Recent polling data reveals a significant decline in President Trump’s approval among young voters. A YouGov/Economist poll conducted in late October shows a 30-point drop in approval among adults under 30 since February. This decline in support from younger demographics, who were initially attracted to Trump in 2024, could pose challenges for the GOP in the upcoming midterm elections. Moreover, Trump’s handling of the economy, a key factor in his prior appeal to young voters, now carries a significantly negative approval rating.
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Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia basilica has become the world’s tallest church after a section of its central tower was recently erected, reaching a height of 162.91 meters. This surpasses the spire of Ulm Minster in Germany, though the Sagrada Familia has not formally claimed the title. The central Tower of Jesus Christ will ultimately reach 172 meters upon completion. Construction began in 1882, and the basilica’s completion is expected in approximately a decade, funded by tourist revenue.
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Despite President Trump’s survival of multiple legal and political challenges, his actions are not solely his own, relying on numerous individuals to carry out his agenda. To counteract this, Democrats must target Trump’s “happy helpers,” making it clear that they will be held accountable for their actions, even if not immediately. Instances like the Illinois Accountability Commission demonstrate a path forward. The normalization of authoritarian behavior necessitates a forceful response from Democrats, who must publicly warn all involved in undermining democratic institutions that their conduct will be scrutinized. Democratic leaders must impose accountability and demonstrate that corruption in Washington will no longer be consequence-free.
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Javad Naeimi, a nuclear engineer at the Natanz facility, was executed in Qom last week after being convicted of spying for Israel. The Hengaw Organization for Human Rights reported the execution, which occurred in secret after Naeimi’s arrest in February 2024 and an opaque judicial process, including alleged torture and coerced confessions. This execution, and the execution of at least eleven others this year on espionage charges, is part of an intensified crackdown following Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Human rights groups condemn these executions, citing a lack of due process, while Iran defends its actions as necessary to counter alleged intelligence infiltration.
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A British citizen, allegedly working as an FSB agent, has been detained in Kyiv by Ukraine’s Security Service. The individual arrived in early 2024 to train Ukrainian troops but later collaborated with Russian intelligence, offering sensitive information and preparing for terrorist attacks. The SBU claims the suspect was instructed to build an explosive device and was found in possession of a pistol before being apprehended. Now in custody, the British citizen faces up to 12 years in prison, with the investigation ongoing to determine further charges.
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In a recent announcement, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) revealed the seizure of thousands of liters of chemicals used in the production of illicit drugs. On May 13th and 24th, officers discovered 4,300 liters of these substances within two marine containers originating from China, destined for Calgary. The seizure included 3,600 liters of 1,4 Butanediol, 500 liters of propionyl chloride, and 200 liters of Gamma butyrolactone. Furthermore, the CBSA reported making a total of 12,193 seizures overall in the three months ending in August, encompassing a wide range of contraband.
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According to a recent report by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, Russian drone strikes along the Dnieper River have been classified as war crimes. The report, based on hundreds of videos and interviews, details attacks targeting Ukrainian civilians and civilian infrastructure with a variety of drones. These attacks are alleged to be deliberately coordinated to instill terror, with evidence including the forced deportation of civilians. While Russia denies these accusations, the U.N. commission was unable to investigate Russian claims of Ukrainian attacks due to lack of access and safety concerns.
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The Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll revealed that a significant portion of Americans hold President Trump and Republicans primarily responsible for the government shutdown. Roughly 45% of U.S. adults believe Trump and the GOP are to blame for the shutdown’s negative impacts. This shutdown has led to consequences like potential cuts to anti-hunger benefits, air traffic delays, and furloughed federal workers. These findings underscore the public’s perception of responsibility for the ongoing political stalemate.
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The Pentagon is undergoing a major leadership overhaul under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, with Rear Admiral Kurt Rothenhaus, head of the Office of Naval Research, being replaced by 33-year-old Rachel Riley, a former DOGE employee, who lacks military experience. This follows the departure of three-star General Joe McGee, who served on the Joint Staff, amidst reported tension. These moves are part of a broader trend of experienced officials being removed from their positions within the Defense Department under the current administration, alongside previous high-profile dismissals of key military leaders.
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Billie Eilish received the Music Innovator Award at the WSJ Innovator Awards, where she used her platform to advocate for wealth redistribution. In her acceptance speech, Eilish implored the world’s wealthiest individuals to donate their fortunes to those in need. She highlighted the current state of the world, emphasizing the need for empathy and support. Eilish’s call to action encouraged those with substantial wealth to consider using it for philanthropic endeavors.
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John Q. Hosedrinker