Two found dead in flooded basements as New York hit by rainstorm

Zohran Mamdani's rise as a frontrunner in the New York mayoral election is capturing attention with his bold campaign promises, including a rent freeze, free buses, and universal healthcare. His radical proposals are not only resonating with voters but also prompting discussions about the future direction of the Democratic Party in the U.S. Political experts like Lindsey Cormack are weighing in on whether other Democrats should adopt similar strategies, making Mamdani's campaign a potential blueprint for progressive politics.

Zohran Mamdani is making waves in the New York mayoral race with his bold campaign promises, including a rent freeze, free buses, and universal healthcare. His rise as a frontrunner has sparked discussions about whether his approach could serve as a model for Democrats across the U.S. This matters because it highlights a potential shift in political strategy that could resonate with voters seeking progressive change.

New York has declared a state of emergency to allocate $65 million to food banks, a crucial move as the government shutdown threatens SNAP benefits. This decision is significant as it aims to ensure that vulnerable populations continue to receive essential food assistance during a time of uncertainty. Oregon and Virginia have also taken similar steps, highlighting a growing concern for food security across the nation.

As the government shutdown looms, widespread uncertainty surrounds US food aid programs, with New York declaring a state of emergency to support residents facing the loss of benefits. This situation is critical as many rely on these programs for their daily sustenance, and the impending lapse could lead to increased food insecurity. Local officials are working tirelessly to find solutions, but the urgency of the matter highlights the broader implications of government funding and support for vulnerable populations.

A recent mix-up by The Times, which mistakenly interviewed a wine importer instead of former NYC mayor Bill de Blasio, highlights the importance of accuracy in journalism. This incident serves as a reminder of the potential pitfalls in reporting, especially when covering prominent figures like de Blasio, who has been vocal about his support for various causes. Such errors can undermine public trust in media outlets and emphasize the need for thorough fact-checking.

Zohran Mamdani's supporters are making a final push in his campaign, highlighting his success in New York and its resonance across the country and even globally. This moment is crucial as the last days of the race could significantly impact the movement he represents, making it a pivotal time for both his supporters and the broader community.

Two Russian mobsters, Rafat Amirov and Polad Omarov, have been sentenced to 25 years in prison for their plot to assassinate Iranian dissident Masih Alinejad at her home in New York. This conviction is significant as it highlights the serious threats faced by dissidents and the lengths to which foreign actors may go to silence them. The case underscores the importance of protecting individuals who speak out against oppressive regimes, and it sends a strong message about the consequences of such criminal activities.

The recent victory of Zohran Mamdani in New York's mayoral race has raised significant concerns among Europeans, particularly regarding the implications for Jewish communities and the potential rise of totalitarian ideologies globally. This situation matters because it reflects broader anxieties about political shifts and their impact on societal values, highlighting the interconnectedness of local elections and international stability.

Paula Dewar and her family have been delighting their Cumbernauld neighborhood with elaborate Halloween decorations for years. However, this year, their spooky setup has raised concerns after a health and safety complaint was lodged with the local council. While the decorations bring joy to many, the council's response highlights the balance between festive fun and safety regulations, reminding us that community spirit can sometimes clash with official guidelines.

Mikel Arteta has raised concerns that clubs may withdraw from cup competitions due to increasing fixture congestion. This situation is significant as it highlights the challenges teams face in balancing their schedules, especially with the busy football calendar. The implications could affect not only the clubs' performance but also the excitement and integrity of the competitions themselves.

The community is mourning the loss of 14-year-old Leon Arundel, who tragically died following a serious crash in Carmarthen. This heartbreaking incident highlights the dangers of road safety and the profound impact such tragedies have on families and communities. Leon's untimely passing serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance on the roads.

Michael Webber, a former British army sergeant major, has been sentenced to six months in prison for the sexual assault of Jaysley Beck, a young soldier who tragically took her own life. This case highlights serious failures within the military's handling of such incidents, as senior officers did not properly investigate the assault. The implications of this case are profound, raising questions about the safety and mental health support for soldiers, particularly women, in the armed forces.

President Trump is pushing to eliminate the filibuster in a bid to resolve the ongoing government shutdown, which is impacting food assistance for 42 million Americans through the SNAP program. The agriculture secretary has stated that finding alternative funding is legally impossible, complicating efforts to provide immediate relief. This situation highlights the urgent need for legislative action to support those affected by the shutdown, as many are facing uncertainty regarding their access to essential resources.

Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are facing accusations of staging a public relations stunt after they announced the arrest of several fighters linked to recent civilian killings in El Fasher. This move comes amid rising global outrage over reports of indiscriminate violence and ethnic targeting in the region. Critics argue that the RSF's actions are an attempt to deflect attention from their role in the ongoing chaos and brutality, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and justice in Sudan.