Simon Schama: What America’s Founders can teach Trump about liberty

The rise of America's hard left is reshaping the political landscape as economic populists present a compelling alternative to the authoritarian right. This shift is significant because it highlights a growing demand for policies that prioritize the needs of the many over the interests of the few. Balancing idealism with practicality will be crucial for these populists as they seek to connect with a broader audience and drive meaningful change.

The impact of Trump's tariffs is becoming increasingly evident as consumer prices in the U.S. begin to rise. From everyday items like cans of soup to essential car parts, the trade levies are driving up costs for American households. This matters because it could strain budgets and affect purchasing decisions, potentially leading to broader economic implications.

During a recent meeting at the White House, Hakeem Jeffries humorously pointed out a 'Trump 2028' hat worn by JD Vance, asking him if he had a problem with it. This light-hearted moment amidst serious discussions highlights the often unexpected nature of political interactions and the ongoing relevance of Trump in future elections.

The U.S. is considering minting a coin featuring Donald Trump's likeness, despite a law he signed that prohibits collectibles with similar images. The proposed design references an assassination attempt during his 2024 presidential campaign and includes the phrase 'FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT.' This development raises questions about the intersection of politics and currency, as well as the implications of using a controversial figure's image in this way.

In a controversial move, President Trump has deployed National Guard troops to Illinois, despite Governor JB Pritzker's strong objections, labeling the action as 'un-American.' This escalation of military presence in Democrat-led cities raises significant concerns about federal overreach and the implications for state governance. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities, particularly in politically divided regions.

In a surprising move, President Trump's administration has threatened to federalize 300 members of the Illinois National Guard, prompting Governor J.B. Pritzker to respond with an ultimatum. This situation highlights the growing tensions between state and federal authorities, particularly in a Democratic-led state. The implications of such federal intervention could have significant impacts on local governance and the relationship between state and federal powers, raising concerns about the politicization of the National Guard.

Trade and legal experts are estimating that there is an 80% chance the Supreme Court will rule against former President Trump's global tariffs. This prediction is significant as it highlights the unpredictability of the justices appointed by Trump, who do not necessarily align with his policies. The outcome could have major implications for international trade and economic relations.

Farm bankruptcies are on the rise, with 93 filings in the second quarter, reflecting a troubling trend as low crop prices continue to impact farmers. This surge in bankruptcies, nearly double from last year, highlights the financial struggles within the agricultural sector. The situation has caught the attention of former President Trump, who is considering a bailout of up to $14 billion to support struggling farmers. This development is crucial as it underscores the challenges faced by the farming community and the potential government intervention needed to stabilize the industry.

Former President Trump has urged Hamas to act swiftly in releasing hostages as part of his proposed peace plan, which has gained traction with both Israel and Hamas agreeing to certain aspects. This development is significant as it highlights a potential pathway to de-escalate the ongoing conflict and restore stability in the region, reflecting a rare moment of cooperation amidst the turmoil.

Israel is shifting to a defensive-only stance in Gaza, coinciding with discussions led by a senior Egyptian official about the potential release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli detention. This development is significant as it may pave the way for a more peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts in addressing humanitarian concerns.

The mayor of Pohang, South Korea, has taken a bold step by protesting outside the White House against President Trump's tariffs, which have severely impacted the local steel industry. This situation highlights the broader consequences of U.S. trade policies on international markets, particularly for cities like Pohang and Pittsburgh that are deeply rooted in steel production. As these tariffs continue to strain local economies, the mayor's actions underscore the urgent need for dialogue and reconsideration of such policies.

Centrist Republicans are expressing concern over former President Trump's strategy that could lead to a government shutdown. They warn that this approach may deepen partisan divides and hinder effective governance. This matters because a shutdown could disrupt essential services and impact millions of Americans, highlighting the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party.

The recent victory of Takaichi in Japan's leadership race could influence the timing of Bank of Japan's interest rate hikes. While some analysts believe this may delay potential increases, it doesn't necessarily mean a halt to the central bank's plans. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they can impact Japan's economic recovery and global market trends.

In September, Egypt's non-oil private sector experienced a modest contraction, as indicated by the latest Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) report. This decline is significant as it reflects ongoing challenges in the economy, impacting business confidence and growth prospects. Understanding these trends is crucial for stakeholders and policymakers aiming to navigate the economic landscape.

President Prabowo Subianto has called on the Indonesian military to protect the country's abundant natural resources from foreign groups, which he accuses of stealing and smuggling these valuable assets. This move is significant as it highlights the government's commitment to safeguarding national wealth and ensuring that Indonesia's resources benefit its citizens rather than being exploited by outsiders.

The impact of Trump's tariffs is becoming increasingly evident as consumer prices in the U.S. begin to rise. From everyday items like cans of soup to essential car parts, the trade levies are driving up costs for American households. This matters because it could strain budgets and affect purchasing decisions, potentially leading to broader economic implications.

The current state of labour markets is concerning as both employers and employees are becoming increasingly cautious. The looming threats of AI advancements and ongoing trade wars are creating a 'low-hire, low-fire' cycle, where hiring is stagnant and job security is uncertain. This situation matters because it not only affects individual livelihoods but also has broader implications for economic growth and stability.

The rise of America's hard left is reshaping the political landscape as economic populists present a compelling alternative to the authoritarian right. This shift is significant because it highlights a growing demand for policies that prioritize the needs of the many over the interests of the few. Balancing idealism with practicality will be crucial for these populists as they seek to connect with a broader audience and drive meaningful change.