The U.S. elections taking place in several states - News Today

News Today

Today, November 4, 2025, major headlines are dominated by the U.S. elections taking place in several states and the ongoing, record-tying government shutdown. 

U.S. Elections

Voters in several key areas are casting ballots in races that are being viewed as early indicators of support for President Trump's administration and the direction of the Democratic Party ahead of the 2026 midterms. Key races include: 

• New York City Mayoral Race: Polls are open as voters choose between the front-runner, socialist Zohran Mamdani, former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo (running as an independent), and Republican Curtis Sliwa. President Trump has endorsed Cuomo in the race.
• Gubernatorial Races: High-profile governor's races are underway in 
  New Jersey
   (between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli) and 
  Virginia
   (between Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Republican Winsome Earle-Sears), which will elect its first female governor regardless of the outcome.
• California Ballot Measure: Californians are voting on a proposition that would radically change the state's congressional district boundaries, an effort by Gov. Gavin Newsom aimed at flipping several Republican seats. 

U.S. Government Shutdown

The U.S. government shutdown has reached its 35th day, tying the record for the longest in American history. The stalemate, primarily over spending bills, is causing financial pain for hundreds of thousands of unpaid federal workers and delaying services like SNAP food assistance, for which only half of the benefits will be provided in November. Bipartisan talks in the Senate are ongoing to find a potential resolution. 

Other Top Stories

• Listeria Outbreak: A listeria outbreak linked to precooked pasta meals sold at grocery chains has resulted in 6 deaths and 27 illnesses across 18 states.
• International Events: A powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan, killing at least 20 people. A worker died after a partial collapse of a medieval tower in Rome. Hurricane Melissa's death toll has risen to 67 in Jamaica, with over $4 billion in insured losses expected.
• Business News: Restaurant chain Denny's will be acquired and taken private in a deal valued at $620 million. Chinese fast-fashion retailer Shein banned the sale of sex dolls on its platform after public outrage and an investigation in France over childlike products.