Stay updated with the latest politics news and analysis
Today, November 4, 2025, voters across the United States are participating in crucial off-year statewide and local elections, which are being closely watched as early indicators of national voter sentiment before the 2026 midterm elections. Key gubernatorial contests in Virginia and New Jersey, alongside mayoral races and special House elections, are unfolding amidst widespread economic anxiety over the cost of living and jobs.
The European Union is currently engaged in high-stakes discussions to finalize a crucial and legally binding 2040 climate target, aiming for a 90% net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 1990 levels, which is vital for achieving climate neutrality by mid-century before the COP30 summit. However, this ambitious objective faces significant internal divisions, with several member states expressing concerns about the economic implications, potentially jeopardizing the EU's reputation as a global climate leader.
The United States federal government is currently enduring a prolonged shutdown, now on its 34th day and nearing a historic record, causing widespread disruption and significantly delaying food benefits for millions of Americans. This critical impasse stems from deep partisan disagreements over federal spending levels for the 2026 fiscal year, leaving hundreds of thousands of federal employees furloughed or working without pay.
President-elect Donald Trump's controversial cabinet selections, including nominees for Attorney General, Director of National Intelligence, and Secretary of Defense, are facing significant bipartisan opposition due to concerns over their qualifications and past actions. Further intensifying scrutiny, the transition team has reportedly bypassed traditional FBI background checks for these critical roles, opting instead for private investigators, which has raised red flags among senators.
Millions of Americans are facing severe uncertainty regarding their food assistance benefits after a crucial November 1st deadline passed without clear resolution, despite federal judges ordering the Trump administration to utilize emergency reserves to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) amidst an ongoing government shutdown. However, the immediate distribution of these vital benefits remains unclear, leaving approximately 42 million recipients in limbo as the administration cites a lack of legal authority and warns of potential weeks-long delays.
The United States federal government is in its second-longest shutdown ever, now on day 31, due to a political stalemate over fiscal year 2026 appropriations. This unprecedented impasse is severely jeopardizing critical services, impacting millions of Americans through suspended SNAP benefits, unpaid federal workers, and significant economic losses.
In a dramatic move, King Charles III has formally stripped Prince Andrew of all remaining royal titles and initiated his eviction from Royal Lodge, effective October 30, 2025. This decisive action, prompted by ongoing controversy surrounding Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein, aims to distance the monarchy from scandal and protect its dignity.
In a dramatic policy shift, President Donald Trump has directed the Pentagon to resume nuclear weapons testing, effectively ending a 33-year moratorium on such activities as of October 30, 2025. This unprecedented move, announced in response to alleged testing by Russia and China, is poised to ignite strong global reactions and reshape international arms control efforts.
As the U.S. government shutdown enters its fourth week, essential federal employees, including air traffic controllers, are working without pay, leading to significant disruptions and safety concerns across the nation. Compounding the crisis, 42 million Americans face the potential halt of federal food stamp benefits on November 1, prompting a coalition of states to sue the USDA to release emergency funds.
President Donald Trump concluded his Japan tour, meeting with Emperor Naruhito and newly appointed, first female Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, with both leaders enthusiastically declaring a "new golden age" for the U.S.-Japan alliance. This pivotal visit solidified bilateral ties through a crucial framework agreement for critical minerals supply chains and a trade deal featuring reduced U.S. tariffs and significant Japanese investments in American industries.
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has initiated its first-ever shutdown-related furloughs, sending home 1,400 employees as the U.S.
President Milei's far-right party secured a decisive victory in Argentina's midterm elections, gaining 41% of the vote. This strong mandate empowers him to push radical economic reforms despite austerity.