In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here.

The last week has seen a bevy of bad news for the GOP with regard to 2026’s Senate contests. The Cook Political Report shifted Iowa and Texas to toss-up status. President Donald Trump’s national approval rating sits at 33% according to Reuters-Ipsos polling. Nate Silver now gives Democrats a 51% chance of retaking the Senate.