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Anthropic will add official voting information and election results to Claude ahead of November midterms, using data from nonprofit Democracy Works. Photographer: Suhaimi Abdullah/Bloomberg

Anthropic to update Claude AI with US election information ahead of midterms

Anthropic will add official US voting information and election results to Claude later this month, using Democracy Works’ database to answer voting-procedure questions ahead of the November 2026 midterms. The feature aims to provide reliable guidance and prevent election-related misuse, rather than recommend candidates; voting questions currently account for just 0.51% of US conversations.

Alexandros Paporakis was arrested and charged over an alleged plan to carry out a mass shooting. Image for representational purposes.

Teen accused of plotting mass shooting at Hindu place of worship in Aurora, Illinois

An eight-page manifesto attributed to 19-year-old Alexandros Paporakis reportedly outlined plans to kill and attack a Hindu temple in Aurora, Illinois, leading to his arrest and charges. Investigators say it contained racist, antisemitic and anti-Black hatred, weapon-modification details and calls for violence; they found an unserialized rifle, ammunition and Nazi symbols. Coworkers reportedly described his white-supremacist remarks.

The last Mercury retrograde of 2026.

Western astrology says the last Mercury retrograde arrives this month. What should you know?

The final Mercury retrograde of 2026 runs October 24 to November 13, overlapping Scorpio season, and Western astrologers advise care with communication, travel and major decisions. Double-check messages, bookings and documents, back up files, and take time before signing or committing, without halting plans. Mercury does not move backward; it only appears to from Earth.

Jeff Kaplan spent nearly two decades at Blizzard Entertainment.

Jeff Kaplan shares how he went from being a gaming industry icon to having his mails ignored by peer

Jeff Kaplan says leaving Blizzard to build Kintsugiyama has been a “humbling” reset, as contacts now ignore his emails while he develops his first project, *The Legend of California*. He sees the shift as revealing loyalty and people’s motives. After 19 years at Blizzard, Kaplan helped shape *World of Warcraft* and directed *Overwatch* before leaving in 2021.

The Department of Homeland Security is considering ending deference to prior approvals for employment visa extensions, requiring USCIS to reassess each petition.

H-1B alert: USCIS proposal to bring more scrutiny and delays to visa renewals

USCIS may end deference to prior approvals in H-1B and other visa extensions, requiring fresh assessments even when workers, employers and jobs are unchanged, under a DHS proposal that could increase scrutiny and uncertainty. 208,000 petitions may be affected, with longer processing and evidence requests expected. Indians, who receive most H-1B approvals, face particular concern.

The Scorpio season 2026 arrives on 23rd October 2026. Let's read what it brings.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac says Scorpio season begins October 23. Here's what this means in astrology

Scorpio season, beginning October 23, 2026, invites reflection on boundaries, privacy and relationships, helping identify needs and communicate limits without assuming astrology determines outcomes. The Almanac associates Scorpio with introspection; Venus retrograde may prompt reassessment of relationship balance. Quiet time, honest conversations and pausing before saying yes can protect well-being, while respecting others’ boundaries.

FBI Director Kash Patel refuted a media report that he had traveled to Russia.

FBI denies Kash Patel went on reported Russia trip, amid Ukraine accusations of helping Putin

The FBI denied reports that Kash Patel had landed in Russia for meetings, saying he was speaking at an event at Liberty University in Virginia; video showed him on a panel. Patel rejected the report on X, citing FBI figures and demanding an apology. Moscow-trip speculation dates to July, amid US-Russia tensions over Ukraine.

Panchang Today: Check the tithi, nakshatra, yoga, and planetary transits

Panchang Today, October 15, 2026: Shukla Panchami under Jyeshtha Nakshatra

October 15, 2026, favours responsible work, clear communication and practical preparation over rushed commitments, according to traditional Panchang guidance. In New Delhi, Amrit Kalam (8:59–10:46 p.m.) suits constructive plans; avoid discretionary beginnings during Rahu Kaal (1:33–2:59 p.m.), but meet urgent duties normally. Guruvar, Shukla Panchami, Jyeshtha and the Scorpio Moon inform this reflective, non-predictive daily advice.

Footage shared on X after the incident showed police securing the scene.(Representative Image)

Navy Yard shooting update: First details on suspect; scary visuals emerge from Washington DC

A woman was shot near Fourth and M streets SE in Navy Yard around 5 p.m. October 14 and taken conscious to a trauma center; the severity of her injuries was unknown. Police sought a Black woman wearing a black shirt and driving a dark Chevrolet with Maryland plate 5GY4386. Officers cordoned off the scene and redirected pedestrians and motorists.

Peter Nagy, Nature Morte gallery's founder and art curator, died on October 13.

Peter Nagy (1959-2026) | The show must go on… He was clear, gallery shouldn't close in mourning

Peter Nagy, Nature Morte’s founder who propelled contemporary Indian art, died aged 67 after a long illness; honoring his wish, its Delhi and Mumbai galleries stayed open. Artists recalled his intelligence, generosity and commitment to their work. He founded the gallery in New York in 1982, moved to India in 1992 and reopened it in Delhi in 1997.

Pisces Horoscope

Pisces Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Pisces may manage minor frustrations by taking a wider view, turning advice into one practical step, checking travel plans and protecting energy. Learning and thoughtful conversations are favored; relationships benefit from listening, while study or business plans need research before commitment. Keep spending, sleep and routines steady, with gentle movement. These themes reflect the day’s planetary influences.

Aquarius Horoscope

Aquarius Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Aquarius should prioritize steady, verifiable work today, as responsibilities and dealings come into focus, with praise or feedback treated as guidance rather than a reason to overextend. Confirm arrangements, tie spending to income, and communicate with loved ones. Take breaks and disconnect this evening; the Moon in Scorpio highlights accountability, while Saturn urges financial discipline.

Capricorn Horoscope

Capricorn Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Capricorns can make the day easier through clear requests, cooperation and realistic commitments, though unexpected visitors or messages may shift plans. Include partners in social arrangements, clarify team responsibilities, verify advice and review shared spending before committing money. Pace work and social demands with breaks. The Moon in Scorpio highlights networks, while Saturn supports patient communication and steady effort.

Sagittarius Horoscope

Sagittarius Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Sagittarius should prioritize quiet work, rest and realistic commitments today, as reflection may prove more useful than constant availability. The horoscope advises reviewing small expenses, keeping messages clear and allowing for delays in travel or plans. In love, career and health, favor calm conversations, focused tasks and a lighter schedule. The Scorpio Moon favors reflection.

Scorpio Horoscope

Scorpio Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Scorpios should prioritize needs over others’ expectations today, communicate plan changes early, and leave space for rest, as sensitivity may shape interactions. Warmth, careful preparation, measured spending, and gentle movement support relationships, work, finances, and health. A gathering may lift spirits, but staying home is valid; planetary influences underscore tension between domestic and professional demands.

Libra Horoscope

Libra Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Libra should keep priorities simple today, complete necessary work, check household spending, and speak carefully to prevent needless tension. Handle tasks first, verify details before deciding, and give loved ones room to explain. Steady routines, courteous communication, and a review support career progress; avoid impulse purchases and take breaks. Astrological influences emphasize finances, family, and patience.

Virgo Horoscope

Virgo Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Virgos can make a busy day satisfying by choosing priorities, working steadily, and allowing extra time for errands and travel, as conversations and short journeys take center stage. Listen warmly in relationships, break work into stages, and check transactions before paying. Watch small expenses and restlessness; brief breaks and a quieter evening help. Scorpio Moon and planetary transits shape the day.

Leo Horoscope

Leo Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Leo’s day centers on home, where one change and a flexible schedule can ease pressure; prioritize family needs, communicate your need for quiet, and avoid rushed spending or commitments. At work, clear distractions and handle routine tasks carefully, while relationships benefit from calm compromise. This focus reflects the Moon in Scorpio and ongoing planetary transits.

Yemen's Houthis are seeking Chinese components for advanced ballistic missiles, raising concerns over regional security and the group's growing weapons capabilities.. (Photo by Mohammed HUWAIS / AFP)

Yemen's Houthis seek to build missiles with Chinese parts amid rising tensions: Report

Report says Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis seek Chinese components to build an advanced ballistic missile potentially capable of striking Saudi Arabia and Israel, after authorities intercepted two shipments bound for Houthi-held Hodeidah. Cargo included rocket-motor parts and heat-shield material, suggesting ambitions for local production. The group has relied on Iranian designs but is diversifying supply routes.

Cancer Horoscope

Cancer Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Cancer’s daily outlook favors curiosity, creativity and affectionate connection, but warns against magnifying small disappointments or neglecting responsibilities. Focused work can free time for warm conversations; show interest gently and encourage others. Budget enjoyment, check shared expenses and commitments carefully, and keep a balanced routine. Saturn’s slow transit supports patient learning and thoughtful planning.

Gemini Horoscope

Gemini Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Gemini should organize the day around essential tasks, checking details and preserving energy rather than scattering effort or arguing over others’ methods. Considerate communication can ease relationship and workplace friction, while spending wisely and taking meals, water and breaks support wellbeing. The Moon highlights routines; Saturn stresses career effort, with Rahu and Ketu advising caution.

Taurus Horoscope

Taurus Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Taurus may benefit more from patient conversations than rushing to finish tasks today, as partners, clients and collaborators shape decisions. Listen carefully, clarify shared arrangements, and leave meetings flexible before committing. Review agreements and payment terms, avoid budgeting around uncertain money, and let ordinary attentiveness strengthen relationships. The Moon highlights partnerships, while Saturn favors patient shared goals.

Aries Horoscope

Aries Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026

Aries should keep the day manageable, checking facts before reacting to delays, sharp messages or unexpected tasks. Prioritize focused work, organize documents and expenses, and allow extra commuting time. In relationships, clarify misunderstandings calmly; at work, verify details and record decisions. The Moon in Scorpio and Saturn in Pisces favor patience, rest and restraint around risk.

Horoscope today

Horoscope Today, October 15, 2026, read predictions for all sun signs

October 15 favors steady progress, practical decisions and emotional balance, as persistent effort earns recognition and clear boundaries protect priorities. Aries and Leo gain confidence through feedback and leadership, while Taurus and Capricorn benefit from patient planning; others should verify opportunities, reassess goals and communicate honestly. Across the zodiac, gradual action today builds lasting foundations.

Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on February 1 and is yet to be found.

Nancy Guthrie update: ‘Investigator’ claims family ‘panicking’, shares alleged photo of Tommaso

Jonathan Lee Riches questioned an unverified claim that Tommaso Cioni, Nancy Guthrie’s son-in-law, was removed from a Trump rally, sharing an indistinct photo that does not establish his identity. He also alleged the family was panicking, citing unnamed sources. Neither claim is verified; police say relatives are not suspects, though Cioni reportedly was among the last to see Guthrie, who has been missing since February 1.

Sharad Navratri Day 5 of 2026: Maa Kushmanda brings spiritual seekers.

Sharad Navratri Day 5, 2026: What message does Maa Skandamata bring for spiritual seekers

On Sharad Navratri’s fifth day, Maa Skandamata’s image as a nurturing, protective mother offers a reminder that caregivers also need care: accepting support and sharing responsibilities can protect against emotional exhaustion. Astrologer Poonam Dutta suggests starting with small steps, such as delegating, setting boundaries and making time to rest. Her symbolism is spiritual, not a medical explanation for hyper-independence or distress.

Jihadists kill 15 troops, five militia members in Nigeria

Jihadists kill 15 troops, five militia members in Nigeria

Islamic State West Africa Province fighters killed 15 soldiers and five militia members while overrunning and burning a military base in Mairari, Borno state. They looted weapons, forced troops toward Monguno and left soldiers missing. The attack reflects continued rising violence in a 17-year insurgency that has killed thousands and displaced millions across northeastern Nigeria.

Federal authorities carried out a search of Ilhan Omar’s Washington, D.C., residence

Rep Ilhan Omar's phone seized, relatives subpoenaed amid criminal probe ahead of midterms

Federal agents searched Rep. Ilhan Omar’s Washington home, seized her phone and issued more than 12 subpoenas, some reportedly involving relatives, in a probe of immigration-document irregularities and financial disclosures. Omar called the search political intimidation; prosecutors say any proven crime will be prosecuted. The Minnesota Democrat, first elected to Congress in 2018, seeks reelection.

Eight US states have sued OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT harms users, including teenagers, and seeking safety changes, penalties and damages. Photographer: Minh Connors/Bloomberg

Eight US states sue OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT exposes young users to dangerous behavior

Eight US states sued OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT encouraged dangerous behaviour, reinforced delusions and helped teenagers plan violence. Iowa, Kansas, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska and West Virginia seek safety changes, penalties and damages, claiming the chatbot misled users and endangered public health. The allegations remain unproven, adding to pressure from earlier Florida and private lawsuits.

Representative image. (HT Photo)

BFI crisis grows, president, secretary suspend each other

BFI’s crisis escalated Wednesday as leaders Ajay Singh and Pramod Kumar suspended each other over Kumar’s no-confidence motion and October 24 meeting. Singh cited Kumar’s failure to answer show-cause notices; Kumar accused Singh of undermining democracy. BFI says Kumar lacks authority to convene the meeting or suspend the president, while 27 of 34 units back him.