The Economic Times

If I had to do it again, I will: Trump refuses to back down on Iran war after Vances claim

India's manufacturing sector is characterized by a significant concentration in large factories generating substantial output. Factories producing over 500 crore contribute to more than three-fifths of total value added. Smaller factories represent a large number but have minimal output and value contribution. The overall manufacturing corporate sector experienced a notable growth in gross value added year-on-year. However, per-worker value creation did not witness similar growth despite increas

India is observing the results of the recent US midterm elections with a sense of calmness and stability. The Democrat victory is seen as a move to limit the influence of the Trump administration. India has maintained strong relations with both parties in Congress since 2000 through various sectors. Challenges remain, particularly regarding human rights criticisms from Democrats and trade disputes with Republicans.

The Unusual Whales Subversive Democratic Trading ETF, named NANC, has shown remarkable performance, exceeding that of the S&P 500 since February 2023. This fund strategically utilizes the stock trades of Democratic lawmakers to shape its investment strategy. With significant holdings in leading technology firms, especially in AI innovations, its recent achievements can be attributed to a thriving AI market.

US Midterm election results 2026: Donald Trump's popularity has declined since he launched the war, which has disrupted oil shipments and pushed fuel prices near record highs, hitting U.S. household finances.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla highlighted the necessity of discussions in democracy while addressing ongoing opposition protests against the Election Commission. The Speaker urged Parliament to engage in fruitful debates on various issues. He noted that the disqualification proceedings against 20 MPs aligned with the NDA are still under examination. Additionally, Birla is reviewing a notice about chief secretaries' absence from a hearing on scholarship irregularities.

The government has made significant changes to the Agnipath scheme that affects armed forces recruitment. This revised framework allows all Agniveers a chance to continue in service after their initial term. Agniveers will now have an option for an additional two-year engagement with enhanced benefits. The decision addresses concerns regarding the wastage of training resources if they were required to leave after four years.

Lamar Jackson is an American professional football quarterback who plays for Baltimore Ravens in the National Football League (NFL). He grew up in a family where his mother, Felicia Jones, played a big role. The Baltimore Ravens selected him with the 32nd overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He then went on to become the NFL's biggest stars.

Growth in India's services sector increased to a four-month high in October due to strong domestic demand and business orders. The HSBC Services Business Activity Index rose to 55.8, reflecting improved business conditions. Conversely, manufacturing activity showed a slight decline, easing to a PMI of 54.7. While input prices continued to rise, the rate of increase was the slowest in over six years.

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The Taurids meteor shower is anticipated to peak in November 2026. The Southern Taurids will peak overnight on November 45. Following this, the Northern Taurids are expected to peak on November 1112. Observers may witness bright fireballs that outshine Venus, making the experience memorable. Ideal viewing conditions will be enhanced by the low illumination from the Moon.

Democrats

Donald Trump recognized that the Iran war played a significant role in the Republican losses during the midterm elections. He stated that the decision to pursue the war was essential and justified, despite its consequences. Trump's remarks came a day after his party lost control of Congress, highlighting the political fallout of the conflict. He expressed a commitment to continuing the actions related to Iran.

Donald Trump expressed denial over the Republican losses in the recent elections while later showing willingness to work with Democrats. He blamed Republican candidates for their defeats and defended his own stance amidst criticism. Some conservatives publicly pointed fingers at Trump, claiming the results represented a total rejection of his leadership. Democrats, relieved by their successes, may find opportunities to collaborate with the President.

The recent US midterm elections saw the Democratic Party gain significant power in the Senate and House. This shift reflects widespread dissatisfaction with the current Republican leadership and its policies. President Trump's influence over the Republican Party may decline following this electoral outcome. Key policy decisions regarding foreign affairs, including relations with Iran, could be affected by these changes.

The sanctions are part of the Trump administration's Operation Economic Outcast, which aims to cut off Iran's ability to sell oil to fund the war with the United States.

Iran has announced the lifting of transit restrictions for vessels from India, China, Iraq, and Qatar. This decision aims to enhance regional cooperation and facilitate trade, particularly in medicines from India. Iranian officials have noted that American forces do not intercept these ships, showing Tehran's strategic interests. Previous negotiations between India and Iran focused on allowing energy supplies to pass freely.

Congress has accused the BJP government in poll-bound Uttarakhand of corrupt land dealings. Allegations include selling government land and heritage sites at low prices. AICC general secretary Kumari Selja stated that chief minister PS Dhami approved these land transfers. The opposition party plans to agitate in the state and approach the governor. They claim these decisions were facilitated by the Uttarakhand Investment and Infrastructure Development Board.

RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale defended the ongoing SIR, stating that it is essential for accurate voter lists. While opposition parties and youth groups protest against the exercise, Hosabale claimed that some forces aim to incite unrest and violence. He emphasized that political change must occur through elections, not through disruptions. The government is urged to engage in dialogue to address youth aspirations and concerns.

Democrat victories in recent midterm elections signal a shift in public sentiment regarding data centers and AI technology. Key races in Texas and Georgia brought significant wins for candidates opposing data center development. Analysts estimate that nearly half of planned US data center capacity could face new regulations and moratoriums. Concerns have emerged over potential slowdown effects on the AI and technology sectors as stocks decline.

Apple stock price surged more than 6% to a record high on Wednesday, lifting its market capitalization to $5.1 trillion and making it the worlds most valuable company. The rally followed Democrats midterm election victories and came after Apple reported stronger-than-expected quarterly revenue and earnings.

The midterm results put Democrats in line to control both chambers of Congress. Some of their first oversight fights could begin with questions lawmakers have already asked. Four potential inquiries show where the pressure could build and how far Congress can go.

Troy Jackson's political journey took an unexpected turn when he received the Democratic Senate nomination. After Graham Platner withdrew due to a serious allegation, Jackson became the leading candidate. He won the nomination with overwhelming support at the special convention. Subsequently, Jackson campaigned and defeated longtime Republican Senator Susan Collins in the general election.

Republicans suffered significant losses in the midterm elections, resulting in Democrats gaining control of Congress. Donald Trump downplayed his responsibility for these defeats, stating he was not on the ballot. While voters expressed dissatisfaction with Republican candidates, Trump insisted his presence would have led to a victory. The former president has a history of avoiding accountability for various outcomes during his political career.

Why did oil price crash below $90 today? US oil prices fell sharply after midterm election results indicated Democratic control of Congress. Vice President JD Vance connected the Iran war to the Republicans' defeat, impacting market sentiments. Traders expressed reduced concerns over future military action against Iran, causing a decline in oil prices. While falling US crude inventories typically support prices, the political landscape took precedence for traders.

A senior Canadian cabinet minister stated that the US midterm election results will not affect trade negotiations. Dominic LeBlanc mentioned he would soon communicate with US officials regarding trade matters. President Trump suggested that a trade deal with Canada is close, but significant work remains. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that certain US demands have been scaled back.

More than 67% of street vendors in India currently accept UPI payments for transactions. A proposed 0.4% merchant discount rate could lead to reduced acceptance among vendors. Concerns arise particularly for vendor-supplier transactions, as many vendors make payments above 2,000. A significant portion of vendors faced additional charges from suppliers and might pass costs onto customers.

Defence Expert Sanjeev Srivastava on Wednesday hailed the Centre's decision to grant a two-year extension to 75 per cent of Agniveers as a very important and excellent decision that will give them a fresh opportunity to serve and a chance for permanent enrolment.

Indian-American Congressman Suhas Subramanyam recently won re-election in Virginia's 10th Congressional District. He pledged to address concerns about rising costs, healthcare cuts, and federal workforce reductions. Subramanyam committed to ending forever wars and fighting unnecessary tariffs to lower costs.

Mary Peltola is a Democratic politician from Alaska. She made history in 2022 by becoming the first Alaska native and first woman elected to represent the state in the US House. She served in Congress from 2022 to 2025. She lost her re-election bid in 2024 to Republican Nick Begich. In January 2026, she announced her decision to challenge Republican Senator Dan Sullivan.

The Commission for Air Quality Management held a meeting regarding the high incidence of farm fires in Punjab. Recent data indicated a significant increase in stubble burning cases across various districts. The Commission emphasized the need for stricter monitoring and accountability among local authorities. Community leaders will also be involved to enhance prevention efforts against farm fires.

US House Speaker Mike Johnson is stepping aside from Republican Party leadership after the party's defeat in the midterm elections, declining to seek support for the minority leader's post in the new Congress. His decision sets up a contest between Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan, while Democrats prepare to nominate Hakeem Jeffries as speaker.

JD Vance, the Vice President, articulated that the tensions involving Iran were a major factor in the financial setbacks for Republicans. He observed that a segment of former Trump loyalists has shifted their allegiance to Democrats during the midterms, driven largely by economic anxieties, especially regarding the escalating cost of living.