Reading archive 2026-11-05

Virginia offering to plant trees across the state — for free

Rare bipartisan idea gains ground: U.S.-Israel tie needs a break: U.S.-Israeli relations are set for a major shift after decades in which it was politically toxic to question close ties.

GOP’s losses will raise pressure on conservative Supreme Court justices to retire: The lame-duck session before January will probably be President Donald Trump’s last chance to get a high court nominee confirmed by the Senate.

JD Vance is test-driving a delusional new message: Republicans might consider giving the Etch A Sketch a vigorous shake instead.

‘Knives out’ for Hegseth, other military leaders after Iran war dooms GOP: Though President Donald Trump has continued to support Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Republicans’ electoral drubbing leaves him and other key military leaders vulnerable, officials say.

Colom widens lead over Hyde-Smith with thousands of Mississippi ballots uncounted: Incumbent Cindy Hyde-Smith (R) is fighting to hold on to her seat.

The Night Blue Texas Remembered How to Dream: I had all but given up on my home state’s political future. Then came the midterms.

The Election Deniers Are in Retreat: The president is not getting the political cover he once enjoyed from Republicans.

The Democrat Who’s Winning Over Voters in Trump Country: Josh Shapiro is looking past his own reelection.

Things Are Going to Get Ugly: Donald Trump is about to redefine the lame-duck presidency.

The Unlikeliest Democratic Win of All: Few thought South Carolina was really in play until it had already flipped.

Texas Republicans Get Washed: America didn’t just get Blexas. It got Deep Blexas.

Susan Collins Didn’t Have a Chance: A nationwide rejection of President Trump swept out the moderate Republican.

$500 Million Bought Elon Nothing: Musk’s unprecedented spending may even have hurt Republicans.