Bennie Thompson in the news as DHS probe angles widen; longtime Mississippi Democrat and educator, U.S. Rep since 1993, former chair on Homeland Security panel.
As of March 21, 2026, Texas prepares for a May 26 GOP Senate runoff between incumbent John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton. Both remain on the ballot after failing to secure a majority in the March 3 primary. President Trump has yet to endorse either candidate, with his decision possibly tied to the fate of the SAVE America Act. Democrat James Talarico won the Democratic primary, setting up a competitive general election.
Congressman Bennie Thompson, first elected in 1993, secured his 18th term in Mississippi's 2nd District with 84.8% of the vote, defeating challenger Evan Turnage, who emphasized generational change. Thompson's district remains strongly Democratic, and he maintains key committee roles, including on Homeland Security.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker's support for Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton in her Senate primary has caused friction with Congressional Black Caucus members, who feel his financial backing tilted the race. Stratton's victory highlights Pritzker's influence and potential 2028 presidential ambitions amid intra-party tensions.
In March 2026, AI and cryptocurrency industries spent nearly $20 million in Illinois primaries to influence candidates' stances on regulation. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, backed by Gov. JB Pritzker, won the Senate primary despite opposition from crypto-backed super PACs. Rival AI super PACs Leading the Future and Public First spent millions supporting opposing candidates nationwide, signaling growing tech industry political ambitions ahead of the 2026 midterms.
The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General is investigating contracts linked to Kristi Noem, focusing on a $220 million ad campaign and possible misuse of funds. The inquiry faces obstacles, including alleged White House interference. Noem and associates deny wrongdoing. The investigation is ongoing as of today, March 27, 2026.
The Guardian reports that South Carolina’s proposed map redraw would dismantle James Clyburn’s district, a long-standing symbol of Black political representation in the state. The move comes as Republicans respond to the Supreme Court’s Voting Rights Act ruling, raising fears of renewed racial gerrymandering and a shift in power.