Restless Democratic voters are rejecting their party's establishment. Six months before Election Day, Democratic voters are embracing change, taking a clear risk by picking less established and more polarizing candidates to represent them on the ballot this fall. In Maine, Gov. Janet Mills has been forced to formally abandon her U.S. Senate campaign, unable to generate sufficient fundraising or enthusiasm to compete in a primary against Graham Platner, an oyster farmer with no political experience. Mills' announcement Thursday marked a stinging defeat for Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, who recruited her to lead the party's decades-long quest to defeat Republican Sen. Susan Collins.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris says she's actively considering another presidential bid. She made the comments on Friday during the National Action Network's annual convention, where more than a half-dozen Democratic 2028 presidential prospects appeared hoping to make inroads among Black voters. Host Al Sharpton asked Harris directly if she was gong to run again for president in 2028. Harris responded, "I might. I'm thinking about it." The Democrats' next presidential primary season won't really begin until after November's midterm elections, but this week's conference is showcasing a collection of Democrats already jockeying for position in what should be a crowded competition. Harris drew a standing ovation and the largest crowd of any other 2028 prospect at this week's convention.
By JULIE CARR SMYTH and JOEY CAPPELLETTI Associated Press
Democrats are starting to treat Vice President JD Vance, not Donald Trump, as their number one focus among Republican leaders. That was evident Saturday night, when Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear visited Vance's home county in Ohio for a Democratic fundraiser. Beshear spoke about Vance's memoir and said "Hillbilly Elegy" leans on "tired stereotypes" about Appalachia. Other Democrats have also sharpened their criticism of Vance, calling the vice president an extremist or a phony. Democratic strategists say the goal is to undercut Vance before he can consolidate support as Trump's heir apparent for the White House in 2028.
By CHARLOTTE KRAMON, ALEX VEIGA and MARY CLARE JALONICK Associated Press
In a rare bipartisan effort for a deeply divided Congress, the Senate has passed a broad bill to make U.S. housing more accessible and affordable. The bill passed on Thursday would reduce regulations, regulate corporate investors and expand how housing dollars can be used to build affordable homes and rentals. It now heads back to the House, which passed a separate version earlier this year. It is unclear whether President Donald Trump would sign it after declaring last weekend that he won't sign any new measures unless Congress passes legislation that would require voters to show proof of citizenship.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom says there's no imminent threat to the state from Iran. ABC News says the FBI warned California that Iran had aspired to send drones to the West Coast in retaliation for war. The FBI later released text of the alert, which noted that the information was based on "unverified information." The White House now says, "No such threat from Iran to our homeland exists." Newsom says California and various agencies plan for worst-case scenarios. Police in Los Angeles and San Francisco say they are monitoring world events for any risks.
On Nov. 8, 2000, a statewide recount began in Florida, which emerged as critical in deciding the winner of the 2000 presidential election between Republican George W. Bush and Democratic Vice President Al Gore. The recount would officially end on Dec. 12 upon orders from the U.S. Supreme Court, delivering Florida's electoral votes and the presidency to Bush.
On Nov. 6, 1860, former Illinois congressman Abraham Lincoln of the Republican Party was elected president of the United States as he defeated John Breckinridge, John Bell and Stephen Douglas.
