Macron is France’s ‘worst’ president. Just ask his old mentor.

The French leader is a narcissist who is in denial of reality, argues Alain Minc. PARIS — There was a time when Alain Minc would sing the praises of French President Emmanuel Macron, comparing him to Napoleon’s generals: an extraordinary being blessed both with talent and luck. Fast-forward eight years and Minc, Macron’s former mentor … Read more

Mississippi Democrats appear to break Republican supermajority in state Senate

Democrats generally fared well in statehouse elections Tuesday. JACKSON, Mississippi — Mississippi Democrats appear to have broken a Republican supermajority in the state Senate, claiming victories in two Republican-held districts that were redrawn after a court ruled they should have greater representation for Black voters. Unofficial county election results show Democrats leading, but vote totals … Read more

Gaza peace plan: First step in a journey of a thousand miles

Former Israeli security service chief thinks the only path to lasting peace involves a two-state solution. Ami Ayalon was one of Israel’s legendary gatekeepers — intelligence chiefs who’ve shouldered the daunting responsibility for the country’s security since the state’s founding, defending it against the odds from hostile Arab neighbors and militant Palestinian groups. And he’s … Read more

Gavin Newsom’s redistricting win puts him on the 2028 launchpad

The campaign handed the governor the chance to counter Trump with California’s Democratic might, building on years of practice. SACRAMENTO, California — Gavin Newsom called his redistricting win and the rest of Tuesday’s Democratic sweep evidence the beleaguered party is “in its ascendancy.” He could have been talking about himself. The California governor’s constituents handed … Read more

Judge orders prosecutors to turn over evidence in case against James Comey

Federal judge concerned that justice department sought to ‘indict first and investigate later’ in case of ex-FBI director A federal judge on Wednesday ordered prosecutors in the criminal case of the former FBI director James Comey to produce a trove of materials from the investigation, saying he was concerned that the justice department’s position had … Read more

UN resolution on international stabilisation force for Gaza could be ready within two weeks

Resolution may be delayed without agreement over the force’s mandate and a timetable for Israeli withdrawal A UN security council resolution mandating the introduction of an international stabilisation force into Gaza is likely to be ready within two weeks, but may be delayed if disputes cannot be resolved over the force’s mandate, including the question … Read more