in states like North Carolina, Texas, Ohio (Senate) and New York's 17th, Nebraska's 2nd (House) will be crucial indicators of potential shifts in congressional power.

Fresh clashes rock France as protesters march on

25 Oct 15:08 Key points summarised by AI

Widespread clashes erupted across France as protesters marched against the cost of living, prompting a firm security backlash from President Macron's government.
Authorities deployed 70,000 security personnel, leading to nearly 1,000 arrests and two serious injuries amid an "extremely elevated level of violence" from "ultra-left" extremists.
Despite government claims of a more "positive" outcome than the previous week, riot police fired tear gas in multiple cities, sparking widespread anger over perceived assaults on the right to protest.
The unrest, which included clashes between far-right and "ultra-left" militants, highlights a febrile political atmosphere six months before presidential elections.