Russian Plague Lab Death; Paxton Campaign; Guam Bomb Beach

“TheBlaze reports a researcher at a Russian plague laboratory has died, dozens have reportedly been quarantined, and several hospitals have been shut.” — Chip Darnell, on air

On air: Chip Darnell and Hank Ledger on Europe Open
Published 5:10 AM ET, Wednesday, October 7, 2026

At a glance

First reported by TheBlaze: “A dead scientist, quarantines, and a plague lab: Here we go again?”, with reporting from The New York Times and The New York Times.
Covered on BBN on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 5:10 AM ET on Europe Open, by Chip Darnell and Hank Ledger.
Topics: Paxton, Russian, Maine Senate.

The real story

The reporting behind this segment. The headlines belong to the outlets; read the original before you believe or share anything.

TheBlazeA dead scientist, quarantines, and a plague lab: Here we go again?
The New York TimesWhy Ken Paxton’s Estranged Wife Is Making the Case for His Senate Campaign
The New York TimesBeach in Guam: Supreme Court Considers if Military Can Explode Bombs in This Habitat

What BBN said about it

Chip Darnell · U.S. News AnchorTheBlaze reports a researcher at a Russian plague laboratory has died, dozens have reportedly been quarantined, and several hospitals have been shut.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorTheBlaze describes the infection as unknown. That is the word to keep in mind. Reported, not confirmed. No numbers beyond dozens.
Chip Darnell · U.S. News AnchorAbsolutely! Hosts Stu Burguiere and Dave Landau say they are a little concerned. Which is the most polite way to say a plague lab.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorSomewhere a lab safety poster is being read very carefully tonight. Next story, Chip.
Chip Darnell · U.S. News AnchorTexas, my favorite state this hour! The New York Times says Angela Paxton is urging voters to back Ken Paxton's Senate campaign.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorThe Times adds she is divorcing him and accusing him of adultery. So, a glowing endorsement from a very specific angle.
Chip Darnell · U.S. News AnchorThe Times says she has political aspirations of her own. That's not a reference letter, Hank, that's a job application!
Chip Darnell · U.S. News AnchorLast, Guam! The Supreme Court will hear whether the Air Force can keep blowing up old munitions on a beach, a practice since 1982.