Fortnight to Election Day: 5 key 2025 races to watch

Curtis Sliwa highlights a crucial trend in the current political landscape: voters are increasingly seeking authenticity and a clear vision from their candidates. This desire is shaping races not just in New York City, but also in New Jersey and Virginia, reflecting a broader national sentiment. As elections approach, understanding this shift could be key for candidates aiming to connect with their constituents and secure votes.

A recent poll reveals that more than half of Democrats across the nation hold a positive view of socialism, a significant finding as election day approaches. This shift in perception could influence key races in New York City, New Jersey, and Virginia, highlighting a growing acceptance of socialist ideas among voters. Understanding these sentiments is crucial for candidates as they strategize their campaigns and address the concerns of their constituents.

A federal judge has ordered the removal of social media posts by the Department of Homeland Security that he deemed prejudicial in the prosecution of U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver. This ruling highlights concerns about the influence of public opinion on legal proceedings, especially in high-profile cases involving political figures. The decision underscores the importance of ensuring a fair trial and maintaining the integrity of the judicial process.

The ongoing government shutdown is becoming a pressing issue as Election Day approaches, with Rep. James Walkinshaw highlighting the struggles faced by nearly 150,000 civilian federal workers in Virginia. This situation is critical as it not only affects the livelihoods of these workers but also has broader implications for the political landscape, potentially influencing voter sentiment and turnout in the upcoming elections.

Former President Barack Obama is set to join Rep. Mikie Sherrill in Newark, New Jersey, on November 1 for her gubernatorial campaign. This collaboration highlights the importance of leadership in tackling significant challenges and aims to inspire voters by showcasing the achievements of the Obama administration. Sherrill's campaign is gaining momentum with this high-profile endorsement, which could energize her supporters and attract undecided voters.

Mikie Sherrill, a Democratic candidate for governor of New Jersey, has faced criticism for missing over half of her votes in the House of Representatives this year. This significant absenteeism raises concerns about her commitment to her current role while campaigning to replace the term-limited Phil Murphy. As the gubernatorial race tightens, her actions may impact voter perception and trust, highlighting the challenges candidates face in balancing responsibilities with political ambitions.

A recent poll from Virginia Commonwealth University indicates that the races for governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general in Virginia are becoming increasingly competitive as Election Day approaches. Democratic candidate Abigail Spanberger is currently leading Republican Winsome Earle-Sears by a margin of 49% to 42%. This tightening of the races highlights the growing engagement of voters and the potential for a close election, making it crucial for both parties to mobilize their supporters in the final weeks.

Former President Barack Obama is making a significant return to the political arena by leading rallies for Democratic gubernatorial candidates in Virginia and New Jersey. This move is important as it highlights his continued influence in the party and could energize voters ahead of the elections, potentially impacting the outcomes in these key states.

The ongoing connection between the Knicks and Cavaliers, particularly through their star player Donovan Mitchell, highlights the competitive nature of the NBA. Three years ago, the Knicks were eager to acquire Mitchell, showcasing their ambition to strengthen their roster. This relationship continues to be significant as both teams navigate their paths in the league, making it a storyline to watch for fans and analysts alike.

Artemi Panarin is showing signs of a comeback after a slow start to the season, scoring in back-to-back games for the Rangers. Despite the team's loss to the Wild, Panarin's recent performance, with five points in two games, is a promising sign for fans and the team's future. His ability to regain his scoring touch is crucial as the Rangers aim to improve their standings.

Pope Leo XIV has made headlines by canonizing Bartolo, a former Satanic priest, along with six other new saints. This significant event not only highlights the transformative power of faith but also serves as a reminder of the Church's ability to embrace redemption. Bartolo's journey from a troubled past to sainthood is inspiring, showing that change is possible for everyone, regardless of their history.

Michael Jordan recently shared a memorable moment from his NBC debut, revealing that he felt more nervous than he had in years while discussing the game between the Thunder and Rockets. This revelation came as a surprise to Mike Tirico, who was calling the game and learned that the NBA icon hadn't touched a basketball in years. This story not only highlights Jordan's enduring connection to the sport but also adds a personal touch to the excitement surrounding NBC's return to NBA broadcasting.

MSNBC host Jen Psaki has sparked outrage on social media after making controversial remarks on the 'I've Had It' podcast, implying that Usha Vance, the wife of Vice President JD Vance, is afraid of her husband. Many have criticized Psaki's comments as 'disgusting' and 'vile,' raising questions about the appropriateness of such statements in public discourse. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in political commentary and the impact of personal remarks on public figures.

Mikal Bridges recently shared his thoughts on Tom Thibodeau revealing Knicks strategies during a visit with the Celtics. This discussion arose after Celtics star Jaylen Brown mentioned that Thibodeau provided insights on what helped the Knicks defeat them in last season's conference semifinals. This exchange highlights the ongoing dynamics and strategies within the NBA, showcasing how teams analyze each other's tactics to improve their own performance.