DAN GAINOR: The 5 craziest stories of October — from Karine Jean-Pierre to PETA plaques

Former President Barack Obama is set to energize Democratic voters by headlining rallies in Virginia and New Jersey ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial elections. His involvement is significant as it not only boosts the morale of the party but also aims to mobilize support in crucial battlegrounds, potentially influencing the outcome of the elections. With Election Day approaching, Obama's presence could be a game-changer for Democratic candidates.

As the governor races in New Jersey and Virginia reach their final days, Democratic candidates Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger are framing their campaigns as a referendum on President Donald Trump. This approach highlights their shared strategies and backgrounds, making it a pivotal moment in their political careers. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they could influence voter sentiment and the overall political landscape in these states.

Terence Sears expressed frustration as his wife, the Virginia lieutenant governor, was prevented from attending campaign events due to Democratic redistricting sessions. This situation highlights the political tensions in Virginia, where party dynamics can significantly impact campaign strategies and voter engagement. Terence stepped in to rally support at a Republican event near Virginia Tech, emphasizing the challenges faced by candidates in navigating political obstacles.

The Virginia state Senate has taken a significant step by approving a constitutional amendment that allows for mid-decade redistricting of congressional districts. This change is important as it enables the Legislature to adjust district boundaries more frequently, potentially leading to fairer representation and addressing shifts in population. It reflects a proactive approach to ensure that electoral maps accurately represent the state's demographics.

An Ohio panel has approved new congressional district maps that could enhance the GOP's prospects of gaining two additional seats in the upcoming elections. This move is significant as it supports President Donald Trump's strategy to maintain a narrow majority in Congress, potentially influencing key legislative decisions in the near future.

In a heated exchange, CNN's Scott Jennings labeled MSNBC's Lawrence O'Donnell as 'irrelevant' and a 'lunatic' after O'Donnell accused him of being paid to misrepresent Donald Trump on-air. This clash highlights the ongoing tensions between media personalities and raises questions about credibility in political commentary, making it a significant moment in the current media landscape.

In a harrowing testimony, Virginia teacher Abby Zwerner recounted the moment she was shot by her 6-year-old student, expressing that she thought she was dead. The incident, which has drawn significant attention, highlights the alarming issue of gun violence in schools and raises questions about safety measures for both students and teachers. The release of police bodycam footage adds a chilling layer to the story, showcasing the chaotic aftermath of the shooting and the urgent need for discussions around mental health and gun control.

In a significant move, a Republican-led panel in Ohio has approved new congressional districts, which could enhance the GOP's prospects of securing two additional seats in the upcoming elections. This development is crucial as it reflects the ongoing political strategies that can shape the balance of power in Congress, making it a key focus for both parties as they prepare for the electoral battle ahead.

During Game 6 of the World Series, a fan waving an American flag caused a stir by storming the field, leading to boos from the Canadian crowd. This incident not only disrupted the game but also highlighted the tensions between American and Canadian sports fans, making it a noteworthy moment in this championship series.

Heidi Klum has once again wowed fans with her incredible Halloween transformation, this time into the mythological Medusa. At her annual party in New York City, she showcased a stunning hand-painted bodysuit and an elaborate snake headpiece. This costume not only highlights her creativity and dedication to Halloween but also sets a high bar for festive celebrations, inspiring others to embrace the spirit of the holiday.

Kenny Chesney recently reflected on a deeply emotional moment during his 2009 concert in Indianapolis when he broke down in tears on stage. This vulnerability marked a significant turning point in his career, ultimately leading to his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Chesney's openness about his struggles resonates with fans, highlighting the importance of authenticity in the music industry and how personal challenges can lead to profound growth.

In October, the media landscape was rife with controversy, highlighted by Washington Post critic Dan Gainor's harsh review of Karine Jean-Pierre's new book. Meanwhile, MSNBC faced backlash for its coverage of the all-female Virginia governor race, which some deemed misogynistic. These stories matter as they reflect ongoing tensions in media representation and the scrutiny public figures face, sparking discussions about accountability and bias in journalism.

Recent research reveals that introducing peanuts to infants between 4 to 11 months can reduce the risk of peanut allergies by 43% in children under three. This finding challenges previous guidelines that recommended waiting until age three to introduce peanuts. This new approach could significantly impact public health by decreasing the prevalence of peanut allergies, which have been on the rise.

In a shocking turn of events, strip club executives in New York are accused of bribing a tax auditor with cash, luxury trips, and even lap dances to evade nearly $8 million in taxes. This scandal not only raises serious ethical questions about the integrity of tax enforcement but also highlights the lengths to which some will go to escape financial accountability. The sweeping indictment serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against corruption in the financial sector.