Category Archives: politics

‘The picture is grim’: Conservative outlet flags ‘warning signs’ that GOP is losing ground

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The GOP was riding high, but is now being anchored down by a “political dud,” according to a conservative outlet.

The Washington Examiner, widely considered to be right-wing, published a report on Saturday titled, “Chucks in luck? Warning signs ahead for Republicans in next year’s Senate races.”

Just a few months ago, Republicans were riding high, giddy after having passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law. But as the saying goes, a few weeks can be an eternity in politics. And as autumn kicks in, it’s clear that cheer is turning into fear.

The weekend article states, “What gives? And what does it mean for the 2026 Senate races? As is usually the case with midterm elections in the Trump era, the answer is: ‘It’s complicated.'”

According to the report, there is one major concern for the Republicans.

“A big problem facing the GOP as 2026 draws near is that while the tax cuts in the GOP megabill should be popular, the legislation is overall proving to be a political dud with a 64% disapproval rating,” the article notes. This has prompted reports that President Donald Trump is looking to rebrand it as the “Working Families Tax Cut Bill.”

Some voters fret about Medicaid cuts hurting the poor. Others worry about the possibly adverse impact on hospitals. Additionally, many fear the debt and deficit implications.

The article adds, “Add to this that inflation sits higher than it was at the same point last year and about a percentage point above the Federal Reserve’s target rate, and it’s likely Republican Senate candidates will have to run with some semblance of an inflation anchor next year, just as former Vice President Kamala Harris did last year.”

Polling data supports this challenge, with 61% of those surveyed by The Economist and YouGov disapproving of Trump’s handling of inflation.

The situation appears grim, and this outlook does not even account for the historical trend that the party controlling the White House generally tends to do worse in the first midterm election of each presidency.

“Crazy though it may seem, the GOP could indeed be staring down a situation in which Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) ends up back in charge and gridlock once again becomes the name of the game in Washington, D.C.,” the Washington Examiner concludes.
https://www.rawstory.com/gop-picture-is-grim-2026/

India seeks US tariff relief, offers corn and energy imports

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**India Seeks US Tariff Relief, Offers Corn and Energy Imports**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 27, 2025, 05:21 PM*

India and the United States are currently engaged in negotiations for a bilateral trade deal. As part of these discussions, India has proposed increasing its imports of corn from the US for ethanol production, along with expanding energy purchases. This proposal arrives amid India’s request for the removal of the 25% penal tariffs imposed by Washington on its Russian oil imports.

These tariffs were introduced by the US in response to India’s purchases of Russian oil, which Washington alleges have indirectly funded Russia’s war against Ukraine.

**Exploring Corn Imports for Ethanol Production**

The US has been encouraging India to boost its purchases of American soybeans and corn. However, India has shown hesitation due to concerns surrounding genetically modified (GM) crop varieties. Despite these challenges, officials confirmed that “fresh offers have been made” and discussions are underway to buy corn specifically for ethanol production.

This development indicates India’s willingness to explore new avenues within the ongoing trade negotiations.

**Negotiation Strategy and Agricultural Market Access**

While talks continue, India remains firm on protecting its agricultural sector. The country has set clear red lines regarding market access, aiming to safeguard its farmers and prevent the entry of GM products into its food supply.

An official involved in the talks stated, “The talks are on track, and we are trying to meet the fall deadline, but the date and venue of the next round of negotiations is yet to be finalized.”

**Diplomatic Discussions: First In-Person Meeting Since Tariffs Announcement**

The Indian delegation, led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, recently met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and US Ambassador-Designate to India, Sergio Gor. This marked the first face-to-face meeting since the August 27 announcement of the 25% penal tariffs.

The two sides are working toward concluding a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), originally targeted for completion by this fall. To date, five rounds of negotiations have taken place.

**Engaging US Businesses and Investors**

In addition to government-level talks, the Indian delegation engaged with key US-based businesses and investors to promote trade and investment ties between the two countries.

According to the Indian Ministry of Commerce, these meetings received a positive response. Business leaders expressed confidence in India’s growth story and showed strong interest in expanding their activities within the Indian market.

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The ongoing negotiations reflect a complex but promising phase in India-US trade relations, as both nations seek mutually beneficial solutions amid geopolitical challenges and market sensitivities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/india-seeks-us-tariff-relief-offers-corn-and-energy-imports/story

‘Old men afraid of death’: Obama’s veiled jab at Trump

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**‘Old Men Afraid of Death’: Obama’s Veiled Jab at Donald Trump**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 27, 2025, 03:20 PM*

Former United States President Barack Obama recently made remarks that many interpreted as a subtle criticism of his successor, Donald Trump. Speaking to British historian David Olusoga in London, Obama stated, “It’s fair to say that 80% of the world’s problems involve old men hanging on who are afraid of death and insignificance.” He elaborated that such men build “pyramids” and put their names on everything out of anxiety.

### A Subtle Reference to Trump’s Age

Obama’s comments come just a month after 77-year-old Donald Trump defended his controversial decision to deploy National Guard troops in Washington, DC. Trump justified the deployment by citing the need to address what he described as an explosion of violent crime.

These remarks also resonate with Obama’s previous criticisms of aging political leaders. In 2019, Obama pointed out that older leaders often fail to step aside for younger generations, highlighting generational tensions in leadership.

### Criticism Over Public Health Statements

During the same London event, Obama took aim at Trump for making unfounded claims linking the painkiller Tylenol to autism in infants. He condemned such statements as “violence against the truth,” warning that they could undermine public health efforts and potentially harm pregnant women.

Trump’s comments on Tylenol drew widespread backlash. The UK Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, publicly advised women to ignore these claims.

### The Political Tug of War

Obama also reflected on the current political landscape in America, describing it as a “tug of war” between two competing visions for the country’s future.

He explained that while progressives seek change through democratic means, populists like Trump aim to revert to an older, more traditional worldview. Obama further criticized progressives for being “complacent” and “smug” in past decades, acknowledging that their values are now being tested in these challenging times.

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Barack Obama’s recent remarks highlight the ongoing generational and ideological battles shaping the American political arena, with pointed references that many have connected directly to Donald Trump’s leadership style and rhetoric.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/obama-mocks-old-men-clinging-to-power/story

Maharashtra Govt Announces ₹2,000 Diwali Gift For Anganwadi Workers & Helpers

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Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has announced a special Diwali gift for anganwadi workers and helpers serving under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. Each worker and helper will receive Rs 2,000 as a token of appreciation, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare said.

The government has sanctioned Rs 40.61 crore for this initiative, with a formal government resolution issued on Thursday.

Minister Tatkare emphasized the vital role anganwadi workers and helpers play in the care, nutrition, and overall development of women and children. She stated, “Anganwadi workers and helpers play a crucial role in the care, nutrition, and overall development of women and children. To acknowledge their dedicated service and add joy to the festive season, the state government has sanctioned this Bhau Beej gift. Every anganwadi worker and helper is a true strength of our society, and we endeavour to make their festival more joyful.”

The amount will soon be disbursed to the beneficiaries through the ICDS commissioner’s office. This decision is expected to bring festive cheer to thousands of anganwadi workers and helpers across Maharashtra, making their Diwali celebrations brighter, the minister added.

(Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-govt-announces-2000-diwali-gift-for-anganwadi-workers-helpers

EES launch : The truth about ‘medical insurance’ checks under new EU border rules

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**EU’s Long-Awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) Launches October 12: What British Eurostar Travellers Need to Know**

The European Union’s long-anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES) is finally set to launch on October 12, bringing new border control measures that will affect British travellers heading into Europe via Eurostar. However, even before going live, the new system is already causing some confusion and concern.

### What’s Happening with the EES?

The EES is designed to modernise border checks for non-EU nationals, which now includes British passport holders post-Brexit. Here’s what to expect when you arrive at London St Pancras International to board the Eurostar to Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam:

– You will go through new electronic kiosks.
– Your passport will be scanned.
– Biometric data such as fingerprints and a facial scan will be taken.
– The system will record when and where you enter the Schengen zone.

Additionally, you will be asked a few simple questions, including whether you have:

– A booked place to stay.
– A return ticket.
– Enough money to cover your trip.
– Insurance coverage.

If you answer “no” to any of these questions, the system will flag you for a manual check by French border police. They have the authority to refuse entry if you do not meet the requirements.

### Who Will Be Affected Initially?

According to Euronews, from October 12, only business and premium class passengers on Eurostar will face these checks. A wider rollout for all travellers is expected in January 2026.

### Medical Insurance or Travel Insurance: Clearing Up the Confusion

Early reports suggested that passengers would need to show **medical insurance** to enter France, causing unnecessary panic among travellers. Eurostar quickly clarified that this was a translation error. What you actually need is **general travel insurance**, not a medical-only policy.

A Eurostar spokesperson explained that the English version of the kiosk questions is still provisional and awaiting final confirmation from France’s Ministry of the Interior, so wording may not be perfect on day one.

The UK government added some uncertainty by confirming that travellers might be asked about medical insurance at kiosks but emphasised that medical insurance is **not a legal requirement** to enter the EU. Instead, they strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, repatriation, and trip cancellation before travelling.

### French Rules Add to the Complexity

Here’s the twist: While the EU does not require proof of medical insurance, France does impose this requirement on third-country nationals. Official French guidance recommends visitors have insurance covering medical, hospital expenses, repatriation, and even costs in case of death abroad.

In practice, checks on insurance have rarely been enforced at the border, but the EES could change that. With new electronic flagging systems, French border police may be more inclined to check insurance and return ticket compliance.

On the topic of return tickets, the Schengen rules require proof of departure from the zone (which could be any flight, not necessarily back to the UK), but France specifically insists on a booked return ticket.

### What This Means for Eurostar Travellers

If you’re planning to travel via Eurostar this autumn or later, here’s what you should keep in mind:

– Expect additional questions at the kiosks in St Pancras regarding your accommodation, finances, return ticket, and insurance.
– Travel insurance is the requirement—not strictly medical insurance—but it’s wise to have a policy covering both.
– You are unlikely to have to show proof, but having it handy could save your trip if asked.
– The full system won’t apply to standard class passengers until January 2026.

While headlines about compulsory medical insurance may have been overblown, the safest bet remains to travel with proper insurance. This not only protects you during unexpected emergencies abroad but also provides peace of mind when border officers decide to double-check your documents.

### A New Travel Reality for British Travellers

The launch of the EES is a clear reminder that post-Brexit travel between the UK and EU is now more complex. Gone are the days of a quick passport check before boarding the Eurostar. Instead, expect longer waits, biometric scans, and detailed questions about your travel plans.

The medical insurance confusion due to translation errors highlights the inevitable teething problems as the system rolls out.

So whether you’re heading to Paris for a weekend getaway, Brussels for business, or Amsterdam for a city break, don’t let new procedures catch you out. Pack your patience, keep your paperwork organised, and most importantly, buy travel insurance. Because while you might never have to show it, the day you do could be the day it saves you a fortune.
https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/09/27/ees-launch-the-truth-about-medical-insurance-checks-under-new-eu-border-rules/

PNB Fraud Case: CBI Court Grants Pardon To Nirav Modi’s Brother-In-Law, Maiank Mehta

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**Mumbai:**

The special CBI court has granted pardon to Maiank Mehta, the brother-in-law of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, allowing his plea to be an approver in connection with the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case lodged by the CBI against Modi.

Special judge AV Gujarathi, earlier this week, allowed Mehta’s application to turn approver after his confession statement was recorded by the CBI. Mehta was cited as an accused in the case registered by the agency for cheating PNB by fraudulently obtaining letters of undertaking (LOUs) worth Rs 23,780 crore.

The court stated that the pardon can be granted only after Mehta gives a statement and makes a full and true disclosure of the facts as an approver.

The CBI’s case against Modi is a predicate offence. Following this, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a probe, in which Mehta was declared an approver by the special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court back in 2021.

The CBI, however, made Mehta an accused in the case earlier this month, later agreeing to accept him as an approver.

As per the CBI case, the funds obtained through LOUs were transferred to Pacific Diamond FZE, Modi’s shell company in the UAE, and subsequently routed to Mehta through a complex web of transactions.

The probe revealed that around $30 million were transferred to Mehta’s account from Pacific Diamond FZE. Between November 13 and 26, 2013, Mehta transferred these funds in 10 instalments to Modi’s sister, Purvi Mehta’s account. Purvi reportedly showed these as gifts from her husband.

The CBI further claimed that on November 15, 2013, Purvi created four deposits with Syndicate Bank for three years, appointing Mehta as the nominee. Later, she allegedly availed a term loan of $19 million from Syndicate Bank, London, by mortgaging all the FCNR deposits.

On November 22, 2013, she is said to have transferred the loan amount to her account maintained with Ratnakar Bank. For the remaining $10 million, she allegedly opened a fixed deposit account with Ratnakar Bank.

Against this, she allegedly obtained a packing credit foreign currency facility of $28.50 million through her firm, Radhashree Jewellers Company.

The CBI alleges that out of the funds transferred via the LOUs, $30 million were used by both Nirav Modi and Purvi Mehta through a credit facility obtained by Radhashree Jewellers, with the assistance of Mehta.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/pnb-fraud-case-cbi-court-grants-pardon-to-nirav-modis-brother-in-law-maiank-mehta

Schumer coordinating shutdown strategy with liberal groups after caving before

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Several liberal groups, including unions, the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, and MoveOn, told Axios they have met with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and his team weekly over the past two months. All have emphasized that a repeat of Schumer’s March concession would be unacceptable.

The progressive Democratic groups involved have welcomed the change in dynamics. “There has been more proactive communication from leadership to me; I would just call it the outside ecosystem,” MoveOn chief communications officer Joel Payne told Axios.

The battle lines that the grassroots of the party are drawing for the grasstops leadership are clear: “Hey, you’ve got to be willing to fight.”

Others took on a much different tone, sounding more threatening. One source familiar with the conversations told Axios that some groups have been using planned No Kings protests next month to their advantage. “You can either be a part of this movement or be irrelevant to it,” the source said they told Schumer’s team.

The liberal group Progress Action Fund told Axios it is paying six figures for an ad buy pushing Schumer to stand his ground in the government funding battle.

Schumer is being set up for a daunting task, as some in his caucus are reportedly already getting cold feet. The White House’s threats to lay off thousands of federal workers in retaliation for a government shutdown are leading some Democrats to consider breaking ranks, said Democratic sources familiar with the matter, according to
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/senate/3827347/schumer-coordinating-shutdown-strategy-with-liberal-groups-after-caving/

Southern States of Mississippi and Louisiana Go Back to Teaching the Basics in School – Now Lead Liberal States Like California in Literacy

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Anyone who follows education news—or simply has children in public schools—knows that we are facing an education crisis in this country right now. Grade school students in multiple states cannot read or do math at grade level. The problem existed years ago, but school shutdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic made things even worse.

Now, some states in the South have discovered a solution: going back to basics and teaching foundational skills like phonics. It’s amazing—if you focus on teaching kids to read rather than prioritizing subjects like social justice and gender theory, they actually learn to read. Who knew?

Kelsey Piper writes at *The Argument* on Substack: *Illiteracy is a policy choice*.

This month, the Department of Education released its latest edition of the National Assessment of Educational Progress, the standardized tests better known as the Nation’s Report Card. The results have left me blazing with rage.

In my home state of California, for instance, only 30% of public school fourth graders can read proficiently. Fully 41% cannot even read at a basic level—which means they cannot truly understand and interpret written text at all. Eighth graders look almost as bad.

But scores are not slipping everywhere. In Mississippi, they have been rising year over year. The state recovered from a brief decline during COVID and has now surpassed its pre-COVID highs. Its fourth-grade students outperform California’s on average, even though California is richer, has a more educated population, and spends about 50% more per pupil.

The difference is most pronounced when you look at the most disadvantaged students. In California, only 28% of Black fourth graders read at or above a basic level, compared to 52% in Mississippi.

But it’s not just that Mississippi has raised the floor. It has also raised the ceiling. The state is one of the nation’s best performers when you look at students who are *not* economically disadvantaged.

And it’s not just Mississippi. Louisiana, Alabama, and Tennessee have adopted the same strategies to stem the bleeding experienced in other states—and they have seen significant improvements.

This is the part of the story that has gotten the most attention: teach phonics! And you should, indeed, teach phonics. But making schools adopt this approach took more than a mere nudge.

The Southern Surge states have used a combination of earmarked funding, guidance to districts, and outright mandates to accomplish universal adoption of phonics-based instruction.

When schools embrace topics like gender and social justice at the expense of basic and necessary skills like reading and math, they rob students of the learning they need to succeed in life.

Every school in America needs to return to the basics. It is an absolute crime for a young person to go through years of schooling only to emerge unable to read.

Southern states are showing the way—and it works.
https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/09/southern-states-mississippi-louisiana-go-back-teaching-basics/

Trump says Gaza talks with Middle East players are productive

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**Trump Says Gaza Talks with Middle East Players Are Productive**

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that ongoing discussions involving key Middle East players regarding the Gaza situation are productive. He emphasized that both Israel and Hamas are aware of these talks.

Trump made these remarks upon his arrival at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on September 26, 2025.

*Photo credit: REUTERS*
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868711

Slovakia passes constitutional amendment recognising only two sexes

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Slovakia’s parliament has passed a constitutional amendment recognizing only two sexes, along with other measures that critics say may breach the country’s international obligations and undermine human rights protections.

The amendment, drafted by the government of populist Prime Minister Robert Fico, required a three-fifths majority to pass. It was approved with 90 votes in the 150-seat National Council, with support from twelve conservative opposition politicians who helped the ruling coalition secure the vote.

### Key Changes in the Amendment

The revised constitution now explicitly recognizes only two sexes: male and female. It also states that Slovakia retains sovereignty in matters of national identity—a term not specifically defined—particularly regarding fundamental cultural and ethical questions.

Additionally, the amendment makes it nearly impossible for anyone other than married couples to adopt children. The constitution had already defined marriage as a unique union between a man and a woman.

Parental consent is now required for access to sexual education, and equal pay for men and women is guaranteed.

### Reactions and Criticism

Justice Minister Boris Susko told parliament that the amendment aims to bolster traditional values. However, the move has faced strong condemnation from human rights organizations.

Amnesty International criticized the decision, stating: “Today, the Slovak government chose to follow the lead of countries such as Hungary, whose policies have led to an erosion of human rights.”

Michael O’Flaherty, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, had previously urged Slovak politicians not to approve the changes. He warned that “seeking to disapply specific rights because they touch upon ‘national identity’ would be fundamentally incompatible with the Slovak Republic’s international obligations.”

O’Flaherty also highlighted that the amendment denies the realities of trans and intersex people and may negatively affect human rights guarantees, including access to legal gender recognition.

### Political Context

Robert Fico has long been a divisive figure in Slovak politics. Critics argue that under his leadership, Slovakia has abandoned its pro-Western trajectory, instead aligning more closely with Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

Thousands of people have repeatedly rallied in Bratislava and across Slovakia to protest Fico’s pro-Russian stance and other controversial policies.

This latest constitutional amendment marks a significant shift in Slovakia’s legal and social landscape, raising concerns about the future protection of minority rights and international commitments.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/slovakia-passes-constitutional-amendment-recognising-only-two-sexes-1811542.html