Former President Barack Obama is hitting the campaign trail in the Midwest as investigators look into a shooting that erupted during Florida A&M University's homecoming celebration.
Sybil Wilkes delivered the day’s essential headlines on Monday, Oct. 26, in her “What We Need to Know” segment. The stories ranged from the final stretch of the midterm elections to a violent end to a homecoming celebration, a nationwide health recall, and a tribute to one of the most powerful voices in Black history.
Former President Barack Obama campaigned across the Midwest ahead of the midterm elections. In stops in Ohio and Michigan, he criticized what he called “indecent and cruel” attacks from Republican candidates. Speaking in Cleveland, Obama condemned personal attacks aimed at Ohio gubernatorial nominee Dr. Amy Acton. He then traveled to Detroit, where he rallied supporters behind Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed. There, Obama urged voters to reject attacks that target a candidate’s faith and heritage. His message lands in two states where Black voters in cities like Cleveland and Detroit can play a deciding role in close races.
A homecoming weekend at Florida A&M University ended in tragedy. A mass shooting outside Bragg Memorial Stadium after the game left 12 people injured, including six children. Eleven victims suffered gunshot wounds. Three have serious injuries, and one person is in critical condition. Homecoming at a historically Black college is a cherished tradition that brings together students, alumni, and families from across generations. Authorities are investigating the shooting. Meanwhile, the FAMU campus and the Tallahassee community are working to support the families affected.
Before you brush tonight, check the label on your toothpaste. The Food and Drug Administration announced a nationwide recall of more than 4 million tubes. Recalled brands include Brush Buddies and Aru toothpaste. According to the FDA, using the affected products may cause temporary or medically reversible health problems. Consumers should stop using any recalled product and check the FDA’s recall notices for full details on affected items.
October 26 marks the birth anniversary of Mahalia Jackson, born in 1911. Revered as the Queen of Gospel Music, Jackson was a powerhouse vocalist whose voice helped carry the civil rights movement. She was also a close confidant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. At the 1963 March on Washington, Jackson called out to King from behind the podium: “Tell them about the dream.” King set aside his prepared text and delivered the improvised words that became the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. More than six decades later, her influence on gospel music and the fight for justice remains deeply felt.
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