Democrats gain midterm edge, NPR poll shows. And, U.S. pauses ‘Project Freedom’

Gas prices at more than $6 a gallon are displayed at a Mobil station on May 4, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. Gas prices have surged to a national average of $4.45 a gallon, a four-year high, amid tensions in the Middle East.

Democrats outpace Republicans in voter enthusiasm for the midterm elections, according to NPR’s latest poll. And Trump says “Project Freedom” is paused because of progress toward an Iran agreement.

(Image credit: Justin Sullivan)