Selling the left’s message in the digital age is an art – Ireland’s new president mastered it | Una Mullally

In the Netherlands, the centrist liberal party D66, led by Rob Jetten, is in a tight race with populist leader Geert Wilders as election results come in. With most votes counted, the outcome remains uncertain, highlighting the competitive political landscape in the country. This election is significant as it reflects the ongoing tensions between traditional parties and rising populist movements, which could shape future policies and governance.

Donald Trump's recent tour of Asia has sparked interest due to his focus on rare earth minerals. These minerals are crucial for various technologies and industries, making them a strategic asset for the U.S. economy. By striking deals in this sector, Trump aims to bolster American competitiveness and reduce reliance on foreign sources, which is a significant concern for national security.

Geert Wilders and his far-right party's two-year governance experiment in the Netherlands has ended in disappointment, raising critical questions about the viability of populist leadership in Europe. While Wilders convinced many voters that his party could effectively run the country, the reality has shown significant limitations in delivering on radical promises. This situation serves as a cautionary tale for other European nations considering similar political paths, highlighting the challenges and potential pitfalls of populism in governance.

Mary McGee, who passed away recently, played a pivotal role in changing Ireland's laws on contraception. In 1972, she and her husband Seamus challenged the government's ban by taking a landmark legal case after customs seized her contraceptives. This brave act sparked a social revolution, leading to the eventual legalization of contraceptives in Ireland. Her legacy is significant as it not only impacted reproductive rights but also inspired many to advocate for social change.

Brazil's president expressed horror as the death toll from a recent police raid in Rio de Janeiro has risen to at least 115 gang suspects and 4 police officers. This military-style operation has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about police violence and the ongoing struggle against organized crime in the country. The high casualty figures highlight the urgent need for reform in law enforcement practices and a more humane approach to tackling crime.

The Dutch election is shaping up to be a nail-biter as anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders sees his hopes of power diminish compared to his previous victory in November 2023. This shift is significant as it reflects changing voter sentiments and the complexities of the political landscape in the Netherlands, highlighting the challenges faced by populist movements in gaining sustained support.

In a crucial national election in the Netherlands, exit polls indicate that the centrist D66 party is narrowly leading over the far-right party of Geert Wilders. This election is significant as it could signal a shift away from the rising tide of anti-immigration populism that has characterized recent politics in the country. Wilders expressed disappointment with the results, highlighting the ongoing tension between centrist and far-right ideologies in Dutch society.

Ireland's rugby team is gearing up for the Autumn Nations Series with the return of head coach Farrell, who recently led the team on a successful Lions tour. This comeback is crucial as the team faces pressure to demonstrate that their peak performance is still ahead of them. The series promises to be intense, with teams needing to quickly adapt to the high stakes and fast-paced environment. Fans are excited to see how Ireland will rise to the challenge and prove their worth on the international stage.

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.

In a significant move, King Charles has stripped Prince Andrew of his royal title, a decision influenced by Andrew's controversial friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and new revelations regarding longstanding abuse allegations. This action underscores the monarchy's commitment to accountability and reflects the ongoing scrutiny of royal conduct, marking a pivotal moment in the royal family's efforts to distance itself from past scandals.

In a troubling incident, ICE agents were involved in a shooting during a vehicle stop in Ontario, California, marking the second such event in just a week. This comes as the Trump administration intensifies its deportation efforts across the U.S. The involvement of federal agents in such violent encounters raises serious concerns about the methods used in immigration enforcement and the safety of communities. As investigations unfold, the implications for both policy and public trust in law enforcement are significant.

The Quebec government has passed a controversial secularism bill that mandates students to uncover their faces in schools. This law aims to reinforce secular values but has sparked significant debate about personal freedoms and cultural expression. Critics argue that it infringes on individual rights, particularly for those who wear face coverings for religious or personal reasons, highlighting the ongoing tension between secularism and multiculturalism in the province.

Australia has made a significant step forward with the passage of its first Indigenous treaty in the Victorian parliament, which passed with a vote of 21 to 16. This historic legislation is crucial as it acknowledges the rights and voices of Indigenous Australians, paving the way for better relations and reparations. As MPs from the Coalition gather to discuss the contentious net zero policy, this treaty represents a moment of progress in addressing historical injustices and fostering reconciliation.

The Times of London recently issued an apology after mistakenly identifying former New York City mayor Bill de Blasio as a wine importer with a similar name. This blunder led to the deletion of an article discussing de Blasio's views on Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani. The ex-mayor distanced himself from the erroneous story, while the wine importer clarified that he never intended to mislead the publication. This incident highlights the importance of thorough fact-checking in journalism.