voting
Postmortems of voting woes, disenfranchisement, and how countries around the world elect government officials.
EXPOSED: Red States' Baby Boom vs. Blue States Against the Womb. AI-Generated.
AI Disclosure: This piece was drafted with the help of certain AI tools for targeted research and statistical data, while every word, angle, and fire was crafted by Ricky Diaz @iamrickydiaz. No shortcuts—just amplified fact-checking for the truth.
By Ricky Diaz3 months ago in The Swamp
Israel-Hamas Ceasefire LIVE Updates: Israel To Present Highest Civilian Honour To Trump For "Tireless Efforts" In Securing Peace Deal
Israel-Hamas Ceasefire LIVE Updates: Israel To Present Highest Civilian Honour To Trump For "Tireless Efforts" In Securing Peace Deal
By GLOBAL NEWS3 months ago in The Swamp
Four killed in mass shooting after Mississippi football game
A mass shooting occurred late Friday night in Leland, Mississippi, following the town's high school homecoming football game, killing four people and injuring at least a dozen others. The incident took place as hundreds of people celebrated the end of the game on Main Street. When gunfire broke out around midnight, the scene quickly descended into chaos. Local officials claim that as people fled for cover and the police and emergency services rushed in to respond, the scene became one of panic and confusion. Four people were pronounced dead at the scene, while several others were transported to nearby hospitals in critical condition, according to authorities. The victims included both teenagers and adults who had attended the game and the community festivities. The attack, according to Mississippi State Senator Derrick Simmons, "shattered a night that was supposed to bring the community together." Police described the aftermath as extremely chaotic, with multiple crime scenes spread across several blocks. In order to protect the area and assist the victims, Leland, Greenville, and the towns nearby collaborated with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation. Authorities have not yet confirmed the theory that multiple shooters were involved, despite the discovery of dozens of shell casings. Witnesses claimed that the shooting started when a fight broke out near a food stand, but authorities have not confirmed this. Social media videos showed people fleeing and screaming, followed by flashing lights and sirens filling the street. John Lee, the mayor of the town, stated that "no community should have to experience this level of tragedy" and that the violence was "senseless and heartbreaking." On Saturday morning, one person of interest, identified as Tylar Jarod Goodloe, aged 18, was taken into custody; however, authorities have not confirmed whether he was directly responsible for the Leland shooting. In order to determine what caused the fatal outbreak of gunfire, investigators are questioning a number of individuals and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses. The attack in Leland was the deadliest of three shootings that occurred on the same night in Mississippi at high school homecoming events. In Heidelberg, two people were killed in a separate shooting near a football field, and in Rolling Fork, two others were wounded during a celebration, with two suspects arrested there. The incidents, which state police believe are unrelated, highlight a growing concern regarding gun violence at community gatherings. Officials in Leland canceled all weekend public events and imposed a temporary curfew following the tragedy. Out of respect for the victims, the local school district also postponed upcoming athletic events. Superintendent Jessie King stated, "This is supposed to be a time of joy for our kids." "Instead, we are praying for those who are still fighting for their lives and we are mourning the young lives lost." Community members gathered on Saturday morning at a local church to hold a prayer vigil. Residents reminisced about the victims while placing photographs, flowers, and candles on the school steps. One parent emphasized the closeness of the small Mississippi Delta town by describing the loss as "an unimaginable nightmare." Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, have joined the investigation to assist in analyzing ballistic evidence and tracking weapons used in the shooting. Officials are also looking into whether any of the firearms were stolen or illegally obtained. Witnesses have been urged by police to come forward and provide any video or information that might assist in locating those responsible. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves released a statement expressing deep sorrow and calling for unity. He stated, "Our hearts are with the Leland families and all those affected by these acts of violence." "We will make certain that justice is done," As authorities continue their investigation, the people of Leland remain in mourning and disbelief. After one of the deadliest shootings in its history, the community, renowned for its close relationships and pride in its small-town status, must now confront the difficult task of healing. For many, the tragedy serves as another painful reminder of how quickly joy can turn to sorrow—and how urgently communities across America are searching for ways to stop the cycle of violence before it strikes again.
By GLOBAL NEWS3 months ago in The Swamp
'Gaza will be rebuilt': Trump expresses optimism over Israel-Hamas ceasefire; will set up a 'board of peace'
Trump says that he is optimistic about the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and that he will set up a "Board of Peace" in Gaza. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced strong optimism about the newly announced Israel-Hamas ceasefire, declaring that Gaza will be rebuilt and that a new era of stability could be on the horizon. Trump announced plans to establish a "Board of Peace" with the intention of facilitating reconstruction and long-term reconciliation in the war-torn region in a statement that drew both attention and controversy. After weeks of escalating violence that left thousands of people dead and much of Gaza in ruins, the announcement was made. The conflict has been temporarily put on hold as a result of the ceasefire, which was mediated through extensive diplomatic negotiations involving Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. For Trump, this truce represents not only a humanitarian milestone but also a potential pathway to restoring his reputation as a dealmaker in global affairs.
By GLOBAL NEWS3 months ago in The Swamp
Israel Approves Trump’s Plan for Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release
Trump's plan for Gaza ceasefire and release of hostages is approved by Israel. The former U.S. has been officially recognized by Israel. The plan that President Donald Trump has proposed for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of Hamas hostages is a significant development in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The plan, which has been in the works for a few weeks, aims to end the bloody fighting that has been going on for months, alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and ensure the return of Israeli hostages who were taken during earlier clashes. Israeli officials say that Trump's proposal was approved by the cabinet after lengthy talks with high-ranking defense and intelligence officials. Multiple stages are said to be included in the plan, with the goals of establishing a long-term ceasefire, rebuilding Gaza's infrastructure, and preparing Israel and the Palestinian Authority for renewed diplomatic engagement. Several regional partners, including Egypt and Qatar, back Trump's initiative, which aims to strike a balance between providing humanitarian aid to Gazan civilians and meeting Israel's security requirements. Under the first stage of the plan, both Israel and Hamas will observe a 30-day ceasefire. During this period, Hamas is expected to release all civilian hostages, including women and children, in exchange for the release of Palestinian detainees held in Israeli prisons. An international coalition led by the United States, with participation from the United Nations and important Arab states, will keep an eye on the ceasefire. Humanitarian aid will also be significantly increased to ensure that the population of Gaza receives food, water, and medical assistance. The second stage focuses on the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from key areas of Gaza, contingent upon verified compliance from Hamas and the cessation of rocket attacks. Additionally, the plan calls for the establishment of a demilitarized buffer zone under international control to avert further conflict. In return, Israel will collaborate with international donors to assist in the reconstruction of Gaza's destroyed infrastructure, including housing projects, schools, and hospitals. Rekindling political dialogue with the goal of establishing a more comprehensive framework for peace between Israel and the Palestinians is an essential part of Trump's plan. Under U.S. mediation, the proposal encourages the resumption of peace talks, which could rekindle discussions about a two-state solution. This new effort appears to have gained traction due to the urgency of ending the bloodshed and stabilizing the region, despite criticism of the Trump administration's handling of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Following the cabinet's approval, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation and referred to the decision as a "necessary step toward restoring security and peace." He emphasized that Israel’s approval was conditional on full implementation of the ceasefire terms and the unconditional release of all Israeli hostages. Trump's "continued commitment to Israel's security and regional peace" was also praised by Netanyahu, who also emphasized Washington's crucial role in brokering the agreement. Reactions to Israel’s approval have been mixed. While some right-wing politicians expressed concern that the plan could encourage Hamas or compromise national security, many Israelis welcomed the possibility of peace and the return of hostages. In Gaza, local leaders and civilians cautiously expressed hope that the ceasefire could finally bring relief after months of devastating airstrikes and shortages. However, skepticism remains about whether the agreement can hold amid deep mistrust between both sides.
By GLOBAL NEWS3 months ago in The Swamp
Gold Will Hit $4,400 by Q2 2026, So Any Correction Is a Buying Opportunity – TDS’ Bart Melek
Bart Melek of TDS says that since gold will reach $4,400 in the second quarter of 2026, any correction is a good time to buy. Gold prices are projected to surge to around $4,400 an ounce by the second quarter of 2026, according to Bart Melek, Head of Commodity Strategy at TD Securities. Investors are anticipating a prolonged period of global economic uncertainty, persistent inflationary pressures, and a structural shift in central bank policy toward greater gold accumulation as a result of his bullish forecast. Melek is of the opinion that investors should view any short-term price corrections in gold as opportunities to increase their positions rather than reasons to sell. Several macroeconomic and geopolitical factors continue to support gold's long-term strength, which is the foundation of Melek's optimism. He argues that the days of low inflation and loose monetary policy are over, and even if global central banks keep interest rates higher for a while, real yields will probably stay negative once inflation is taken into account. Melek stated, "Gold thrives in environments where real yields are suppressed." "Investors will gravitate toward gold even if nominal rates remain elevated because inflation expectations will negate much of the yield advantage of traditional assets." Central bank demand is one of the most significant factors that influence Melek's forecast. As a hedge against geopolitical risk and the reliance on the US dollar, emerging economies, particularly China, India, and Russia, have steadily increased their gold reserves over the past few years. The World Gold Council says that central banks have been buying gold at record levels, and official sector demand is expected to be at its highest level in over 50 years in 2024. According to Melek, "as the global monetary order becomes increasingly multipolar, gold will serve as a neutral reserve asset, boosting its long-term value," he anticipates that this pattern will continue. Melek also cited the ongoing instability in geopolitics as an important support factor. Gold's role as a safe-haven asset has been strengthened by conflicts in the Middle East, heightened tensions between the United States and China, and uncertainty regarding global trade policies. Investors turn to gold for protection whenever the geopolitical landscape becomes unpredictable, he stated. "The recent events have demonstrated that such volatility is structural rather than temporary," Melek also said that the move to a lower-carbon economy and the ongoing fiscal expansion in advanced economies will make inflationary pressures worse, which could be good for gold. Green infrastructure, defense, and social programs are getting more money from governments all over the world, often by running huge deficits. Melek stated, "Fiscal policy is not going to tighten anytime soon." "That means there is more growth in the money supply, more risk of inflation, and more demand for real assets like gold." Melek is of the opinion that there is still a significant amount of upside ahead for gold, despite the fact that it has already experienced significant gains through the year 2025. Supported by safe-haven purchases and accumulation by the central bank, the metal has traded above $2,500 for much of the year. However, a strong U.S. dollar and rising bond yields have been cited as potential barriers to further gains by some analysts. Melek disagrees, claiming that rather than a reversal of the long-term uptrend, any pullback brought on by short-term profit-taking or technical corrections would be "a healthy reset." He emphasized that such corrections should be viewed as opportunities to enter or expand positions by long-term investors. He stated, "Smart money should take advantage of gold falling below $2,400 or even $2,200." "It is impossible to ignore the fundamental drivers—monetary policy, inflation, and central bank buying." One of the most bullish projections among major investment banks is Melek's $4,400 gold target for the second quarter of 2026, which is nearly double the current level. Although most analysts continue to be more conservative than TD Securities, analysts at Goldman Sachs and UBS have also raised their medium-term gold forecasts. Market strategists are increasingly agreeing that gold's next major cycle could last well into the second half of the decade, despite differing timing opinions. A sustained bull market appears to be being set up by geopolitical fragmentation, structural inflation, and a shifting global financial order. Melek concluded by saying, “Gold’s long-term story remains intact. Gold will continue to shine as investors seek stability and the world becomes more uncertain. Over the next 18 months, we anticipate steady price increases, with any corrections serving as excellent buying opportunities for those with patience and foresight. Gold could enter a new era of record valuations if Melek's prediction is correct, reaffirming the metal's status as the ultimate store of value in times of change and reshaping investment strategies worldwide.
By GLOBAL NEWS3 months ago in The Swamp
Tesla Launches Cheaper Versions of Model Y and Model 3 to Regain Market Share
To regain market share, Tesla introduces cheaper Model Y and Model 3 models. Tesla has introduced more affordable versions of its popular Model Y and Model 3 electric vehicles in an attempt to recover lost market share during what has been a challenging year for the company. Tesla is able to offer lower entry prices for potential customers because the new trims, which are referred to as the "standard" versions, are priced strategically lower than their original base models and come with fewer features. The Model 3 Standard starts at $36,990, while the newly released Model Y Standard now costs around $39,990. These prices are before any state or local incentives, which can further reduce the final cost for consumers. In some states, rebates bring the Model 3’s cost below $35,000, making it one of the more affordable long-range EVs currently available on the market.
By GLOBAL NEWS3 months ago in The Swamp
'We were treated like animals', deported Gaza flotilla activists say
Following their detention by Israeli authorities, activists from the Gaza flotilla claimed that they were "treated like animals" during their capture and deportation. The Global Sumud Flotilla, which was made up of activists from all over the world, was sailing toward Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid when it was stopped by Israeli naval forces in what the participants claim to be international waters. Before Israel began deporting people, over 400 people, including citizens of multiple nations, were held in detention. After being expelled, many of the deported activists arrived in Istanbul and shared stories of humiliation, intimidation, and violence. They alleged that Israeli forces used excessive force during the raid, deploying armed troops and water cannons to stop the flotilla. They claimed that while they were detained, they were subjected to verbal and physical abuse, were kept in harsh conditions, and were deprived of sleep, food, and water. Some activists claimed they were forced to kneel for hours, faced insults, and were struck when they tried to move. Others said that at detention centers, lights were kept on throughout the night and guards would enter rooms shouting and banging on doors to prevent rest.
By GLOBAL NEWS3 months ago in The Swamp
World Reacts to Hamas’s Response to Trump’s Gaza Plan
# World Reacts to Hamas’s Response to Trump’s Gaza Plan The international community has been closely watching the unfolding dynamics in the Middle East following Hamas’s sharp response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly outlined plan for Gaza. The idea, presented as part of a larger plan to bring stability to the region, has sparked strong reactions on multiple fronts, including condemnation, cautious support, and a lot of discussion about its viability and how it will affect relations between Israel and Palestine in the future. Trump’s Gaza plan, unveiled with significant fanfare, centers on a blend of reconstruction, demilitarization, and strict oversight. It calls for major international investment in rebuilding Gaza’s war-torn infrastructure, promises humanitarian aid, and proposes security guarantees for Israel. In exchange, Hamas would be required to disarm, renounce violence, and allow a transitional governing body under international supervision to administer the territory until elections could be held. The plan, according to Trump, offers Palestinians “a pathway to peace and prosperity” while ensuring Israel’s security interests remain paramount.
By GLOBAL NEWS3 months ago in The Swamp
Beyond Ukraine: Four Shocking Ways Europe's Security Crisis Just Hit Home
For many, the war in Ukraine has remained a brutal but distant conflict—a crisis contained within its borders. But in recent weeks, that perception has been shattered. The sudden appearance of mysterious drones over Denmark, forcing civilian airports to shut down and grounding tens of thousands of travellers, brought a chilling new reality into sharp focus. The front line is no longer somewhere else; it is here.
By The INFORMER3 months ago in The Swamp
On the Brink:
A convergence of large-scale campaigns, risky military probes, growing authoritarian brinkmanship and eroding diplomatic backstops has created a volatile global landscape — and several flashpoints could cascade into a far larger war.
By The Blacksheepkid Collective by: El Pablo 1x4 months ago in The Swamp
Western Powers Shift Gears: Canada, UK, Australia & Portugal Recognize State of Palestine Ahead of UN Assembly
On September 21, 2025, the world witnessed a diplomatic pivot. Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Portugal formally recognized the State of Palestine—just as the United Nations General Assembly session was about to get underway in New York. The startling announcements, made by Prime Ministers Mark Carney (Canada), Keir Starmer (UK), Anthony Albanese (Australia), and Portugal’s Foreign Minister João Gomes Cravinho, marked a significant shift in foreign policy from long-standing allies of Israel. The message was clear: the international community’s patience is being tested, and a new course is being demanded.
By Waqar Khan4 months ago in The Swamp
