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Obama, Harris Campaign for Democrats Ahead of Key Gubernatorial Races and California Proposition

Que Onda Editorial
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Obama, Harris Campaign for Democrats Ahead of Key Gubernatorial Races and California Proposition

Former President Barack Obama and former Vice President Kamala Harris urged Democratic voters to turn out in Virginia, New Jersey, and California during separate rallies on Saturday.

Obama Hits Trump at Virginia and New Jersey Rallies

Speaking in Norfolk, Virginia, at a rally for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger, Obama criticized President Donald Trump’s administration.

“Our country and our politics are in a pretty dark place right now… Every day this White House offers up a fresh batch of lawlessness and recklessness and mean-spiritedness and just plain craziness,” he said.

Obama focused on Trump’s economic policies, noting the impact on federal employees in Virginia.

“Hundreds of thousands of federal employees, including a lot of people here in Virginia, have lost their jobs to pay for those billionaire tax cuts,” he said, contrasting that with benefits for wealthy corporations.

Spanberger linked her opponent, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, to Trump, saying, “We do not need someone who has been in lockstep with this administration every step of the way.”

Later, Obama joined New Jersey Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill in Newark, praising her leadership.

“She’s the kind of leader who understands the mission, who knows who she is supposed to serve, who doesn’t have a lot of time for excuses. And that is exactly what New Jersey needs right now,” he said. He also criticized Sherrill’s opponent, Republican Jack Ciattarelli, for his support of Trump.

Trump Invests Millions in GOP Voter Turnout

Trump’s political operation has poured millions into New Jersey and Virginia gubernatorial races, focusing on voter turnout for Republican candidates despite Democrats leading in both states. Trump held tele-rallies with outgoing Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Ciattarelli to boost support. A source familiar with the operation described Trump as a “turnout machine” even though he is not on the ballot.

Harris Rallies for California Proposition 50

In Los Angeles, Harris campaigned for California’s Proposition 50, which would redraw the state’s congressional map. Supporters argue it could flip five Republican-held districts to Democrats ahead of the midterms. Harris told the crowd, “This is about reminding folks that we refuse to kneel at the foot of a tyrant,” emphasizing the importance of the vote and the Constitution.

Harris urged other states to take action as well.

“This fight is not about sitting by and complaining, ‘Oh, they’re cheating.’ That’s not what this is about. It’s not that kind of party,” she said.

Democrats see these races and the proposition as critical early tests ahead of the 2026 midterms, while Republicans are using Trump’s influence to bolster turnout and support for their candidates.

For more on the midterm elections, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Trump Suggests Seth Meyers Mocking Him on ‘Late Night’ Is ‘Probably Illegal’

Edward Saenz
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Trump Suggests Seth Meyers Mocking Him on ‘Late Night’ Is ‘Probably Illegal’

“NO TALENT, NO RATINGS, 100% ANTI TRUMP, WHICH IS PROBABLY ILLEGAL!!!” the president wrote of the host

President Donald Trump claimed that mocking him on television is “probably illegal” in a new Truth Social post aimed at Late Night host Seth Meyers.

The 79-year-old president lashed out at Meyers, 51, on Saturday, Nov. 1, after the comedian joked about Trump’s recent comments on catapults during his trip to Asia. Trump called Meyers a “truly deranged lunatic” and questioned why NBC continues to employ him.

Trump Responds to Meyers’ Catapult Jokes

Meyers had mocked Trump’s remarks from Japan, where the president said he wanted to bring back steam-powered catapults for aircraft carriers. On Late Night, Meyers joked, “I’ll try my best to explain the gist of what he’s talking about in a new segment we’re calling ‘Seth Translates Trump to English.’”

He continued by playing a clip of Trump dancing, edited to make him look like an aircraft marshaller, and quipped, “Trump thinks he knows more about aviation than everyone else because he dances like one of those guys that holds the signaling sticks on the runway.”

“Probably Illegal,” Trump Writes

Trump fired back online, saying he watched Late Night “for the first time in years” and called Meyers “the least talented person to perform live in the history of television.”

“In it he talked endlessly about electric catapults on aircraft carriers which I complain about as not being as good as much less expensive steam catapults,” Trump wrote. “On and on he went, a truly deranged lunatic. Why does NBC waste its time and money on a guy like this??? — NO TALENT, NO RATINGS, 100% ANTI TRUMP, WHICH IS PROBABLY ILLEGAL!!!”

Ongoing Feud with Late-Night Hosts

Trump’s comments mark his latest attack on late-night comedians. In August, he criticized NBC for renewing Meyers’ contract, calling him talentless and “the personality of an insecure child.”

The president also previously celebrated the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and has targeted Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel. After Jimmy Kimmel Live! returned from suspension in September, Meyers voiced his support for Kimmel, saying it’s “possible to stand up to this kind of bullying and censorship.”

Reps for Meyers and Late Night have not yet commented on Trump’s post.

For more on freedom of speech under the Trump administration, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

2 Girls Injured After Being Thrown from Ferris Wheel at Louisiana Harvest Festival

Michael Esparza
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2 Girls Injured After Being Thrown from Ferris Wheel at Louisiana Harvest Festival

All rides closed pending safety inspections by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office

Two girls were rushed to the hospital after being thrown from a Ferris wheel at the Harvest Festival in New Roads, Louisiana, on Saturday, according to the Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Rene’ Thibodeaux said one of the victims was airlifted to a Baton Rouge hospital. The girls’ conditions have not been released.

Rides Shut Down Amid Investigation

Following the accident, all rides at the festival were immediately closed until they could be cleared by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office. The Ferris wheel and a nearby slide have remained shut down as the investigation continues.

The Harvest Festival, held annually on Main Street, is described as a “fun-filled family event” that supports the local agriculture-based community.

Witnesses Describe Frightening Scene

Festivalgoer Eddie Jones said he was in line to buy tickets when he heard a scream. “I looked over, and the Ferris wheel car was kicked over,” Jones told WAFB. “The girls were lying on the steel platform below with blood on them. It shouldn’t have stuck like that — someone didn’t do something right.”

Another attendee, Ronald Brasseaux, said he had ridden the Ferris wheel the night before and felt unsafe. “It was cracking — they need to take this down,” he said. “The carts are supposed to swing, but one got stuck at an angle, and that’s when they flipped out.”

Officials Continue Safety Review

Authorities have not released details about what caused the malfunction. The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office said the rides will remain closed until all mechanical inspections are complete.

The Harvest Festival organizers have not yet commented on the incident. For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

JD Vance Faces Backlash Over Comments on Wife’s Faith at University Event

Indira Zaldivar
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JD Vance Faces Backlash Over Comments on Wife’s Faith at University Event

U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, went viral after appearing together at the University of Mississippi on Oct. 29. A photo showing the two hugging—Erika’s hand on Vance’s head—sparked a wave of online speculation and criticism.

Viral Photo Fuels Online Speculation

The moment drew attention when New York Times contributor Shannon Watts reshared the image on X (formerly Twitter), joking, “Vance announces divorce, marries Charlie Kirk’s widow by the end of 2026.” Neither Vance nor Erika Kirk has publicly responded, though Watts has since restricted comments on her post.

Comments on Faith Stir Controversy

Speculation about Vance’s marriage began after remarks he made during the event. When asked about his faith, Vance expressed hope that his wife, Usha, might one day “come to see [the Christian Gospel] the same way.” He added that they maintain open discussions about raising their children in an interfaith household and that Usha sometimes attends church with him.

Public Figures Condemn Remarks

The comment drew criticism from figures like Suhag Shukla, executive director of the Hindu American Foundation, who said Vance “is not a pastor in chief” but a public servant. Critics accused him of religious insensitivity.

Vance Responds to Critics

Vance later addressed the backlash in a deleted X post, calling the reaction “disgusting.” He clarified that his comments came from a question about his interfaith marriage and praised his wife as “the most amazing blessing” in his life.

He reiterated that while Usha, who is Hindu, has “no plans to convert,” he hopes she’ll one day share his Christian faith.

“Posts like this wreak of anti-Christian bigotry,” Vance wrote. “Yes, Christians have beliefs… and we want to share them with others.”

A Decade of Marriage and Family

JD and Usha Vance, married since 2014, share three children: Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel. Despite the controversy, Vance emphasized that he remains devoted to his wife and their shared values.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Celebrate Día de los Muertos Across Greater Houston

Indira Zaldivar
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Celebrate Día de los Muertos Across Greater Houston

Honor loved ones who have passed at Día de los Muertos events across the city, featuring ofrendas, live performances, artisan markets, and family-friendly activities. From November 1–2, Houston communities embrace the rich tradition of remembering ancestors through altars decorated with favorite foods, photos, and memorabilia.

25th Annual Día de Muertos Festival at MECA

Celebrating its silver anniversary, the 25th Annual Día de Muertos Festival at MECA in the Old Sixth Ward is a vibrant celebration of art, community, and culture. The free festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. both days and is one of Houston’s longest-standing Day of the Dead events.

Día de los Muertos Parade & Festival at Sam Houston Park

Downtown Houston hosts the 5th Annual Houston Día de los Muertos Parade & Festival on Saturday, November 2. This free celebration features a vibrant parade, live music, arts and crafts, concessions, and community activities from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., making it a must-see centerpiece of the city’s festivities.

Blanket Bingo at Market Square Park

Kick off the festivities Thursday evening with Blanket Bingo at Market Square Park. Enjoy nine rounds of music, prizes, and community fun while honoring loved ones at a special ofrenda display open through Monday, November 3. Bingo packs are $10, and the event runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Family Day & Artisan Market at Pearl Fincher Museum

On Saturday, the Pearl Fincher Museum in Spring hosts a free Día de los Muertos Family Day and Artisan Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celebrate the tradition with hands-on art activities and shop local vendors while honoring ancestors.

For more things to do in Houston and the latest news from Space City, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Amazon and Walmart Slash Jobs as AI Threatens Millions of U.S. Workers

Indira Zaldivar
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Amazon and Walmart Slash Jobs as AI Threatens Millions of U.S. Workers

Amazon and Walmart, the nation’s two largest private employers, are signaling a major shift in workforce strategy. After years of rapid hiring to expand their market share—Amazon with over 1.6 million employees in 2021 and Walmart planning 150 new stores last year—both companies are now cutting jobs or keeping headcount steady as AI transforms how work gets done.

Amazon announced 14,000 corporate layoffs this week, even as its sales grew 13% in the latest quarter to $180 billion. Walmart, meanwhile, plans to maintain its 2.1 million-strong workforce over the next three years, using AI to evolve employee roles.

AI and Workforce Transformation

Executives across corporate America are presenting workforce freezes or reductions as a sign of efficiency and innovation, often citing AI as the driving force. Google offered voluntary buyouts as it restructures around AI, while JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, and Nestlé also announced slowed hiring or job cuts in the wake of automation.

Analysts note that investor pressure encourages companies to highlight AI adoption. Still, some economists caution that economic conditions, not just AI, are prompting layoffs and hiring pauses.

Amazon’s Strategy and Culture Shift

Amazon, historically aggressive about technology and automation, is reducing its workforce to simplify management layers and streamline operations. CEO Andy Jassy emphasized that the 14,000 cuts were not financially or AI-driven but part of creating a leaner, faster-moving organization. The company will still hire 250,000 workers for the holiday season and expand robotic automation to reduce physical strain and create higher-skilled roles.

Walmart’s AI-Focused Workforce Plans

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon has stressed adapting employee roles through AI training and upskilling, aiming to keep total headcount stable while transforming job functions. “Our goal is to create the opportunity for everybody to make it to the other side,” he said.

The Broader AI Impact

Research from Stanford University highlights early signs of job transformation, particularly in entry-level roles exposed to AI. Experts emphasize that AI’s real value lies in enabling new capabilities rather than just cutting costs, suggesting a gradual but transformative shift in how companies operate.

Executives are navigating this balance—talking up AI-driven efficiency while managing economic pressures—as they prepare for longer-term changes in the workplace.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Trump Urges End to Senate Filibuster Amid Historic Shutdown

Edward Saenz
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Trump Urges End to Senate Filibuster Amid Historic Shutdown

As the federal government shutdown threatens to become the longest in U.S. history, President Donald Trump is calling on Senate Republicans to eliminate the filibuster—a long-standing Senate rule—to break the political deadlock on Capitol Hill.

Trump posted overnight on his social media platform, “It is now time for the Republicans to play their ‘TRUMP CARD,’ and go for what is called the Nuclear Option—Get rid of the Filibuster, and get rid of it, NOW!”

With Republicans holding a 53-47 majority, ending the filibuster would allow them to pass a funding bill without Democratic support. The shutdown has already left millions of Americans facing the loss of SNAP benefits and higher health insurance premiums as Affordable Care Act open enrollment begins.

Understanding the Filibuster

The filibuster allows any senator to delay or block legislation by prolonging debate. It takes 60 votes to end discussion and move to a final vote, where a simple majority is then needed for passage.

The rule dates back to the 19th century, with the modern version established in 1917 under Rule 22, which created the “cloture” mechanism to end debate. While it empowers the minority party, it often frustrates the majority’s ability to advance legislation.

Both Trump and former President Joe Biden have previously pushed for changing or ending the filibuster to advance their respective agendas.

The ‘Nuclear Option’ Explained

The Senate has partially weakened the filibuster before. Under President Obama, the threshold for confirming most judicial and executive nominees was reduced to a simple majority. Republicans extended that change to Supreme Court nominations during Trump’s first term.

These exceptions are known as “going nuclear,” a term reflecting their dramatic impact on Senate tradition.

However, both parties have resisted abolishing the filibuster entirely, fearing political retaliation when control of the Senate shifts. Senate Majority Leader John Thune reaffirmed his opposition, saying his “position on the importance of the legislative filibuster is unchanged.”

For more on the government shutdown, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Houston Food Bank Offers Food Relief Amid Government Shutdown

Michael Esparza
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Houston Food Bank Offers Food Relief Amid Government Shutdown

HOUSTON, Texas — As the federal government shutdown continues, the Houston Food Bank is stepping in to help families struggling with delayed paychecks and SNAP benefits.

Thousands Affected by Shutdown

The organization estimates that thousands across its 18-county service area are being impacted, including more than 50,000 federal employees who missed their first paycheck on Oct. 24. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission confirmed that SNAP benefits scheduled for release starting Nov. 1 may be delayed or canceled.

Special Distribution at NRG Stadium

To ease the strain, the Houston Food Bank is hosting a special food distribution event at NRG Stadium on Saturday. Families are required to register online before attending, but registration has closed. Therefore, the Houston Food Bank features a map of other food aids in the area for interested residents.

Additional Relief Events Across Southeast Texas

Beyond the NRG event, the food bank is also organizing other distribution events throughout southeast Texas. Residents can find event details, including dates and locations, on the Houston Food Bank website or by calling 2-1-1 to locate a nearby partner site.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Boo-tiful weather for trick-or-treating, shower chances return late Saturday

ABC13 Houston
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Boo-tiful weather for trick-or-treating, shower chances return late Saturday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A fast-moving upper air disturbance will bring a wave of showers into our part of Texas Saturday afternoon and Saturday evening, but by Sunday we will begin a new streak of sunny days.

Sunshine will warm temperatures into the 70s this afternoon, but clouds will increase after sunrise as the disturbance approaches. The disturbance will be starved of moisture until it gets closer to the coast, so the highest rain chances will be south of I-10. Scattered showers will initially develop, and some of those will blossom into thunderstorms. The air aloft is incredibly cold, so wherever lightning does develop, there could also be some small hail falling down given that cold and unstable upper atmosphere. This rainy disturbance should clear out before sunrise Sunday, making for a sunny, dry, and pleasant second half to the weekend. Temperatures both days will feature lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s.

Is the time change still happening this weekend?

It sure is. On Saturday the sun will rise at 7:35 a.m. and set at 6:34 p.m. Then after the clocks fall back one hour early Sunday morning, the sun will rise at 6:36 a.m. and set at 5:33 p.m. Many of us will be driving home in the dark Monday!

What’s in store for next week?

The weather looks great! We’ll have a sunny sky, cool mornings, and mild afternoons through Election Day. Then moisture returns Wednesday and beyond to bring lows up into the 60s and highs into the 80s for the rest of the week, but overall it should still feel pretty nice.

What is happening in the tropics?

Now that Melissa has moved on, there are no tropical developments expected in the Atlantic Basin over the next 7 days. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

UN Condemns US Airstrikes on Drug Trafficking Boats

Michael Esparza
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UN Condemns US Airstrikes on Drug Trafficking Boats

The United Nations accused the United States of violating international human rights law with airstrikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. Over 60 people have reportedly died in the strikes, according to U.S. officials.

Human Rights Concerns

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called the attacks “unacceptable” and urged the U.S. to halt them immediately. He emphasized that lethal force is only lawful as a last resort against individuals posing an imminent threat to life, and said publicly available information does not show such a threat from those targeted.

Latest Strikes and U.S. Defense

Since September, President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have authorized over a dozen strikes, claiming they target narcotics and terrorist operations. The most recent attack in the Eastern Pacific killed six people. Hegseth described the vessels as “operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization” and transporting illicit drugs along known trafficking routes.

U.S. Pushback

White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly defended the strikes, stating that President Trump acted to protect national security and combat drug cartels. She dismissed the U.N.’s criticism as unfairly siding with criminal groups.

Calls for Legal Accountability

The U.N. urged the U.S. to investigate and, if necessary, prosecute individuals accused of crimes under due process and fair trial standards. A U.N. spokeswoman, Ravina Shamdasani, said the mounting human cost of the strikes is unacceptable and called for measures to prevent further extrajudicial killings.

For more world news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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