A CNN investigation revealed that deceptive political fundraisers have exploited over 1,000 elderly Americans, convincing them to donate millions of dollars, often draining their retirement savings and placing them in debt. In a separate issue, Russian operatives spread false online content to discredit vice presidential candidate Tim Walz, using tactics linked to Russian influence efforts. In an NBC interview, Kamala Harris, when asked about pardoning Trump if elected, avoided speculation and emphasized her focus on winning the presidency. Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers are calling for a federal investigation into McKinsey's work with the Chinese government, questioning whether its contracts with the U.S. Defense Department violate federal law. Lastly, arrests for illegal border crossings from Mexico dropped 7% in September, reaching a four-year low.

How elderly dementia patients are unwittingly fueling political campaigns (CNN) 

US intel assesses Russian operatives behind fake video trying to smear Tim Walz (CNN) 

Harris refuses to rule out pardoning Trump (Politico) 

GOP lawmaker seek investigation of consulting firm over its work in China (AP) 

Border arrest fall in september in last monthly gauge before US elections (AP)