After Election Day: What Happens Next in the 2026 Midterms
Americans voted on November 3, 2026, but the process is far from over. Here is how ballots are counted and certified, what a media race call means and when winners are sworn in.
Politics
How a Bill Really Becomes Law: Congress Explained in Plain English
Thousands of bills are introduced in every Congress and only a small share become law. Here is each step from introduction to the president's desk, and where bills usually get stuck.
The Narrow Waters That Move the World: Suez, Hormuz, Panama and Other Shipping Chokepoints
A large share of the world's oil and goods passes through a handful of narrow waterways. When one is blocked or attacked, shipping costs and prices can rise far away. Here is how it works.
What Is the G20? The Group Behind December's Summit in Miami, Explained
The United States holds the G20 presidency in 2026 and plans to host leaders near Miami on December 14 and 15. Here is what the G20 is, who belongs and what it can and can't do.
The European Union Explained: 27 Countries, Who Makes the Rules and Why It Matters to the US
The European Union is a union of 27 countries with a shared market and, for 21 of them, a shared currency. Here is who runs it, how laws are made and why it matters to Americans.
How the Supreme Court Picks Its Cases, and What Happens Before a Ruling
The Supreme Court began its new term on the first Monday in October. It receives thousands of requests each year but decides only a few dozen cases. Here is how a case gets there.
Government Shutdowns Explained: What Closes, What Stays Open and Who Gets Paid
A shutdown happens when Congress doesn't pass funding on time. The 2025 shutdown lasted 43 days, the longest ever. Here is what closes, what keeps running and how back pay works.
How the Speaker of the House Is Elected, and Why It Can Take 15 Ballots
The new Congress meets on January 3, 2027, and its first job is electing a speaker. The winner needs a majority of members voting for a named candidate. Here is how it works.
Clocks Fell Back Again. Why the US Still Changes Time Twice a Year
Daylight saving time ended on November 1, 2026, even though the House passed the Sunshine Protection Act 308-117 in July. Here is why the clocks still change and what would have to happen next.