THREAD: global elections will voter choices change

IRAN’S Nuclear Threat: Global Fears and Rising Pressure

15 November 2024 — The world is worried about Iran’s nuclear activities. Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stressed the need for “concrete, tangible and visible results” during his visit to Tehran. He urged Iran to show progress and ease tensions to possibly avoid conflict.

Grossi’s comments seem directed at Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz’s recent statements. Katz pointed out Israel’s airstrikes in October, saying they revealed Iran’s nuclear sites to potential attacks. He claimed these actions might help remove threats against Israel.

Grossi criticized Iran for not cooperating with IAEA inspectors and increasing uranium enrichment activities. He noted that compliance with inspection rules stopped early in the Biden administration, complicating transparency efforts and resolution attempts.

UKRAINE’S Battle: How Drones and Trump Could Change the WAR

14 November 2024 — Ukrainian soldiers in the Kharkiv region are using drones to deliver supplies to troops on the front line. The Khartia brigade, led by a commander known as Kit, repurposes bomb-carrying drones to transport food, water, and hand warmers. These deliveries sustain soldiers for days as they battle Russian forces in harsh conditions.

Despite focusing on immediate challenges, Ukrainian troops are aware of potential changes with Donald Trump’s possible reelection. Trump has criticized U.S. support for Ukraine and praised Putin’s actions, which could alter American involvement in the conflict. However, Kit emphasizes that his priority is defending territory against Russian advances rather than speculating about political shifts.

Russia is intensifying attacks in Kharkiv with powerful bombs and drone swarms while advancing in other areas like Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia. Intelligence reports indicate up to 12,000 North Korean troops have been deployed near Russia’s border with Ukraine to bolster defenses against Ukrainian forces.

The situation highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics affecting Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty amid global political uncertainties. As these factors evolve, Ukrainian soldiers remain focused on their mission despite looming international changes that could impact their struggle significantly.

SUPREME COURT Decision Sparks Fury: Virginia Voter Purge Backed

31 October 2024 — The Supreme Court’s conservative majority upheld Virginia’s voter registration purge on Wednesday. The state argues this action prevents non-citizens from voting. This decision aligns with Virginia’s Republican administration under Governor Glenn Youngkin.

A Virginian affected by the purge criticized it as “a very bad October surprise,” despite living in the state her entire life. The court’s ruling came over the dissent of its three liberal justices, highlighting a clear ideological divide.

The Supreme Court did not provide an explanation for its decision, which is common in emergency appeals. This move underscores ongoing debates about voter registration and election integrity across the nation.

CIA and MI6 Chiefs WARN: Global Threats Looming

08 September 2024 — The heads of the CIA and MI6 have issued a stark warning about global threats. They highlighted the war in Ukraine, sabotage in Europe, and rising tensions with China. “We saw the war in Ukraine coming,” they stated, emphasizing their role in alerting the international community.

They are actively working to disrupt Russia’s sabotage campaigns across Europe and address escalating conflicts like the Israel-Gaza situation. Counterterrorism efforts against ISIS are also a priority. The intelligence chiefs stressed that global stability is under threat like never before since the Cold War.

China’s rise is identified as the main geopolitical challenge of this century, prompting both agencies to reorganize their priorities accordingly. Russian intelligence activities were described as reckless, with recent incidents of sabotage and arson attacks on infrastructure in Europe being attributed to Moscow’s covert operations.;

LABOUR PARTY’S Economic Plan Under Fire: Will It Really Work?

22 July 2024 — Britain’s new Treasury chief, Rachel Reeves, vows to run the economy with “iron discipline.” She hinted at above-inflation pay raises for public sector workers to end ongoing strikes.

The Labour Party, elected two weeks ago, faces pressure to increase salaries and welfare without raising taxes or public borrowing. Reeves criticized the previous Conservative government for high taxes and debt.

Labour won a landslide victory on promises of economic growth, housebuilding, green energy projects, and improved public services. The electorate seeks relief from high living costs and past economic mismanagement.

Inflation has dropped to 2%, but strikes by hospital doctors strain the National Health Service. Other public-sector workers like nurses and teachers have also demanded higher pay through walkouts over the past year.

REFORMIST VICTORY: Iran’s New President Promises Change

06 July 2024 — Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian won Iran’s runoff presidential election, defeating hard-liner Saeed Jalili. Pezeshkian promised to reach out to the West and ease enforcement on the mandatory headscarf law. He secured 16.3 million votes compared to Jalili’s 13.5 million in an election with a 49.6% turnout.

Pezeshkian assured no radical changes to Iran’s Shiite theocracy, acknowledging Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as the final authority. Despite his modest aims, he faces challenges from hard-liners and ongoing geopolitical tensions, including Western concerns over Iran’s uranium enrichment program.

Supporters celebrated in Tehran and other cities as Pezeshkian’s lead grew over Jalili. The heart surgeon and longtime lawmaker addressed journalists at Grand Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s mausoleum, emphasizing his commitment to honesty and fulfilling promises made during his campaign.

Pezeshkian’s victory comes at a delicate time with high tensions in the Mideast and an upcoming U.S. election that could impact relations between Tehran and Washington. His win wasn’t a landslide, indicating he must navigate Iran’s complex internal politics carefully as he lacks experience in high-level security roles.

BRITISH Election Sees NEW Voter ID LAW in Action

04 July 2024 — Polling stations across the UK opened this morning at 7 AM and will close at 10 PM. Ipsos pollsters are gathering exit poll data to provide an early picture of the election results. Detailed seat-specific results will only be available in the early hours of Friday.

British and Irish citizens, along with some Commonwealth immigrants, are eligible to vote if they are over 18. This election marks the first time voters must show legal identification to cast their ballots in person, a measure aimed at reducing voter fraud. The Electoral Commission has approved 22 forms of ID, including passports and driving licenses.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty were seen voting at Kirby Sigston Village Hall today. Reporting on the election is restricted while polling places are open, with broadcasters banned from discussing outcomes or publishing polls until voting ends. Violating these rules can result in imprisonment for news editors.

GLOBAL Elections SHAKE-UP: Major Voter Impact in Coming Days

28 June 2024 — In the coming days, voters in countries like Mauritania, Mongolia, Iran, Britain, and France will head to the polls. These elections could significantly impact global politics amid ongoing conflicts and economic concerns.

Iran faces a critical election following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei seeks a successor among hard-liners Saeed Jalili and Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, and reformist Masoud Pezeshkian.

National elections this year are happening in over 50 countries with significant political changes in India, Mexico, and South Africa. Russia remains unchanged despite global shifts.

LABOUR PARTY’S NEW Promises: Empty Words or Real Change?

16 May 2024 — Labour Party leader Keir Starmer announced key pledges to win over voters in the upcoming U.K. election. His promises focus on economic stability, security, health, and education. Labour aims to regain power after 14 years in opposition.

Starmer’s six promises include restoring economic stability amid high inflation and mortgage rates, establishing a publicly owned green-energy company, and toughening border controls. Labour also plans to cut NHS waiting times, recruit more police officers, and hire thousands of new teachers.

Funding for these initiatives will come from measures like a windfall tax on oil and gas companies and ending tax breaks for private schools. At an event in Essex, Starmer called these pledges “our down-payment on change” that would take a decade to implement.

Since taking over from Jeremy Corbyn in 2020, Starmer has moved Labour toward the political center ground by supporting military aid to Ukraine and committing to balancing the books while addressing antisemitism within the party under Corbyn’s leadership.

SUMMER 2023: RECORD-Breaking Heat Shocks Scientists

14 May 2024 — The summer of 2023 was the hottest in the Northern Hemisphere in over 2,000 years, according to a new study. Weather agencies had already declared it the hottest month, summer, and year on record based on thermometer data.

Scientists used tree rings to calculate temperatures dating back to year 1 AD and found no hotter summer than last year’s. Lead author Jan Esper from Gutenberg Research College confirmed that before industrial emissions, the hottest year was 246 AD.

This period marked the start of medieval history when Roman Emperor Philip the Arab fought along the Danube River. The study highlights significant climate changes linked to human activities like burning fossil fuels.

PLASTIC WARFARE: Nations Clash Over New Global Treaty in Ottawa

29 April 2024 — For the first time, global negotiators are crafting a treaty aimed at ending plastic pollution. This marks a significant shift from mere discussions to actual treaty language. The talks are part of the fourth in a series of five international plastics summits.

The proposal to limit global plastic production is causing friction among nations. Plastic-producing countries and industries, particularly those linked to oil and gas, strongly oppose these limits. Plastics primarily derive from fossil fuels and chemicals, intensifying the debate.

Industry representatives advocate for a treaty that emphasizes plastic recycling and reuse rather than production cuts. Stewart Harris of the International Council of Chemical Associations highlighted the industry’s commitment to cooperate on implementing such measures. Meanwhile, scientists at the summit aim to counteract misinformation by providing evidence on plastic pollution impacts.

The final meeting is set to address unresolved issues around plastic production limits before concluding negotiations on this groundbreaking treaty. As discussions continue, all eyes are on how these contentious points will be resolved in the upcoming final session.

NETANYAHU DEFIES UN Cease-Fire: Vows to Continue Gaza War Amidst Global Tensions

28 March 2024 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has openly criticized a United Nations Security Council resolution for a cease-fire in Gaza. According to Netanyahu, the resolution, which the United States did not veto, has only served to empower Hamas.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas is now in its sixth month. Both parties have consistently rejected cease-fire efforts, escalating tensions between the U.S. and Israel regarding war conduct. Netanyahu maintains that an expanded ground offensive is necessary to dismantle Hamas and free hostages.

Hamas seeks a lasting cease-fire, Israeli forces’ withdrawal from Gaza, and freedom for Palestinian prisoners before releasing hostages. A recent proposal that didn’t meet these demands was dismissed by Hamas. In response, Netanyahu argued that this rejection demonstrates Hamas’ lack of interest in negotiations and underlines the harm inflicted by the Security Council’s decision.

Israel expresses dissatisfaction with the U.S.“s abstention from voting on a Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire — marking it as the first time since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war began. The vote passed unanimously without U.S.”s involvement.

NETANYAHU DEFIES Global Outrage, Sets Sights on Rafah Invasion

16 March 2024 — Despite international outcry, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to press ahead with plans to invade Rafah, a city in the Gaza Strip. This decision comes in the face of protests from the United States and other world powers.

The Israeli Defense Force is slated to lead this operation as part of broader military initiatives in the region. This move will proceed even if there’s a potential cease-fire agreement with Hamas, Netanyahu’s office confirmed on Friday.

Alongside these invasion plans, an Israeli delegation is preparing for a trip to Doha. Their mission? To negotiate for hostage release. But before they can proceed, they need full consensus from the security cabinet.

The announcement has heightened tensions as Palestinians gather for Ramadan prayers at Al-Farouq Mosque ruins in Rafah — a site ravaged by ongoing conflicts between Israel and militant group Hamas.

AUSTRALIAN Activist’s SHOCKING Sentence in China Sparks Global Outrage

05 February 2024 — Yang Hengjun, an Australian pro-democracy activist and former Chinese government worker, faces a surprising sentence in China. Born as Yang Jun in 1965, he served the Chinese government before moving to Australia in 2002. He also spent time as a visiting scholar at Columbia University.

Yang was arrested during a family trip to China in 2019. His arrest happened during the height of the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement and amidst tense relations between Australia and China. The Australian government and human rights groups have consistently condemned his detention, calling him a political prisoner.

The trial has been slammed for its secrecy, with claims of torture and forced confessions emerging. Yang reportedly faced a secret trial on vague espionage charges three years ago. In August 2023, he voiced fears of dying from an untreated kidney cyst while waiting for his verdict

The sentencing has ignited international outrage with Australia condemning it as an “appalling” obstacle to better relations with China. Human Rights Watch Asia Director Elaine Pearson labelled Yang’s treatment as making a mockery of legal proceedings.

TRUMP’S MAGA Wave Sparks Global Conservative Populist Triumphs

08 January 2024 — In a recent interview at Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump stated that his MAGA-Trump movement is driving a global surge of conservative populist victories. He pointed to Argentina’s new president, Javier Milei, as an example. Milei reportedly thanked Trump for laying the groundwork with his policies. The former US president playfully suggested that Milei’s “Make Argentina Great Again” slogan could also be shortened to MAGA.

Trump’s 2016 triumph over Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton was not a singular occurrence. It was preceded by significant wins for conservative populists worldwide, such as the Brexit referendum in the UK and Jimmy Morales’s victory in Guatemala’s presidential race. These successes helped ignite the movement that ultimately led to Trump’s ascendancy.

As we approach 2024, conservative populists are making further strides globally. Italy now boasts Giorgia Meloni as Prime Minister and Geert Wilders’ PVV party leads polls in Netherlands. With these victories and more expected throughout the year, it appears a global sweep for conservative populists is on the cards leading up to Trump’s anticipated rematch with Democrat President Joe Biden.

IRAN’S Ruthless ACT: Woman Forced into Child Marriage Executed Despite Global Pleas

21 December 2023 — Samira Sabzian, an Iranian woman who was compelled into a child marriage and later incarcerated for her husband’s murder, was executed on Wednesday. This event occurred despite fervent pleas from international human rights groups for leniency. The execution was carried out in Ghezelhesar Prison according to reports from the Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO).

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, Director of IHRNGO, referred to Sabzian as a victim of “gender apartheid, child marriage, and domestic violence.” He expressed strong criticism towards the Iranian regime’s management of the case.

Amiry-Moghaddam made it clear that Sabzian had become a target of an “inefficient and corrupt regime’s killing apparatus.” He demanded accountability from Ali Khamenei and other leaders within the Islamic Republic. Sabzian had spent ten years in prison following her arrest for her husband’s murder.

US-CHINA Economic Reset PROPOSED: Will Higher Tariffs Be the New Norm?

12 December 2023 — A bipartisan committee in the House has put forth a proposal for a complete overhaul of US economic ties with China. This includes the suggestion of implementing higher tariffs. The pivotal recommendations were released in an extensive report by the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition Between the United States and Chinese Communist Party, chaired by Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL).

The report posits that since its induction into the World Trade Organization in 2001, Beijing has been engaged in an economic conflict against both the US and its allies. It outlines three key strategies: revamping America’s economic relationship with China, limiting U.S. capital and technological inflow into China, and strengthening U.S. economic resilience with allied support.

One notable recommendation is to shift China to a new tariff column to enforce more robust tariffs. The committee also suggests imposing tariffs on essential semiconductor chips used in everyday devices like phones and cars. This move aims to prevent Chinese domination in this sector from granting Beijing undue control over global economy.

President BIDEN’S RELENTLESS Coughing During Climate Speech Stirs Concerns

15 November 2023 — During his Tuesday speech, President Joe Biden was seized by a persistent cough. He was discussing his administration’s efforts to tackle climate change and marking the anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Biden’s coughing fit disrupted his conversation about the CHIPS and Science Act, a law he ratified last year. This act is designed to establish America as a forerunner in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation — vital for clean energy progression.

The president also relayed insights from his visit to the White House “Demo Day”. Here, he interacted with scientists engaged in projects funded by his administration. However, a recent poll from The Wall Street Journal indicates that two-thirds of Democrats believe Biden, at 80 years old, is too aged to be president.

Should he win reelection, Biden would be 82 at the onset of his second term and 86 at its conclusion. This would render him the oldest individual ever to assume presidency for a second tenure.

LABOUR PARTY Triumphs: Shocking Upset in Special Elections Reshapes UK Political Landscape

21 October 2023 — In a surprising turn of events, Britain’s Labour Party has managed to secure two Parliament seats previously dominated by the Conservatives. This unexpected victory took place in the special elections held in Tamworth and Mid-Bedfordshire, with a significant number of voters switching their loyalty to Labour.

This win strengthens Labour’s standing as the primary challenger for next year’s national election. It also piles pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to rejuvenate his party’s reputation. Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, proclaimed that his party is “redrawing the political map”.

The victories were marked by Sarah Edwards’ success in Tamworth and Alistair Strathern’s triumph in Mid-Bedfordshire, both overcoming substantial Conservative majorities from 2019. However, it should be noted that voter turnout was relatively low at 36% and 44% respectively. Additionally, these elections took place under unique circumstances due to resignations from former lawmakers.

POLIO ERADICATION Stumbles: Key Goals Missed, Global Effort Faces Setbacks

24 September 2023 — The worldwide endeavor to eliminate polio has hit a bump in the road. According to an independent assessment, two critical objectives set for this year are unlikely to be met. The targets were set for 2023 and aimed at stopping the spread of wild polio in Afghanistan and Pakistan — the only two countries where it’s still prevalent. A similar goal was set for a variant called “vaccine-derived” polio causing outbreaks elsewhere.

The Independent Monitoring Board supervising the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), backed by the U.N., declared that neither objective would be reached this year. GPEI agreed with this assessment, pointing out security issues in crucial regions as one of the remaining obstacles. They highlighted that halting vaccine-derived outbreaks will probably take longer than expected.

Despite reducing cases by over 99% since 1988 through mass vaccination drives, total eradication remains a tough nut to crack. Aidan O’Leary, director of polio eradication at the World Health Organization (WHO), maintains that it’s achievable and insists on persisting with efforts. Only seven instances of wild polio have been reported this year — five in Afghanistan and two in Pakistan.

O’Leary anticipates an interruption of transmission by early 2024 — just slightly behind

G20 SUMMIT SHOCKER: Global Leaders Slam Ukraine Invasion, Ignite NEW Biofuels Alliance

16 September 2023 — The second day of the G20 Summit in New Delhi, India, ended with a powerful joint statement. World leaders united to condemn the invasion of Ukraine. Although Russia and China objected, the consensus was reached without explicitly naming Russia.

The declaration read, “We … welcome all relevant and constructive initiatives that support a comprehensive, just, and durable peace in Ukraine.” The statement underscored that no state should use force to breach another’s territorial integrity or political independence.

President Joe Biden renewed his push for the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly received Comoros President Azali Assoumani at the summit. In a landmark move, Biden teamed up with Modi and other world leaders to kickstart the Global Biofuels Alliance.

This alliance aims to secure biofuel supply while ensuring affordability and sustainable production. The White House announced this initiative as part of a shared commitment towards cleaner fuels and achieving global decarbonization goals.

UK Immigration Policy DISCONTENT Soars to RECORD High: Britons Demand Change

13 September 2023 — A recent study conducted by Ipsos and British Future has unveiled a significant rise in public dissatisfaction with the UK government’s immigration policy. The survey reveals that a staggering 66% of Britons are dissatisfied with the current policy, marking the highest level of discontent since 2015. Conversely, a mere 12% expressed satisfaction with how things stand.

The discontent is widespread, cutting through party lines but for varying reasons. Among Conservative voters, only 22% were satisfied with their party’s performance on immigration issues. A majority of 56% expressed dissatisfaction, while an additional 26% were “extremely unhappy”. In contrast, about three-quarters (73%) of Labour supporters disapproved of the government’s handling of immigration.

Labour supporters primarily voiced concerns about creating a “negative or fearful environment for migrants” (46%) and “poor treatment towards asylum-seekers” (45%). On the other hand, an overwhelming majority (82%) of Conservatives criticized the government for its inability to curb illegal Channel crossings. Both parties identified this failure as a top reason for their dissatisfaction.

Despite assurances from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s administration that their policies have made an impact, migrant crossings have seen only slight reduction from last year’s record-setting pace. Over one weekend alone witnessed more than 800 individuals making this dangerous journey

INDIA’S G-20 Summit: A Golden Opportunity for US to Reclaim Global Supremacy

08 September 2023 — India is preparing to host its inaugural G-20 summit in New Delhi on September 9. This important event gathers leaders from the world’s most powerful economies. These nations represent a staggering 85% of the world’s GDP, 75% of all international trade, and two-thirds of the global population.

Elaine Dezenski, a representative from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, views this as a golden chance for America to reclaim its position as a global leader. She stressed the importance of fostering transparency, development and open trade rooted in democratic rules and principles.

Yet, Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine pose a significant challenge likely to cause division among attendees. Western nations supporting Ukraine may find themselves at odds with countries like India that maintain a more neutral stance. Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor, underscored that Russia’s war has inflicted severe social and economic damage on less affluent countries.

Despite unanimous condemnation at last year’s Bali summit declaration over Ukraine’s situation, disagreements persist within the G-20 group.

FUKUSHIMA FALLOUT: Tepco Begins Controversial Release of Radioactive Water into Pacific, Sparks Global Outrage

01 September 2023 — Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) started discharging treated radioactive water from the devastated Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday. The flow began around 1 p.m. local time, with plans to continue the release for 17 days. TEPCO executives assured they would stop the release if any problems arose.

The decision has sparked global protests, including in Japan and South Korea. China issued a harsh statement on Thursday, condemning Japan’s “selfish and irresponsible” actions. Beijing warned of a potential “man-made secondary disaster” if Japan proceeded with the water dumping.

In Tokyo, hundreds of protestors gathered near TEPCO’s headquarters. Despite not being allowed to approach the building, their determined presence was a stark contrast to the tranquility of the nearby Imperial Palace. Their demands included calls to “protect our rights.”

Among the crowd was Terumi Kataoka, a woman in her sixties from Fukushima. She held a banner adorned with fish, her message clear: “No Dumping Radioactive Water into The Ocean.” The demonstration was peaceful, with journalists and a minimal police presence on hand.