The latest U.S. political news from Washington and the campaign trail.

1. 1
   Congress

   House Passes Continuing Resolution to Avert Shutdown

   The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a temporary funding measure to keep the federal government operational through December 11. The bipartisan continuing resolution now heads to the Senate, which has faced criticism for stalling on fiscal year 2027 appropriations. Lawmakers hope the stopgap bill will provide certainty to Americans ahead of the midterms.

2. 2
   Midterm Elections

   VP Vance Launches GOP Midterm Sprint 60 Days Out

   With the 2026 midterm elections just 60 days away, Vice President JD Vance has officially launched a nationwide GOP campaign sprint. The Trump administration is navigating high stakes as they attempt to hold onto their congressional majorities. Both parties are now shifting into high gear for the final election push.

3. 3
   White House

   Trump Threatens to Halt Trade Over Fed Rates

   Following a new jobs report, President Donald Trump threatened to halt trade with certain countries unless the Federal Reserve lowers interest rates. The aggressive posture merges the administration's trade policies with its ongoing pressure on the independent central bank. Critics quickly characterized the move as a dangerous overreach.

4. 4
   Foreign Policy

   Vance Warns Iran as U.S. Diesel Prices Hit Record High

   Vice President JD Vance warned that the U.S. has additional tools to pressure Iran to stop attacking commercial shipping in the Middle East, stating everything is on the table. The remarks come as the national average for diesel fuel reached a record $5.85 per gallon. The administration is facing pressure to stabilize global shipping routes and domestic fuel costs.

5. 5
   Agriculture

   President Trump Signs Executive Orders Supporting U.S. Ranchers

   President Trump signed two executive orders aimed at supporting American ranchers and increasing market access for domestic meat producers. The U.S. Department of Agriculture also announced new initiatives to help rebuild the nation's cattle herd, which is currently at its lowest level since the 1950s. The administration framed the moves as a reversal of the Biden administration's agricultural and environmental policies.

6. 6
   State Politics

   Colorado GOP Gubernatorial Nominee Linked to Controversial Ministry

   The Republican nominee for governor in Colorado is facing pushback over connections to a controversial anti-sex-trafficking ministry. The revelation comes as both parties battle for crucial state-level victories in the November midterms. Democrats are utilizing the controversy to try and sway independent voters in the purple state.