Here's a quick look at some of the top political stories making headlines this week.
Cuomo Announces NYC Mayoral Run
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has officially thrown his hat into the ring for New York City mayor. Cuomo announced his candidacy via a video posted on his X account, reigniting speculation about a political comeback after his departure from office in 2021. It remains to be seen how voters will react to Cuomo's re-emergence on the political scene, given his history.
“I’m ready to lead New York City forward,” Cuomo stated in his announcement. The mayoral race is expected to be closely watched, with several other candidates already vying for the position.
Barnard Student Speaks Out After Protest
Following a pro-Palestine protest that turned violent, Barnard College student Shoshana Aufzien is demanding action from the school administration. Aufzien criticized what she called the school's "pathetic" response and is urging administrators to take proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. "The university needs to prioritize the safety of its students," Aufzien stated in an interview.
Favre Weighs In on Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting
NFL legend Brett Favre has sparked controversy after commenting on a meeting between President Trump and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy. Favre described the interaction as "unreal" and defended Trump, igniting a heated online debate. His comments have drawn both support and criticism, highlighting the continued polarization surrounding political discussions.
Taiwan's Military Faces Recruitment Challenges
Taiwan is grappling with declining numbers in its volunteer military, raising concerns amid growing Chinese aggression. The island nation is exploring various strategies to boost troop strength, including a controversial proposal to enlist migrants into the armed forces. This move has been met with mixed reactions, with some seeing it as a necessary step to bolster defenses, while others raise concerns about the integration and training of foreign recruits.
Trump Reverses Biden-Era Counterterrorism Policy
President Trump has rescinded a Biden-era policy that required high-level approval for certain drone strikes and commando raids outside of conventional war zones. This move reverts to a more permissive system, giving commanders greater latitude in authorizing counterterrorism operations. Critics argue that this change could lead to increased civilian casualties and a lack of accountability, while supporters claim it will enhance the effectiveness of counterterrorism efforts.
This policy shift marks a significant departure from the previous administration's approach and is expected to have far-reaching implications for U.S. foreign policy and national security.