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The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments Thursday on Missouri's congressional map, a week after the Supreme Court blocked a lower court ruling that would have kept a 2025 GOP-favored map in place. The suit, filed by Rep. Bob Onder (R-Mo.), centers on whether Missouri reverts to its 2022 district lines so close to the upcoming elections, which lawmakers warn could create administrative chaos.

Separately, the Kennedy Center's board closed the performing arts venue, prompting ex-officio board member Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio) to seek an emergency federal hearing demanding an explanation, with the Justice Department ordered to respond. President Trump, after a North Carolina rally with Senate candidate Michael Whatley, returned to the White House to sign executive orders and host a Rose Garden dinner. The Senate is voting on the Protect College Sports Act, while House Speaker Mike Johnson sent members home early for a seven-week recess extending past Election Day.

A recent Berkeley IGS/Los Angeles Times poll shows Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton with support from 37% of California voters, trailing Democrat Xavier Becerra, the former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, who holds 55%. About 7% remain undecided. The two are set to meet in their first debate on September 30 in Los Angeles, televised on CNN, which could shift the current standing.

Hilton, a former strategist for ex-British Prime Minister David Cameron and a Brexit supporter, has never held elected office and only became a U.S. citizen in 2021 after relocating to California in 2012. He has received an endorsement from President Donald Trump, whose immigration policies contrast with Hilton's own background as the son of Hungarian refugees. Despite trailing significantly, Hilton is seen as outperforming typical Republican prospects in heavily Democratic California, where registered Republicans make up about 25% of voters compared to 45% who are Democrats. Polling could shift meaningfully once debate performances are factored in.