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Today’s top stories
Former President Donald Trump draws attention with unpredictable campaign tactics as Election Day approaches. Trump and Vice President Harris are both engaging in numerous interviews and events across the country. Trump has continued to provoke controversy, making incendiary remarks about former President Barack Obama, unfounded accusations against Harris regarding drug use, and negative comments about undocumented immigrants.
- 🎧 “He isn’t acting the way a candidate usually acts when a really close race is drawing to a close,”
- ➡️ There are clear paths for both Harris and Trump to secure the majority of electoral votes in November, depending on their success in key states. Here’s a breakdown of those potential routes.
While California is often excluded from the presidential race due to its non-swing state status, it plays a crucial role in determining control of the House of Representatives. Five House races in California are closely watched as they are among the tightest in the nation.
- 🎧 Voters in these districts frequently split their tickets, supporting Republicans in Congressional races but expressing reservations about Trump and various social issues. Ticket-splitting—a rapidly diminishing trend nationally—is notably prevalent in Orange County, a former Republican stronghold that has shifted leftward.
The Boeing machinists’ union is poised to vote on a new contract that may conclude their ongoing strike. This follows the rejection of the company’s initial contract offer over five weeks ago. Jon Holden, president of the machinists’ district, has indicated uncertainty about the outcome of the vote today. Nonetheless, Boeing’s financial challenges will persist beyond the strike, as the company faces losses exceeding a billion dollars a month amid halted production in the Pacific Northwest.
We, the voters
As the U.S. steel industry continues to evolve, job opportunities in this once-thriving sector have significantly diminished. In Braddock, PA, the local population has decreased dramatically over nearly a century, primarily due to the loss of good-paying steel jobs. At its peak, U.S. Steel employed around 340,000 workers; currently, that figure has dwindled to approximately 4,000. The proposed sale of U.S. Steel for over $14 billion to a Japanese company raises concerns about the future of Braddock. While both Trump and Harris oppose the sale, some residents believe it could provide fresh opportunities for the region.
- 📷 Discover how the community and local economy are impacted and what residents believe is essential for securing a prosperous future.
Deep dive
Despite recent cuts by the Federal Reserve, rising mortgage rates challenge potential homebuyers. According to the latest data, the average 30-year mortgage rate has climbed to 6.4%. Understanding this trend is vital for prospective buyers navigating the current housing market.
- 🏠 While the Fed influences mortgage rates, it does not set them directly.
- 🏠 The yield on 10-year Treasury bonds is a significant factor in mortgage rate fluctuations.
- 🏠 Homebuyers should avoid trying to time the market. If mortgage rates drop after your purchase, refinancing is an option.
- 🏠 High home prices continue to impact the housing market.
3 things to know before you go
- Recent news includes notable departures: A journalist has parted ways with a major publication following scrutiny of her personal relationships.
- An influential business leader has been arrested amid a federal investigation into serious criminal allegations.
- A tragic shooting near Seattle resulted in multiple fatalities, with a suspect taken into custody.
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