Newsweek is reporting that Democrat James Talarico leads Republican rival Ken Paxton in a closely watched Texas Senate race that could flip the red state blue. It said Talarico is young, charismatic and devoutly Christian, while holding liberal positions on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights, including once describing God as nonbinary. Newsweek said Paxton is a classic Texas Republican whose career has been marked by scandal and controversy, including allegations of corruption. It noted that MAGA supporters back Paxton, but that Texas voters remain uncertain about him. Newsweek said a closer precedent to the current race should temper enthusiasm among Talarico supporters, pointing to an earlier Texas contest with similar dynamics.
Separately, Newsweek is reporting that Russian President Vladimir Putin is preparing his nation for a long war in Ukraine and attempting to conceal whatever breaks in the process. It described the approach as a kitchen sink strategy.
Newsweek also published commentary arguing that President Donald Trump's increasingly extreme language makes him appear weaker, not stronger. It said the rhetoric looks increasingly impotent as the world recognizes the final stage of his presidency is at hand.
In a separate opinion piece, Newsweek argued that Fat Bear Week serves as a mirror of the United States, describing a country where bigger is better, excess is normal and obesity becomes spectacle.
Newsweek Editor-in-Chief Jennifer H. Cunningham said in a message to readers that the outlet follows facts rather than factions and that readers should be free to make up their own minds. She said Newsweek membership offers ad-free browsing, exclusive reporting and analysis, and opportunities to engage with editors.