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Rising fortunes among the ultra‑rich under the Trump administration have ignited a wave of tax‑reform campaigns across the United States. In California, volunteers like Karen Sanchez are gathering signatures for a one‑time 5% wealth tax targeting the state’s 200‑plus billionaires to offset federal cuts to hospitals, education and food‑assistance programs.At least ten states are exploring similar measures. Washington recently enacted its first income‑tax aimed at roughly 20,000 millionaire households, while Massachusetts and Minnesota already channel wealth‑tax proceeds into preschool, K‑12 meals and transportation infrastructure.On the federal front, Senators Bernie Sanders and Representative Ro Khanna have introduced the “Make Billionaires Pay Their Fair Share Act,” proposing an annual 5% levy on billionaire net worth. Khanna argues that the ultra‑wealthy fund private health insurers, defense contractors and political campaigns, creating a stark fairness gap.Data from Oxfam shows that in the twelve months after Trump’s re‑election, billionaire fortunes grew at a rate three times faster than the average annual growth of the previous five years. Meanwhile, the federal minimum wage has remained stagnant at $7.25 for fifteen years, underscoring the widening economic divide.A Data for Progress poll released last fall found that 70% of Americans believe the economic system favours corporations and the wealthy. “People are angry and want change,” says Amy Hanauer of the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP), noting that activists are leveraging every level of government to seek relief.The movement draws on a two‑decade history of class‑based activism, from the Occupy Wall Street protests to Senator Sanders’ 2016 campaign that foregrounded wealth‑tax proposals. Yet inequality has deepened: CEOs of the five largest U.S. firms now earn, on average, **$52 million** annually—over a thousand times the typical worker’s salary.Political spending by billionaires has also exploded. A recent New York Times analysis reveals that billionaire contributions rose from **0.3% of campaign funds in 2008** to **19% in 2024**, amounting to more than **$3 billion** from roughly 300 ultra‑rich donors, many of whom supported candidates opposing wealth taxes, including former President Donald Trump.The war in Iran has further inflamed resentment, with the United States spending **$11.3 billion** in the first week of bombardment—far exceeding the annual budgets of agencies such as the CDC, EPA and the National Cancer Institute.Local victories are feeding the momentum. New York City’s mayoral race saw Zohran Mamdani win on a platform that includes taxing the rich to fund affordable housing, groceries and transit. Councilmember Chi Ossé led a 1,500‑person march to the state capitol, urging Governor Kathy Hochul to permit a city‑level millionaire tax, a move that now has backing from some state Democrats.Beyond New York, states like Rhode Island, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Illinois and New Mexico are debating various wealth‑tax mechanisms, including the popular “mansion tax” on high‑value home sales. Currently, **17 localities** have adopted such taxes, most passed between 2018 and 2023.California’s gubernatorial race has become a flashpoint. Billionaire‑backed candidates Matt Mahan and Tom Steyer are vying to replace Governor Gavin Newsom, with the tech elite—such as Sergey Brin and Joe Lonsdale—pouring money into campaigns opposing the billionaire tax. Of the 30 billionaires who have contributed to the race, **25 supported Mahan**, who has positioned himself as a staunch anti‑tax candidate.For Sanchez, the stakes are personal. The proposed tax seeks to replace **$100 billion** in federal health‑care funding cut by Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which threatens hospital closures and layoffs in the nation’s fourth‑largest economy. She aims to collect **875,000 signatures** by late June to secure the initiative on the November ballot.“It’s creating a network of groups all working toward a common good,” Sanchez says, reflecting a broader sentiment that collective action could finally translate the public’s demand for fiscal fairness into concrete policy.

In a scene reminiscent of Henry James’s observation that the only certainty with a young American abroad is surprise, the current US president continues to bewilder European partners with erratic statements.President Trump has publicly ridiculed British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Royal Navy as feeble, mocked French President Emmanuel Macron over personal matters, urged allies to secure their own oil supplies, and declared that withdrawing the United States from NATO is "beyond reconsideration". These comments come as the conflict in Iran, ignited by Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, drags on without a clear resolution, fueling his domestic political anxieties.European officials responded not with shock but with weary irritation, noting that Trump’s unpredictability is now a permanent feature of US policy, steering the continent away from the liberal international order. Analysts warn that NATO’s credibility is eroding, turning the alliance into a "paper tiger" even as Russian President Vladimir Putin watches closely.Britain, hoping to serve as a diplomatic conduit between Washington and Brussels, finds its position increasingly precarious. Post‑Brexit economic vulnerabilities and the looming state visit of King Charles to the United States offer little strategic gain and risk becoming a diplomatic embarrassment.Prime Minister Starmer has deliberately avoided direct confrontation with Trump, instead pledging to deepen the United Kingdom’s economic and security ties with the European Union. This shift aims to reassure Labour factions leaning toward the Liberal Democrats and Greens, while also hoping that shared security concerns will coax European capitals into offering more robust economic support.In a world where traditional alliances are fraying, European leaders face mounting pressure to forge genuine security cooperation rather than merely increasing defence spending. The consensus is clear: delay is no longer an option for Europe to secure its own future.

Wrexham pulled off a stunning comeback to draw 2-2 against West Brom, significantly boosting their chances of securing a Championship playoff spot. The match saw Isaac Price's deflected free-kick and Josh Maja's penalty give West Brom a strong lead heading into halftime.However, Wrexham mounted an impressive second-half recovery. Josh Windass scored a spectacular goal from 20 yards just two minutes after the restart, and Lewis O'Brien and George Dobson were involved in a controversy that led to an own goal, leveling the score for Wrexham.This draw propels Wrexham into sixth place, just a point above Southampton, who have a game in hand. The two teams are set to face each other in north Wales on Tuesday in a crucial matchup.In other matches, Hull drew 1-1 at Oxford, with Mo Belloumi scoring early in his return from injury. Leicester came from behind to draw 2-2 against Preston, with Patson Daka scoring twice after returning from international duty.Blackburn secured a vital 1-0 win over Birmingham thanks to Todd Cantwell's 69th-minute goal, moving six points clear of the relegation zone. Portsmouth boosted their survival hopes with a 1-1 draw at Norwich, while QPR beat Watford 2-1.In a thrilling match, Swansea came from two goals down to draw 3-3 at Sheffield United. Stoke secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over already-relegated Sheffield Wednesday, extending their unbeaten home run to five matches.

Enzo Fernández will miss Chelsea’s upcoming FA Cup quarter‑final against Port Vale and the Premier League clash with Manchester City, after manager Liam Rosenior announced a two‑match suspension for the Argentine midfielder. Rosenior said Fernández had “crossed a line” during the international break by questioning his future at Stamford Bridge and expressing a desire to live in Madrid – comments widely interpreted as a hint toward a move to Real Madrid, a club he has long been linked with. “It’s disappointing to speak in that way,” Rosenior added. “The sanction protects our culture; the door remains open for Enzo, but a line was crossed during the break.” Despite the ban, Fernández will continue training with the first‑team squad. The midfielder joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a British record fee of £107 million. His agent, former Argentine international Javier Pastore, condemned the punishment as “completely unfair”, arguing that the two matches are crucial for Chelsea’s Champions League qualification hopes and that Fernández never indicated a desire to leave the club. Fernández’s remarks were not the only source of controversy during the break. teammate Marc Cucurella sparked headlines by suggesting he might be open to a return to Barcelona, prompting Rosenior to reassure that Cucurella remains fully committed to Chelsea. Chelsea entered the break on a four‑match losing streak, having suffered an 8‑2 aggregate defeat to Paris Saint‑Germain in the Champions League last‑16 – a period Rosenior described as “the most difficult ten days of my career as a player or a coach”. Head coach Pochettino insisted there is no division in the dressing room, urging the squad to unite and regain form after the international hiatus. Rosenior also hinted that other senior players, including captain Reece James, may soon reaffirm their commitment by signing new contracts, signalling a push to stabilise the club’s project. Injuries also loom: James, Trevoh Chalobah and Levi Colwill are unavailable for the Port Vale tie, while newcomers Estêvão and Jamie Gittens are fit to feature.

According to a new United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) briefing, the global food commodity price index climbed 2.4% in March, marking the second straight monthly increase and the first rise in five months for the broader basket of grains, meat, dairy, vegetable oils and sugar.The surge is largely attributed to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, which has pushed up energy prices and freight rates worldwide. The report highlighted that vegetable oil prices jumped 5% and sugar rose 7% during the month.Analysts warn that the war could trigger a broader wave of food inflation, as higher fuel, fertiliser and electricity costs increase the expense of transporting, processing and cooking food. About one‑third of global fertiliser production passes through the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane that has been effectively closed since hostilities began.UN projections suggest that, if the crisis endures, global food prices could be 15%–20% higher in the first half of 2026 than pre‑conflict levels. The FAO noted that “price indices across all commodity groups rose to varying degrees, reflecting both market fundamentals and responses to higher energy prices linked to the conflict escalation in the Near East.”Specific commodity trends showed global wheat prices up 4.3% in March, driven by deteriorating crop conditions and drought concerns in the United States, as well as reduced planting in Australia due to soaring fertiliser costs. Better weather in Europe and strong export competition provided some offset.In the United Kingdom, the Food and Drink Federation – representing 12,000 manufacturers – now forecasts a **minimum 9% rise in food prices by the end of 2026**, a sharp increase from the 3.2% forecast made before the Middle East conflict. This outlook assumes the Strait of Hormuz reopens within weeks and that major energy facilities return to normal within a year – both uncertain outcomes.British producers are already feeling the pressure. The British Tomato Growers’ Association warned that consumers could see higher prices for tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers within six weeks as gas‑heated glasshouses become more expensive to run.Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently met with leaders of major retailers—including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Marks & Spencer, Aldi and Lidl—to discuss measures that could ease the cost‑of‑living squeeze and strengthen supply chains.Nevertheless, a Bank of England survey of over 2,000 chief financial officers revealed that firms expect to raise their prices by an average of 3.7% over the next year, up from 3.4% in February. Expectations for overall economy‑wide inflation also rose from 3% to 3.5%.

Richard Walker, executive chair of the Iceland supermarket chain and Labour’s appointed cost‑of‑living tsar, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that the government should extend the 5‑pence fuel duty cut beyond its September expiry to cushion households from soaring petrol prices. The call comes as the Strait of Hormuz—a vital conduit for roughly one‑fifth of the world’s oil—remains blockaded after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran at the end of February. The disruption has triggered a sharp rise in global oil prices, intensifying pressure on the UK economy. Under current policy, UK fuel duty is frozen until September, when a review is scheduled. By contrast, Australia recently announced a 14‑pence‑per‑litre cut to its fuel tax, highlighting the disparity with the UK’s modest 5‑pence reduction. Walker emphasized on air: “Given where we are, we need to be thinking about extending or enlarging the existing cut.” He noted that the original 5‑pence reduction was introduced by the Conservative government in March 2022. Chancellor Rachel Reeves had pledged in her November budget to keep the cut in place until August, followed by a gradual increase over five years. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signalled that the planned September rise will remain “under review” in light of the ongoing conflict. Data from the RAC shows that, since the war began, the average price of a litre of diesel at UK forecourts has jumped 30 % to 185.2 pence, while petrol has risen 16 % to 154.5 pence per litre. Opposition parties are also weighing in: the Conservatives propose scrapping VAT on energy bills for several years, Reform UK calls for a VAT cut on fuel, and the Liberal Democrats advocate a 10‑pence fuel duty reduction.

Phil Foden must seize his chance as Manchester City face Liverpool on Saturday at 12:45 pm BST. After two lacklustre starts for England under Thomas Tuchel, the 25‑year‑old has recorded only one assist in his last 22 outings for club and country. Dropped below Rayan Cherki in Pep Guardiola’s hierarchy and yet to complete a full 90 minutes since January, Foden’s performance in the FA Cup could determine his future at both City and the national team.Manchester City v Liverpool – Saturday 12:45 pm BSTEstêvão Willian offers Chelsea a welcome boost. Following a Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint‑Germain and a heavy defeat to Everton, manager Liam Rosenior faces a must‑win against Port Vale at 5:15 pm BST. The 18‑year‑old Brazilian winger, who impressed as a substitute against Everton, could inject the speed and unpredictability Chelsea need to lift a disgruntled crowd and revive a faltering season.Chelsea v Port Vale – Saturday 5:15 pm BSTKepa Arrizabalaga gets a second chance ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Southampton. The former Athletic Bilbao keeper was at fault for the decisive goal in the Carabao Cup final, yet manager Mikel Arteta has kept him as the starting goalkeeper for the FA Cup tie. A solid performance could cement Arrizabalaga’s status as Arsenal’s long‑term No 2, while a repeat error may see him lose the role to David Raya.Southampton v Arsenal – Saturday 8:00 pm BSTWest Ham’s cup run doubles as a survival rehearsal. The Hammers host Leeds United on Sunday at 4:30 pm BST, a match that could swing the relegation battle. Despite a recent victory over Brentford, injuries – notably to winger Crysencio Summerville – threaten to undermine their league campaign. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo must balance the morale boost from the cup with the need to keep key players fit for the Premier League’s final stretch.West Ham v Leeds – Sunday 4:30 pm BST

Matildas captain Sam Kerr is set to leave Chelsea FC at the end of the Women's Super League season to join expansion club Denver Summit in the United States.Kerr's future at Chelsea had been uncertain, with her contract expiring at the end of the season and little discussion of a new deal. The 32-year-old has won the Women's Super League title five times and three FA Cups with Chelsea.According to reports, Kerr has signed with Denver Summit, a significant coup for the ambitious new club. The move would mark Kerr's return to the US, where she previously played for Western New York Flash, Sky Blue FC, and Chicago Red Stars.Kerr has an American wife, former US international Kristie Mewis, and her signing would be a boon for Denver Summit, which counts US ski star Mikaela Shiffrin and NFL great Peyton Manning among its owners.The news was met with a statement from Kerr herself, who refuted the report on Snapchat, saying: “Don’t believe everything you read in the media man, they know a decision before me.” Chelsea FC subsequently retweeted her response.Kerr's potential move comes as she prepares to captain the Matildas in a pair of international friendlies in Kenya later this month.

The U.S. State Department announced on April 2, 2026 that Iran is "continually" pursuing a nuclear weapon. The declaration reflects Washington’s assessment that Tehran’s nuclear program remains a persistent challenge to regional and global security. This assessment underscores the United States’ ongoing scrutiny of Iran’s nuclear activities and may shape future diplomatic initiatives, sanctions considerations, and coordination with international monitoring bodies. By reiterating the claim, the State Department signals that Iran’s nuclear ambitions continue to be a focal point of U.S. foreign‑policy strategy in the Middle East.