PBS Newshour Season 2018 Episode 226 October 31, 2018
- October 31, 2018
On October 31, 2018, PBS Newshour aired its 226th episode of season 2018, covering a range of important news stories from around the world. The episode opened with coverage of the migrant caravan that was making its way through Mexico towards the United States. Correspondent William Brangham reported from on the ground in Mexico City, giving viewers a firsthand look at the caravan and the conditions inside. The story covered the reasons behind the caravan's formation, including the violence and poverty facing many Central American countries, and the political tensions that surrounded the group's arrival at the US border.
In addition to the migrant caravan, the episode also featured coverage of the midterm elections that were taking place in the US in just a few days. Correspondent Yamiche Alcindor reported from Georgia, where a closely-watched gubernatorial race was taking place. The story explored the issues at stake in the race, including voting rights, access to healthcare, and gun control, and spoke to voters on both sides of the aisle about their thoughts and concerns.
The episode also featured coverage of international news, including the ongoing conflicts in Syria and Yemen, and the fallout from the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Saudi Arabia. Correspondent Nick Schifrin reported from Syria, where the government had recently launched an offensive against rebel-held areas in the north of the country. The story detailed the devastation that the conflict had caused, and spoke to civilians who had been forced to flee their homes.
Meanwhile, in Yemen, correspondent Jane Ferguson reported on the humanitarian crisis that had been unfolding for months due to the ongoing war. The segment highlighted the struggles that people were facing to access basic necessities like food and medicine, and touched on the political complexities that had led to the conflict.
Back in the US, correspondent Lisa Desjardins reported on the fallout from the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting that had occurred just days before. The story covered the response from the Jewish community and beyond, as well as the political debate over gun control that had once again been sparked by the tragedy.
The episode also featured a report from economics correspondent Paul Solman on the state of the US economy, as well as a feature on an artist in India who was using her work to highlight social issues.
Through all of its coverage, the October 31, 2018, episode of PBS Newshour delivered its signature in-depth analysis and insightful reporting on a range of critical issues facing our world.