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DNC chair predicts wins in key governor races as Trump agenda faces first test

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DNC chair predicts wins in key governor races as Trump agenda faces first test

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EXCLUSIVE: PHILADELPHIA, PA – Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chair Ken Martin is confident his party’s investment in 2025’s most consequential elections will pay off.

“I do expect that we’ll win those elections in New Jersey and Virginia,” Martin said in an exclusive national interview with Fox News Digital, pointing to the only two states holding gubernatorial contests this year. “We feel pretty bullish about our chances.”

Democrats are looking to rebound from last year’s setbacks – when the party lost control of the White House and Senate and failed to win back the House majority – with strong showings in next week’s races. 

The New Jersey and Virginia contests are viewed as early tests of President Donald Trump’s agenda and as a barometer for next year’s midterm elections, when Democrats hope to win back control of Congress.

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FIVE KEY RACES TO WATCH IN NEXT WEEK’S ELECTIONS

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin addresses party members at the DNC’s summer meeting, on Aug. 25, 2025, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Paul Steinhauser – Fox News )

The DNC has dished out over $7 million – a party record – for get-out-the-vote and organizing efforts this summer and autumn in New Jersey, Virginia and Pennsylvania, where Democrats are fighting to retain three state supreme court seats. 

“I’ve always taken the position that every election matters, whether it’s an on year off year, whether it’s a local election, a federal election, every inch of ground that we gain here adds up,” Martin emphasized.

Martin said that since Trump returned to the White House in January, “there’s been 45 elections on the ballot. Democrats have overperformed in all of them to the tune of about 16 percentage points on average.” While confident, he added that “we’re not taking anything for granted.”

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DEMOCRATIC AND REPUBLICAN NOMINEES IN CRUCIAL GOVERNOR’S RACE TOUT SURGE IN EARLY VOTING NUMBERS

Asked what a ballot box setback would mean for Democrats, Martin said his focus is on “turning out every single vote we can over these next several days left to make sure we do win.”

He reiterated, “I do expect that we’ll win those elections in New Jersey and Virginia. We have terrific candidates who are running great campaigns.”

Martin spoke during a two-day campaign swing through Pennsylvania, ahead of return stops to boost voter turnout in New Jersey and Virginia.

Rep. Mikie Sherrill, the Democratic nominee for governor in New Jersey, greets voters at a senior center in Elizabeth, N.J., on Oct. 29, 2025. (Paul Steinhauser/Fox News)

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In blue-leaning New Jersey, polls show a tight race between Democratic nominee Rep. Mikie Sherrill and GOP rival Jack Ciattarelli, who is vying in the race to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy.

Asked why Republicans feel bullish about their chances to capture the Garden State’s governor’s office, Martin told Politico in a recent interview that “New Jersey is the best place, probably, for Donald Trump to actually stop the Democratic momentum — or at least minimize the Democratic momentum that we’ve seen throughout this year.”

Presented with his comments, Martin said that “we expect this race to be close, and it certainly seems like it will be close.”

And he noted that “history is not on our side in the sense that we’ve never elected, at least in 50 years, a Democrat to a third term in the governorship” in New Jersey.

HEAD HERE FOR THE LATEST FOX NEWS REPORTING AND ANALYSIS ON THE 2025 ELECTIONS

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Still, he argued that Sherrill “is running a really strong campaign on a message that’s resonating with New Jerseyans.”

In Virginia, recent controversy in the state’s attorney general race has complicated Democrats’ efforts to hold the governor’s mansion, forcing nominee, former Rep. Abigail Spanberger, to defend against GOP attacks. Polls had shown Spanberger with a solid lead over Republican rival Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears. 

Jay Jones addresses supporters after winning the Democratic nomination for Virginia Attorney General as wife Mavis Jones looks on in Norfolk, Virginia, on June 17, 2025. (Trevor Metcalfe/The Virginian-Pilot/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

The controversy centers on Democratic attorney general nominee Jay Jones, who apologized for texts sent in 2022 comparing then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert to mass murderers Adolf Hitler and Pol Pot, saying that if given two bullets, “he would use both” on the Republican lawmaker. 

Republicans have demanded Jones withdraw from the race. 

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“Let me be very clear, I immediately condemned those vile and indefensible comments and text messages that he made and called on him to apologize,” Martin said. “He needed to apologize to Virginians, which he did.”

Asked by Fox News Digital if he should have called for Jones to step aside, Martin said, “That’s not up to me to decide. That’s up to Virginians to decide whether or not his comments were disqualifying, and they’ll make their decision in a few days.”

Martin also called Pennsylvania’s state Supreme Court retention elections in Pennsylvania “critical for our party, because what we’ve seen over many years now is attempts by billionaire donors and special interests to buy Supreme Court seats throughout the country, and it’s an attempt actually to thwart our democracy.”

“The reality is, is for us, this is a critical election for the National Democratic Party, because if they win here, if these billionaire donors are able to win these three Supreme Court races, they will certainly take this on the road and try to do this everywhere else in the country,” Martin warned.

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The Republican National Committee (RNC), asked to respond to Martin’s remarks, pointed to its fundraising edge. 

“Ken Martin has turned the DNC into a debt-ridden circus run by radicals — and we sincerely hope he keeps up the great work, RNC national press secretary Kiersten Pels argued in a statement to Fox News Digital. “Regardless of what happens next Tuesday, it won’t be because of anything Ken Martin did. The DNC is broke, desperate, and wasting its last dollars trying to save face in blue states, and even then, Democrats are struggling to hold on.”

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Boston, MA

Red Sox at Reds preview: Sonny Gray makes his first start for Boston – The Boston Globe

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Red Sox at Reds preview: Sonny Gray makes his first start for Boston – The Boston Globe


Gray, acquired in a November trade from the St. Louis Cardinals, was one of Boston’s key rotation additions, along with Ranger Suarez, in the offseason. He was 14-8 with a 4.28 ERA in 2025.

“He’s very specific about his work. Every day has a purpose,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said of Gray. “Two hundred strikeouts, that’s something that we were looking for. The competitor. Every five days, this guy is going to give you everything.”

In his five career appearances against the Reds, Gray is 1-3 with a 4.18 ERA.

“It’s pretty much one of the only things that is continuing to push me, is to get to a World Series, to win a World Series, to pitch in big games,” said Gray. “I love the moment, and I am chasing that moment.”

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Here’s the preview:

RED SOX (1-0): TBA

Pitching: RHP Sonny Gray

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REDS (0-1): TBA

Pitching: RHP Brady Singer

Time: 4:10 p.m.

TV, radio: NESN, WEEI-FM 93.7

Red Sox vs. Singer: Wilyer Abreu 2-5, Roman Anthony 1-2, Willson Contreras 2-7, Jarren Duran 3-10, Caleb Durbin 0-1, Isiah Kiner-Falefa 6-16, Marcelo Mayer 0-1, Andruw Monasterio 1-4, Carlos Narváez 1-1, Ceddanne Rafaela 1-5, Trevor Story 0-4, Connor Wong 2-8, Masataka Yoshida 2-7

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Reds vs. Gray: Will Benson 0-5, Elly De La Cruz 5-11, TJ Friedl 1-8, Ke’Bryan Hayes 4-17, Nathaniel Lowe 2-10, Noelvi Marte 0-5, Matt McLain 2-2, Spencer Steer 4-9, Tyler Stephenson 0-8, Eugenio Suárez 7-13, Jose Trevino 0-2

Stat of the day: Sal Stewart become the first Cincinnati rookie since 1958 to record three hits on Opening Day.

Notes: Cincinnati sends righthander Brady Singer (14-12, 4.03 in 2025) to the mound … With Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo already on the injured list to start the season, Singer is considered one of Cincinnati’s most durable pitchers, leading the Reds with 32 starts last season … Singer has made five career starts against Boston, posting a 2-2 record with a 4.88 ERA over 24 innings … His last appearance against the Red Sox, on July 1 in Boston, ended after just three innings when he allowed two earned runs on three hits.


Cam Kerry can be reached at cam.kerry@globe.com.





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Pittsburg, PA

Get PFL Pittsburgh results for the Eblen vs. Battle event Saturday night.

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Get PFL Pittsburgh results for the Eblen vs. Battle event Saturday night.


MMA Fighting has PFL Pittsburgh results for the Eblen vs. Battle fight card and more from UPMC Events Center in Pittsburgh on Saturday night.

In the main event, former Bellator middleweight champion Johnny Eblen tries to earn another title shot with a win over Bryan Battle, who makes his PFL debut. Eblen (16-1) suffered his first career loss against Costello van Steenis in a PFL title bout in his most recent outing.

Dalton Rosta and Impa Kasanganay clash in a middleweight contest in the co-main event.

Check out PFL Pittsburgh results below.

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Main Card (ESPN2 at 10 p.m. ET)

Johnny Eblen vs. Bryan Battle

Dalton Rosta vs. Impa Kasanganay

Ariane Lipski da Silva vs. Sumiko Inaba

Alexei Pergande vs. Julio Arce

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Lazaro Dayron vs. Jacob Thrall

Prelims (ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET)

Allan Begosso vs. Jack Cartwright

Natan Schulte vs. Jakub Kaszuba

Robert Watley vs. Dakota Bush

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Ernesto Rodriguez vs. Masayuki Kikuiri

Tatiana Postarnakova vs. Elora Dana

Josh Fremd vs. Jarrah Al Salawi

Ethan Goss vs. Fred Dupras



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Connecticut

6 Best Connecticut Towns For A Weekend Trip

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6 Best Connecticut Towns For A Weekend Trip


Known for its captivating coastlines along the breathtaking Long Island Sound, Connecticut has spectacular destinations for unforgettable weekend adventures. Prepare for a dreamy getaway where history, beauty, and culture converge through mesmerizing medieval-style mansions such as the one at Gillette Castle State Park. You can also explore the rich maritime history of Mystic through the Mystic Seaport Museum or experience cascading waterfalls at Kent Falls State Park. So, read on to discover even more about the 6 best Connecticut towns for a weekend trip.

Mystic

Mystic, Connecticut.

From exquisite galleries to eye-catching coastal pathways and endless opportunities for shopping and dining, Mystic is very diverse. Start by diving into America’s seafaring history at the Mystic Seaport Museum. Here, you will find treasures, including four National Historic Landmark vessels and over 500 historic watercraft. Next, meet intriguing creatures at the Mystic Aquarium. This non-profit organization is home to thousands of animals, covering marine mammals, reptiles, invertebrates, and fish.

The Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut.
The Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut. Image credit Faina Gurevich via Shutterstock

If you are more of a creative, see rotating exhibitions created by notable regional artists at the Mystic Museum of Art, a place for culture, community, and creativity. Next, find out what unique gifts and souvenirs are available in Olde Mistick Village. This open-air shopping village features a wide range of stores, with over 40 shops and eateries to explore in a beautiful, colonial-style, pet-friendly environment. When you are ready to rest, stay right outside the village at the Holiday Inn Express Mystic. Enjoy on-site amenities like a fitness center, pool, free breakfast, and complimentary coffee in a convenient central location.

Litchfield

Buildings on West Street, Litchfield, Connecticut.
Buildings on West Street, Litchfield, Connecticut. Image credit: Joe Mabel via Wikimedia Commons.

Plan a peaceful, picture-perfect escape surrounded by nature and 18th-century architecture in Litchfield, one of the best Connecticut towns for a weekend trip. Soak in the scenery of Mount Tom State Park as you climb 1,325 feet to the summit, or simply sit back and relax by the pond. Nature lovers can explore the eye-catching trails of the White Memorial Conservation Center. This wonderful nature preserve has a historic regional museum and a 4,000-acre wildlife sanctuary.

Downtown Litchfield, Connecticut.
Downtown Litchfield, Connecticut. Image credit: Joe Mabel via Flickr.com.

After getting your steps in, treat yourself to a dreamy trip to the winery. Taste quality varietals underneath stunning skies or in a rustic tasting room at Sunset Meadow Vineyards, only a few minutes’ drive from The Litchfield Inn. This lovely boutique hotel offers complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and lush, rolling hills.

Niantic

The Morton House in Niantic, Connecticut.
The Morton House in Niantic, Connecticut. Image credit Dmcoxe via Wikimedia Commons

Find your own piece of Northeast paradise in Niantic, one of Connecticut’s most beautiful small towns. Wander along the Niantic Bay Boardwalk, a 1.1-mile path stretching from Cini Park to Hole-in-the-Wall Beach along Long Island Sound. Go swimming off the sandy shores in the summer, accessible by a short tunnel underneath the railroad tracks. Once you have soaked up the sun, see what treasures you can find in The Book Barn. This Main Street haven features over 350,000 books, along with exciting games, vibrant gardens, and adorable farm animals. After a day of exploring, head to The Niantic Inn. This cozy hotel, located a few minutes east, is known for its excellent location near the shore, shops, and restaurants.

Madison

Blue hour after sunset in Madison, Connecticut.
Blue hour after sunset in Madison, Connecticut.

Book a dreamy getaway to Madison, your typical New England beach town. From picturesque coastlines to pedestrian-friendly pathways with quaint cafes, award-winning bookstores, and charming boutiques, this is one of Connecticut’s best getaway towns. Experience the beauty of Hammonasset Beach State Park, the state’s longest shoreline park. The site includes two miles of sandy beaches along with a peaceful nature preserve. Home to the Meigs Point Nature Center, you can find over 50 species of local wildlife, educational displays, and unbeatable views. After an afternoon of adventures, spend a relaxing evening in Madison Cinemas. This independently owned cinema presents films in 7.1 Surround Sound for a highly immersive experience. Regarding accommodations, Scranton Seahorse Inn is only a two-minute walk away. Stay in a cozy room in the heart of town, where history and renovated comforts combine in a 1833 Greek revival home.

East Haddam

The Goodspeed Opera House with the East Haddam Bridge in East Haddam, Connecticut, over the Connecticut River.
The Goodspeed Opera House with the East Haddam Bridge in East Haddam, Connecticut, over the Connecticut River.

Approximately 45 minutes from Madison, you will find East Haddam, one of the state’s most remarkable yet under-the-radar small towns. Start your weekend at Gillette Castle State Park. Explore the modern medieval stone castle with spectacular views from 200 feet above the Connecticut River. To further immerse yourself in nature, head to Devil’s Hopyard State Park. From cascading waterfalls to wonderful bird-watching and trout fishing opportunities, the park is full of gems. Make sure you visit the Eightmile River, a National Scenic and Wild River designated by the U.S. Forest Service. Capture photos of Chapman Falls, dropping more than 60 feet over the Scotland Schist stone formation. City lovers wanting to explore Main Street should head to the Victorian-era Goodspeed Opera House. Watch a mesmerizing musical from April through December in this architectural wonder. Finally, end the night with a historic stay mixed with modern amenities in The Boardman House Inn. Located right up the street, this luxe bed and breakfast was constructed with Second Empire architecture in 1860, immersing you in a journey back in time.

Kent

St. Andrew's Church, Kent, CT.
St. Andrew’s Church, Kent, CT. By Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikipedia.

Unlock the perfect combination of history and nature in Kent, an extraordinary spot in the Litchfield Hills. Famous for its fall foliage, Appalachian hiking trails, and quaint Main Street shops, this New England town offers plenty to do. Begin your adventure in Kent Falls State Park. There, you will see a striking series of waterfalls dropping into the Housatonic River. From there, wander across the Bulls Bridge. Constructed in 1842, this historic treasure is one of the few functional covered bridges remaining in the state. The Connecticut Antique Machinery Museum is another site you must not miss. Its 8-acre museum space boasts unique machinery depicting the area’s rich industrial and agricultural history. If you are looking for distinct accommodations that will truly connect you with the heart of Kent, stay at the Spirit Horse Farm. The charming small family farm offers comfortable lodging in a historic setting that will make for a truly unforgettable escape.

Plan Your Weekend Escape In Connecticut

If you would like to see plenty of diverse attractions in a short period of time, Connecticut is the perfect place to explore. Discover a dreamy mix of natural beauty, maritime history, art, and New England-style architecture in this coastal haven. From the gorgeous galleries and notable museums of Mystic, to the expansive boardwalks of Niantic, and the striking Appalachian trails and outdoor museums of Kent, these are the 6 best Connecticut towns for a weekend trip.

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