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Alex Hannaford
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The Independent
Jul 2026
Meet the US citizens moving to Europe to escape Trump’s American nightmare
Americans are leaving the United States in rising numbers, driven by political instability, worsening social conditions, and the impact of Donald Trump’s policies. Many cite concerns over safety, healthcare costs, individualism, and declining quality of life. Portugal has become a popular destination for those seeking community, stability, and better living standards. Experts note a significant increase in citizenship applications abroad and a broader shift toward viewing Europe as a viable place to build a future. Individuals like TJ Malone and Heather Green describe escape from political tension, social divisions, and economic pressures as key motivations for resettling in Europe.
The Independent
May 2026
Trump’s mental decline is alarming – I’m one of the 36 doctors asking for an intervention
Thirty‑six doctors specializing in mental health have called for Donald Trump’s immediate removal from office, citing observable signs of serious medical concern including apparent cognitive decline, extreme fatigue, late‑night posting habits, and episodes of rage. Forensic psychiatrist Bandy X Lee and constitutional lawyer Bruce Fein argue that Trump’s behavior poses grave risks, urging Congress to act under the 25th Amendment. Evidence cited includes public appearances in which Trump struggled to stay awake, confused policy explanations, and increasingly grandiose or delusional social‑media posts. Critics warn that his impaired judgment endangers national and global security, particularly amid escalating conflict with Iran. The medical group contends that failing to intervene is unethical, calling for urgent evaluation and possible involuntary stabilization to determine underlying causes of his decline.
The Independent
May 2026
Kerry Kennedy: I was in the room for the attempt on Trump's life – this is what everyone’s missing
Kerry Kennedy recounts experiencing the attempted shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and connects the trauma to broader concerns about America’s pervasive gun violence. She invokes her family’s history of assassinations and emphasizes the lack of mental‑health resources available to children facing similar trauma nationwide. The article details the scale of gun deaths, the rise in school shootings, and political paralysis on federal gun‑control measures. It contrasts Democratic proposals for background checks and safe‑storage laws with Republican opposition and state‑level expansions of gun rights, highlighting deepening partisan divides as school shootings continue to rise.
The Independent
Jan 2026
Psychiatrists warned about Trump – so is Susie Wiles the one who can rein him in?
Trump’s volatile behavior and the unique influence of White House chief of staff Susie Wiles frame an examination of whether she can moderate his actions in a second term. Wiles, long considered a disciplined and effective political strategist, recently drew attention for candid remarks about Trump’s inner circle but retained his trust. Mental health expert Bandy X Lee argues that Wiles may be one of the few figures capable of restraining Trump’s more destructive tendencies, though exposure to his behavior carries risks. Historical efforts to manage Trump, including by former chief of staff John Kelly, highlight the difficulty of imposing discipline. Despite her loyalty and insight into his personality, Wiles may ultimately be limited to managing fallout rather than altering Trump’s fundamental nature.
The Independent
Jan 2026
The Trump Shadow: Could Donald Jr run in 2028 and keep Trump ‘in power’?
Polls show JD Vance’s early lead as the expected 2028 Republican nominee narrowing as Donald Trump Jr gains support, driven in part by his appeal to libertarian and pro–Second Amendment voters. Trump Jr’s ambiguous statements about running fuel speculation that he could extend his father’s influence even after term limits prevent a third Trump presidency, though constitutional limits bar Trump Sr from serving as vice president. Analysts argue Vance remains the stronger contender due to his broader political positioning, while Trump Jr’s identity remains tied closely to his father. The wider Republican field continues to poll weakly, and Trump’s continued central role within the party underscores its ongoing struggle to define a post-Trump future.
The Independent
Sep 2025
In Maga world Charlie Kirk was a moderate – those vying for his crown could be different
Charlie Kirk’s assassination has created a power vacuum within the MAGA youth movement, raising concerns that more extreme figures may replace him. Kirk’s rise from campus activist to a central force in conservative youth politics is traced alongside the growth of Turning Point USA and its media ecosystem. Analysts argue his appeal stemmed from manufacturing outrage rather than ideological depth, and warn the atmosphere of hostility he helped foster may now accelerate. With Turning Point’s future secured under his widow, attention turns to more radical contenders such as Nick Fuentes and Matt Walsh, whose styles rely heavily on incendiary rhetoric, prompting fears that the space for debate within the movement is narrowing as anger intensifies.
The Independent
Sep 2025
They’re building whites-only towns in the US – could they be on their way here?
White separatist activists Eric Orwoll and Peter Csere are expanding a whites-only community project, Return to the Land, in the Ozarks, drawing on far-right conspiracies and exploiting legal loopholes in the Fair Housing Act. Their movement reflects a resurgence of racist ideologies emboldened during Donald Trump’s administration, which has promoted rhetoric about protecting white heritage and challenged diversity initiatives. Their project parallels historic segregationist practices and aligns with similar efforts abroad, including Simon Birkett’s Woodlander Initiative in the UK, which anti-racism researchers warn mirrors past extremist attempts to establish whites-only enclaves. Demographic conspiracy theories and misinformation amplify these movements despite evidence contradicting claims linking immigration to rising crime. The spread of such narratives signals a growing normalization of exclusionary ideologies in both the US and UK.
The Independent
Feb 2025
Trump says he hasn’t read it, but Project 2025’s dystopian vision is coming true before our eyes
Project 2025’s policy blueprint is increasingly reflected in early actions taken by Donald Trump’s new administration, despite his claims not to have read it. A rapid wave of executive orders has targeted gender identity terminology, immigration, environmental regulation, international agencies, and federal staffing, closely mirroring proposals from The Heritage Foundation’s plan. Trump has empowered allies including Elon Musk, who has moved to exert influence over major federal payment systems and USAID operations. Judicial pushback has begun, including injunctions blocking the administration’s attempt to end birthright citizenship, while unions and protesters challenge efforts to dismantle USAID. Analysts warn that the concentration of executive power envisioned by Project 2025 threatens long‑standing checks and balances, and while some actions could be reversed by future administrations, others—such as undermining international development programs—may cause lasting damage.
The Independent
Jan 2025
Meet Susie Wiles, the ‘ice maiden’ behind Trump’s win - and his new chief of staff
Susie Wiles, a veteran Republican strategist, has been appointed Donald Trump’s White House chief of staff after helping engineer his election victory. Known for her disciplined, pragmatic approach and sharp political instincts, she has played central roles in GOP campaigns for decades, including Trump’s Florida operations and Ron DeSantis’s gubernatorial run before their falling-out. Colleagues describe her as both warm and formidable, combining grandmotherly demeanor with a reputation for strict operational control. Her background, shaped by a strained yet reconciled relationship with her father, broadcaster Pat Summerall, informs a steady, disciplined style seen as balancing Trump’s unpredictability. While personally private and ideologically flexible, Wiles is viewed as one of Trump’s most trusted advisers and a key force behind his campaign strategy and organizational discipline.
The Independent
Aug 2024
Meet the powerful evangelicals who believe Trump is an apostle who will reclaim America for Christ
A growing coalition of leaders within the New Apostolic Reformation seeks to mobilize support for Donald Trump by portraying him as a divinely protected figure capable of advancing a theocratic vision for America. Rooted in dominionist theology and the Seven Mountains mandate, the movement aims to place Christians in control of major societal institutions while opposing abortion, LGBT rights, and liberal governance. Scholars describe the movement’s influence as increasingly significant in Republican politics, particularly through its alignment with initiatives like Project 2025. Revival events and political outreach efforts emphasize rallying voters for Trump, who adherents view as chosen for a spiritual battle over the nation’s future.
The Independent
Jul 2024
What Barack Obama really thinks of Kamala Harris (and why it might explain his silence)
Barack Obama has not yet endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee, prompting speculation due to widespread support from other major party leaders. Analysts suggest his silence reflects strategic caution ahead of the Democratic convention rather than a personal or political rift. Harris’s long-standing relationship with the Obamas, her history of early support for Obama, and her own groundbreaking political career are highlighted. Party insiders dismiss rumors of Michelle Obama being considered for the nomination. Harris is positioned as the candidate aiming to unify Democrats and carry forward historic firsts as she seeks the presidency.
The Independent
Jul 2010
Rocky season in the sun: Vail also offers a range of summer activities
Vail is presented as a quiet and scenic summer destination offering activities such as fly‑fishing, rafting and hiking, supported by experienced local guides. The town’s mountain landscape provides a peaceful setting once the ski season ends, and visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor adventures along with easy access to local dining and accommodations.
The Independent
Mar 2010
Lone Star state hosts galaxy of talent
SXSW in Austin showcased performances from established musicians and emerging acts, with standout sets from Bear in Heaven, Warpaint, Real Estate, V V Brown, and YACHT. Strong audience reactions, industry attention, and energetic performances underscored the festival’s reputation as a launching point for rising talent.
The Independent
Feb 2009
Ten great music venues
Profiles ten notable music venues around the world, outlining their histories, musical significance, notable performers and upcoming events, spanning major arenas, intimate clubs and culturally important performance spaces across multiple continents.