Americas / The Times of India
Billionaire activist Tom Steyer has launched his bid for California governor, aiming to address the state's affordability crisis. Having previously run for president, Steyer, a significant Democratic donor, pledges to lower utility bills, build homes, and make education free. He enters a crowded Democratic field facing Republican challenges, with former frontrunner Katie Porter recently facing scrutiny.
New York City has announced 2025 Gridlock Alert Days, pinpointing peak traffic congestion periods. These dates, coinciding with major events and holiday travel, urge residents to opt for public transport, cycling, or walking. The DOT is promoting greener travel, highlighting new bike infrastructure like the First Avenue Tunnel protected lane to ease citywide delays.
President Trump and football legend Cristiano Ronaldo were captured in a viral White House video captioned Two GOATs. This clip, shared during Ronaldo's attendance at a state dinner, merged Ronaldo's iconic CR7 brand with Trump's 45/47 political shorthand, sparking widespread online discussion and speculation.
US Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard warns that Islamist terrorism, now characterized by online-radicalized lone wolves rather than organized groups, poses the most serious threat. Her approach, shaped by 9/11 and military service, emphasizes confronting ideological dangers. Gabbard advocates for agency reforms to better address this evolving, diffuse threat landscape.
A six-year 'space crime' saga concludes as Summer Worden admits to falsely accusing astronaut Anne McClain of accessing her bank account from the ISS. Worden pleaded guilty to making false statements to investigators, ending years of speculation. McClain, cleared of any wrongdoing, continues her distinguished NASA career.
Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has gifted over 700 million dollars to several historically black colleges and universities. This significant contribution aims to bolster institutions that have historically faced underfunding. The donations are unrestricted, allowing schools to invest in academics, scholarships, and facilities. This move highlights Scott's commitment to addressing economic inequality and racial injustice through her substantial wealth.
Actor Jon Voight has strongly criticized Zohran Mamdani's election as New York City mayor. Voight fears Mamdani will turn the city into a socialist state. He urged Donald Trump to step in to prevent this. Mamdani's win has divided public figures, with some celebrating and others criticizing his policies. His platform focuses on social housing and workers' rights.
Elon Musk reignited a border dispute by sharing a video of U.S. Border Patrol using a forklift to lift Texas-installed razor wire. The clip, originally from September 2024, highlights ongoing tensions between Texas and federal authorities over border enforcement strategies and legal responsibilities.
Michelle Obama's recent comment about societal hair expectations contributing to Black women avoiding swimming has gone viral. She explained that the effort to maintain straightened hair, which can be undone by water, leads some to skip water-based activities. The remark sparked widespread mockery and debate on social media.
Indian elections on June 4, 2024, brought back coalition politics. The BJP did not secure a majority. This has made seat-sharing talks in Bihar challenging. Allies like Nitish Kumar's JD(U) now hold significant power. Smaller allies are testing the alliance's strength. The BJP must balance keeping allies happy with its own interests.

14 C