Summary
The Trump Justice Department intensifies its midterm election interference efforts, issuing numerous subpoenas related to Alaska's Senate race and launching a criminal investigation into alleged fraudulent claims in California. Reports indicate that the investigation focuses on a Senate candidate sharing a name with the incumbent, Dan Sullivan, with accusations of ballot stacking linked to Democratic tactics. However, experts note that ballot stacking is a longstanding political strategy used by both parties and is not illegal.
As the midterm elections approach, a sense of urgency permeates the Trump administration, reminiscent of the chaotic final days of his first term. Analysts express concern over Trump's attempts to undermine the electoral process, drawing parallels to the events leading up to the January 6 insurrection. Meanwhile, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger highlights the importance of addressing pressing issues like inflation and healthcare in her campaign, emphasizing the need for Congress to respond to the needs of constituents.
In Texas, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa is locked in a tight race against incumbent Greg Abbott, who is attempting to keep his communications with Elon Musk confidential. Hinojosa accuses Abbott of prioritizing his relationship with Musk over the interests of Texas residents. Both candidates are focused on mobilizing voters ahead of the election, with early voting numbers indicating significant engagement among constituents.
The episode also features commentary on a New York Times report revealing that Trump ignored intelligence regarding a suspected Chinese spy linked to a key tech ally, raising concerns about national security and the administration's priorities. The discussion underscores the potential implications of prioritizing economic interests over safeguarding national security.
Show Notes
October 29, 2026, 7pm: The Trump Administration is escalating its attacks on free and fair elections in California and Alaska. The Weeknight hosts and guests break down the latest legal challenges.
More from The Weeknight
October 28, 2026, 7pm: Former President Barack Obama is campaigning in Georgia with Democrats up and down the ballot in the final days of the election. The Weeknight hosts and guests have the latest.
October 27, 2026, 7pm: BREAKING: A federal grand jury has declined to indict former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson over her testimony before the January 6th committee in 2022. The Weeknight hosts and guests break it down.
October 26, 2026, 7pm: Donald Trump is spending the last days of this election cycle in deep-red Mississippi. The Weeknight hosts and guests break down what this means eight days from Election Day.
October 23, 2026, 7pm: Donald Trump is admitting that he’s meddling in the midterms before a single race is called. The Weeknight hosts and guests break it down.
October 22, 2026, 7pm: Democrats are not waiting until after Election Day to act. Last night, party leaders filed a lawsuit accusing the Trump Administration of attempting to pressure states to purge legitimate voters from their rolls. The Weeknight hosts and guests break it down.