Congressman says Thomas abandoned his principles to become an extremist, hard-right member of bench

The senior Democratic congressman James Clyburn said his decision to support Clarence Thomas for a US supreme court seat “was a mistake” and called for the expansion of the nation’s highest legal panel to 13 justices.

Clyburn, of South Carolina, spoke up for Thomas at his fiery 1991 confirmation hearings, calling him “a personal and professional friend” who would use their shared experiences lifting minorities and advancing civil rights to become a respected and accomplished jurist.

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© Photograph: Matt Kelley/AP

© Photograph: Matt Kelley/AP

© Photograph: Matt Kelley/AP

State officials say they worry about the Postal Service’s ability to deliver votes this fall. They are urging voters to mail their ballots early or use drop boxes so their votes count.

© Rebecca Cook/Reuters

At least $1 billion from anonymous donors is flowing into the midterm elections. Dark money is not new, but it now permeates nearly every major contest.

A judge temporarily blocked the agency from implementing a strict new rule governing mail voting. The policy could disproportionately affect Democrats and many battleground elections.

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Democrats want fighters. A former Republican has ideas.

© Vincent Tullo for The New York Times

A House race in Arizona pits Jay Feely, a former Jets kicker, against Amish Shah, a former sideline doctor for the team. Jets fans in the district say it’s a welcome distraction from all the losing.

© Cassidy Araiza for The New York Times

Outrage over making Representative Jared Moskowitz, who is vocally pro-Israel, the top Democrat on a Middle East policy subcommittee reflected the party’s rift over Israel.

© Kenny Holston/The New York Times

The top Democrats will gather party donors on Sept. 10, just as Republicans converge in Texas for their unusual midterm convention.

© The New York Times, left, Agence France-Presse — Getty Images