Dictionary.com chose “maxxing” as its 2026 Word of the Year after tracking its spread across online searches, social media and news. The term describes efforts to optimize everything from appearance and fitness to sleep and work.
News Mash
The Vatican says Pope Leo XIV is medically cleared for a Nov. 6-17 tour of Uruguay, Argentina and Peru after surgery to remove a cancerous part of his right lung. His previously announced itinerary remains in place.
Walter Koenig, who played Pavel Chekov on the original “Star Trek” series and in seven films, has died at 90. His career also included writing, convention appearances and a role on “Babylon 5.”
Israel votes Tuesday in a close election that could determine whether Benjamin Netanyahu remains prime minister. Polls point to a possible stalemate, with turnout and smaller parties potentially deciding the outcome.
A federal judge ruled that the Justice Department unlawfully fired prosecutor Maurene Comey and ordered her retroactive reinstatement and back pay. The judge rejected the administration’s claim of unrestricted authority to remove her.
A 15-year-old faces 11 counts of attempted second-degree murder after 12 people were injured near Florida A&M University’s homecoming events. Police say the victims do not appear to have been the intended targets.
Two Catholic bishops say the White House turned a private prayer with President Trump into a political photo opportunity shortly before the midterm elections. The White House did not answer a question about whether the bishops consented to the release of photos and video.
Netanyahu’s Likud and Eisenkot’s Yashar are leading rivals in Israel’s first nationwide election since the Oct. 7 attacks. Voters choose parties, and neither leader’s bloc is projected to secure a governing majority.