Centrists want alternatives to a matchup between the far right and far left in the 2027 presidential election. Teddy Riner, the judo champion, is in, while Christine Lagarde is less likely. More

Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland has emerged as a favorite of Democrats seeking an alternative to Senator Chuck Schumer, who says he has the votes to win. More

The Democrat Scott Colom’s stunning Senate upset punctuated a dismal midterm showing for the G.O.P. in a region they had dominated for years. More

Critics say Howard Lutnick, the commerce secretary, and his department have shielded Nvidia as concerns have grown over A.I. chip sales to firms like Megaspeed. More

State Senator Cindy Holscher won the race. Though Kansas is reliably Republican in presidential elections, its voters often break for Democrats in midterms. More