As Somaliland gears up for its presidential elections scheduled for November 13, 2024, over one million registered voters will head to the polls to determine their leader for the next five years. With incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi representing the ruling Peace, Unity, and Development Party (KULMIYE), he faces competition from Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known as “Irro” of the Waddani party, and Faisal Ali Warabe of the Justice and Development Party (UCID).

Candidates and Their Promises

In interviews, all three candidates have committed to strengthening Somaliland’s democracy, promoting economic development, and pushing for international recognition—something Somaliland has sought for 33 years without success.

President Muse Bihi Abdi, who has served since 2017, has highlighted the potential progress on a maritime deal signed with Ethiopia earlier this year. “Somaliland is ready to implement the MOU [Memorandum of Understanding], and we are awaiting Ethiopia so we can move forward,” he stated. He emphasized that this agreement serves both Somaliland’s need for recognition and Ethiopia’s need for access to the sea.

Irro, who previously served as Speaker of the House of Representatives for over 11 years, indicated his intention to resume talks with Somalia regarding Somaliland’s statehood aspirations. “If elected, I will resume the talks if the Somaliland interest lies there,” he remarked, acknowledging the pressure from the international community to engage in dialogue despite the longstanding goal of gaining recognition.

Faisal Ali Warabe proposed establishing a national unity government to achieve recognition for Somaliland. “If elected, I will lead Somaliland to recognition and a more prosperous road,” Warabe asserted.

Regional Tensions

The upcoming election occurs during a period of heightened tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, primarily revolving around the recent Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement allows Ethiopia access to a 50-year lease of 20 kilometers of the Red Sea coastline, a deal that Somalia views as a direct threat to its sovereignty.

The signing of this agreement in January 2024 led to significant backlash in Mogadishu, prompting Somalia to expel Ethiopian diplomats and close Ethiopian consulates in the region. Despite the response, Ethiopian officials maintain the deal does not encroach on Somalia’s territorial integrity.

Additionally, previous rounds of talks mediated by Turkey in July and August 2024 have failed to resolve the dispute, with Somalia insisting on Ethiopia’s withdrawal from the agreement and Ethiopia maintaining its position.

Looking Ahead

Somaliland’s last presidential elections in 2017 faced significant delays, attributed to technical and financial constraints, sparking criticism from opposition parties. This electoral process will be crucial for Somaliland’s political future, especially in light of the ongoing regional tensions and its quest for international recognition.

As the elections approach, the Somaliland National Electoral Commission has emphasized its commitment to a transparent and fair electoral process. The outcome will not only affect the political landscape within Somaliland but could also have broader implications for the region’s diplomatic relations and stability. Voters will decide if they wish to continue under Bihi’s leadership or if they will embrace a new direction offered by Irro or Warabe.

Democratic National Committee (DNC) official Lindy Li has called her campaign a “$1 billion disaster.” Li, a member of the DNC National Finance Committee, voiced her frustrations during an appearance on Fox & Friends Weekend on Saturday, describing the failed bid as not only costly but also burdened by unmet promises and strategic missteps.

“The truth is this is just an epic disaster, a $1 billion disaster,” Li said, adding that the campaign is reportedly grappling with between $18 million and $20 million in debt. “I raised millions of that. I have friends I have to be accountable to and explain what happened because I told them it was a margin-of-error race.”

Li specifically took aim at campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon, saying Dillon had assured donors and strategists that Harris was positioned for victory. “She even put videos out saying Harris would win,” Li said. “I believed her, my donors believed her, and so they wrote massive checks. I just feel like a lot of us were misled.”

The discontent following Harris’s loss, especially among high-profile DNC members, has exposed a rift within the Democratic Party over its electoral strategy. Some party members argue the campaign failed to resonate with progressive voters, while centrists contend that Harris leaned too far left, alienating moderate swing voters in key states. In the end, Harris lost all seven battleground states, cementing President-elect Trump’s victory and prompting an urgent reassessment within the Democratic camp.

Party Divisions Over Strategy

The aftermath of the election has revealed deeper ideological divides within the Democratic Party. Some factions argue the campaign didn’t push far enough to the left to energize the party’s progressive base, while others believe the Democratic platform veered too far left, potentially alienating moderates and undecided voters in critical swing states.

Li noted that, even on election night, there was a sense of confidence within the campaign that she struggled to understand. “I asked them, ‘Are you privy to internal numbers that I am not seeing?’ because I study this so carefully, and I just wasn’t seeing any basis for that level of confidence.”

Calls for Reflection and Strategic Realignment

The post-mortem on Harris’s campaign has led to calls from within the party to revisit its messaging and voter outreach strategies, particularly after failing to secure the support of crucial voting blocs in competitive states. Some Democrats are now urging the party to conduct a comprehensive analysis of its messaging, assess the public’s priorities more accurately, and strengthen its connection with voters.

As Democrats look toward the next electoral cycle, the party’s approach to addressing these concerns could be key to rebuilding its base and regaining voter confidence in the coming years.

Former President Donald Trump captured the presidency again, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris by winning several crucial battleground states and securing an unusual breadth of support across demographics. Despite polling that indicated a close contest, Trump’s campaign strategy proved effective in galvanizing a broad coalition, drawing in constituencies that historically lean Democratic, including young Black men, Latino men, and younger voters.

A Broad-Based Appeal

According to an analysis by The Associated Press, Trump’s coalition included voters from a wide array of backgrounds: union and non-union workers, Black, Hispanic, Asian, Arab, and Muslim Americans. His success with diverse communities underscored his campaign’s ability to appeal beyond his traditional base. “They came from all corners,” Trump declared after his victory, asserting that his support spanned a larger portion of the electorate than in his previous campaigns. The former president is now on the verge of becoming the first Republican presidential candidate in two decades to win the popular vote.

Trump’s legal controversies—34 felony charges related to falsifying business records and a federal jury’s finding that he was liable for sexually abusing and defaming former columnist E. Jean Carroll—did not seem to deter voters. Political scientist Samuel Abrams of Sarah Lawrence College noted that some candidates seem “Teflon-covered,” with negative coverage failing to reduce their appeal. In Trump’s case, his perceived connection with voters’ economic frustrations outweighed public disapproval tied to his legal battles.

The Power of Populist Messaging

Central to Trump’s strategy was a “America First” message aimed directly at voters’ economic struggles. “I understand your struggle,” he would say, resonating with an electorate feeling the sting of inflation, high gas prices, and a generally uncertain economic outlook. Abrams noted that Trump’s rhetoric often distills complex issues into promises of economic relief, a tactic that connects with voters feeling financially squeezed.

Trump’s campaign was agile in its use of social media and alternative platforms to reach younger audiences, particularly targeting young men. His appearance on the widely popular “Joe Rogan Experience” podcast, which drew nearly 47 million views on YouTube, exemplified his strategy of reaching voters outside traditional political media.

Arizona State University’s Thom Reilly highlighted how this approach filled a void left by more conventional campaigns. “They targeted young men. They targeted those that didn’t vote. They targeted individuals who struggled under inflation,” Reilly said, adding that this approach attracted voters who previously felt disconnected from the political process.

Kamala Harris’ Uphill Battle

Harris faced significant challenges, particularly due to her compressed campaign timeline. After President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the race in July, Harris had roughly 100 days to establish a distinct platform, a timeframe that hampered her ability to build a robust strategy. Reilly observed that Harris struggled to differentiate herself from Biden, particularly on economic issues, while also failing to consolidate a clear stance on pivotal matters like immigration and economic policy.

Her close association with the Biden administration, which faced scrutiny over its economic record, likely hindered her campaign. “It was clear that the American public wanted change,” Reilly noted. For many voters, Harris represented a continuation of Biden-era policies, especially on economic management, which remained unpopular with significant parts of the electorate.

Another factor that hampered Harris’s campaign was her lack of exposure to primary battles, as Biden withdrew after the primary season had ended. “It was an enormous mistake to have not put her through that test of fire,” Abrams argued. Primaries serve as a proving ground for candidates, helping to reveal weaknesses and test resilience. Harris’s inability to face her competitors head-on in primary contests may have left her ill-prepared for the general election’s intensity.

The Economy Takes Center Stage

Many analysts believe Harris miscalculated by focusing on issues like abortion rights, which resonate with certain voter groups but don’t reach as wide an audience as economic concerns. Republican strategist Jason Cabel Roe argued that abortion, while polarizing, doesn’t directly affect as many voters as issues like inflation and wage stagnation. Roe noted, “All voters have to deal with inflation, gas prices, home energy prices, less take-home pay,” a sentiment echoed by voters in exit polls where economic issues ranked as the top concern.

While some speculated that Harris’s identity as a woman of color may have impacted her campaign, Abrams contended that Trump’s appeal transcended demographic differences, with his economic messaging ultimately resonating more strongly. “I don’t think this really had to do with race and ethnicity or gender at all this time around,” he said. Instead, Trump’s message appeared to cut across identity lines, reaching people who felt left behind or unsupported in the current economy.

Moving Forward

As Trump prepares to take office, his victory raises questions about the durability of traditional political coalitions. By drawing significant support from demographic groups that have historically leaned Democratic, Trump has demonstrated the potential of populist economic messaging to shift voter allegiances. The results suggest a recalibration in American politics, one where issues of financial security and individual well-being can outstrip longstanding partisan loyalties.

Trump’s administration will face the challenge of delivering on his promises in a politically fractured country, with critics ready to scrutinize his next steps. For Harris and the Democratic Party, the defeat signals a need to rethink strategies for addressing the economic and social concerns that cut across the American electorate. The outcome underscores the urgency of responsive governance in an era where voter sentiments are increasingly shaped by economic uncertainty and frustration with established political institutions.

The night Donald Trump secured a second term as president of the United States, a distinct group of voices — often associated with the so-called “heterodoxy” — erupted in celebration. These male podcasters, influencers, and personalities, many with sizable followings among young men, have long marketed themselves as free-thinking, anti-establishment figures, evading traditional political labels. But as Trump’s re-election became a reality in the early hours of Wednesday, they openly embraced the hyper-masculine vision that he championed.

This group — which includes notable figures like Joe Rogan, Elon Musk, Jordan Peterson, and controversial YouTube influencers like Sneako — has built an influential platform on masculinity, defiance of political correctness, and skepticism toward liberal social policies. As Trump’s victory unfolded, they not only endorsed it, but celebrated it with the fervor of newfound ideological certainty. Where once they might have shied away from publicly committing to Trump, they now reveled in his win, proudly aligning themselves with his populist, anti-woke rhetoric.

Joe Rogan’s Endorsement of Trump: A Pivot to the Right

Perhaps one of the most high-profile figures in this shifting landscape is Joe Rogan. Once a Bernie Sanders supporter and later a vocal libertarian, Rogan’s transition to backing Trump is a key example of the “heterodox” turn toward the right. His podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, boasts an 81% male audience, many of whom echo Rogan’s evolving political leanings. Rogan’s embrace of Trump came after a series of interviews, including one with Elon Musk, who has become a central figure in this new political alignment.

On election night, Rogan’s reaction to Trump’s projected victory was a visceral expression of approval: a brief, unrestrained exclamation of “holy shit” as he watched Trump’s election party. In a post-election video, he attributed his shift toward Trump to Musk, whom he called a key influence in helping him see Trump as the best option for America’s future. This endorsement from Rogan, who once considered himself more centrist or even left-leaning, was a significant signal of the political realignment taking place among his fanbase.

Elon Musk and the Far-Right Embrace

Elon Musk’s shift from a progressive icon to a figurehead for far-right discourse has been well-documented over the past few years. After his 2022 acquisition of Twitter, Musk, who had previously voted for Obama and opposed Trump in 2016, increasingly aligned himself with the conservative wing of the political spectrum. Following Trump’s victory in 2024, Musk posted a cheeky image on X (formerly Twitter) holding a sink in the Oval Office — a reference to his own media takeover — accompanied by the phrase “let that sink in.” This playful yet pointed message not only celebrated Trump’s victory but also underscored Musk’s role in amplifying right-wing narratives.

Musk’s influence has extended to amplifying controversial figures like Alex Jones, Nick Fuentes, and other far-right personalities. His engagement with content dismissing transgender rights and promoting transphobic rhetoric has become a hallmark of his public persona, particularly after his daughter publicly came out as transgender. Musk’s online platform now serves as a megaphone for far-right voices, solidifying his place within this new political ecosystem that celebrates Trump’s return to power.

Young Men and the Hegemonic Masculinity of Trumpism

One of the most striking trends in the 2024 election was the overwhelming support for Trump among young men, particularly those aged 18-29. Exit polls revealed that men in this age group preferred Trump over his opponent, Kamala Harris, by a 56% to 42% margin. This demographic, many of whom have faced economic dissatisfaction and societal pressure, finds resonance in Trump’s traditionalist views on gender roles and masculinity.

A 2021 study identified belief in “hegemonic masculinity” — the idea that men should be dominant, tough, and emotionally stoic — as a key predictor of support for Trump. The heterodox figures who champion these values, such as Jordan Peterson and Sneako, have tapped into the frustrations of young men who feel alienated by contemporary gender norms and progressive social policies. These influencers preach a return to traditional gender roles, where men are expected to be strong, assertive, and, above all, in positions of power. The glorification of hyper-masculinity among these influencers has provided a script for their followers to reject what they view as the softness of modern society.

The Rise of the ‘Bro-Centric’ Political Scene

The rise of Trump’s support within the heterodoxy also marks a larger shift away from traditional political campaigning. Trump’s strategic use of podcasts, social media, and unconventional media outlets allowed him to bypass traditional methods like door-knocking and grassroots canvassing. Instead, his campaign capitalized on the growing influence of figures like Rogan, Musk, and Peterson, whose platforms were instrumental in amplifying his message to young, disaffected men. This unorthodox method of engagement may have played a pivotal role in Trump’s re-election victory, signaling that the future of political campaigning may increasingly depend on the “bro-centric” online spaces that cater to right-wing ideologies.

Emboldened by Victory, the Heterodoxy Moves Right

As Trump’s second term begins to take shape, the heterodoxy stands poised to continue shaping the political discourse. Figures like Sneako, Jordan Peterson, and Dave Portnoy have fully embraced their rightward shift, with many others in the heterodox ecosystem echoing the sentiment that liberal and progressive politics have failed them. With Trump’s victory, they feel emboldened in their rejection of the mainstream political establishment and increasingly aligned with the far-right agenda. Whether through their online platforms, media ventures, or public statements, this new wave of political influencers is not just a passing trend — they represent a growing faction within the broader right-wing movement, one that is only gaining momentum as their support base continues to expand.

In the aftermath of the election, the heterodoxy has emerged as a key player in the ongoing transformation of American politics. With their messages resonating powerfully with young men in particular, this group is likely to remain a fixture in the political landscape for the foreseeable future, shaping public discourse and influencing the direction of conservative politics in America.

Biden Acknowledges Trump’s Victory, Calls Election Process “Fair” and “Transparent”

In a solemn address from the Rose Garden on Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden, a long-standing Democratic figure, acknowledged President-elect Donald Trump’s victory in this week’s election, characterizing it as “fair” and “transparent.” Biden confirmed that he would support a peaceful transfer of power on January 20, commending the electoral process despite the loss of his vice president and running mate, Kamala Harris.

“The will of the people always prevails,” Biden told a group of White House aides, emphasizing the importance of respecting democratic outcomes regardless of political affiliations. “As I’ve said many times, you can’t love your country only when you win. And you can’t love your neighbor only when you agree,” he added. Reflecting on Harris’s campaign, Biden praised her efforts as “inspiring,” noting that she had “given her whole heart” to the race. Despite the outcome, Biden expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We’re going to be okay, but we need to stay engaged… and keep the faith.”

Looking back on his administration, Biden described his tenure as “historic,” underscoring his administration’s accomplishments, particularly in infrastructure and economic recovery. Biden stated that he leaves Trump with “the strongest economy in the world,” a sentiment he contends is bolstered by data but contradicted by significant voter dissatisfaction. Exit polls revealed concerns among Trump supporters over Biden’s economic policies, especially regarding inflation and rising consumer prices, which many said had strained household budgets during his time in office.

Trump, who pledged during his campaign to curb inflation without offering specific details, has proposed tax cuts aimed at bolstering consumer spending, especially for higher-income households and corporations. However, these proposed cuts could further inflate the national debt, which currently stands at nearly $36 trillion.

After congratulating Trump over the phone, Biden extended an invitation for Trump to visit the White House to discuss the transition of power. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence announced on Thursday that Trump would be offered U.S. intelligence briefings consistent with long-standing tradition, though it remains unclear whether Trump has requested them.

Trump’s Swift Transition Plans and Key Appointments

In the days following his victory, Trump is expected to announce key appointments to his incoming administration, potentially within days. At his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump is deliberating over his options with close advisers, including transition leaders Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon. Even before the election, discussions were underway with prospective candidates for White House and Cabinet roles.

Notably, Trump is rumored to be considering Tesla CEO Elon Musk, a supporter and campaign contributor, for a role aimed at identifying government inefficiencies and reducing spending. Additionally, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime public health advocate who has controversially criticized COVID-19 vaccinations, could be tapped to oversee health policy. Trump’s team is also considering high-profile Wall Street figures for key economic positions and may enlist some Republican senators to lead Cabinet departments.

Trump aides are preparing a comprehensive list of executive orders and regulatory reversals for Trump to enact on his first day in office, aiming to dismantle policies implemented during Biden’s presidency.

Biden’s Endorsement of Harris Amid Campaign Setback

Biden, initially vying for reelection, withdrew from the race following a series of challenges, including a damaging debate performance in June and plummeting poll numbers. He subsequently endorsed Harris, expressing high regard for her campaign. In a statement, Biden praised Harris as a “tremendous partner and public servant,” highlighting her courage, integrity, and vision for a “more free, more just” America.

“Under extraordinary circumstances, she stepped up and led a historic campaign,” Biden said, underscoring Harris’s efforts to embody the values of equality and opportunity throughout her presidential bid.

As Biden prepares to exit the White House, his administration’s legacy and Trump’s impending return create a consequential moment in U.S. politics. The transition marks a critical juncture as Trump reclaims leadership amid deep political divides and significant domestic challenges.

As former U.S. President Donald Trump appears poised for a historic return to the White House, world leaders swiftly offered their congratulations, marking a response to Trump’s unexpected comeback. While the VOA has not yet declared an official winner, projections indicate that Trump has overcome his Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, in a series of critical swing states, rekindling relationships with allies and signaling potential challenges for diplomatic and military alliances worldwide.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, one of Trump’s staunchest allies during his first term, was among the first to extend his congratulations. In a message underscoring the “great alliance between Israel and America,” Netanyahu framed Trump’s apparent win as a “powerful recommitment” to the longstanding U.S.-Israel relationship. Similarly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized Trump’s “peace through strength” approach, expressing optimism that a second Trump presidency could expedite a peaceful resolution to Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte echoed these sentiments, acknowledging that Trump’s leadership will be “key to keeping our Alliance strong.” Trump’s first term was marked by criticism of NATO, as he argued for increased European contributions to defense spending. Yet, in his congratulatory message, Rutte focused on the opportunity for NATO to reinforce its strategic stability, a notion echoed by European leaders aiming to smooth relations with the Trump administration.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who had a complicated relationship with Trump during his initial tenure, congratulated the president-elect and expressed readiness to collaborate on mutual goals, particularly regarding defense, innovation, and climate policy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasizing the “special relationship” between the U.K. and the U.S., expressed confidence in continued cooperation on issues from security to technological innovation.

Across Europe, congratulations came from both traditional allies and populist leaders. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, praised the “true partnership” between the U.S. and the EU, a relationship previously tested by Trump’s imposition of tariffs on European imports. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a long-time Trump supporter, called his win the “biggest comeback in U.S. political history,” underscoring Orban’s alignment with Trump’s conservative policies.

Asia’s leaders followed suit, marking what they hope will be a prosperous chapter for their countries’ relations with Washington. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling Trump a friend, expressed eagerness to strengthen U.S.-India collaboration on strategic and economic fronts, building on their close rapport from Trump’s prior term. Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed their confidence in the enduring U.S. partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. Marcos Jr. framed the U.S.-Philippines alliance as a “force for good,” while Albanese highlighted shared values and security commitments.

Notably absent from the congratulatory messages was Russian President Vladimir Putin, though former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev took to social media to celebrate Harris’s apparent loss, signaling the Kremlin’s ongoing interest in U.S. internal politics.

With Trump on the brink of an official second term, international allies and adversaries alike brace for an era marked by an “America First” approach that is likely to reshape alliances and foreign policy priorities in the coming years.

Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th president of the United States following a hard-fought campaign and victories in critical battleground states, including Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. His path to the White House was paved with significant wins across traditionally competitive regions, securing at least 267 electoral votes and surpassing the 270 required majority. Despite an early advantage in solidly blue states, Vice President Kamala Harris faced an uphill battle as Trump clinched pivotal victories in Georgia and North Carolina, effectively closing the path to a Harris win.

This election represents a historic moment, marking Trump as the first president since Grover Cleveland in the 1890s to serve non-consecutive terms. Addressing his supporters at a Florida rally, Trump credited his victory to what he described as “the greatest political movement of all time,” pledging to “fix our borders” and work toward a “strong, safe, and prosperous America.”

The Republican Party also regained control of the Senate in Tuesday’s elections, though the House majority remains uncertain as results continue to come in. The mixed results reflect a fragmented political landscape, leaving both parties bracing for potential recounts and legal disputes. Complexities surrounding state-specific voting rules, particularly around mail-in ballots and counting processes, could mean additional delays. Both the Trump and Harris campaigns are prepared with legal teams to monitor and, if needed, challenge results.

As the world watches, one of the key issues for the incoming administration will be the U.S. relationship with China, particularly in light of ongoing tensions over Taiwan, trade, and China’s increased presence in the South China Sea. Vincent Wang, a foreign policy expert from Adelphi University, noted that China may alter its approach depending on the U.S. leader. While Wang suggested that China might pursue an “expanded gray area strategy” under a Harris administration, the unpredictability of a Trump-led White House could serve as a deterrent, given Trump’s history of imposing sudden tariffs and taking aggressive stances.

The president-elect is set to assume office on January 20, 2025, marking the formal start of his four-year term. With tensions across global hotspots—including Ukraine and the Israel-Gaza conflict—the next administration will face mounting international challenges as it begins another chapter of American foreign and domestic policy.