US Stocks Drop From Record Highs Amid Gold Price Decline; North Carolina Lawmakers Approve GOP-Backed House Map

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, arriving in Israel to support and affirm the ongoing Gaza ceasefire that began on October 10, underscoring the U.S.-Israel alliance and partnership. Concurrently, in domestic politics, North Carolina lawmakers have approved a new U.S. House district map endorsed by President Donald Trump, which is expected to favor Republicans by potentially flipping a swing district currently held by a Democrat. This move is part of Trump's broader mid-decade redistricting initiative aimed at consolidating GOP power. Meanwhile, the U.S. stock market experienced a slight pullback from record highs, with major indexes like the S&P 500 and Dow Jones dropping modestly, influenced by weaker-than-expected earnings from companies such as Netflix. Gold prices also declined after significant gains earlier in the year. These developments reflect ongoing political maneuvering and economic fluctuations impacting both domestic and international spheres.