New York, USA — Winsome Earle-Sears, the Jamaican-born Republican Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, has pledged to persist in her political career despite her recent defeat in the 2025 gubernatorial election. Earle-Sears, who aimed to become Virginia’s first female governor, was decisively beaten by Democratic candidate Abigail Spanberger, securing 42.3% of the votes compared to Spanberger’s 57.5%. In a heartfelt post-election speech, Earle-Sears emphasized her unwavering commitment to her values, stating, ‘I’m a Christian first and Republican second.’ She also reflected on her immigrant journey, having moved from Jamaica to the Bronx at age six, and expressed gratitude for the opportunities America has provided. Earle-Sears, a former U.S. Marine Corps pilot, made history in 2021 as Virginia’s first black female Lieutenant Governor. Her campaign, however, faced significant challenges, including criticism for her support of former President Donald Trump and her advocacy for gun ownership, which earned her the National Rifle Association’s endorsement. Internal party disputes and economic concerns, exacerbated by the Trump Administration’s policies, further hindered her campaign. Despite these setbacks, Earle-Sears remains resolute, declaring, ‘I’m not going anywhere — and neither are you.’
分类： politics
-
Ingraham breaks with FNM over Returning Officer row
In a surprising turn of events, former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham publicly supported the retention of Returning Officer Neil Campbell for the Golden Isles by-election, despite objections from his own party, the Free National Movement (FNM). This endorsement came just a day before Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson confirmed his decision to keep Mr. Campbell in his role, expressing confidence in the election’s transparency and impartiality.
The FNM, led by Chairman Dr. Duane Sands, had raised concerns about Mr. Campbell’s suitability, citing alleged conflicts of interest. These concerns were amplified when Mr. Campbell referred to Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis as his ‘adopted father’ during a press conference. However, Mr. Thompson defended Mr. Campbell, highlighting his voluntary disclosure of personal connections and his long-standing reputation as a respected public officer.
Mr. Thompson emphasized the challenges of finding individuals in The Bahamas who are entirely disconnected from political figures, given the country’s small size and interconnected society. He stated, ‘I do believe that Mr. Campbell will execute his public duties as Returning Officer without fear or favor.’
Meanwhile, Mr. Ingraham acknowledged Mr. Campbell’s inexperience but dismissed claims of wrongdoing. He attributed the FNM’s suspicions to procedural missteps during the advance poll, such as Mr. Campbell’s initial reluctance to place ballots in the designated box. However, Mr. Ingraham expressed confidence that Mr. Campbell had learned from these mistakes and would ensure a smooth election process.
Addressing FNM supporters at a rally, Mr. Ingraham urged them to focus on voter turnout rather than concerns about Mr. Campbell’s impartiality. He reassured the public that The Bahamas’ electoral system is robust, with sufficient safeguards to prevent election fraud. ‘Whoever wins on Election Day will win,’ he declared, emphasizing the country’s history of fair elections under various governing parties.
Mr. Campbell, who has extensive experience in overseeing elections both domestically and internationally, remains at the center of the debate as the Golden Isles by-election approaches.
-
Government to roll out new crime-fighting initiative
The government of Trinidad and Tobago is set to unveil a significant crime-fighting initiative in the coming days, as part of a broader strategy to address the nation’s escalating crime rates. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander revealed on November 23 that this initiative marks the beginning of an annual plan under the Kamla Persad-Bissessar administration. While specifics of the program remain undisclosed, Alexander emphasized its adaptability, stating it would undergo regular reviews and adjustments to ensure effectiveness.
Alexander acknowledged widespread public frustration with the current crime situation and called for citizen support in the government’s efforts. He highlighted the urgent need to rebuild the country’s law enforcement agencies, which he claimed were left to deteriorate under previous administrations. ‘Law enforcement was hampered in many ways,’ Alexander stated, criticizing the former regime for prioritizing nepotism over public safety.
The minister also addressed the impact of recent US-led operations targeting drug trafficking networks, which have reportedly led to the deaths of at least 80 alleged traffickers. While these efforts have improved safety in the waters between Trinidad and Venezuela, they have also sparked concerns among local fishermen. Many in northeastern communities, from Salybia to Matelot, are hesitant to venture far from shore, fearing they might become unintended targets of US strikes.
Alexander dismissed these fears, asserting that only those involved in illegal activities have reason to worry. ‘If you know you’re doing that type of activity, stop, and stop it right away,’ he warned. He also pointed out that many individuals engaged in illicit trade disguise themselves as fishermen, a fact he believes has been overlooked in media coverage of the US operations.
Despite the challenges, Alexander expressed optimism about the government’s ability to restore safety and security, urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperative in the fight against crime.
-
Art of the deal failure vs Venezuela
In a recent interview, philosopher and mathematician Darryl Naranjit provided a critical analysis of the US military build-up near Venezuela and its implications for global geopolitics. Drawing parallels to Winston Churchill’s decisive stance during World War II, Naranjit emphasized the resilience of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in the face of prolonged US pressure. He dismissed Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s optimistic view that Maduro would capitulate under US aggression, labeling it as delusional. Naranjit argued that Maduro’s unwavering commitment to Venezuela’s sovereignty over its oil resources makes any such capitulation unlikely.
Naranjit further contextualized the US-Venezuela conflict within the broader struggle between a unipolar world dominated by the US and an emerging multipolar world order represented by BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). He highlighted the historical significance of the Caribbean, where the Western world order began with Columbus’s arrival over 500 years ago. Naranjit suggested that the current aggression against Venezuela could mark the birth of a new world order, challenging American hegemony.
He pointed out that Venezuela is not alone in this struggle, receiving substantial support from Russia and China, both of which have provided arms, technicians, and financial aid. This support underscores the conflict’s complexity, transforming it from a bilateral dispute into a global confrontation between unipolar and multipolar forces. Naranjit urged observers to recognize this larger context, emphasizing that the stakes extend far beyond Venezuela’s borders.
-
US top-ranked military officer to meet PM
General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is set to visit Trinidad and Tobago on November 25, 2025, for a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. The visit, announced by the US Embassy on November 24, underscores the robust bilateral relationship between the two nations. Key discussions will focus on enhancing regional stability, fostering unity, and addressing the critical issue of countering illicit trafficking and transnational criminal organizations. This visit follows the recent engagements of the US 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, which conducted joint military exercises with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force in October and November. General Caine, the highest-ranking military officer in the US, serves as the principal military advisor to the President, Secretary of War, and National Security Council. With a distinguished career that includes roles as an F-16 fighter pilot, weapons officer, White House staff member, and special operations officer, Caine brings a wealth of experience to this diplomatic mission.
-
IDA to reveal THA election candidates
The Innovative Democratic Alliance (IDA) has announced its intention to compete in all 15 electoral districts during the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election. Dr. Denise Tsoiafatt Angus, the IDA’s political leader, revealed that the party’s candidates will be unveiled by the end of November. This announcement follows the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) completing its candidate screening process, with its nominees expected to be disclosed shortly. Meanwhile, the People’s National Movement (PNM) has been introducing its candidates through its Community Conversations series, which concludes on November 25. The IDA expressed enthusiasm about its diverse and community-driven candidate selection process, emphasizing its commitment to grassroots democracy and inclusive leadership. The party highlighted that candidates are recommended by local communities rather than chosen by party executives, ensuring they genuinely represent the people’s interests. Additionally, the IDA has been enhancing its members’ leadership skills through workshops like ‘Reset to Rise: Unleash the Leader,’ aimed at fostering a new generation of competent and visionary leaders. Other parties, including the Tobago Liberation Movement and Unity of the People, have also signaled their participation in the THA election, while the Progressive Democratic Patriots’ stance remains uncertain.
-
Chief Sec expected to announce THA elections today
Chief Secretary of Tobago, Farley Augustine, is poised to reveal the date for the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly elections following a crucial meeting of the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) screening committee. The announcement, expected on November 24, will outline the party’s chosen candidates for the 15 electoral districts. Augustine hinted at the impending announcement during a press briefing at the Lowlands Multipurpose Facility, though he refrained from disclosing specifics. Sources close to the matter have confirmed to Newsday that the announcement will indeed pertain to the election date. The TPP has yet to finalize candidates for two pivotal districts: Buccoo/Mt Pleasant, where the Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) has nominated former Chief Secretary Ancil Dennis, and Mason Hall/Moriah, previously won by Ian “Whitey” Pollard. Augustine dismissed public criticism of the selection process, emphasizing the importance of strategic candidate selection to secure all 15 seats. He highlighted the party’s commitment to earning the trust of Tobago’s citizens through diligent work and addressing the island’s issues over the past four years. Augustine expressed confidence in the party’s ability to build a robust economy for Tobago, should they return to office.
-
BBC launches hunt for new boss as Trump row rumbles on
The BBC has officially commenced its search for a new Director General following the resignation of Tim Davie, who stepped down amidst a controversy involving a misleading edit of former US President Donald Trump. The edit, which falsely portrayed Trump as inciting violence prior to the 2021 Capitol attack, led to a public dispute with Trump, who has since threatened a $5 billion lawsuit. The BBC has firmly rejected his compensation demands. Davie, along with the corporation’s head of news, Deborah Turness, resigned on November 9 after Trump criticized ‘corrupt journalists.’ The job posting for the BBC’s top role went live on Monday, with applications closing on December 31. The position is described as one of the UK’s most significant public roles. This incident is one of several controversies the BBC has faced this year, including backlash over anti-Israeli military chants aired during the Glastonbury festival. BBC Chair Samir Shah, addressing a parliamentary committee, acknowledged that Turness’s resignation was justified due to the ‘error in her division,’ but expressed regret over Davie’s departure, stating that the board had full confidence in him. Shah also admitted that the BBC should have acted sooner to address the mistake, which was revealed in a leaked memo published by The Daily Telegraph earlier this month. Trump’s legal team has condemned the edit as ‘false, defamatory, malicious, disparaging, and inflammatory,’ while Michael Prescott, the memo’s author, suggested that Trump’s reputation was likely unaffected. The BBC, funded by a UK television license fee, continues to navigate these challenges as it seeks new leadership.
-
PM Promises Support As Minister Matthew Develops Hotel Project
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has openly supported Minister Daryll Matthew’s initiative to develop a boutique hotel, emphasizing transparency and compliance with regulations. During an appearance on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne disclosed that the project, a 15- to 20-room hotel, is already in progress. He assured the public that there is no conflict of interest, as Matthew has adhered to all legal requirements, including paying the fair market price for the land. Browne criticized the public’s tendency to view investments by government officials as inherently corrupt, stating that such projects should be encouraged rather than scrutinized unfairly. He highlighted the hotel as part of a broader trend of private-sector growth in the tourism industry, particularly in boutique and mid-size developments. While no specific timeline was provided, Browne confirmed that Matthew has the Cabinet’s unwavering support for the venture.
-
China: FM reiterates strong protest after Japanese comments
During a press conference following his diplomatic tour of Central Asian nations, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi issued a stern warning to Japan regarding its stance on Taiwan. Wang emphasized that any claims contradicting Taiwan’s status as an integral part of China cross unacceptable red lines and violate the commitments outlined in the four bilateral political documents between Tokyo and Beijing. He reiterated that Taiwan’s return to China was firmly established in key international agreements, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Declaration, and Japan’s Act of Surrender, which were outcomes of the Allied victory in World War II. Wang also highlighted that 2023 marks the 80th anniversary of the triumph over Japanese fascism and militarism, underscoring Japan’s enduring obligation as a defeated nation to honor these historical agreements. He stressed that any Japanese government, irrespective of its political affiliation, must adhere to these commitments. Wang Yi cautioned that if Japan continues to deviate from these principles, the international community reserves the right to revisit and scrutinize the historical crimes of Japanese militarism.