Politics | 25HourNews

Examining the Far Reaching Impact of Zohran Mamdani's Historic Win on the National Progressive Movement Democrat Zohran Mamdani has been elected the new mayor of New York City, completing a remarkable ascent for the progressive candidate. The 34 year old state lawmaker defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an Independent, and Republican Curtis Sliwa in Tuesday's general election. His victory is seen as a significant win for the progressive wing of the Democratic party and a mandate for change focused on addressing the city's affordability crisis. The election saw one of the largest turnouts for a mayoral race in New York in over fifty years.Mamdani's win makes history on several fronts. He is set to become New York City's first Muslim mayor, the first of South Asian heritage, and the first mayor born in Africa. He will also be one of the city's youngest mayors in more than a century when he takes office on January 1, 2026. His campaign was built on a bold, affordability focused platform, which included promises to freeze rents for rent stabilized units, implement universal child care, and make bus services free and more efficient. He plans to fund these ambitious programs by raising taxes on wealthy New Yorkers and corporations.The democratic socialist energized a diverse coalition of voters, particularly young and first time participants, by focusing on the high cost of living in the city. His charismatic, social media friendly campaign and populist economic message resonated with residents who feel increasingly squeezed by rising rents and expenses. Mamdani's ability to first upset the establishment favorite Cuomo in the Democratic primary, and then secure the general election, underscores a growing appetite for left wing political leadership in the city. His campaign drew national attention and endorsements from prominent progressive figures, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio Cortez.Despite facing heavy criticism regarding his thin resume and being the target of President Donald Trump's threats to cut federal funding to the city, Mamdani remained defiant in his victory speech, vowing to make New York a city where everyone can thrive. His incoming administration will now face the complex task of navigating the city’s vast bureaucracy and working with the state legislature, particularly Governor Kathy Hochul, to implement his ambitious agenda aimed at making the nation's largest city more equitable and affordable for its residents. The election results reflect a clear call from New Yorkers for radical soluti
How the Supreme Court's Decision on Tariffs Will Reshape US Foreign Policy and International Trade Negotiations The global trade community is keenly watching the US Supreme Court, which is scheduled to hear oral arguments in a pivotal case that will challenge the legality of President Donald Trump's sweeping use of tariffs. The consolidated cases, notably Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump and Trump v. V.O.S. Selections, will decide if the president overstepped his authority by using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose duties on goods from numerous countries.The controversy centers on the president's use of the IEEPA, a 1977 statute that allows the executive to regulate economic transactions after declaring a national emergency. Businesses and twelve US states are challenging this application, arguing that the IEEPA was never intended to grant the president the power to levy tariffs, a power the US Constitution explicitly vests in Congress. They point out that no president in the Act's nearly fifty year history has used it for this purpose before the Trump administration.This judicial showdown comes after two lower courts the US Court of International Trade and the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit already ruled against the administration, finding that the broad "reciprocal" tariffs and the separate "fentanyl" related duties exceeded the president's authority under the IEEPA. The appeals court ruling, decided 7 to 4, affirmed that tariffs are a core Congressional power. The Supreme Court's ruling will test the limits of executive power over trade and national security, which the administration has invoked to justify the tariffs.The ruling will have immense ramifications not only for American businesses, which have absorbed billions in new customs duties and face unprecedented levels of import taxes, but also for international trade relations. A decision upholding the lower courts could strike down many of the global tariffs currently in place, leading to billions of dollars in potential refunds and reshaping the US negotiating leverage. Conversely, a ruling in the president’s favor would solidify his ability to impose tariffs swiftly and broadly under an emergency declaration, potentially opening the door to even more levies and uncertainty for the world economy.Regardless of the outcome, the case is poised to fundamentally redefine the separation of powers between the President and Congress in trade policy. Experts note that even if the court curtails the president’s use of the IEEPA, other existing trade statutes could be
A Pendulum Shift in European Politics: How the Dutch Election Result Impacts the Centrist Battle Against the Far Right The centrist D66 party, led by Rob Jetten, has claimed victory in the Dutch general election held on Wednesday, emerging as the largest party after a nail biting race with the far right Freedom Party (PVV) of Geert Wilders. The results, compiled by the national news agency ANP and citing projections from almost all counted votes, put D66 in a position to lead the formation of the next government. Jetten, 38, is now on course to become the Netherlands' youngest prime minister, a historic win that saw his party make sweeping gains.The final count revealed a razor thin margin between D66 and the PVV, with both parties projected to win 26 seats in the 150 member lower house of parliament. However, D66 held a slight lead in the popular vote, estimated at just over 15,000 votes, which secures its position as the largest party and grants it the first opportunity to initiate coalition talks. The outcome marks a significant turnaround, as the PVV had been projected to win the election earlier in the campaign. The election itself was triggered after Wilders withdrew his party from the previous right wing coalition, leading to the government's collapse over a dispute on immigration policy.Rob Jetten's victory is seen by many as a rebuke to the far right, whose support significantly dropped from its record showing in the 2023 election. Jetten, a pro European and openly gay political leader, ran a campaign on a positive, hopeful message focusing on issues like affordable housing, climate policy, and competent leadership. Addressing jubilant supporters, Jetten declared that they had "shown not only to the Netherlands, but also to the world that it is possible to beat populist and extreme right movements." He pledged to get to work for all Dutch people, highlighting the need for cooperation among mainstream parties to tackle pressing national issues.Despite D66's win, forming a stable government is expected to be a complex and lengthy process due to the highly fragmented nature of the Dutch political landscape. By parliamentary convention, the leader of the winning party takes the lead in forming a coalition, which requires a majority of at least 76 seats. Potential coalition scenarios point to a broad alliance involving D66, the centre right Christian Democratic Appeal, the liberal People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), and the centre left GreenLeft Labour bloc. However, one key complication is the VVD's stated reluctance to govern with the centre left, despite
Examining the Alleged Network of Illegal Business Activities and Financial Deception Linked to Georgia's Ex Prime Minister The political landscape in Georgia has been shaken by the dramatic downfall of a former prime minister, Irakli Garibashvili, who now faces serious money laundering charges. The spectacular collapse of a figure who was once a staunch loyalist of the country’s de facto ruler marks a significant and unprecedented moment in Georgia's recent history, sparking widespread commentary on corruption and the rule of law.The key news emerged with the announcement from the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia that the former two time Prime Minister, Irakli Garibashvili, had been charged with large scale money laundering. This prosecution follows an investigation by the Anti Corruption Department and a search of his flat on October 17, 2025, during which a substantial amount of cash, reportedly $6.5 million in US currency, was discovered and seized. Garibashvili, who served in the country's top political office from 2013 to 2015 and again from 2021 until his resignation in 2024, has reportedly pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him.The former Prime Minister is accused of engaging in covert business activities while holding public office, which is prohibited, and consequently receiving illicit income on an exceptionally large scale. To conceal the proceeds of his illegal activities, prosecutors allege he provided false information in his asset declarations, claiming to have received large annual sums as gifts from a family member. These funds were then allegedly used to acquire assets and were largely converted into foreign currency, ultimately leading to the discovery of the cash haul in his residence.The reaction to the charging of such a high profile member of the ruling elite has been one of shock and political upheaval. Garibashvili was a long time loyalist and protégé of Bidzina Ivanishvili, the influential billionaire and founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party, who is widely considered to be the country's ultimate decision maker. This prosecution is the first instance where a core member of the ruling inner circle has been targeted in a wider crackdown that has more frequently focused on opposition figures and former associates who have fallen out of favor. The authorities have requested a one million lari bail and other obligations, including the surrender of his passport, as a preventive measure.This dramatic event occurs amid a tense political environment in Georgia, where the government has faced months of significant street protests by pro West
President Trump Issues Full Pardon to Cryptocurrency Titan Changpeng Zhao in Landmark Clemency Decision President Donald Trump on Thursday issued a full and unconditional pardon to Changpeng Zhao the founder and former CEO of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, Binance. The move dramatically overturns one of the most significant criminal prosecutions in the history of the digital asset industry. Zhao, widely known by his initials "CZ," had previously pleaded guilty to a felony charge of failing to maintain an effective anti-money-laundering (AML) program at the exchange and had served a four-month prison sentence, which he completed earlier in the year. This unexpected exercise of constitutional authority by the President not only erases Zhao’s conviction but also ignites a powerful political and financial debate over the future of cryptocurrency regulation in the United States.Zhao’s legal troubles stemmed from a lengthy investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and other federal agencies. In November 2023, he pleaded guilty in a Seattle federal court, agreeing to step down as CEO as part of a massive settlement that saw Binance pay a staggering $4.3 billion fine. The charges detailed that under Zhao’s leadership, Binance had knowingly operated without the required AML and Know Your Customer (KYC) controls, allowing illicit funds to flow through the platform for activities like drug trafficking, terrorism financing, and transactions involving sanctioned entities. Federal prosecutors had initially sought a three-year prison term for Zhao, arguing that the unprecedented scale of the non-compliance warranted a severe sentence, though the presiding judge ultimately handed down a four-month term.In announcing the pardon, the White House Press Secretary characterized the previous administration’s actions against Zhao as a politically motivated “war on cryptocurrency.” The statement further argued that the prosecution of Zhao, who faced no allegations of outright fraud or identifiable victims of theft, was an egregious overreach that damaged the reputation of the United States as a global leader in technological innovation. This narrative aligns with President Trump’s broader strategy of embracing the crypto industry, a sector that has grown into a major political and financial force and one that has provided considerable support to the President’s own financial ventures. Zhao himself took to social media to express his deep gratitude to President Trump "for upholding America's commitment to fairness, innovation, and justice," pro
The End of an Era Raila Odinga Key Architect of Democratic Reform in Kenya Passes Away While Undergoing Treatment Abroad The world of African politics is mourning the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80. A towering and often controversial figure in Kenyan public life for over four decades Odinga died in Kochi India where he was reportedly undergoing Ayurvedic treatment. Hospital authorities confirmed that the veteran politician suffered a cardiac arrest during his morning walk at the treatment facility and did not respond to resuscitation efforts. His passing marks the end of a monumental era in the nation’s political landscape.Born on January 7 1945 Raila Amolo Odinga was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Kenya’s first vice president. From his early days Odinga was destined for a life of political activism and national leadership. His journey began with pro democracy advocacy during the one party state era which saw him detained without trial for several years under President Daniel arap Moi’s regime. These periods of incarceration only solidified his commitment to multiparty democracy and good governance principles that would become the cornerstones of his political career.Odinga’s political influence was immense serving as a Member of Parliament for the Langata constituency from 1992 to 2013 and holding various ministerial positions. His most significant executive role came in 2008 following the deeply contested 2007 presidential election which erupted into widespread post election violence. A peace deal brokered internationally saw him serve as Kenya's Prime Minister in a grand coalition government under President Mwai Kibaki from 2008 to 2013 a period critical for national healing and constitutional reform.Despite his powerful legacy and populist appeal Odinga was also known as the perennial presidential candidate having run unsuccessfully for the presidency five times. In each of these attempts he championed electoral reforms and constitutional change with his most high profile efforts helping to cement the 2010 Constitution a document widely considered one of Kenya’s most important democratic achievements. Beyond Kenya Odinga was actively involved in regional affairs serving as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa where he worked to advance continental integration.News of his death sent shockwaves across Kenya and the continent. Though he had recently lost his bid for the African Union Commission Chairperson position he remained politically active and had s
Analyzing the Economic Risks and Political Strategy Behind President Milei’s Pursuit of a Conditional US Financial Lifeline United States President Donald Trump issued a stern warning this week, stating that US financial support for Argentina is conditional on the electoral success of his conservative ally, President Javier Milei. The comment, made during a meeting with Milei at the White House, suggested a withdrawal of American assistance, including a recently agreed upon $20 billion currency swap, should Milei’s coalition fail to gain ground in the upcoming legislative midterm elections. This unusual political declaration ties a significant foreign aid package directly to the internal electoral outcome of a sovereign nation.The US President was explicit in linking the financial lifeline to Milei’s political survival. "We think he's going to win. He should win. And if he does win, we're going to be very helpful," Trump remarked to reporters. He then added the condition: "And if he doesn't win, we're not going to waste our time, because you have somebody whose philosophy has no chance of making Argentina great again." This statement signals a clear preference for Milei's right wing, libertarian economic reforms over a potential return to left wing Peronist policies, which the Trump administration views as detrimental to Argentina’s future.The $20 billion currency swap, which US Treasury officials have framed as a strategic move to stabilize a key regional ally, has already drawn criticism in the US. Critics have questioned the timing and justification of such a large foreign financial intervention, especially under an "America First" policy. The administration, however, defends the move as supporting "a great philosophy taking over a great country." The outcome of Argentina's midterm elections on October 26th is crucial, as it will determine whether Milei's minority party gains enough seats in the National Congress to pass his ambitious, and often controversial, austerity and reform measures. A legislative brick wall could cripple his administration for the next two years.Milei, who has openly admired and mirrored Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan with his own "Make Argentina Great Again," is banking on continued strong economic and political backing from Washington. Following the White House meeting, Milei took to social media to amplify Trump's warning to the Argentine electorate, explicitly stating that US support is linked to a rejection of "populism" at the polls. This public pressure by a foreign head of state on the domestic election of another country is
The Impact of the Hostage Crisis on Israeli Society and the Future of Prime Minister Netanyahu's Government The Israeli military has confirmed the transfer of the first group of Israeli hostages from Hamas custody to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the Gaza Strip. This development marks a pivotal moment in the recently brokered ceasefire agreement, which aims to secure the release of all remaining living Israeli hostages in exchange for a large number of Palestinian prisoners. The initial group released includes seven individuals, signaling the formal start of the exchange process that has brought a temporary pause to the devastating two year conflict.The handover was met with an outpouring of emotion across Israel, where tens of thousands of citizens gathered in public spaces, including Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, to watch live updates. News that the hostages were in the hands of the Red Cross elicited cheers and tears of joy, underscoring the deep national anxiety that has surrounded their captivity since the initial attack in October 2023. The seven released hostages were identified as Gali and Ziv Berman, Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Omri Miran, Eitan Mor, and Guy Gilboa Dalal. They were to be transferred to the Israeli military at the Reim base for initial medical and psychological evaluation before being reunited with their families.The ceasefire agreement, which was mediated by international partners, stipulates the release of 20 living Israeli hostages in total. In return, Israel is set to release over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, including individuals serving life sentences. The current exchange process, which began early on Monday, is a crucial first step in fulfilling the terms of this complex agreement. The process is being meticulously monitored by the ICRC and other international bodies, who are also tasked with facilitating the transfer of remains for up to 28 other hostages believed to have died in captivity.While the return of the first group of hostages offers immense relief and a sense of closure for their families, major questions remain about the future of the region and the full implementation of the peace plan. The ceasefire is currently holding, allowing for a planned surge in humanitarian aid including food and fuel into the Gaza Strip, a territory described by UN officials as a "wasteland" after two years of war. The successful completion of the hostage and prisoner exchange is seen as critical to maintaining the truce and advancing to further phases of the broader peace negotiations.