Ref News Today — October 25, 2026

As the world grapples with political uncertainty, voters in several countries are heading to the polls to shape their futures. In Brazil, a highly anticipated presidential election is underway, with incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro facing off against challenger Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, also known as Lula. The outcome of this election has significant implications for the country's future, and voters are also choosing between Bolsonaro's son and other candidates in various down-ballot races.

Meanwhile, in the United States, the midterm elections are also on the horizon, and early results are already providing insight into the shifting electoral landscape. In Texas, a Democratic surge has caught the attention of analysts and politicians alike, sparking questions about the potential for a red-to-blue shift in the state. Closer to home, in the UK, voters are bracing for the impact of Storm Bolo, which is expected to bring strong winds and amber warnings have been issued for parts of the country. As these stories continue to unfold, one thing is clear: this is a time of great change and uncertainty, and the choices made by voters today will have far-reaching consequences.

Today's signal:
• What to Know About Brazil’s Election as Bolsonaro Faces Off With Lula (nytimes.com)
• Voters in Brazil to choose between Lula and Bolsonaro's son (bbc.co.uk)
• Storm Boelo amber warnings kick in as parts of UK brace for 80mph gusts (bbc.co.uk)
• What This Democrat’s Surge in Texas Says About the Midterms (nytimes.com)