The BBC has confirmed the start date for the second series of The Night Manager, as a new trailer has been released for the upcoming series.
After nearly ten years of anticipation, BBC viewers were delighted to discover that a fresh instalment of The Night Manager was being developed.
In 2016, the gripping thriller proved hugely successful as it chronicled former soldier Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston) working as a hotel night manager who becomes enlisted by British intelligence operative Angela Burr (Olivia Coleman).
The eagerly-awaited second instalment will resume years following the dramatic conclusion, with audiences witnessing Jonathan as a junior MI6 operative managing a discreet surveillance team in London dubbed ‘The Night Owls’.
This week, the BBC unveiled a thrilling trailer for the upcoming series, confirming it will broadcast on January 1.
The preview reveals Jonathan in his fresh position, whilst a narrator directs him to ‘watch, listen and report’. Yet the voice then sternly warns: “You do not hunt down.”
Cutting to Colombia, the MI6 operative must investigate Teddy Dos Santos (Diego Calva), suspected of trafficking weapons into the nation with British Intelligence assistance, reports the Express.
Adopting a fresh identity, Jonathan becomes deeply entangled in a deadly conspiracy. Betrayal appears imminent as he challenges Agent Burr, declaring she ‘lied’ to him, prompting her reply: “I had no choice!”
A montage of rapid-fire sequences follows, featuring heart-stopping pursuit scenes and Jonathan fleeing through a structure as explosions erupt around him.
In a chilling moment, Jonathan is seen being restrained by Teddy as he questions, ‘Who are you, Matthew?Why are you really here?” While a woman’s voice accuses him of ‘playing her’.
The trailer, shared on social media, sparked an immediate reaction from fans, with many expressing their excitement for the show’s return. One fan exclaimed: “Wow wow wow wow.” Another chimed in: “FINALLY!!!!”
Speaking about the series, Tom Hiddleston told the BBC: “The first series of The Night Manager was one of the most creatively fulfilling projects I have ever worked on. “”The depth, range and complexity of Jonathan Pine was, and remains, a thrilling prospect.
I’m so looking forward to reuniting with Simon and Stephen Cornwell, David Farr and Stephen Garrett, and to working with Georgi Banks-Davies to tell the next chapter of our story. I can’t wait.”
The BBC has also confirmed that The Night Manager will be returning for another series following this upcoming one.
Tune into the new series of The Night Manager from 1 January on BBC iPlayer in the UK, and from 11 January on Prime Video where available.
BBC viewers have been urged to look out for any clues as the broadcaster is reportedly gearing up to announce the return of one of its biggest shows very soon
23:45, 05 Nov 2025Updated 23:45, 05 Nov 2025
Line of Duty could be making a comeback very soon(Image: BBC)
A huge BBC drama is set to announce its comeback within a matter of days. Fans have been waiting on tenterhooks to see if another series will be released, and now the cast have finally aligned their schedules to make it happen.
The BBC are said to be gearing up to confirm Line of Duty will be back on screens for a seventh series. Fans have been urged to keep an eye out for any online announcements that will be followed by TV teaser trailers.
Now, it seems fans won’t have long to wait for an official announcement as a source said: “Although this has been discussed at length since the unsatisfactory ending of series six in 2021, it’s still going to create huge excitement when the Beeb makes the announcement.
“It’s one they’ve been preparing to make for weeks, but they’ve been trying to pick the right moment, since The Celebrity Traitors has been hogging quite a lot of limelight recently.” They added to Sun: “And the BBC very much view Line Of Duty as one of the jewels in its crown that they want to deliver with some fanfare.”
The BBC declined to comment when approached by the Mirror. Back in July, Actor Adrian said: “We’re really excited about getting our hands on a Line of Duty script, to see what happens to us.”
The Ridley star even teased what is to come on the programme, which could air in 2026, as he told The Times: “It is down to the BBC to make an announcement, but we’re keeping our fingers crossed that next year we’ll be working on a new series. No doubt Jed will think of some interesting twists and turns.”
Martin Compston played DS Steve Arnott in the show, which came to an end when his character and his team discovered the identity of “H”. He also shared details on whether viewers can expect more from the series.
“We’re always talking about possibilities and schedules and whatnot,” he said to The Sun. Martin didn’t dare share more and added: “Everybody’s got stuff going on at the minute, so I think anything, unfortunately, would be a way off.”
Before Martin discussed a potential new series, a source told the same publication that Adrian, Vicky McClure and Martin will reunite to film six new episodes. They said at the time: “This is the news Line of Duty fans have been waiting for since the sixth season left them deflated when it aired back in 2021.
“The BBC almost immediately requested more episodes to continue the story, but the success of the show meant Vicky, Martin and Adrian were instantly snapped up for other projects. But after several meetings with Jed [Mercurio, creator and writer] and the production team, they’ve finally managed to clear space in their calendars next year to commit to making the show.”
While last August, Adrian said that he was desperate to get back into character for another series. He told Good Housekeeping: “We all want another series.
“We filmed our last series in lockdown, which meant we didn’t get to do anything other than work, so we’re really keen to get together for one last hurrah.”
DOWNLOAD festival has landed a Hollywood A-lister to perform at the rock and metal event next summer.
The 2026 line-up was announced this evening and features the surprising actor, as well as three American bands topping the bill.
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Keanu Reeves will play Download festival next summer as bassist for band DogstarCredit: GettyGuns N’ Roses will also hit the stage on the SaturdayCredit: Getty
Download will return to Leicestershire’s Donington Park from June 10 to 14, with The Matrix and John Wick star Keanu Reeves set to play.
The band Dogstar, for which he plays bass, are among a series of acts which have been officially unveiled.
Linkin Park will close the festival on the Sunday night, marking their first performance at the festival since frontwoman Emily Armstrong was brought in.
They previously headlined four times between 2004 and 2014 with their original line-up.
And it comes after Linkin Park played a sold out concert at Wembley Stadium in June.
Tickets are already on sale for the 23rd annual festival, which will also feature performances from Pendulum, Trivium, The All-American Rejects, Mastodon and Bush.
Other acts on the line-up include Feeder, Ash, Tom Morello, The Pretty Reckless and Those Damn Crows.
Limp Bizkit’s booking comes just a fortnight after it was revealed that bassist and founding member Sam Rivers had died aged 48.
They paid tribute to him last month when they described him as not “just our bass player” but “the soul in the sound.”
The band said: “From the first note we ever played together, Sam brought a light and a rhythm that could never be replaced.
“His talent was effortless, his presence unforgettable, his heart enormous.”
The full rundown of artists was revealed at a launch event at the Barbican in central London, where guests were entertained by fortune tellers and a string quartet.
THE government has finally revealed the new operator that could run train services to Europe alongside Eurostar.
The Office for Rail and Road has announced that Virgin Trains will be allowed to access Temple Mills International depot in East London.
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Eurostar is officially getting a new rival as Virgin is giving the go-ahead to launch trains to EuropeCredit: VirginBrits can currently only travel to Europe by train from London St Pancras with EurostarCredit: Alamy
This means Virgin will eventually join Eurostar to operate train services via the Channel Tunnel from the UK to Europe – and will be the first train service to rival Eurostar since it launched more than 30 years ago.
Virgin first announced plans to launch services rivallingEurostar in January 2025, and could start running trains from 2030.
This means direct routes to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, with future plans for France, Germany and Switzerland.
Virgin also announced plans to restart trains from both Ashford International and Ebbsfleet International in Kent as well – which had Eurostar trains until the pandemic.
Earlier this month, the company even said that it if it won the bid, it could to run services from Manchester and Birmingham.
Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson said: “The ORR’s decision is the right one for consumers – it’s time to end this 30-year monopoly and bring some Virgin magic to the cross-Channel route.
“Virgin is no stranger to delivering award-winning rail services, and just as we have successfully challenged incumbents in air, cruise and rail, we’re ready to do it again.
“We’re going to shake-up the cross-Channel route for good and give consumers the choice they deserve.”
Martin Jones, deputy director, access and international, said that Virgin’s plans were “more financially and operationally robust than those of other applicants”.
He added: “With this decision we are backing customer choice and competition in international rail, unlocking up to £700million in private sector investment and stimulating growth.
“While there is still some way to go before the first new services can run, we stand ready to work with Virgin Trains as their plans develop.”
Signing an agreement with Alstom, Virgin will buy 12 Avelia Stream trains, and have secured funding from Equitix, a leading European investor.
This is alongside private equity firm Azzurra.
While the access to the Temples Mills depot is a step forward, it will be a while until trains can launch.
This is because Virgin must also secure access to the tracks.
But it is good news for a competitor on the HS1 line, as this could even mean cheaper fares in the future.
Virgin’s Richard Branson said it was going to ‘shake-up the cross-Channel route for good’Credit: Virgin
Virgin’s Phil Whittingham said: “Temple Mills has been a critical bottle neck in the process to launching a new cross-Channel service, so today’s news is a significant milestone for Virgin and a pivotal turning point for international rail.
“Building on the great success of Virgin Trains, Virgin will deliver a first-class cross-Channel service that will create hundreds of jobs and support the modal shift of short-haul journeys from air to rail.”
Eurostar has had monopoly of the Channel Tunnel since it first launched back in 1994.
And over the past months, a number of companies have stepped forward in bid to run services through the Channel Tunnel to Europe.
What does this mean for travellers?
The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey weighs in.
EUROSTAR has long had the monopoly of the Channel Tunnel, being the only train operator since 1994 to use the lines connecting the UK to Europe.
The new arrival of Virgin Trains will see competition on the lines, which always a good thing.
This is because it could put pressure on Eurostar to up their game, which has already seen them announce new routes, new trains and the return to other stations.
It could also mean cheaper fares, as competition so often does – look at many of the budget European airlines with cheap fares.
Of course we have a while to wait. It is unlikely that Virgin will launch trains anytime before 2030.
But with ambitious plans for trains from Manchester, Birmingham and Kent – as well as new routes to France, Switzerland and Germany – it will be exciting to see how train travel to Europe progresses in the next few years.
This includes Italy‘s state-owned FS Italiane Group and Gemini Trains (recently partnering with Uber), as well as start up Evolyn.
Currently, the only destinations Brits can get to via direct train from the UK are Paris, Lille, Brussels Rotterdam and Amsterdam.
Previous routes that have since been scrapped included Disneyland Paris, as well as Marseille and Lyon.
Hollyoaks actress Ruby O’Donnell has been at the centre of some of the Channel 4 soap’s most dramatic storylines as fan favourite Peri Lomax over the past 12 years
Dan Laurie Deputy Editor of Screen Time
08:33, 22 Oct 2025
Peri Lomax has been killed off in Hollyoaks after 12 years
Hollyoaks actress Ruby O’Donnell has tackled some of the Channel 4 soap’s most intense plotlines over the past 12 years.
Her character Peri Lomax has found herself at the centre of the drama but her time in the village has come to an end.
During Tuesday’s (October 21) episode, Peri got crushed by ship chimney which fell on her after an explosion went off and she attempted to save Tom Cunningham (Ellis Hollins).
Pushing fiancé Tom out of the way, Peri was struck by the chimney and fell to the ground.
The nurse was conscious for a while chatting with Tom about their daughter Steph Cunningham-Lomax (Isabella Hibbert) and but she sadly passed away wen her mum Leela Lomax (Kirsty Leigh-Porter) finally arrived in extremely emotional scenes.
Ruby previously revealed that certain scenes she’s filmed over the years were “hard to tackle” given she was “still quite young” when she first joined the show in 2013.
The actress confessed she “wanted to find out how teenagers actually react in these situations” and her commitment was worthwhile as she secured Best Young Actor at the 2016 British Soap Awards and has subsequently received numerous award nominations.
Ruby loves to share her escapades on Instagram and regularly posts pictures from her social events with friends.
She can be seen having a boogie with her mates, sometimes in fancy dress, while basking in the sun in a back garden or on holiday.
The soap star is also a regular festival attendee and keeps her fans updated with her on-set and behind-the-scenes action.
Ruby is currently dating Hollyoaks co-star Nathaniel Dass, who made his debut as Dillon Ray in 2023,
Their characters might not cross paths on screen often but off-screen their romance is blossoming since going Instagram official in 2024.
The actress marked their first anniversary on Instagram by sharing a series of loved-up snaps.
She delighted fans by posting a quartet of adorable pictures, alongside the caption: “1 year with u” capped off with a pink heart pierced by a blue arrow.
Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am
GET ready, Prime members! Amazon’s next major sales event is just hours away.
In recent years, Prime members have been treated to two exclusive sales – Prime Day in July and Prime Big Deal Days, which typically takes place in October.
Amazon’s Prime subscription service gives you access to a treasure trove of benefits
Amazon Prime Day deals
Amazon’s last Prime Day sale kicked off on July 8 and ran for four days, ending on July 11.
We also spotted plenty of deals on Amazon devices such as Echo speakers, Fire TVs, and Ring security systems, plus major price drops on top brands and trending tech products, such as dash cams, and we’re predicting similar savings next week.
It’s the last major sales event from Amazon ahead of Black Friday – so make sure you don’t miss out, especially if you’re hoping to get a head start on your Christmas shopping or pick up a few affordable winter essentials.
Just remember: to take advantage of the deals, you’ll need an Amazon Prime subscription (there’s a 30-day free trial), currently costing £8.99 per month or £95 per year.
Jump to…
When does Amazon Prime Day 2025 start?
Amazon’s second Prime Day sale of the year, Prime Big Deal Days, will take place on October 7, 2025.
The two-day shopping event ends on October 8, 2025.
In 2024, Amazon Prime Big Deal Days ran from October 8 to 9.
Amazon Prime Day: The best deals live now
We’ve rounded up a wide range of deals you can shop right now.
Best Amazon home deals
Prime Day is the perfect time to pick up big-name brands for lessCredit: Amazon
Treadmill Walking Pad Running Machine, £149.99 for Prime members (was £599.99) – buy here
LEENON Dehumidifiers for Home, £109.99 (was £159.99) –buy here
Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor (Newest gen), £26.99 (was £69.99) – buy here
Alexander Graham 3 Tier Heated Clothes Airer Dryer, £92.65 (was £109) – buy here
Slumberdown Sleepy Nights Electric Blanket King Size, £32.60 (was £42.99) – buy here
Slumberdown Feels Like Down King Size Duvet 13.5 Tog, £21.56 (was £31.19) – buy here
Yankee Candle Scented Candle Vanilla Cupcake Large Jar, £16.99 (was £29.99) – buy here
LEGO Botanicals Orchid, £29.99 (was £44.99) – buy here
LEGO Harry Potter Book Nook: Hogwarts Express Set with a Train Toy, £67.99 (was £89.99) – buy here
LEGO Halloween Barn, £9.99 (was £12.99) – buy here
Monopoly Harry Potter Edition, £21.99 (was £37.99) – buy here
MEGA Pokémon Charizard Action Figure, £14.99 (was £22.99) – buy here
Paw Patrol Adventure Bay Bath Playset, £19.99 (was £29.99) – buy here
PAW Patrol Fire Rescue Command Center with Marshall Figure, £37.49 (was £49.99) – buy here
AOLEVA Wooden Afternoon Tea Set for Toddler, £14.75 (was £17.35) – buy here
Pukomc 36/60in Toddler Trampoline for Kids, £26.59 (was £49.99) – buy here
LeapFrog Build-a-Slice Pizza Cart, £39.99 (was £59.99) – buy here
Best Prime Day deals on Amazon services
During the sales event, Amazon offers promotional deals and free trials on several services, including Prime.
Here are just a few of our favourite deals you can snap up today:
When was the last Prime Day event?
The last Prime Day sale took place between July 8 and July 11, 2025, giving bargain hunters four days to shop exclusive deals.
Prime members were treated to thousands of discounts across everything from tech and beauty to home essentials and fashion, with many items hitting their lowest-ever prices.
Here are the dates of past Prime Day sales:
2015: 15 July
2016: 12 July
2017: 11-12 July
2018: 17-18 July
2019: 15-16 July
2020: 13-14 October
2021: 21-22 June
2022: 12-13 July
2023: 11-12 July
2024: 16-17 July
2025: 8-11 July
Do I need to be a Prime member to take part in Prime Day?
Never been a member before? You’re in luck – Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for newbies.
This essentially gives you full access to the mammoth sale and all the Prime perks, without spending a penny.
Just be sure to set a reminder – you’ll need to cancel before the 30-day trial ends to avoid being charged the £8.99 monthly fee.
If you’re planning to keep Prime long-term, you can save by opting for the annual membership at £95.
How much is Amazon Prime?
An Amazon Prime membership costs £8.99 per month or £95 for the whole year – but with all the perks on offer, it could save you a fortune.
Amazon’s yearly subscription service gives you access to a treasure trove of benefits, from quick delivery to binge-worthy telly and exclusive discounts.
The annual membership works out cheaper than paying monthly, saving you nearly £13 over the year – perfect if you’re planning to stick with Prime long-term.
Not sure if it’s worth splashing the cash? Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for new members (or anyone who hasn’t been a member in the last 12 months).
This means you can enjoy all the Prime perks, including access to the Amazon sale, without spending a penny – just remember to cancel before the 30 days are up if you don’t want to be charged.
The mega-sale features a mix of different deal types, including:
“Deals of the day,” which last a limited time – or vanish even quicker if stock runs out.
Limited “lightning deals” which appear and disappear in the blink of an eye once stock is gone.
Some offers (particularly Amazon’s own devices) will stick around for the full sale period.
How long will Prime Day 2025 deals last?
As mentioned above, Prime Big Deal Days is a two-day event that will take place between October 7 and 8, 2025.
The sale is slightly shorter than July’s Prime Day event, which gave shoppers four days of unmissable deals.
It was the biggest Prime Day event to date, with customers saving billions on deals across more than 35 product categories.
Our top tip? If you spot something you’ve been eyeing up with a massive discount, grab it quickly.
Hesitate and you’ll likely miss out – these deals wait for no one!
Does Amazon have Prime Day deals on everything?
Prime Day is a shopaholic’s dream, with discounts across virtually every Amazon department.
Here are several categories worth checking out:
Whether you’re shopping for yourself or hunting for gifts, you’ll find something on sale in whatever category catches your eye.
Can students take part in Prime Day?
Yes, students can get in on all the Prime Day bargains.
Amazon offers students a special Prime Student membership that comes with the same perks as regular Prime but at a serious discount – just £4.49 monthly.
Even better, students get an incredible six-month free trial (compared to the normal 30 days), giving you access to all the Prime Day deals without spending a penny.
To qualify, you’ll need:
A valid university email address
Proof of enrollment
The student discount lasts for four years or until you graduate (whichever comes first) – making this one of the best bargains going for cash-strapped students.
How do I cancel my Amazon Prime 30-day free trial after Prime Day?
If you’re taking advantage of an Amazon Prime trial to grab Prime Day bargains, you’ll need to cancel before your 30 days are up to avoid being charged the full membership fee.
Luckily, cancelling is a doddle – here’s exactly how to do it:
On your phone or tablet:
Open the Amazon app and tap the profile icon at the bottom
Tap ‘Your Account’
Select ‘Manage Prime Membership’
Tap ‘Manage Membership’ at the top
Hit ‘Update, cancel and more’
Scroll down and tap ‘End membership’
On your computer:
Head to Amazon.co.uk/gp/primecentral
Click ‘Update, cancel, and more’ below ‘Membership’
Click ‘End membership’
Select the yellow ‘Cancel My Benefits’ button
Click ‘Continue to Cancel’
Confirm by clicking ‘Cancel Membership’
Even after cancelling, you’ll still keep all your Prime benefits until the end of your trial period.
You’ll see the exact end date displayed on the screen after cancelling.
If you end up forgetting to cancel and get charged, Amazon may offer a full refund if you haven’t used any Prime benefits since the trial ended.
How often is Amazon Prime Day?
Amazon Prime Day typically takes place once a year in July.
The retail giant also hosts a second major sales event in October, known as Prime Big Deal Days.
In addition to these two events, Amazon runs regular sales throughout the year, including a Spring Sale in March.
The retailer also offers unbeatable deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so there are plenty of opportunities to save.
JON Richardson’s future on Waterloo Road has been confirmed after Jason Manford quit the show after just one series.
The comedy star announced he was joining the show after an April Fools prank claiming he was retiring from comedy to become a teacher.
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Jon Richardson’s future on Waterloo Road has been revealedCredit: BBC
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The comedian split from wife Lucy Beaumont last yearCredit: Getty
He soon announced that was he was actually joining the cast of the school-set drama.
And now The Sun can exclusively reveal that he won’t be a one-series wonder like Jason who bowed out after his first year.
A source said: “There were worries by some that after Jason’s one series stint that Jon would follow suit but that’s not the case.
“He’ll be sticking around for the foreseeable and is really enjoying acting now.”
Read more on Waterloo Road
The star will play the school’s new media studies teacher, Darius Donovan.
The BBC blurb teases: “With tons of charm, this new teacher knows how to put on a good show, and viewers can expect his arrival to stir things up at Waterloo Road.”
Last year Jon and ex-wife Lucy Beaumont announced their split.
Jon and Lucy tied the knot in 2015 after two years of dating.
Moment Lucy Beaumount joked about divorce from Jon Richardson a year before couple revealed split
A statement shared by PA news agency said: “After 9 years of marriage, we would like to announce that we have separated.
“We have jointly and amicably made the difficult decision to divorce and go our separate ways.
“As our only priority is managing this difficult transition for our daughter, we would ask that our privacy is respected at this sensitive time to protect her well-being.
Olivia Attwood is back with a new series of ITV2’s Bad Boyfriends, however she made headlines after presenting This Morning for the very first time this summer
Olivia Attwood on This Morning(Image: ITV)
Olivia Attwood has opened up about her future on ITV’s This Morning after making her presenting debut this summer. The ex Love Island star is returning to our screens with a new series of Bad Boyfriends on ITV2 this weekend.
However, Olivia became a daytime name earlier this year when she joined the presenting line-up of This Morning over the summer break. Speaking ahead of Bad Boyfriends’s return, Olivia revealed that This Morning bosses were impressed with her performance – and want her back.
“I loved it and luckily they loved me, which was all I was worried about,” she said. “They were happy and I did the slots I had over summer.
Olivia Attwood co-hosts ITV’s This Morning with Dermot O’Leary(Image: ITV)
“From their side and our side, we’d like it to be a repeat thing, but now it’s going back into regular scheduling with Cat and Ben so it’s more just where and when I could pop back in and obviously around the other things I’m doing.”
She added that it was a dream working with Dermot O’Leary, who she hosted alongside in the summer break. “I loved it and Dermot was just the dream to work alongside,” she said.
“Honestly, I have so much respect for him as a broadcaster and it was like surreal, but it was, I really enjoyed it. Hopefully I’ll be able to do a few more.”
It comes after Olivia revealed that she was “told off” by her husband Bradley Dack following her wild Ibiza holiday with friends – including Pete Wicks. “I am wild and I do go to Ibiza every year,” she said.
“I let my hair down and I do get told off by my husband and I’m honest about that. I’m not alone in that. The difference is that other people in our industry just wouldn’t be honest to say that. That is just what happens. I’m just not perfect, Brad’s not perfect, but we make it work.”
The ex Love Islander was pictured looking cosy with friend and KISS co-presenter Pete Wicks while partying on a boat with friends in Ibiza. Speaking about the rumours around their platonic relationship, she said: “I think it’s going to be expected when you have two straight people working together.
“It happened when I first joined TOWIE and Pete and I became very close. We spent a lot of time together. There was a rumour mill spinning back then and I expect it.
“I honestly do know that the way I am with the press and how I survive in my career is that I just don’t deep it that much. Unless it was something really bad that someone was saying about me, I don’t get too invested.
Olivia Attwood’s Bad Boyfriends airs Sunday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
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While incumbent held on to power, the Polynesian island nation will have a new PM: Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt.
Published On 5 Sep 20255 Sep 2025
The incumbent Fa’atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) party has been confirmed as the winner of the national election in Samoa.
Official results released by the Samoan electoral commission on Friday showed that FAST won 30 out of the 50 seats contested. However, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa departed the party earlier this year and will be succeeded by new FAST leader Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt.
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The main opposition Human Rights Protection Party won 14 seats. Independent candidates took another four.
The Samoa Uniting Party, formed earlier this year by Fiame – known as the “Iron Lady of the Pacific” – won only three seats, including her own. She was expelled from FAST in January amid a factional dispute.
Rising prices had been cited as a key issue for voters in the country of about 220,000 people.
Before the election on August 29, in Apia, the Samoan capital, residents had told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation they were looking forward to political stability and wanted the next government to focus on the economy and jobs.
On Friday, Samoa’s head of state, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, had issued a warrant confirming the names of the new lawmakers who will form Samoa’s next parliament.
Five women have won seats. The Samoa Observer reported that under a 10 percent minimum representation rule, at least six women must sit in parliament, necessitating the creation of an additional seat.
Fiame became Samoa’s first female leader in 2021, winning an election that unseated Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi after 22 years.
She raised the international profile of the nation by hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting last year, focused on the effect of climate change in the Pacific.
But after being unable to gain enough support to pass a budget, Fiame asked in June for parliament to be dissolved. She has been serving in the role of acting prime minister since.
The much-loved franchise, based on Stephenie Meyer’s novels, released five films between 2008 and 2012, with Breaking Dawn: Part 2 marking the end of the series.
Fast forward over a decade, and the saga made a cryptic announcement across social media on Wednesday (August 27). Fans were tantalised with an image featuring Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart), Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner) and Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), accompanied by the words “Forever Begins Again, “The Twilight Saga,” and “This October.”
The post also included the mysterious caption “Tomorrow,” hinting that further details would be revealed on Thursday (August 28). Now, the enigma has finally been unveiled, reports the Manchester Evening News.
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As many fans had speculated, the entire Twilight Saga is set to make a comeback in cinemas this October, perfectly timed for the first novel’s 20th anniversary.
On Thursday evening, the franchise posted a trailer on Instagram featuring clips from each of the five films, along with the caption: “All five films. Back in theatres. This October.”
Naturally, the announcement sent fans into a whirlwind of excitement, with many expressing their joy in the comments section.
One fan exclaimed: “Omg I get to see it in theatres for the first time,” while another simply wrote: “Finally.
“Exciting!!! I actually missed out on the first one in theatres,” enthused a third.
American audiences can catch the entire saga in cinemas this October (Image: Publicity Picture)
However, some sharp-eyed viewers have spotted that the trailer reveals the celebration will be “nationwide,” indicating the re-release is limited to American cinemas only.
International fans have been left devastated by this news. Expressing their frustration, one viewer raged: “Why only nationwide? ? ? This should be international thooooooo!!!”
Another added: “NOOO MAKE IT WORLDWIDE PLEASEEEEE,” whilst a third begged: “WHAT ABOUT THE REST OF THE WORLD?”
Currently, it seems only US-based audiences will get to enjoy this massive celebration.
Twilight follows the tale of teenager Bella, who becomes smitten with vampire Edward and gets dragged into the supernatural realm of bloodsuckers and werewolves.
The film series catapulted Pattinson and Stewart, who were establishing themselves in Hollywood at the time, to worldwide stardom.
The Battle of Orgreave, on 18 June 1984, was the bloodiest day of the year-long miners’ strike
A national inquiry will be held into one of the most violent days of the year-long miners’ strike in the 1980s, the government has announced.
The inquiry will look into the clash that involved police and miners outside the Orgreave coking plant in Rotherham on 18 June 1984.
The incident, which became known as the Battle of Orgreave, involved miners from across Britain converging on the plant to try to disrupt deliveries, but they were met with force by thousands of police officers.
Joe Rollin, from the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign, has been calling for an inquiry for 13 years. He said he was “cautiously elated” by the news.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, who announced the inquiry, said those affected by the confrontation had had “unanswered questions for over 40 years”.
She said the inquiry had been put “in our Labour manifesto last year and that’s what we’re now delivering”.
PA Media
The striking miners were met with force by thousands of police officers during the clashes
The inquiry will be chaired by the Bishop of Sheffield, the Rt Rev Dr Pete Wilcox, and will look at both the events of the day and the aftermath, Ms Cooper said.
That will include the eventually failed criminal prosecutions of 95 miners and what Ms Cooper described as the “discredited evidence” against them.
The incident was sparked after the National Coal Board (NCB) announced in March 1984 that it was shutting 20 UK collieries it said were unprofitable.
This resulted in the loss of at least 20,000 jobs.
More than three quarters of the country’s 187,000 miners went on strike in response to the announcement.
On the day of the clashes in June, the striking miners wanted to stop lorries carrying coke to fuel the Scunthorpe steel furnaces as they thought disrupting production would help win their fight against the closures and job losses.
PA Media
The Battle of Orgreave is considered one of the most violent episodes in British industrial history
But violent clashes between police and the miners left more than 100 picketers and officers injured at the coking plant.
A total of 95 men who had been picketing at the plant were arrested and faced trial on riot and unlawful assembly charges.
However, the case against them collapsed in court due to allegations that South Yorkshire Police had falsified evidence.
Many of those involved have said that even 40 years on, they want answers about what happened and why.
It is still considered one of the most violent episodes in British industrial history.
In 2016, the then home secretary, Amber Rudd, rejected calls for an inquiry into events at Orgreave, saying it would not be in the public interest.
She said even though miners who were involved gave “forceful accounts” about its lasting impact on them, “ultimately there were no deaths or wrongful convictions”.
Joe Rollin, from the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign, said he was “cautiously elated” by the announcement
Mr Rollin said he and other members of the Truth and Justice Campaign were “really happy and we want to get to the truth”.
“It’s been a long slog these last 13 years and we can’t quite believe it,” he said.
“We want all the people who live around the country in mining communities that have been so badly treated to have a smile on their faces.
“This has been a hard-fought thing and thank you to everyone who’s supported us.”
Rotherham Labour MP Sarah Champion said former miners, their families and campaigners had worked “tirelessly” to secure an inquiry.
She said: “I have stood shoulder to shoulder with campaigners over the years as they were led to believe an inquiry was about to be commissioned, only to have the rug pulled out from under them.
“They have been let down time and time again, and I am proud that our Labour government is good to its word and will finally uncover the truth.”
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said the announcement of the inquiry was a “landmark moment for justice and accountability”.
“We owe it to the miners, their families, and our communities to ensure that the events of Orgreave are finally understood,” he said.
South Yorkshire Police said it would “fully cooperate with the inquiry in a bid to help those affected find answers”.
Love Island fans have already ‘worked out’ who will win the series despite the final being weeks away as they spotted a major clue during recent episodes
22:19, 17 Jul 2025Updated 22:20, 17 Jul 2025
Fans are convinced Yas and Jamie will win the show(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
Love Island fans think they’ve already worked out who will win the 12th series of the show after spotting a major clue in recent episodes.
It’s been drama galore during recent Love Island episodes, with couples swapping left right and centre. However, one couple who have remained strong throughout are Yasmine and Jamie. Staying out of the drama, the couple were sent on an adorable date last night, where they opened up about their families and got to know each other even deeper.
It was love at first sight for the couple when Jamie joined the main villa in Casa Amor, as he and Yas kissed moments into him arriving. Since then, they’ve only had eyes for each other, and fans are loving it.
Yas and Jamie were sent on a date amid all the drama yesterday(Image: ITV)
It’s become evident the couple are fan favourites, as in today’s challenge, Couple of Sorts, the two were voted the hottest by the public – and now viewers are convinced they’ll win the whole show. “Yas and Jamie will win the whole show,” wrote one.
Many are rooting for the two to take home the title, as one took to X, formerly known as Twitter to write: “Yas & Jamie … winners! #loveisland,” as a second agreed: “hoping that yas and jamie will be our next kai and sanam, i need them to win and get married #loveisland.”
“Yas and Jamie 1st. Then Shakira 2nd. Then Toni and Cash 3rd after she goes back,” said a third, while another said: “Yasmine and Jamie got a date before Meg and Dejon, winners!”
Fans are rooting for the pair to take the crown(Image: ITV)
“Wrap up this series now and crown Yasmine and Jamie as the winners,” a fifth said.
It was a tough time for Yasmine before Jamie entered the villa, as although she’d explored a number of options, nothing quite clicked until Casa Amor.
She’d kissed Harry, Ben and most recently Conor, before forming a meaningful connection with Jamie.
Yasmine entered the villa as an early bombshell along with Malisha and Emily – and is now the last one standing. Malisha was brutally dumped from the villa after Harrison chose to take Toni back to the villa after dating them both.
Emily was sent home after Tommy came back from Casa Amor with Lucy, although the couple were dumped themselves shortly after as ‘most compatible couple’ Shakira and Ty decided to send them home.
Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
Jeremy Clarkson is set to return for a brand new series of Who Wants to be a Millionaire as well as a spin-off series of the popular quiz show named Millionaire Hot Seat
Jeremy Clarkson will return for more episodes of ITV’s Who Wants to be a Millionaire along with a brand new spin-off show.
It has been confirmed by executives that the star of Clarkson’s Farm will host the UK premiere of Millionaire Hot Seat, in addition to an extended run of Who Wants to be a Millionaire and Celebrity Who Wants to be a Millionaire.
Millionaire Hot Seat is a high-speed variant of the worldwide Millionaire format, demanding players to think strategically and respond under pressure as they race against the clock and each other.
The show has enjoyed long-standing ratings success in Australia, with over 2,500 episodes broadcasted.
Offering a twist on the traditional Millionaire format, it features six contestants competing for a chance to win big, but there’s no room for hesitation, reports Gloucestershire Live.
Jeremy Clarkson will return for more episodes of ITV’s Who Wants to be a Millionaire
The rules are straightforward, but the gameplay is relentless. Contestants sit in a queue around the eponymous Hot Seat, but only the individual in the Hot Seat can face Jeremy and answer questions on the Million Pound Money Ladder.
The contestant must answer correctly to ascend the ladder, but if they answer incorrectly, they’re out and the top prize decreases.
If they pass, they remain in the game, but move to the back of the line and may not get another turn.
If a passed question goes to the next player, the contestant must answer. If they answer correctly, they stay.
If they answer incorrectly, they’re out.
Only the top prize remaining on the ladder can be won, and the player facing that question must answer it correctly to take home the cash.
The TV star will also spin-off show Millionaire Hot Seat(Image: ITV)
The UK is gearing up for the filming of a new version set to commence this November, with eyes on a 2026 launch.
ITV has also announced an exciting line-up of 19 fresh episodes of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, featuring seven celebrity editions.
Katie Rawcliffe, ITV’s Director of Entertainment and Daytime Commissioning, expressed her enthusiasm: “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire has reached 18 million viewers on ITV so far this year alone.”
Millionaire Hot Seat will start filming later this year(Image: ITV)
She further justified the decision for a new series, stating: “Commissioning a new spin-off format to further capitalise on the brand’s success and popularity was a no brainer, especially with Millionaire Hot Seat already doing so well in other territories also.”
Matthew Worthy, Co-CEO of Stellify Media, shared his pride in the project: “It is an honour to produce Millionaire for ITV.”
He described the upcoming Millionaire Hot Seat as “Millionaire Hot Seat is the main show’s cheeky younger sibling, and gives us more Jeremy, enjoying more money-ladder moments – but with a whole new tone, pace, and feel.”
Who Wants to be a Millionaire is available to stream on ITVX
The trio of women let the cameras follow them again as they try to find (or keep) love, look after their kids and build businesses
18:00, 03 Jul 2025Updated 18:23, 03 Jul 2025
Binky, Lucy and Rosie are back for more action on E4 later this year(Image: PA)
Made in Chelsea breakout stars Binky Felstead, Lucy Watson and Rosie Fortescue are returning to E4 for a second series of Beyond Chelsea.
And this time around viewers will follow the three women, now in their mid-thirties, as they balance motherhood, family life and relationships, while running businesses and navigating life in the public eye.
The two-part fly on the wall spin-off, to air on E4 later this year, will give viewers more information about Binky’s mum’s challenges with MS (multiple sclerosis). The audience will also find out whether Rosie has had any success with finding a partner, after last time around she decided she was ready to welcome romance back into her life, with Binky acting as wing woman.
Binky, Lucy, Rosie will return to our television screens with the return of one of Made in Chelsea’s 11 spin-offs(Image: Channel 4 / Rob Parfitt)
The cameras also follow as Lucy moves into her new home mid-development while Binky takes on yet another new business venture, with all three trying to balance motherhood, family life and relationships.
Production boss Helen Kruger Bratt told the Mirror that other Made in Chelsea favourites would also pop up. “The love for Made in Chelsea, and the franchise as a whole, just keeps growing,” she told the Mirror. “Every series brings in new fans, while longtime viewers stay closely connected to the lives of our brilliant cast.
“With Beyond Chelsea, we’ve loved reconnecting with some of MIC’s most iconic OGs in a way we’ve never done before. Featuring these three amazing women, and guest appearances from other ex-MIC favourites, this second series promises to be even more revealing, emotional, and hilarious.”
Binky, seen here with Ollie, was seen in tears last year after finding out Alex had cheated(Image: Monkey Kingdom)
Channel 4 Senior Commissioning Editor Clemency Green added: “Binky, Lucy and Rosie’s lives are chaotic and yet they still find time to allow the cameras back in. The Made in Chelsea fans are going to love seeing what they have been up to this past year, catching up on the gang as they share the ups and downs of their lives.”
Main series Made in Chelsea will also be back on E4 for a 29th run. The BAFTA award-winning show, which first launched in 201, has since notched up a staggering 332 episodes. This time some of the cast head off to a luxury resort in Thailand – where they are joined by a new faces who are “set to cause a stir”.
In January, Binky hinted the show would be back with more appearances from some of the original cast from when the show started 14 years ago. “We only had time to do two episodes last year and to test people’s interest… which was off the charts and overwhelmingly positive,” she said. “Since then we’ve had 3/4 of the OG’s reach out who want to be part of the next phase – all very exciting.”
President Trump during his previous state visit in 2019
Donald Trump will make a full state visit to the UK later this year after King Charles and the US president’s schedules meant they would be unable to meet informally over the summer, it is understood.
Buckingham Palace confirmed an invitation signed by the King, called the “Manu Regia”, was taken to the White House by representatives from the British Embassy in Washington last week.
The dates of Trump’s visit are yet to be confirmed but September is said to be the most likely.
It is also understood that there will not be a private meeting between Trump and King Charles this summer ahead of the state visit.
The diary issues come despite the King heading to Scotland for his summer break each year, and Trump being expected to visit his new golf course in Aberdeenshire when it opens this summer.
“His Majesty has known President Trump for many years and looks forward to hosting him and the First Lady later this year,” a Buckingham Palace aide told the BBC.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner told Parliament on Wednesday: “We are really pleased the US president is coming for a second state visit.”
Formal planning for the second official state visit has now begun.
In February during a visit to the White House, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer handed Trump a letter from the King.
Traditionally, second-term US presidents are not offered a state visit and have instead been invited for tea or lunch with the monarch at Windsor Castle.
King Charles’ letter proposed a meeting to discuss details of the state visit at either Dumfries House or Balmoral, both in Scotland, a country to which Trump has connections.
Speaking in April, Trump said: “They’re going to do a second, as you know, a second fest… that’s what it is: a fest, and it’s beautiful, and it’s the first time it’s ever happened to one person.
“And the reason is we have two separate terms, and it’s an honour… I’m a friend of Charles, I have great respect for King Charles and the family, William, we have really just a great respect for the family.
“And I think they’re setting a date for September.”
The Times reported that Buckingham Palace raised concerns about Trump’s “threats to Canada, seeing it as a reason not to rush into a state visit”.
According to the newspaper, a senior source said that a senior Palace aide told government officials that the King did not want to fête Trump with a state visit while the US president was “impugning his sovereignty” over Canada.
It added that senior government sources said the King wished to have a state visit at a later date in Trump’s second term.
A Downing Street spokesman said: “It’s a matter for the Palace.”
India and Pakistan will meet in the round-robin stage of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 on October 5, five months after the most intense military escalations between the two nations, cricket’s governing body has confirmed.
The cricket powerhouses will also face each other in the group stage of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, with the marquee clash scheduled for June 14, according to the tournament’s schedule announced by the ICC on Wednesday.
India are hosting the 50-over World Cup 2025 from September 30 to November 2, but all of Pakistan’s fixtures – including any appearances in the semifinals and final – will be held in Sri Lanka as both countries agreed to an ICC-brokered deal in December 2024 to face each other at neutral venues at future ICC events.
India and Pakistan were engaged in a four-day conflict last month, their worst standoff since 1999, before a ceasefire was agreed on May 10. More than 70 people were killed in missile, drone and artillery fire on both sides, but there are competing claims on the casualties.
Following the escalations, several Indian media outlets reported that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has asked the ICC to avoid allocating them the same group as Pakistan in global tournaments.
However, BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla confirmed that while India does not “want to play with Pakistan in bilateral series because of the government’s stand”, the country will meet its western neighbour at ICC events “due to the ICC’s engagement”.
“The ICC is also aware, whatever is happening, they will look into it,” Shukla was quoted as saying by Indian media.
During the standoff, which led to fears of an all-out war, former and current cricketers from both countries made social media posts in support of their respective armed forces.
Given the gravity of the situation, the possibility of both nations meeting on a cricket field was under some doubt, but the ICC confirmed the 50-over tournament’s schedule on Monday, with the India-Pakistan round-robin stage match scheduled in Colombo, Sri Lanka, during the first week of the tournament.
The rest of Pakistan’s six fixtures will also be played in the Sri Lankan capital, with the R Premadasa Stadium the likely venue.
Should Pakistan qualify for the semifinals, they will play the first knockout match on October 29 in Colombo. If they do not qualify, the match will be played on the same date in Guwahati.
The fate of the final will also be decided in a similar manner, with Colombo bagging the hosting rights should Pakistan make it, and Bengaluru hosting it in case they do not.
The eight-team Women’s Cricket World Cup will begin on September 30 with hosts India taking on Sri Lanka at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Defending champions Australia, England, Bangladesh, New Zealand, South Africa and Sri Lanka are the other participant nations.
India and Pakistan meet only in global and regional cricket tournaments as they do not play bilateral cricket series [File: Altaf Qadri/AP Photo]
India and Pakistan will meet again in June next year, when they play their Group 1 match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Kingdom.
The match will be played at Edgbaston cricket ground in Birmingham at 13:30 GMT.
The tournament, which was last won by New Zealand in 2024, will be held at seven venues across England and Wales.
Hosts England will play Sri Lanka at Edgbaston in the tournament opener on June 12 at 17:30 GMT.
Twelve teams, divided into two groups, will participate.
Group 1 comprises Australia, India, Pakistan, South Africa and two qualifiers, which will be decided at the end of the qualifying rounds in 2026.
Group 2 includes England, New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka and two qualifiers.
The semifinals are scheduled for June 30 and July 2 at the Oval cricket ground in London, while Lord’s Cricket Ground will host the final on July 5.
The last meeting between India and Pakistan came at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Dubai on October 6, when India eased to a six-wicket win in the group-stage encounter.
Coronation Street viewers say it’s ‘obvious’ who is really trying to split up Todd Grimshaw and Theo Silverton on the ITV soap, amid a new spoiler seemingly revealing the truth
Coronation Street viewers say it’s ‘obvious’ who is really trying to split up Todd Grimshaw and Theo Silverton(Image: ITV)
The truth behind Coronation Street‘s Theo Silverton and Todd Grimshaw being targeted has seemingly been solved.
Fans had their suspicions over who had really set up a fake dating profile for Theo, with the plan being to split the couple up. Luckily for Theo his new flame Todd realised it wasn’t his profile and that someone was targeting them.
While Theo’s wife Danielle came under suspicion, she’s believed by Theo when she protests her innocence. So who is targeting them and why? New spoilers appear to have confirmed all amid fans sharing their theories.
Theo only recently moved on with Todd, as he continued to come to terms with his sexuality. His sad past was revealed when Todd learned Theo’s harrowing ordeal with his upbringing, and him pushed into conversion therapy by his strictly religious parents.
He ended up marrying Danielle and they had two kids together, while Theo continued to hide who he really was. Danielle only recently found out the truth, as did his teens, with Danielle spotting her husband kissing Todd.
Theo has struggled ever since with accepting who he is, and splitting from Danielle. He’s been lashing out and shown in turmoil, with Todd trying his best to help him through it all.
The truth behind Coronation Street’s Theo Silverton and Todd Grimshaw being targeted has seemingly been solved(Image: ITV)
In the meantime, someone has been trying to tear the couple apart. A fake profile with Theo’s images was set up to make Todd think Theo was seeing other people and cheating on him.
The pair realised someone was targeting them and are still no closer to working out who it is. Fans think they have it sussed though, as some are convinced Theo’s pregnant daughter Millie is behind it all.
With her having shown despair over her dad moving out and moving on with Todd in the past, viewers think she’s now trying to split them up. Taking to X, one viewer said: “It’s obviously Theo ’s daughter who set up that profile.”
Another fan agreed: “It’s obviously Theo’s daughter.” A third fan wrote: “I think it’s Theo’s daughter Millie that is sending the messages to try and split Todd and Theo up.”
The theory was shared by others too with one fan writing: “Millie put Theo’s pic on that dating app. Driving a wedge between him and Todd. Bit obvious.” A final theory said: “That defo has to be Theo ’s daughter Millie or ex wife Danielle who probably made that dating profile up to set up Theo.”
Corrie fans think Theo’s pregnant daughter Millie is behind it all(Image: ITV)
A new spoiler for next week’s episodes may have teased this is the case. It seems Millie could well be to blame, as next week she’s up to no good. Sensing Theo’s jealousy as Todd bonds with James Bailey, Millie plots to cause drama.
Forming a plan, the teenager tells Todd that she has booked him a training session with James after the news he’s set himself up as a personal trainer. She says it’s to thank him, and to say sorry for her recent behaviour.
But what Todd may or may not realise is that she is setting him, knowing full well Theo will get annoyed. So does this mean she is also behind the profile?
WASHINGTON — Former U.S. Rep. Billy Long of Missouri was confirmed on Thursday to lead the Internal Revenue Service, giving the beleaguered agency he once sought to abolish a permanent commissioner after months of acting leaders and massive staffing cuts that have threatened to derail next year’s tax filing season.
The Senate confirmed Long on a 53-44 vote despite Democrats’ concerns about the Republican’s past work for a firm that pitched a fraud-ridden coronavirus pandemic-era tax break and about campaign contributions he received after President Trump nominated him to serve as IRS commissioner.
While in Congress, where he served from 2011 to 2023, Long sponsored legislation to get rid of the IRS, the agency he is now tasked with leading. A former auctioneer, Long has no background in tax administration.
Long will take over an IRS undergoing massive change, including layoffs and voluntary retirements of tens of thousands of workers and accusations that then-Trump advisor Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency mishandled sensitive taxpayer data. Unions and advocacy organizations have sued to block DOGE’s access to the information.
The IRS was one of the highest-profile agencies still without a Senate-confirmed leader. Before Long’s confirmation, the IRS shuffled through four acting leaders, including one who resigned over a deal between the IRS and the Department of Homeland Security to share immigrants’ tax data with Immigration and Customs Enforcement and another whose appointment led to a fight between Musk and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
After leaving Congress to mount an unsuccessful bid for the U.S. Senate, Long worked with a firm that distributed the pandemic-era employee retention tax credit. That tax credit program was eventually shut down after then-IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel determined that it was fraudulent.
Democrats called for a criminal investigation into Long’s connections to other alleged tax credit loopholes. The lawmakers allege that firms connected to Long duped investors into spending millions of dollars to purchase fake tax credits.
Long appeared before the Senate Finance Committee last month and denied any wrongdoing related to his involvement in the tax credit scheme.
Ahead of the confirmation vote, Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, the ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, sent a letter to White House chief of staff Susie Wiles blasting the requisite FBI background check conducted on Long as a political appointee as inadequate.
“These issues were not adequately investigated,” Wyden wrote. “In fact, the FBI’s investigation, a process dictated by the White House, seemed designed to avoid substantively addressing any of these concerning public reports. It’s almost as if the FBI is unable to read the newspaper.”
Democratic lawmakers have also written to Long and his associated firms detailing concerns with what they call unusually timed contributions made to Long’s defunct 2022 Senate campaign committee shortly after Trump nominated him.
The IRS faces an uncertain future under Long. Tax experts have voiced concerns that the 2026 filing season could be hampered by the departure of so many tax collection workers. In April, the Associated Press reported that the IRS planned to cut as many as 20,000 staffers — up to 25% of the workforce. An IRS representative on Thursday confirmed the IRS had shed about that many workers but said the cuts amounted to approximately the same number of IRS jobs added under the Biden administration.
The fate of the Direct File program, the free electronic tax return filing system developed during President Biden’s Democratic administration, is also unclear. Republican lawmakers and commercial tax preparation companies had complained it was a waste of taxpayer money because free filing programs already exist, although they are hard to use. Long said during his confirmation hearing that it would be one of the first programs that come up for discussion if he were confirmed.
Long is not the only Trump appointee to support dismantling an agency he was assigned to manage.
Linda McMahon, the current education secretary, has repeatedly said she is trying to put herself out of a job by closing the federal department and transferring its work to the states. Rick Perry, Trump’s energy secretary during his first term, called for abolishing the Energy Department during his bid for the 2012 GOP presidential nomination.
