Global Leaders Face Backlash and Challenges

Images of President Donald Trump appearing to close his eyes during an Oval Office event have sparked criticism on social media, with his opponents questioning his on-the-job performance. The event was an announcement about cutting prices for popular weight-loss drugs. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers defended Trump, stating that he was not sleeping and was actively speaking and taking questions from the press. The incident has reignited concerns about Trump's health, which have persisted since he took office as the oldest man ever inaugurated to the job.

The article discusses the potential consequences of Republican lawmakers' efforts to punish New York City for electing socialist radical Zohran Mamdani as mayor. The GOP plan, led by Representative Buddy Carter, involves cutting federal funds to the city, which could harm not only Mamdani's supporters but also the broader population. The article argues that this move could backfire, making Mamdani a martyr and boosting his popularity. It also suggests that the plan could damage the electoral prospects of Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, who is running against Governor Kathy Hochul next year. The article highlights the potential for the issue to become a rallying point for Democrats and a liability for Republicans, particularly in the context of growing discontent over rising prices and the economy.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey is facing backlash from conservatives for giving a victory speech in Somali after winning his third term as mayor. Frey thanked the Somali community and listed various Somalian regions, saying Minneapolis is a place where Somalis can seek prosperity and raise their families. Conservative influencers and pundits criticized Frey for pandering to the Somali community and not speaking English in an official capacity. Frey had previously faced criticism for releasing a campaign ad in Somali.

The article discusses the implications of Zohran Mamdani's election as New York City's mayor, given his perceived socialist or 'Leninist' policies. It highlights the potential financial challenges he may face due to the city's existing financial rules and infrastructure put in place after the 1970s fiscal crisis. The article suggests that despite Mamdani's ambitious plans for free services and welfare, the city's financial laws, such as the Financial Emergency Act of 1975, will limit his ability to implement radical changes. It warns of potential budget gaps, the need for tax increases, and the risk of bond downgrades and taxpayer flight.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's coalition government is facing significant challenges just six months into office, including infighting, policy deadlock, and declining poll ratings. The government's struggles have emboldened the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which is now neck-and-neck with Merz's centre-right CDU/CSU bloc in the polls. Merz's tough rhetoric on immigration has alienated some of his coalition partners, the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD), and has been criticized for focusing on migration rather than the economy. The government's difficulties are likely to continue ahead of five regional elections in 2026, with some predicting that the coalition may collapse.