Three key races, California's map and the Trump factor - what to watch in US elections

In the New York mayoral race, candidate Zohran Mamdani is gaining traction among young voters with his ambitious proposals to reduce living costs and implement free public transport. His progressive stance has garnered support from prominent figures like AOC and Bernie Sanders, but it has also attracted criticism from President Trump, who labels him a 'communist.' This situation raises questions about whether Mamdani's leftist views could hinder his chances of winning the election, making it a significant topic in the political landscape.

The 2025 US elections are heating up, with significant attention on the New York City mayoral race. Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani, who recently upset former governor Andrew Cuomo in the primaries, is leading in the polls as he faces Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa. This election is crucial not only for New Yorkers but also for the national political landscape, as Mamdani's potential victory could signal a shift towards progressive policies in a city known for its influence.

In a surprising turn of events, Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Andrew Cuomo for the New York City mayoral race, while simultaneously threatening to cut funding if left-wing candidate Zohran Mamdani wins. This endorsement comes as polls indicate Mamdani is leading, raising concerns about the implications for the city's future. Trump's involvement adds a layer of tension to the election, highlighting the stark political divide and the stakes involved for New Yorkers.

In a controversial move, President Donald Trump has threatened to withhold federal funds from New York City if Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the upcoming mayoral election. This statement has sparked significant debate, as it raises concerns about the politicization of federal funding and its potential impact on city services. Trump's endorsement of former governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent, adds another layer to this already heated election, highlighting the divisions within the political landscape.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is set to visit President Trump on November 18, marking his second visit to the U.S. during Trump's presidency. This meeting is significant as it continues the dialogue between the two leaders, which began with MBS's first trip to Washington in 2017. The visit could have implications for U.S.-Saudi relations and regional stability.

New Yorkers are gearing up to elect socialist Zohran Mamdani as their new mayor, a significant shift that could challenge President Donald Trump's influence in the city. This election is not just about local governance; it symbolizes a broader political movement against Trump's policies. Additionally, the off-year gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey will provide insight into the current political climate in the U.S., making this election a pivotal moment for many.

As election day approaches, Mamdani is rallying supporters in New York City, with many believing he is on the verge of a historic victory. However, some voters remain undecided, highlighting the competitive nature of the race. This election is significant not only for Mamdani but also for the political landscape of the city, as it could signal a shift in voter sentiment and priorities.

Senate Republicans have rejected a Democratic proposal to fully fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the ongoing government shutdown, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from Democratic leaders. They describe the move as 'unbelievably cruel,' arguing that it weaponizes food assistance against vulnerable Americans. This decision affects 42 million participants in the nation's largest anti-hunger program, raising concerns about food security for millions during a critical time.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to unveil the Budget on November 26, where she is weighing options for both tax increases and spending cuts. This is significant as it will shape the financial landscape for the upcoming year, impacting individuals and businesses alike.

As Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukraine's urban centers, the situation is becoming increasingly dire. Ukraine has received additional US-made Patriot air defense systems to bolster its defenses against these relentless assaults. The attacks not only threaten civilian lives but also aim to cripple Ukraine's energy supply and disrupt its industrial capabilities. This ongoing conflict raises critical questions about the EU's potential involvement and the need for a more robust response to support Ukraine during this challenging winter.

Chancellor Reeves is preparing for a challenging Budget announcement, with economists forecasting tax increases on November 26. This matters because it signals potential changes in fiscal policy that could impact individuals and businesses alike, shaping the economic landscape in the coming months.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is navigating a complex political landscape as she prepares for an upcoming budget speech, where she hints at inevitable tax rises. While she emphasizes the need to focus on the priorities of the British people, she stops short of committing to her manifesto pledge regarding tax increases. This situation is significant as it reflects the challenges faced by the government in balancing fiscal responsibility with public expectations, especially in light of current economic pressures.

In Delhi, towering mountains of trash are not just an eyesore but a serious health hazard for nearby communities. Hannah Ellis-Petersen's exploration of the Bhalswa landfill reveals how residents are trapped in a cycle of dependency on this toxic environment, which is poisoning their lives. This situation highlights the urgent need for effective waste management solutions in one of the world's most populous cities.

Today, Kaja Kallas will provide an update on the progress of candidate countries aspiring to join the European Union, which is crucial for understanding the EU's expansion efforts. In a separate incident, a Romanian worker tragically died after being trapped under rubble from a collapsed medieval tower in Rome, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in urban areas.