Democrats are closing in on a historic victory in Mississippi's US Senate race, where Democratic candidate Scott Colom is leading Republican incumbent Cindy Hyde-Smith by 1,138 votes, with approximately 96% of ballots counted. A Democratic win would mark the party's first Mississippi Senate victory since 1982. Meanwhile, Republican leaders have begun blaming internal failures and President Donald Trump's policies for their wider midterm defeats. Trump pointed to his absence from the ballot, while Vice-President JD Vance blamed the unpopular Iran war. Rising living costs and government corruption also emerged as major voter concerns. (PC: The Guardian)

Democratic leader James Talarico has declared that his victory over Republican candidate Ken Paxton in the Texas Senate election sends a strong message to billionaire Elon Musk. Musk reportedly spent over $168 million supporting Paxton’s campaign. Speaking to CBS News, Talarico said Texas voters had rejected the influence of wealthy individuals in politics, declaring, “Texas is not for sale.” He accused Musk of attempting to gain political influence and control over Texas resources. Talarico also promised to reform campaign finance laws, tackle corruption and reduce billionaire influence in government, emphasising that political power belongs to ordinary citizens. (PC: X)

Meta has reportedly joined Google and Microsoft in offering voluntary exit packages to employees as major technology companies restructure their workforces amid growing investments in artificial intelligence. According to a report by French publication La Lettre, Meta's programme in France could affect around 100 of its 300 employees. Eligible workers may receive 2.15 months' salary for every year of service, along with 10 months of mobility leave at 80% of gross salary. Applications reportedly closed on November 5. Meta has not confirmed whether similar programmes will be introduced in other countries. (PC: Reuters)

hThe Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has announced an anti-Special Intensive Revision (SIR) protest in Kochi, Kerala, on November 7. Titled ‘Jantar Mantar @ Kochi’, the demonstration will take place at Rajendra Maidan from 4 pm under the slogan “Save Democracy! Cancel SIR!” The party is demanding the cancellation of the electoral roll revision exercise and the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Founder Abhijeet Dipke, along with other party leaders, will participate. The protest follows the detention and arrest of CJP leaders during demonstrations in Delhi last month. (PC: NDTV)

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has announced an anti-Special Intensive Revision (SIR) protest in Kochi, Kerala, on November 7. Titled ‘Jantar Mantar @ Kochi’, the demonstration will take place at Rajendra Maidan from 4 pm under the slogan “Save Democracy! Cancel SIR!” The party is demanding the cancellation of the electoral roll revision exercise and the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Founder Abhijeet Dipke, along with other party leaders, will participate. The protest follows the detention and arrest of CJP leaders during demonstrations in Delhi last month. 

Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 41, ending an illustrious 23-year career representing Portugal. Since making his debut in August 2003, Ronaldo has recorded 234 international appearances and scored a record-breaking 146 goals. He captained Portugal to the historic Euro 2016 championship and two UEFA Nations League titles. In an emotional farewell message, he thanked his teammates, coaches, family and supporters, saying it was time to hand over his iconic No. 7 shirt to the next generation. He is expected to continue playing club football. (PC: Reuters)

France is preparing for nationwide strikes and protests as 5 major trade unions join forces over wages, living costs and public services. Authorities expect between 500,000 and 700,000 people to take part in demonstrations on November 5. Around 70,000 police officers and gendarmes have been deployed to maintain security. The protests, involving students and workers, have disrupted schools, hospitals and public transport. Unions are demanding higher wages, including a €100 monthly increase, and better public services. The government has warned of a firm response to violence, while more than 250 protest actions are planned across the country. (PC: BBC)

Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff has emerged as a potential contender for the 2028 US presidential election following his victory in Georgia's Senate race. The 39-year-old defeated Republican challenger Mike Collins, strengthening his position within the Democratic Party. Ossoff has also drawn comparisons with former President Barack Obama because of his public speaking skills, political style and appeal among younger voters. Obama campaigned alongside him during the election. Ossoff has built a national profile through strong criticism of President Donald Trump. However, the Georgia senator has previously said he has no interest in running for president. (PC: India Today)

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with Portugal. The 41-year-old footballer shared the news through a video message on social media on Thursday. Ronaldo said the time had come to hand back Portugal’s iconic No. 7 shirt, which he wore with pride throughout his international career. He made a record 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals, becoming the highest-scoring player in men's international football. Ronaldo captained Portugal to the Euro 2016 title and won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. (PC: HT)

For the first time in US history, more than 100 Democratic women are expected to serve simultaneously in the House of Representatives following the 2026 midterm elections. The milestone comes as Democrats regain control of Congress after major election victories. Several women candidates helped the party flip key Republican-held seats across the country. Teresa Leger Fernández, chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, said women made history by turning out to vote and electing more than 100 Democratic women. The achievement marks a significant increase in women's representation, although women remain underrepresented in the US Congress.