The midterms will shape Congress for the last years of his presidency, writes Sarah Smith, but they are also a test of what politics may look like without him.
The National Transportation Safety Board also believes weather could have been a factor in the crash, but warns it is too early to determine the cause.
Three months into a four-year contract, the problems are mounting for Newcastle boss Matthias Jaissle after his side were booed off the pitch by their own fans following another defeat.
Under-pressure Michael Carrick says it might be "crazy" but he is looking forward to Manchester United's Champions League match against Roma at Old Trafford.