What are the 10 biggest news stories from today?

Here are 10 of the biggest news stories from today (October 26, 2026), based on prominence across major outlets like Google News, Reuters, AP, BBC, NYT, NPR, and others. Rankings are approximate by coverage volume and global/US impact; stories evolve quickly.[1]

Incumbent leftist Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (nearly 81) staged a dramatic comeback in the runoff, winning ~51.8% to Flávio Bolsonaro’s (son of former President Jair Bolsonaro) ~48.2%—a margin of over 4 million votes. This marks the first time since Brazil’s return to democracy that a first-round runner-up won the presidency. Bolsonaro refused to concede and sought to annul results amid voting extensions and chaos; markets reacted negatively. It bucks a regional rightward shift and denies a key ally to U.S. President Trump. World leaders congratulated Lula.[2]

Anthropic (maker of Claude) publicly filed its S-1 with the SEC, planning a Nasdaq listing under “ANT.” First-half 2026 revenue hit $16.3 billion (up massively YoY), but it reported an $80.7 billion net loss (largely accounting-related). It highlights huge compute deals (e.g., with SpaceX, Microsoft, Google, Amazon) and AI risks/benefits. Expected as one of the largest IPOs ever (possible $1.5–2T valuation, $100B+ raise), boosting tech stocks.[3]

A federal judge found the Justice Department illegally terminated Maurene Comey (daughter of former FBI Director James Comey and former Epstein/Combs prosecutor) in 2025. The ruling cites violations of the Civil Service Reform Act, due process, and separation of powers; it orders retroactive reinstatement and back pay. DOJ plans to appeal. She had strong performance reviews.[4]

Prosecutors charged Comey with transmitting/conspiring to transmit national defense information, tied to an alleged 2016 leak related to a New York Times story. This is the Trump administration’s third attempt (prior cases involved congressional testimony and a social media post). Comey’s lawyers call it invalid due to statute of limitations and prior investigations; he maintains innocence.[5]

Longtime leader Vučić (dominant since ~2012–2014) conceded after snap parliamentary elections. The “Student List” (from anti-corruption protests after a 2024 train station collapse) is projected to win a majority (~135–140 of 250 seats) vs. his party’s ~105. High turnout; celebrations in Belgrade. Marks a major political shift in the Balkans.[6]

Nobel laureate Machado returned after ~10 months abroad (she left covertly for the prize), greeted by jubilant crowds en route to Caracas. Her return (coordinated amid U.S. involvement and prior blocked attempts) challenges the U.S.-backed interim government under Delcy Rodríguez (post-Maduro). Trump commented cautiously; it boosts opposition momentum.[7]

Voters head to polls in what is seen as a referendum on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid the ongoing Gaza war and domestic divisions. Coverage focuses on key issues, fears across the spectrum, and high stakes for the country’s future.[8]

With ~1 week to Election Day, Trump and former President Obama hit the trail (e.g., Michigan). Stories cover early voting records, redistricting, inflation concerns impacting Republicans, a California ballot lawsuit (appeals court declines intervention), and related political fights.[9]

A shooting near the university stadium left about 12 injured (including 6 children/minors); a 15-year-old was arrested. Manhunt and investigation details dominated local/national crime coverage.[10]

Elon Musk’s SpaceX closed a major debt deal for GPUs/AI chips amid warnings of industry consolidation. Related: Microsoft offers voluntary buyouts to a quarter of its workforce as AI spending ramps up; flooding continues in the U.S. Southwest/Four Corners after storms/tornadoes.[11]

Other notable mentions: European protests (e.g., France arrests >1,300); Houthi attacks on Saudi targets; Gaza-related incidents; Harry Kane winning the Ballon d’Or; various weather/disasters.

News is dynamic—check sources like Google News, Reuters, or AP for real-time updates, as developments (e.g., Brazil concessions, IPO details, legal appeals) continue. Coverage can vary by region and outlet.