November

Who is spending money on Prop. 50, the redistricting measure on California’s November ballot

Proposition 50 would shift the state’s congressional district lines to favor Democrats. It is Gov, Gavin Newsom’s response to a similar effort in Texas designed to put more Republicans in Congress. The new district lines would override those created by the state’s nonpartisan, independent redistricting commission.

Supporters include Democratic politicians and party organizations and labor unions. Newsom has said that this is a needed step to counter President Trump and to protect Californians. Republicans oppose the measure, arguing that partisan maps would take the state backward.

Overall fundraising

proposition 50 overall fundraising

The Times is tracking contributions to one committee supporting Proposition 50 and two committees opposing the measure. Many committees have contributed to these main committees.

How money has flowed in over time

Since the proposal was announced in August, donations supporting the measure have poured in.

Line chart of cumulative contributions to supporting and opposing committees over time.

Biggest supporters

The Times is tracking contributions to the main fundraising committee supporting Proposition 50, which is controlled by Newsom. George Soros’ Fund for Policy Reform is the top donor with $10 million. House Majority PAC, the second-largest donor, aims to elect Democrats to the U.S. House of Representatives. Labor unions are also major supporters.

Top committees in support

The measure has received support from several business executive and philanthropist donors, including Michael Moritz, Gwendolyn Sontheim and Reed Hastings.

Almost 150,000 individuals gave $100 or more. More than $11 million, about 14% of the total raised, came from small-dollar contributors, or those who gave less than $100.

Top individual donors in support of Prop. 50

Biggest opposition

The Times is also tracking contributions to two main opposition committees. Most of the money to these groups has come from extremely large contributions from a handful of donors.

Charles Munger, Jr., son of the former Berkshire Hathaway vice chairman, contributed more than $32 million to the Hold Politicians Accountable PAC.

Small-dollar contributions have made up $7,500 of the total raised.

Table with the two biggest donors to the opposition of Prop. 50.

The Congressional Leadership Fund has given $5 million to the Stop Sacramento’s Power Grab committee.

Table with the two biggest donors to the opposition of Prop. 50.

Source link

Spain’s lesser-known ‘Garden of Europe’ that’s 21C in November gets new UK flights

Thanks to its fertile valleys, this region in Spain is romantically known as the Garden of Europe – but as well as an abundance of fruit, veg and olives, it also offers visitors stunning architecture and beautiful beaches

A university city in southeastern Spain is often overlooked by holidaymakers but has so much to offer and is still wonderfully warm in the winter.

Murcia can cater to everyone’s tastes, with a rich historical heritage evident in its Baroque architecture and cathedral, breathtaking natural parks and stunning sandy beaches – as well local menus that make the most of the region’s bountiful produce.

Despite it being Spain’s seventh largest city, it is relatively unknown among tourists. However, that could be about to change as UK airlines are extending their summer routes into winter, allowing visitors to enjoy a much welcome sunny break during the cooler months at home.

READ MORE: European island with 28C weather in October making it a perfect autumn escapeREAD MORE: Secret Christmas alternative to Lapland and booking now will save you thousands

Easyjet is now adding Luton and Bristol airports to its Murcia schedule from October to March. Previously Gatwick was the only route to the region in the winter. There are currently flights available for as little as £20 and under, one way.

Ryanair has also added a new route from Stansted as part of its winter schedule. We found a seven night round trip for just £44 in November from the London airport to Murcia.

It’s a great time of year to travel there – the area enjoys mild winters and relatively low rainfall. Temperatures in November average a high of 21C, making it the perfect place to recharge in the suns rays before the onslaught of the harsh UK weather and seasonal Christmas madness.

It’s not just the clement climate that is the province’s appeal though. Despite it being a city with the expected hustle and bustle in some areas, its people enjoy a laid back pace of life and there are less crowds than other tourist hotspots nearby such as Alicante.

The area has a rich historical heritage and has been inhabited since the Bronze and Iron ages. There are Roman sites to explore and the city’s grand Cathedral de Murcia is a favourite among visitors with its Baroque and Gothic designs and ornate carvings.

In the same square is the 18th century Bishops Palace which is the official headquarters of the Diocese of Cartagena and displays magnificent Rococo style facades reminiscent of Italian palaces of the Renaissance.

Juxtaposing the historical masterpieces in the Cardinal Belluga Square is the modern annexe of the town hall which was completed in 1999 and was designed by Raphael Moneo.

The Real Casino is another must see in the city. Its numerous rooms reflect the varying periods of design from 1847 to the early 20th century in the building which was once an exclusive establishment.

For those who want to explore the local landscape, the Barrancos de Gebas is a badland – a dry, arid land with little vegetation and rugged hills – on the outskirts of Sierra Espuña Regional Park. A hike here will uncover the area’s different species of birds, butterflies and moths as well as breathtaking views.

If relaxation is more your thing the region has around 155 miles of incredible coastline. There are quiet, sandy beaches to doze on and if travelling by car it’s even possible to find relatively deserted areas. Cabo de Palos is a hotspot for scuba diving and snorkeling with plenty of shipwrecks to explore, some from the First and Second World Wars.

When it comes to food, as previously mentioned, Murcia has come to be dubbed the Garden of Europe or Europe’s Orchard. Its long agricultural tradition thanks to the fertile valleys of its landscapes means the region produces an abundance of fruit, vegetables, oils, nuts and flowers.

Chefs in local restaurants make the most of this along with the supply of fresh seafood from the coast to serve a variety of delicious tapas dishes. One must-try speciality is Marineras – a dish with tuna, potato and vegetables on toast.

Meanwhile, Murcia al Vino is a goat’s cheese cured in a locally produced red wine and the traditional dessert is Paparajotes. Originally eaten by Murcian farmers, it is made by taking a leaf from a lemon tree, coating it in fried dough, sugar and cinnamon and peeling the batter from the leaf which gives it a zingy citrus flavour.

Source link

2025 November California election: Voter guide on redistricting

Voting in California’s special election continues through election day, Nov. 4.

Proposition 50, a measure that would draw new congressional districts for the 2026, 2028 and 2030 elections and the only measure on California’s statewide ballot this election, is the latest volley in a national political brawl that could alter the outcome of the 2026 midterm elections and the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Here is information Times reporters gathered about the redistricting measure:

What’s on the ballot

How and where to vote

Get our L.A. Times Politics newsletter

Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond. In your inbox twice per week.

By continuing, you agree to our Terms of Service and our Privacy Policy.

More election news

Source link

Inaccurate congressional maps mailed to voters for November election

Californians were mailed inaccurate voter guides about the November special election asking them whether to redraw congressional district boundaries, according to the secretary of state’s office. The state agency announced that it would mail postcards correcting the information to voters, which is likely to cost millions of dollars.

“Accuracy in voter information is essential to maintaining public trust in California’s elections,” said Secretary of State Shirley Weber. “We are taking swift, transparent action to ensure voters receive correct information. This mislabeling does not affect proposed districts, ballots, or the election process; it is solely a labeling error. Every eligible Californian can have full confidence that their vote will be counted and their representation is secure.”

The voter guide was sent to California registered voters about Proposition 50, a ballot measure championed by Gov. Gavin Newsom and other state Democrats to try to boost the number of Democrats in Congress. The proposal was in response to Texas and other GOP-led states trying to increase the number of Republicans in the House at the behest of President Trump to enable him to continue to enact his agenda during his final two years in office.

The special election will take place on Nov. 4, but voters will begin receiving mail ballots in early October.

On page 11 of the voter guide, a proposed and hotly contested congressional district that includes swaths of the San Fernando and Antelope valleys and is currently represented by Rep. George Whitesides (D-Agua Dulce) was mislabeled as Congressional District 22. However, on more detailed maps in the voter guide, the district is properly labeled as District 27.

“It is unfortunate that it was incorrect on the statewide map in the voter guide,” said Paul Mitchell, the Democratic redistricting expert who drew the new proposed congressional districts. “But the important thing is it is correct in the L.A. County and the Southern California maps,” allowing people who live in the region to accurately see their new proposed congressional district.

There are 23 million registered voters in California, but it’s unclear whether the postcards will be mailed to each registered voter or to households of registered voters. The secretary of state’s office did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday evening.

Even if the corrective notices are mailed to voter households rather than individual voters, the postage alone is likely to be millions of dollars, in addition to the cost of printing the postcards. The special election, which the Legislature called for in August, was already expected to cost taxpayers $284 million.

Opponents of Proposition 50 seized upon the error as proof that the measure was hastily placed on the ballot.

“When politicians force the Secretary of State to rush an election, mistakes are bound to happen,” said Amy Thoma, a spokesperson for one of the campaigns opposing the effort. “It’s unfortunate that this one will cost taxpayers millions of dollars.”

Former state GOP Chairwoman Jessica Millan Patterson, who leads another anti-Proposition 50 campaign supported by congressional Republicans, added that such mistakes were inevitable given how quickly the ballot measure was written and the special election was called.

“The Prop. 50 power grab was rushed through so fast by greedy politicians that glaring mistakes were made, raising serious questions about what else was missed,” she said. “California taxpayers are already on the hook for a nearly $300 million special election, and now they’re paying to fix mistakes too. Californians deserve transparency, not backroom politics. Secretary Weber should release the cost of issuing this correction immediately.”

The campaign supporting the ballot measure did not respond to requests for comment.

Source link

Treadmill Black Friday deals 2025: what to expect this November

DREAMING of upgrading your home gym? Don’t miss out on this year’s best treadmill Black Friday deals.

Whatever your budget, you’re sure to find a brand and style to suit your fitness goals among the Black Friday bargains.

a treadmill with the word horizon on it

1

Upgrade your fitness set up with a discounted treadmill this Black Friday

Whether you’re buying your first treadmill or upgrading to a high-tech model, Black Friday is the perfect time to snag a fantastic deal.

To help you navigate the November sale, we’ve covered everything you need to know about this year’s best Black Friday treadmill deals.

From important dates and unmissable deals to delivery fees and additional discounts, read on to find out more.

Best treadmill deals live now

On the hunt for treadmill offers? Shoppers are sprinting to several major retailers to score marked-down machines.

Here are just a few of the best treadmill deals available right now:

  • Walking Pad Treadmill with 5% Incline, £99.99 (was £119.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • Treadmill Walking Pad Running Machine, £149.99 (was £599.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • CURSOR FITNESS Folding Treadmill, £203.99 (was £259.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • WalkingPad Z1, £299 (was £449) from WalkingPad – buy here
  • HOMEFITNESSCODE Folding Treadmill, £399.99 (was £699.99) from Decathlon – buy here
  • Pro Fitness T3000 Folding Treadmill, £575 (was £959) from Argos – buy here
  • Reebok FR20z Floatride Treadmill, £749.99 (was £950) from Sports Direct – buy here
  • GT40 S Treadmill Adults, £449.99 (was £799.99) from Sports Direct – buy here
  • T Series 10 Treadmill, £1,299 (was £1,799) from NordicTrack – buy here

When is Black Friday 2025?

Black Friday 2025 falls on November 28.

The sale follows the Thanksgiving celebrations in the US, where the event first started.

The best Black Friday deals usually hit on the day itself, with prices steadily dropping throughout November.

Want to learn more about the biggest shopping bonanza of the year? Our ‘Why is Black Friday called Black Friday?‘ explainer covers everything you need to know.

What treadmill deals to expect during Black Friday 2025?

Black Friday 2025 is expected to offer some seriously impressive savings across a wide range of brands and models.

To get the most out of the sale, figure out which type of treadmill you need and do some research.

You’ll want to consider factors such as budget, space and storage, speed settings, incline options, and noise level.

It’s always best to shop around, so make sure you check out the places below for the best Black Friday deals:

What was in the treadmill Black Friday sale last year?

Teal and black Floatride+ treadmill.
Black Friday 2024 saw some unmissable treadmill dealsCredit: Argos

Black Friday 2024 saw major discounts on home treadmills.

The savings included:

  • Reebok FR20z Floatride Treadmill with Connected Fitness, £529 (was £749) from Argos – buy here
  • Echelon Stride-6 Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill, £972 (was £1,599) from Echelon – buy here
  • Toputure 2-in-1 Home Folding Treadmill with Dual LED Screen, £322.99 (was £399.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • Mobvoi Home Treadmill SE 3-in-1, £197.19 (was £289.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • Reebok GT40 S Treadmill, £549.99 (was £799.99) from Sports Direct – buy here

When is Cyber Monday 2025 and are treadmill retailers taking part?

Cyber Monday falls on December 1, 2025.

It’s normally the final day to get your hands on incredible discounts, as it comes straight after Black Friday.

Unlike Black Friday, Cyber Monday was traditionally geared toward online shoppers, with some retailers adding extra discounts for web purchasers.

However, over the last few years, it has become an extension of Black Friday, with retailers extending deals both online and in-store.

It’s well worth keeping an eye out for any last-minute price cuts, as it’s the final chance to score treadmill savings before the festive season (although retailers will sometimes extend the sale).

For this year’s best Cyber Monday deals, make sure to check out our Cyber Monday hub.

How much does treadmill shipping cost?

Delivery costs will vary depending on the retailer, distance, weight, and size of the treadmill.

If free shipping isn’t available, treadmill delivery costs generally range from around £25 to £100 or more.

Additional fees may apply for installation or upstairs delivery.

Do treadmill retailers offer any other discounts?

Yes, retailers like Amazon, Argos, Very, and John Lewis offer treadmill promotions, limited-time deals, and new customer discounts throughout the year.

You can also search for monthly offers and seasonal sales at retailers like NordicTrack, Decathlon, WalkingPad, Echelon, and Sports Direct.

Which retailers had the best Black Friday treadmill deals in 2024?

All the big fitness brands usually take part in the Black Friday sales action, as well as retailers like Argos, WalkingPad, and Decathlon.

This means you can pick up a bargain on treadmills by the likes of NordicTrack, Echelon, Reebok, and more.

Because of the sheer range of choices, it’s hard to give a definitive answer for which retailer had the ‘best’ deal.

There were bargains to be found in several places and on different brands and models of treadmills – so this year, it’s well worth shopping around to compare prices.

Make sure you check out the following places for deals:

What are the best treadmills you can buy?

Not sure which treadmill is right for you?

When it comes to the best treadmills to use in the comfort of your own home, there are plenty of great options out there, depending on your needs and budget.

If you’re prepared to make a serious investment, NordicTrack’s Commercial X22i will keep you motivated and quite literally on track with its trainer-led iFIT workouts and 22″ smart HD touchscreen.

ProForm’s Carbon TLX is equally as immersive, with interactive training sessions through cities, trails, and studio classes to help keep you stimulated.

If you’re on a budget, though, fear not – there are plenty of options for those looking to shell out a bit less.

We’ve listed a couple of budget-friendly options below, so make sure to check them out.

How much do treadmills cost?

You can pick up a cheap, foldable treadmill for around £100 if you’re budget-conscious.

If you spend around £300, you’ll get more choice of design and features, like a smartphone connection.

On average, the majority of treadmills fetch around £400 – a reasonable amount that will get you all the gadgets and gizmos, a foldable and compact design, and still help you on your fitness journey without breaking the bank.

High-end treadmills are around £500-£3,000, with a huge choice of designs, brands, sizes, and features within that range.

It really depends on what you need from your treadmill, how often you’ll use it, how much space you have, and whether it’s worth making that bigger investment.

How much is a Peloton treadmill?

Peloton treadmill starts at £3,345.

There is also a £39 monthly fee for membership and access to the Peloton app and classes.

Shoppers who purchase a Peloton treadmill will also receive free delivery and installation to a room of their choice.

Peloton also offers several deals to help shoppers save.

For example, you’ll save £55 when you purchase the Tread Ultimate Set, which includes dumbbells in four different weights, a workout mat, and a water bottle.

Finance options are also available to take the sting out of paying the total sum in one fell swoop.

What is the best foldable treadmill to buy?

According to our best home treadmills UK 2025 guide, one of the best foldable options on the market is the Stride-6s Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill from Echelon.

It features a 10” Class HD Touchscreen, Bluetooth audio connectivity, adjustable speed and incline levels ranging up to 12.4 MPH and 12.5, and, best of all, it folds away easily.

There are plenty of foldable treadmills available from various online retailers, so be sure to shop around.

Is Black Friday a good time to buy a treadmill?

Yes, Black Friday is a fantastic time to invest in a treadmill, especially if you’re hoping to score significant savings on premium models.

Major retailers like Amazon, Argos, and John Lewis stock several models to suit all fitness needs and budgets, and during Black Friday, many of them are heavily discounted.

Whether you’re searching for a foldable treadmill to maximise storage or a machine that features a smart display to monitor your progress, there are plenty of options up for grabs in the Black Friday sales.

We’ve listed several retailers worth checking out above, so make sure to take a look at the deals and discounts they’re offering this November.

What is the best treadmill on a budget?

For those on the hunt for a budget-friendly treadmill, Amazon has an array of offers you won’t want to miss.

One standout saving is on the Walking Pad Treadmill with 5% Incline, which has been discounted from £119.99 to just £99.99.

The major retailer is also treating bargain hunters to an incredible price drop on the Treadmill Walking Pad Running Machine, which has been slashed by a staggering 75%.

It’s now scanning at the checkout for just £149.99, down from £599.99.

Both machines effectively boost your workouts, fold down when not needed, and are ideal choices for at-home fitness routines.

Source link

Paul Smith Black Friday 2025: what to expect this November

IF you’re eyeing up a wardrobe refresh, we’re predicting that the Paul Smith Black Friday 2025 sale will be one of the hottest tickets in town.

The iconic British label is known for its sharp tailoring, bold prints, and those unmistakable signature stripes — and this November, we’re expecting some seriously tempting deals to land.

Paul Smith store front with "Feathers" signage.

1

We’re hoping for designer discounts in the Paul Smith Black Friday sale this yearCredit: Paul Smith

Paul Smith Black Friday deals

Paul Smith’s Black Friday event has become a must-watch for fashion fans, and with the brand keeping its cards close to its chest, anticipation is building.

Stay tuned as we break down everything you need to know about Paul Smith’s best Black Friday deals UK — from when the sales will kick off, to which pieces are worth snapping up before they’re gone.

If you want designer style without the designer price tag, this is one sale you’ll want on your radar.

Live Paul Smith deals

Luckily for bargain hunters, there are plenty of Paul Smith deals available from a range of different retailers.

Here are just a few of our favourite deals you can snap up today:

  • PS Paul Smith short sleeve seersucker shirt in khaki, £52.20 (was £175) from Asos – buy here
  • PS Paul Smith short sleeve seersucker shorts in khaki, £54.25 (was £155) from Asos – buy here
  • Paul Smith 3 pack trunks in black, £27.30 (was £42) from Asos – buy here
  • PS Paul Smith Happy Straight-Leg Jeans, £34 (was £170) from Flannels – buy here
  • Paul Smith Seer Trousers, £65 (was £325) from Flannels – buy here
  • PS Paul Smith Suede Lace-Up Tobruk Boots, £75 (was £250) from Flannels – buy here
  • PS Paul Smith Multi Colour Zag Sleeve Cardigan, £129 (was £260) from Flannels – buy here
  • PS Paul Smith Kinsey Canvas Trainer Ladies, £85 (was £120) from Flannels – buy here
  • PS Paul Smith Happy Hoodie Womens, £139 (was £200) from Flannels – buy here

When is Black Friday 2025?

Mark your calendars – this year, Black Friday falls on Friday, November 28.

Savvy shoppers will want to start saving now – the big day will be here before you know it!

Remember to shop smart and compare prices across different stores.

Paul Smith gear can often be nabbed at ASOS, Flannels, and House of Fraser – all of which typically slash prices during Black Friday.

Our top tip? Check all these retailers before hitting the checkout button to ensure you’re getting the absolute best deal possible.

Of course, there’s more to Black Friday than just bagging bargains – but who doesn’t love designer threads at high street prices?

For those who want to learn more, you can also check out our guide to the meaning of the Black Friday name.

Is Paul Smith taking part in Black Friday this year?

The luxury British brand is keeping its plans for Black Friday 2025 close to its chest.

But based on previous years, bargain-hunting fashionistas can almost certainly look forward to snagging some designer Paul Smith deals during November’s shopping extravaganza.

While no official announcement has dropped yet, savvy shoppers should bookmark the Paul Smith website now and sign up for their newsletter to be first in line when those stylish discounts land.

Don’t forget to check other retailers too!

ASOS, Flannels, and House of Fraser all stock Paul Smith gear and typically slash prices during Black Friday – giving you even more chances to bag signature stripes and luxury threads for less.

We’ll be updating this page with all the hottest Paul Smith deals and discounts as soon as they drop, so keep checking back if you’re eyeing up something special.

What deals to expect in the Paul Smith’s Black Friday sale 2025?

Last year, the luxury British brand slashed prices by a massive 30% off selected products on its official website.

In previous years, fashion enthusiasts could purchase gorgeous gear using an exclusive discount code that applied to everything – men’s wear, women’s wear, kids’ wear, homeware, and all those must-have accessories.

While the discounts might not be as dramatic as some high street retailers – let’s face it, Paul Smith is proper posh – even a 30% saving on designer threads is nothing to sniff at!

Savvy shoppers should hit the Black Friday sales early rather than waiting for Cyber Monday – the best bits always get snapped up quickly, and nobody wants to miss out on those iconic stripes.

We’ll be updating this guide with all the latest bargains as soon as they drop, so keep your eyes peeled if you’re after some designer gear that won’t cost a fortune this November.

What was in Paul Smith’s sale last year?

Fashion fans were treated to some MASSIVE discounts in the 2024 Paul Smith Black Friday sales.

The official Paul Smith website slashed prices with a whopping 30% off selected items across the board.

Shoppers could bag serious bargains using an exclusive Black Friday code, which unlocked discounts on everything from sharp suits to signature striped accessories.

Smith goodies were also available at major retailers, including ASOSFlannels, and House of Fraser, with many offering exclusive Black Friday deals on the British designer’s collection.

When is Cyber Monday 2025, and is Paul Smith taking part?

If you’re already wondering when Cyber Monday 2025 is? It falls on Monday, December 1.

The luxury British brand hasn’t officially confirmed whether it’ll be joining the Cyber Monday action yet, but if Paul Smith offers Black Friday deals, you can bet they’ll still be offering discounts when Monday rolls around.

As mentioned earlier, Black Friday (November 28) is typically when brands launch their biggest discounts, which continue across the weekend until midnight on Cyber Monday.

If you spot that signature striped scarf or sharp suit with a decent discount on Black Friday, don’t hang about hoping for bigger savings on Cyber Monday – the best bits always get snapped up fast!

Remember that Paul Smith gear is also stocked at ASOSFlannels, and House of Fraser – all worth checking for exclusive deals that might offer better prices than the official site.

Watch this space for all the latest Cyber Monday deal updates from Paul Smith right here in our guide.

How much does Paul Smith’s shipping cost?

Paul Smith offers free click and collect options when you buy directly from their website.

Want your items as soon as possible? No problem!

You can select either DPD Express Delivery or DHL Express Delivery options for an additional fee of £5.

DPD Express Delivery guarantees your parcel will arrive within 1–2 days – perfect for impatient fashion lovers, while the DHL Express Delivery option ensures your items will be delivered to your door within 1–3 days.

Just a heads up – the Paul Smith website does warn: “During sale and busy periods, some services will not be available in the checkout and orders will be shipped in minimal packaging.”

They also add: “If you’ve shopped in one of our sales, please allow an additional three working days for dispatch.”

So don’t panic if your Black Friday bargains take a little longer to arrive!

Remember, if you’re purchasing Paul Smith items from other stockists, such as ASOS or House of Fraser, the delivery options and costs may differ – always check before you check out.

Does Paul Smith offer any other discounts?

The British fashion house has a handy price match policy that works on items sold cheaper by official stockists.

The fancy fashion brand states: “The price match guarantee only applies to full-price items, inclusive of sales tax, and includes seasonal reductions and/or any special promotions.

“Products must be the exact style, material, colour, size and be available to purchase on both websites. Our online prices include VAT but exclude delivery charges and any other services.”

Want to know exactly how it works? You can read the full details of the Paul Smith price match policy on their website.

Searching for more discounts? New shoppers can also sign up to the Paul Smith newsletter – perfect for getting cheeky discounts on designer purchases you’ve been eyeing up!

Where to shop for Paul Smith Black Friday 2025 deals?

From the Paul Smith website to leading fashion retailers, there are plenty of places to search for potential Paul Smith Black Friday deals.

Below is a rundown of some of the most popular high street and online retailers to browse when the sales start.

More Luxury Fashion Deals

Are Paul Smith clothes true to size?

Yes, Paul Smith’s clothes are generally true to size.

The brand offers an extensive suit fit guide and jeans fit guide online to help shoppers, along with shoe fitting advice.

You can also make use of the brand’s in-store personal shopping services to ensure you find the perfect fit.

Though if you are dissatisfied, you can return your order.

What is PS by Paul Smith?

PS is a second Paul Smith collection, including apparel, denim, footwear, and accessories for both men and women, which has a more youthful feel.

This second line still uses the confident bold colours, unique prints, and sharp tailoring you’d expect from Paul Smith.

PS Paul Smith is also stocked on ASOS, as well as other retailers, and is considered a slightly more affordable range from the luxury brand.

Source link

Eurovision to vote on Israeli participation in November | Music News

Several countries have demanded Israel be excluded due to its actions in Gaza, threatening to drop out of the competition.

Eurovision Song Contest members will vote on Israel’s participation in the 2026 competition in November.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which oversees the event, confirmed the plan on Friday. International demands for Israel to be excluded from the contest due to the country’s actions in Gaza have been growing.

Recommended Stories

list of 3 itemsend of list

The board of the EBU, an umbrella organisation for public broadcasters that runs the event, has sent a letter to members indicating that the vote will take place at an extraordinary general meeting held online in early November, a spokesperson said.

The vote will be on whether Kan, the Israeli public broadcaster and member of the EBU, will participate, the spokesperson said. An “absolute majority” would be required for an exclusion to pass, he said.

Countries including Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain have demanded that the EBU exclude Israel, citing as a precedent its decision to remove Russia from the show following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

During the past two editions of the competition, the event has been drawn into the controversy over Israel’s devastating war in Gaza, which has now killed more than 65,000 people.

Pro-Palestinian activists protested in Malmo, Sweden, in 2024 and in Basel, Switzerland in May over Israel’s participation in the contest.

In September, a United Nations Commission of Inquiry concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza.

Last week, Spain threatened to boycott the competition – the world’s largest live televised music event that takes place in May – if Israel takes part. Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland and the Netherlands have made similar threats.

Germany and Austria have backed Israel’s participation.

Other countries, such as Belgium, Sweden, and Finland, are also considering a boycott and have until December to decide.

Aside from Russia, the EBU previously booted former Yugoslavia from the competition due to UN sanctions over the Balkan wars in the 1990s, and Belarus in 2021 over its crackdown on media freedoms.

Kan, the Israeli broadcaster, wrote on Thursday on social media that it hoped the contest “will continue to uphold its cultural and non-political identity”.

Source link

Black Friday 2025 vacuum cleaner deals: what to expect this November

BLACK Friday 2025 vacuum cleaner deals are just around the corner, and we’ll be hunting down the strongest offers as they drop. 

Expect price cuts on heavy hitters like Dyson, Shark, and iRobot, plus handy bundles that include extra tools or accessories.

Person vacuuming with a Dyson cordless vacuum.

1

Bag a bargain on a new vacuum cleaner this Black Friday

If your current vacuum stalls on thick carpet or the battery gives up mid‑clean, November is your chance to upgrade for less.

We’ll focus on the specs that matter in real homes, including suction power, battery life, filtration and anti-hair wrap tech, then highlight the real bargains so you know when to buy.

We’ll keep this guide updated with live prices, early offers, and standout picks leading up to and throughout November, and we’ll flag the moment a deal reaches its lowest point.

For more ways to save, bookmark our best Black Friday deals UK hub and compare top models in our best vacuum cleaner guide.

When is Black Friday 2025?

Black Friday 2025 lands on November 28, the day after the US Thanksgiving (the fourth Thursday).

For UK timings and tips, visit our Black Friday hub. And, if you’re curious about the origin of the name Black Friday, check out our guide.

Expect early Black Friday vacuum cleaner deals and broader Black Friday vacuum sales through November, with the steepest price drops often saved for the day.

Shortlist targets now so you can pounce when prices move.

Vacuum cleaner deals LIVE now

Henry Quick, £199.99 (was £299.99) – buy here

Shark Classic Anti Hair Wrap Upright Pet Vacuum NZ801UKT, £199.99 (was £299.99 – buy here

Dyson Gen5detect vacuum, £569.99 (was £769.99) – buy here

SAMSUNG Jet 60 Turbo Max 150 W Suction Power Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, £149 (was £299) – buy here

Dyson Ball Animal Complete vacuum cleaner, £329.99 (was £429.99) – buy here

VAX Blade 4 Classic Plus CLSV-B4CA Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, £149 (was £229) – buy here

Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch Pro 2-in-1 Self-Empty, Self-Refill & Self-Clean Robot Vacuum & Mop RV2800ZEUK, £649.99 (was £799.99) – buy here

Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum cleaner, £749.99 (was £1,249.99) – buy here

What retailers are taking part in Black Friday this year?

Expect wall-to-wall Black Friday vacuum deals from Amazon, Currys, Argos, John Lewis, and AO, as well as direct offers from Dyson, Shark, and Miele.

We are expecting exceptional Black Friday promotions on vacuum cleaners, exciting deals on Dyson vacuums, competitive offers on Shark vacuum cleaners, and smart deals on vacuum bags, filters, and bundles, as well as much more.

Since stock for premium selections tends to sell out quickly, set alerts and be prepared to check out swiftly.

shark-vacuum-cleaner-amazon-sale

What vacuum cleaner deals can we expect in the Black Friday 2025 sale?

Retailers are lining up cordless vacuum deals, Black Friday robot vacuum deals and sharp handheld vacuum deals across November.

Watch for exclusive Dyson Black Friday vacuum deals and brand-direct Shark drops, plus retailer bundles with extra heads and pet tools.

Narrow your shortlist and compare specs now. Need help? Explore our cordless picks and the top robot vacuums.

What vacuum cleaner deals went live on Black Friday 2024?

Last year, Dyson and Shark led the way with some of the deepest discounts, while robot models surged thanks to the introduction of mapping and self-emptying features, which received significant price cuts.

Cordless sticks were the hot ticket, and bundles with pet tools sold out first.

Expect similar patterns in 2025: quick sellouts on hero models, competitive price matching, and fresh waves of stock arriving over the weekend.

Plan for fast decisions on top specs and colours.

When is Cyber Monday 2025, and are vacuum cleaner retailers taking part?

Cyber Monday 2025 falls on December 1.

It’s the finale to the weekend, often with new promos or deeper cuts rather than just leftovers.

You can follow our deals stream at our Cyber Monday hub, and expect second-chance drops on things like Dyson Black Friday vacuum deals, Black Friday Shark vacuum deals and Miele vacuum deals across major retailers and brand sites.

How much does vacuum cleaner shipping cost?

Most big retailers offer free standard delivery once you cross a low threshold (which vacuums usually do).

Expect optional upgrades—such as next-day, weekend, or timed slots—for an extra fee, typically a small add-on.

Click & Collect can be the cheapest, fastest route if the stock’s local.

Members (e.g., Prime) often receive faster delivery as a standard feature.

Always compare the total price, including delivery, rather than just the product price.

More Black Friday Appliance Deals

When will the Black Friday vacuum cleaner deals start in 2025?

Early birds will see Black Friday vacuum deals in late October, with larger waves of deals through November.

Amazon, Argos, John Lewis, AO, and Currys typically ramp up their Black Friday vacuum cleaner promotions the week of Black Friday, then refresh them for Cyber Monday.

Hero models sell out within hours. If you spot a target price on Dyson or Shark early, grab it—waiting for an extra fiver off is how you miss it.

What vacuum cleaner should I buy?

Match the machine to your home.

Pets and carpets? Prioritise strong suction, anti-hair-wrap tech and motorised pet tools.

Big spaces? Consider battery life, swappable batteries, and larger bins.

Time-poor? Consider robots with reliable mapping.

On a budget or in small flats? Lightweight sticks or handheld vacuum deals shine.

Woman vacuuming a rug with a red and black corded vacuum cleaner.

What is the best cordless vacuum cleaner?

“Best” depends on the floor type, pets, and runtime needs.

Expect strong cordless vacuum deals on Shark and Dyson products during the event, as well as value contenders that undercut the competition on bundles and spare batteries.

Track attachments you’ll actually use—crevice, mini-motorised pet tools, soft rollers—so you’re comparing like-for-like across retailers.

What is the cheapest vacuum cleaner?

For the lowest prices, consider solid-value ranges from big-box retailers, watch outlet sections, and certified refurbished items from brand sites, such as Amazon Renewed or eBay Refurbished (opens in a new tab)” href=”https://go.skimresources.com/?id=34784X1028065&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fb%2Fbn_7117653182″ target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow sponsored noreferrer noopener”>eBay Refurbished.

Entry-level sticks and compact cylinders often dip further during sales events like Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day, and even premium brands occasionally offer sharp bundle promotions.

Set alerts, check warranty terms on refurbished items, and be flexible with colour to score the best price.

Which is the best robot vacuum cleaner to buy?

For most busy homes, I’d recommend the iRobot Roomba i5+: self-emptying, smart mapping technology, combined vacuuming and mopping capabilities, easy setup, and a stylish design.

After a cheaper workhorse? The Eufy Robovac G30 delivers powerful suction, whisper-quiet operation, and impressive battery stamina.

Prioritise LiDAR mapping, auto-empty docks, and low profiles if you’ve got pet hair, high-traffic hallways and sofa legs to dodge.

Watch for Black Friday bundles with spare brushes and filters—often the smarter buy than chasing headline suction numbers.

Should I wait for Black Friday to buy a vacuum?

If you can wait, it’s worth it: Black Friday vacuum deals are typically the best of the year, particularly for brands like Dyson and Shark.

However, the best prices can sometimes appear early, as early as late October.

If you spot a deal that reaches a genuine low, don’t hesitate to take advantage of it.

Also, keep an eye on Black Friday robot vacuum deals and handheld vacuum deals, and set alerts so you don’t miss out on any offerings.

Is it better to buy a vacuum cleaner on Black Friday or Cyber Monday?

If you want the best shot at a flagship Dyson/Shark at a record price, Black Friday typically wins on big‑ticket discounts and stock breadth across retailers.

Cyber Monday is no afterthought: online‑only promos often appear, and some deals deepen—particularly on smart/robot vacs and bundles.

My rule: set a target price, track early, and buy the moment it hits during Black Friday—don’t wait and risk sellouts.

If it doesn’t drop, watch Cyber Monday for a second swing.


Find your favourite brand’s Black Friday deals in our A-Z directory


Source link

‘I’m a travel expert – these are the most gorgeous destinations for November sunshine’

A travel expert has shared four of her top picks for those looking to book a winter getaway in search of some sun and escaping the cold – with ‘dazzling hidden gems’ around the world

After such a long hot summer, some people may not be able to wave goodbye to the warm weather yet – and may already be seeking a winter getaway for some more sun.

Reports show that searches for ‘winter breaks in the sun’ have increased by +5000% in the past 30 days, with travellers on the hunt for last-minute winter breaks and Heather Green, Head of Product at Sovereign Luxury Travel, shares four of the best luxury winter sun destinations to book ahead of winter 2025.

It’s no surprised Brits struggling with the bitter winter cold are dreaming of golden beaches, balmy temperatures and tropical landscapes, so the travel expert has shared her top picks.

READ MORE: Mysterious car-free island with so many puffins they outnumber humans by 15 to oneREAD MORE: Travel expert issues warning to Brits holidaying in Thailand this winter

“Winter sun destinations provide a contrast to the grey UK winter, with their tropical warmth, golden beaches, and sense of escape that feels like a welcome break from the everyday.”

Firstly, she recommends Tenerife, Spain and said: “The Canary Islands have long been a favourite for UK holidaymakers thanks to their year-round sunshine, but visiting in winter gives you the chance to enjoy them at a gentler pace, without the crowds.”

It’s the largest island in the Canary Island and offers everything from azure seas and sandy beaches to charming towns, with winter temperatures that hover around a pleasant 20–25 degrees.

Next, the expert suggested Anse Le Raie, Mauritius. Calling it one of the most “dazzling hidden gems”. “If a chic Indian Ocean escape is what you’re after, Mauritius is an inspired choice, and Anse La Raie on the island’s northern coast is one of its most dazzling hidden gems.

“Even in winter, temperatures remain warm and inviting at around 26–27 degrees, making it ideal for sun-drenched days on white-sand beaches and windsurfing across calm turquoise waters,” Heather explained.

Another top destination hailed by Heather is the Maldives. It remains as one of the world’s most sought-after winter sun spots, and with temperatures averaging 27 to 30 degrees, Heather said “days are best spent snorkelling among technicolour coral reefs, sailing out on sunset cruises to watch dolphins, or unwinding with overwater spa treatments.”

Finally, the expert also suggested Riviera Maya, Mexico, calling it a “rewarding choice”. She noted: “Along the Riviera Maya, winter temperatures stay between 24 and 28 degrees, perfect for long days on 30 kilometres of white sand and swimming in the calm Caribbean waters.

“Just offshore lies the world’s second-largest coral reef, where snorkelling and diving reveal an underwater world of vivid marine life.”

Do you have a story to share? Email [email protected]

Source link

Harris seemed to touch a nerve with Newsom, lauds his ‘sense of humor’

Kamala Harris picked her way through several sticky subjects in a Tuesday night TV interview, including her account of being ghosted by Gov. Gavin Newsom when she called for his support during her brief, unsuccessful 2024 presidential campaign.

On the eve of the public release of her book detailing that campaign, Harris spoke with MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow on her relationship with Newsom as well as the redistricting ballot measure Californians will vote on in November — and she also hailed “the power of the people” in getting Jimmy Kimmel back on ABC.

Kimmel was indefinitely suspended last week by the Walt Disney Co. over remarks he made about the suspect in the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. After fierce protests, consumers announcing subscription cancellations, and hundreds of celebrities speaking out against government censorship, Disney announced Monday that Kimmel would return on ABC the following day.

“Talk about the power being with the people and the people making that clear with their checkbooks,” Harris said of Kimmel’s return. “It spoke volumes, and it moved a decision in the right direction.”

Harris was speaking with Maddow about her new book, “107 Days,” which details her short sprint of a presidential campaign in 2024 after then-President Biden decided not to seek reelection.

The book discloses which Democrats immediately supported her to become the Democratic nominee, and which didn’t, notably Newsom. She wrote that, when she called, he texted her that he was hiking and would call her back but never did.

After Maddow raised the anecdote in the opening of the show, Harris said she had known Newsom “forever.”

“Gavin has a great sense of humor so, you know, he’s gonna be fine,” Harris said.

Newsom was icier when asked by a reporter about the interaction — or lack thereof — on Friday.

“You want to waste your time with this, we’ll do it,” Newsom said, adding that he was hiking when he received a call from an unknown number, even as he was trying to learn more about Biden’s decision not to run for reelection while also asking his team to craft a statement supporting Harris to be the Democratic nominee. “I assume that’s in the book as well — that, hours later, the endorsement came out.”

Harris brought up Newsom when asked about Proposition 50, the redistricting ballot measure championed by the governor and other California Democrats that voters will decide in November. If approved, the state’s congressional districts will be redrawn in an effort to boost Democratic seats in the house to counter efforts by President Trump to increase the number of Republicans elected in GOP-led states.

“Let me say about what [Newsom] is doing, redistricting, it is absolutely the right way to go. Part of what we’ve got to, I think, challenge ourselves to accept, is that we tend to play by the rules,” Harris said. “But I think this is a moment where you gotta fight fire with fire. And so what Gavin is doing, what the California Legislature is doing, what those who are supporting it are doing is to say, ‘You know what, you want to play, then let’s get in the field. Let’s get in the arena, and let’s do this.’ And I support that.”

But Harris was more cautious when asked about other electoral contests, notably the New York City mayoral race. Zohran Mamdani is the Democratic nominee and has large leads in the polls over other candidates in the race, including former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams.

Asked whether she backed Mamdani, a Democratic socialist, Harris was measured.

“Look, as far as I’m concerned, he’s the Democratic nominee, and he should be supported,” Harris said, prompting Maddow to ask whether she endorsed him.

“I support the Democrat in the race, sure,” she replied. “But let me just say this, he’s not the only star. … I hope that we don’t so over-index on New York City that we lose sight of the stars throughout our country.”

Harris, who announced this summer that she would not run for California governor next year, demurred when asked about whether she would run for president for a third time in 2028.

“That’s not my focus right now,” she said.

Source link

iPhone 16 Black Friday 2025: what to expect this November

BLACK FRIDAY has long been the moment to score serious savings on Apple’s handsets, and this year looks no different.

The timing is especially sharp; Apple’s latest iPhone launch has nudged prices down across the range, and we’re already seeing early iPhone 16 Black Friday deals.

A hand holding a teal iPhone 16.

1

The annual Black Friday sale is the ideal time to save on Apple’s handsets

The timing is especially sharp; Apple’s latest iPhone launch nudges prices down.

For anyone eyeing an upgrade, this is a smart window to start watching the sales.

Retailers tend to slash prices on premium tech throughout November, and while Apple rarely leads with markdowns, there are tried-and-true places to find them.

The recent flagship release adds an extra twist: older models are dropping in price at the same time seasonal Black Friday promotions begin.

That combination makes the iPhone 16 a particularly attractive buy.

If you’d rather explore the very latest hardware, my Apple iPhone 17 where to buy guide has everything you need to know.

But if you’re hoping to save on the 16, we’ll be tracking the best Black Friday deals on the iPhone 16 right here, so it’s worth keeping this page bookmarked.

Below, you’ll find the early deals we’ve spotted, plus a look back at last year’s discounts.

Apple iPhone 16 review

The Sun’s Senior Tech Editor, Sean Keach, reviewed the Apple iPhone 16 series when it launched last year, and this is his verdict…

Pros:

  • New Camera Control button makes snapping quick
  • Action Button adds handy custom shortcuts
  • Faster A18 chip improves speed and photos
  • Big battery life boost
  • Fresh colour choices

Cons:

  • May feel like a modest step up if you have a recent model

Rating: 10/10

I’ve been trying out Apple’s new line of iPhones.

There’s the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, and the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max.

All of them get a new Camera Control button for quick access to the clever snapping feature. Taking photos has never been easier.

And the regular iPhone 16s are upgraded with the Pro’s Action Button, which I’m using to identify songs with Shazam – but you might want to set it up to translate foreign languages, or just turn the torch on.

There are loads of new colours for both models. My favourite is Teal on the iPhone 16, and Desert Titanium on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Powerful new A18 processors make photos look better, and battery life gets huge gains. Video playback hits a whopping 33 hours on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. I can’t run it down.

That’s my favourite model, also in part thanks to its giant 6.9-inch screen.

But I think the iPhone 16 is now so good that most people will get on just fine with it.

When is Black Friday 2025?

November 28, 2025, is the date to know, but you can expect deals to land earlier in the month, with the best reserved for the big day.

The sale always falls on the day after Thanksgiving, as per the American tradition.

But while it may have begun over in the States, Black Friday has now snowballed into one of the biggest events across the world.

If you’re interested in learning more, check out our guide to the meaning behind Black Friday.

Is Apple taking part in Black Friday this year?

Apple doesn’t tend to discount its tech, and the brand doesn’t join in Black Friday shenanigans.

So third-party retailers are your best bet, and often where you’ll find the biggest discounts on Apple products during the sale period.

The likes of ArgosAmazonJohn Lewis, and Currys will almost certainly have offers to jump on, as well as mobile phone network providers.

We’ll handle the hard work for you by updating this page with the best discounts as soon as they drop.

So, keep checking back to snap up a bargain.

What to expect from Apple’s Black Friday sale 2025

This Black Friday, we’re expecting to see some deals on the iPhone 16, although the discounts may not be major.

If you’re shopping with big savings in mind and aren’t fussed about having the absolute latest features, it’s a smart idea to search for deals on older models like the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro.

The iPhone 15 will continue to be supported by Apple until at least 2028.

What was in Apple’s sale last year?

iPhone 13 in multiple colors.
We spotted several amazing deals on Apple’s iPhone 15Credit: Amazon

In 2024, the former flagship in November was the Apple iPhone 15, and we spotted several deals worth jumping on.

Here are a few of our favourite offers from last year:

iPhone 15

iPhone 15 Plus

  • Apple iPhone 15 Plus, 128GB, £779 (was £899) from Very – buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Plus, 128GB, £779 (was £793.61) from John Lewis – buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Plus, 128GB, £779 (was £799) from Amazon – buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Plus, 128GB, £779 (was £799) from AO – buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Plus, 100GB, £42/month from Sky – buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Plus, 150GB, £58.75/month (£35 upfront) from Three – buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Plus, 25GB 60GB, £43.92/month (£25 upfront) from GiffGaff – buy here

iPhone 15 Pro

  • Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 512GB, £1,149 (was £1,219) from Amazon –buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 150GB, £63.25/month (£35 upfront) from Three – buy here

iPhone 15 Pro Max

  • Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, 256GB, £1,049 (was £1,119) from Amazon – buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, 256GB, £1,049 (was £1,099) from John Lewis – buy here
  • Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, 150GB, £71.13/month (£55 upfront) from Three – buy here

When is Cyber Monday 2025 and is Apple taking part?

This year, Cyber Monday takes place on Monday, December 1.

Back when Black Friday was a bigger brick-and-mortar event, Cyber Monday was reserved as an exclusive online-only event.

These days, things have moved on, and the day is more of an extension to the month-long event, with pretty similar deals across the board.

That’s not to say there are no surprises, but where iPhones are concerned, the deals will only last as long as the stock does, so with hot ticket items like this, it pays to snag them early.

While Apple doesn’t typically offer direct discounts on its products during Cyber Monday, plenty of other retailers do.

We’ve listed several UK retailers below, so make sure to check them out.

How much does Apple’s shipping cost?

Apple offers free standard shipping for all online orders in the UK.

That said, if you’re shopping for a bargain, you likely won’t be shopping there.

So, the shipping costs will vary from retailer to retailer.

To avoid any surprises, check your chosen retailer’s shipping costs before checking out.

Does Apple offer any other discounts?

If you are shopping with Apple directly, there are a few types of discounts offered.

First, there are discounts for students, teachers, and educational staff, which are available through Apple’s education store.

This typically includes savings on MacsiPads, and accessories, along with discounts on AppleCare and Apple Music subscriptions.

There’s also a trade-in programme that allows you to trade in eligible devices for credit toward a new purchase or an Apple Store Gift Card.

Plus, you can check out the certified refurbished products page, which features discounted items that have been tested and come with a full warranty, often making them a cost-effective option.

For more information on refurbished devices, visit our refurbished tech guide.

Which retailers have the best Black Friday iPhone 16 deals in the UK?

As Apple is one of the most well-known brands worldwide, many major UK network providers and retailers will be selling the smartphone.

If you want to land the best deals, check out the sites listed below.

More Black Friday Tech Deals

Visit our tech Black Friday deals hub to shop more of the best discounts from the top brands.


Find your favourite brand’s Black Friday deals in our A-Z directory


Source link

Virgin Media Black Friday 2025: what to expect this November

THE Virgin Media Black Friday deals have become a headline act of the sales season.

With broadband, SIMs and bundles regularly dropping to some of their lowest prices of the year.

Virgin Media set-top boxes with screens showing live Premier League football and channel logos.

1

Virgin Media’s Black Friday sale is a great time to score big savings

Virgin Media Black Friday deals

So locking in a package in November sale often means cheaper phone and broadband prices that stick well beyond the sales rush.

Last year, shoppers walked away with three months of free service on broadband and TV bundles, plus extras like an O2 SIM and even a Disney+ subscription thrown in.

That kind of added value is what makes Virgin Media hard to ignore, and we’re expecting 2025 to bring more of the same.

So if faster internet, lower bills, or an all-in-one package is on your list, Black Friday is the moment to strike.

Read on for the best Black Friday deals and how to make sure you’re getting a bargain that really pays off.

Best Virgin Media deals

Virgin Media has some eye-catching deals on broadband and TV packages right now.

Whether you’re chasing faster speeds, more channels, or extra value, there’s something for everyone.

It’s worth noting that prices and availability can vary by area, so be sure to check what’s offered in your postcode before signing up.

Here are some of the best Virgin Media deals currently on offer:

  • M125 Fibre Broadband, 132 Mbps, £23.99/month – buy here
  • M350 Fibre Broadband, 362 Mbps, £25.99/month – buy here
  • Gig1 Fibre Broadband, 1130 Mbps, £30.99/month – buy here
  • M500 Fibre Broadband, 500 Mbps, £29.99/month – buy here
  • Bigger Combo bundle, 362 Mbps & 200+ channels, £34.99/month – buy here
  • Bigger Combo bundle + Movies, 362 Mbps & Sky Cinema, £44.99/month – buy here
  • Bigger Combo bundle + Sports, 362 Mbps & Sky Sports, £64.99/month – buy here
  • Mega Volt bundle, 1130 Mbps, Sky Cinema & Sports, O2 Classic Plan SIM, £84.99/month – buy here

When is Black Friday 2025?

This year, the annual Black Friday event will take place on November 28.

It follows Thanksgiving in the US, where the sale began.

Black Friday originated in the States several decades ago, before growing in popularity here in the UK.

Visit our ‘When is Black Friday?’ explainer to find out more.

Is Virgin taking part in Black Friday this year?

Yes, Virgin Media will be taking part in Black Friday 2025.

The sales event is a fantastic time to shop Virgin Media’s phone, TV, or broadband deals, as you’ll save a sizeable amount on a long-lasting product.

You can also treat yourself or your family to fun bonuses like extra TV channels or super-fast broadband.

The latter could be incredibly helpful if you work from home.

What to expect from Virgin’s Black Friday sale 2025

We’re expecting to see big savings on mobile phone deals, as well as broadband deals and TV bundles.

That makes Black Friday a great opportunity to upgrade or treat yourself to some new gadgets or super-fast broadband.

Like many retailers, Virgin releases some of its Black Friday deals ahead of the big day, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for any early offers.

What was in Virgin’s sale last year?

Last year, we saw a range of discounts from Virgin Media, including broadband and bundle deals.

Here are some of the highlights from the 2024 sale:

Broadband

  • M250 fibre broadband, home phone and O2 SIM, £29.99p/m from 4th monthbuy here
  • M350 fibre broadband, home phone and O2 SIM, £35.99p/m from 4th monthbuy here
  • M500 fibre broadband, home phone and O2 SIM, £41.99p/m from 4th month – buy here
  • Gig1 fibre broadband, home phone and O2 SIM, £29.99p/m from 4th month – buy here

TV & broadband bundles

  • Bigger Combo Bundle: 190+ channels, ultrafast fibre broadband, weekend calls, £39.99p/m from 4th month – buy here
  • Bigger Combo Bundle Volt: 190+ channels, ultrafast fibre broadband, weekend calls, £49.99 from 4th month – buy here
  • Bigger Movie Combo Bundle: 200+ channels, ultrafast fibre broadband, weekend calls, £60.99p/m from 4th month – buy here
  • Bigger Movie Combo Bundle & O2 Sim: 200+ channels, ultrafast fibre broadband, weekend calls, £70.99p/m after 4th month – buy here
  • Bigger Sports HD Combo Bundle & O2 Sim: 195+ channels, weekend calls, £69.99p/m after 4th month – buy here
  • Biggest Combo: 210+ channels, weekend calls, £79.99p/m after 4th month – buy here
  • Mega Volt Bundle: 230+ channels, anytime calls, unlimited 10GB O2 SIM, £84.99p/m after 4th month – buy here

When is Cyber Monday 2025 and is Virgin taking part?

This year, Cyber Monday falls on December 1.

According to the provider: ”Cyber Monday, 1 December 2025, the first Monday after the Black Friday weekend, could be your last chance to grab a Virgin Media Black Friday broadband deal.”

Looking to save on more than broadband and phone packages?

Check out our best Cyber Monday deals page for more unmissable offers.

How much does Virgin’s shipping cost?

Virgin’s shipping costs vary depending on the service and the product you select.

Some Virgin services offer free shipping, while others have standard delivery charges.

Head to the Virgin Media website to find out more.

Does Virgin offer any other discounts?

If you’re looking to save big ahead of Black Friday, it’s worth checking out the retailer’s offers page.

There you’ll find a selection of deals for new and existing customers.

Has Virgin Media merged with O2?

In June 2021, Virgin Media and O2 joined forces to create one of the UK’s largest telecoms providers.

In January 2023, Virgin Media announced that its customers would be moving to O2 phone plans by the end of the year.

The merger means you can find the fastest, widely available broadband in the same place as O2’s great mobile services.

If you’re already a Virgin Media customer, you’ll stay contracted to the company, but O2 will now provide your services.

So, you can enjoy reliable WiFi and broadband speed boosts from Virgin Media and special perks via Priority with O2.

If you’re new to both O2 and Virgin Media, it’s well worth having a look at their combined Volt contracts.

More TV and Broadband Deals

Can I get Virgin Media?

Black Friday is the best time of year to switch to Virgin Media, thanks to the big discounts that come with the mega sale.

However, whether or not you can get Virgin Media’s broadband depends on the area and type of building you live in.

Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for all households just yet – but there is an easy way to find out.

If you visit the Virgin Media broadband page, you can enter your postcode to check if the service is available in your area.

Virgin Media will also advise you on the broadband speed you could expect to receive at your address.

You can then browse the various deals on offer, including brilliant bundle bargains.

That includes combining Virgin Media broadband with phone and/or TV deals, like the Mega Volt bundles.

More Amazing Black Friday Deals

Does Virgin Experience Days do Black Friday?

Yes, Virgin Experience Days offers Black Friday deals.

The company provides you, or a loved one, with the chance to try something incredible; whether it’s driving a sports car, snorkelling, or enjoying the view from the Shard.

In previous years, shoppers were treated to impressive savings on spa breaks, including a deluxe one-night stay at a local Crowne Plaza.

Bargain hunters have also enjoyed discounts on afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason and deals on a Thames lunch cruise; there’s a day out for everyone.

There’s already a Black Friday page that you can bookmark, and we’re once again hoping to spot several discounts on days out.

Don’t forget to check back on Cyber Monday too – Virgin Experience Day discounts typically continue through the weekend.

Virgin Experience Days deals

Does Virgin Atlantic have a Black Friday sale?

Virgin Atlantic is the company’s premier airline, flying customers around the world.

You can travel to EuropeNorth America, the Caribbean, and more.

However, we all know that airline tickets can be expensive, especially if you’re travelling to a far-flung destination, so any kind of discount is hugely welcome.

Luckily for jet-setters, we’re expecting Black Friday deals from Virgin Atlantic in 2025.

In the past, the company has offered several incredible deals, with up to £200 off flights to the Caribbean.

Fingers crossed we get the same this year so that you can save on your dream holiday!

Virgin Atlantic deals

Source link

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul endorses Zohran Mamdani for mayor

Gov. Kathy Hochul on Sunday urged New Yorkers to vote for Zohran Mamdani for mayor of New York City, giving the Democratic nominee one of his most significant endorsements to date in the contest to lead the nation’s biggest city.

Writing in the New York Times’ opinion section, Hochul said that while she and Mamdani diverged on some issues, they came together on the importance of addressing the affordability crisis in the city and across the state.

“But in our conversations, I heard a leader who shares my commitment to a New York where children can grow up safe in their neighborhoods and where opportunity is within reach for every family,” wrote Hochul, a fellow Democrat. “I heard a leader who is focused on making New York City affordable — a goal I enthusiastically support.”

The stunning success of Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist, in the race for New York City mayor has exposed divisions within the Democratic Party as it struggles to repair its brand more than half a year into Donald Trump’s presidency. Hochul’s endorsement is the latest sign that Democratic leaders who had been skeptical of Mamdani’s left-leaning views are beginning to consolidate around him.

Mamdani thanked Hochul for the boost, saying it’s a sign that “our movement is growing stronger.”

“Governor Hochul has made affordability the centerpiece of her work. I look forward to fighting alongside her to continue her track record of putting money back in New Yorkers’ pockets and building a safer and stronger New York City where no one is forced to leave just so they can afford to raise a family,” Mamdani said in a statement Sunday night. “I’m grateful to the Governor for her support in unifying our party — as well as the work she’s done standing up to President Trump, securing free lunch meals for our kids, and expanding access to childcare.”

In recent weeks, the other candidates in the race — former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, incumbent Mayor Eric Adams and Republican Curtis Sliwa — have intensified their criticism of Mamdani over his platform and past statements ahead of the city’s general election in November.

U.S. House Republican Leadership Chair Elise Stefanik, a New York congresswoman, said Hochul’s endorsement is a sign that the governor is moving left to shore up falling poll numbers.

“At the exact moment when New Yorkers are looking for strong leadership from their Governor with a majority opposing Zohran Mamdani, Kathy Hochul embraces this raging Communist who will destroy New York making it less affordable and more dangerous — once again putting criminals and communists first, and New Yorkers LAST,” Stefanik said in a Sunday statement.

Mamdani soundly defeated Cuomo in the Democratic primary. Cuomo has since relaunched his campaign as an independent. Adams, a Democrat, skipped the primary to run as an independent in November. Sliwa ran unopposed in the Republican primary.

Hochul served as lieutenant governor to Cuomo and replaced him after he stepped down in 2021 following a barrage of sexual harassment allegations. He denied wrongdoing during the campaign, maintaining that the scandal was driven by politics.

Source link

The cheap winter sun holiday destination that Brits are flocking to – where you can still sit on the beach in November

FOR warm weather, beach resorts and mountain views, Tunisia is slowly becoming the hot new destination again.

The African country had been a popular spot with Brits for years up until the attack in Sousse 10 years ago – but numbers reveal it is rising in popularity once again.

Ribat of Sousse in Tunisia.

6

Visitors are returning to Tunisia with tourism levels returning to pre-2015 numbersCredit: Alamy
Boat in Bizerte's old port, Tunisia.

6

The country boasts warm winters and beautiful towns and citiesCredit: Alamy

Tunisia has so much to offer for an autumn or winter break for Brits wanting sun, sea and sand.

In November, you can easily laze about on a beach in Tunisia as temperatures can still reach at 20C.

The most popular beaches in Tunisia include Hammamet which is known for its long sandy shores and Sousse, a lively resort town.

Ten years ago, the attack at the Bardo Museum in Tunis followed by the one on the beach resort in Sousse, resulted in plummeting bookings for Brits heading to Tunisia.

Now, statistics have revealed that holidaymakers are returning to the country in similar numbers.

Foreign arrivals to Tunisia have jumped by nearly 10 per cent this year compared with 2024, reaching 5.3 million through July 20, according to the National Tourism Office.

The government hopes to attract 11 million visitors by the end of the year – which is a million more than in 2024.

Back in 2014, there were 7.1 million tourists visiting the country, one year later in 2015, that dropped to 5.3 million.

The capital of Tunisia is Tunis, and is found on the northeastern coast.

Visitors to the city will find an ancient Medina and Roman Mosaics as well as plenty of bars and restaurants.

Tunisia and the island of Djerba
Panoramic view of ancient ruins and thermal baths in Carthage, Tunisia.

6

Tunisia is full of history too and plenty of ancient ruinsCredit: Alamy
KKNBNP View of seaside resort Sidi Bou Said. Tunisia, North Africa

6

Some of the towns have been described as looking more like GreeceCredit: Getty

Just outside of the capital is the pretty town of Sidi Bou Said which has a completely different feel with white coloured houses and cobbled streets.

It has lots of al fresco eateries and small art galleries with a marina on a sandy beach.

One writer visited the town last year and treated herself to a three-course meal for £10.

She also bumped into friendly locals and saw Ottoman-inspired architecture.

On a recent trip to Tunisia, Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot explored the island off the coast called Djerba.

Lisa said that one thing she noticed was that it had an uncanny resemblance to the Greek islands.

Like Mykonos and Santorini, Djerba has vibrant pink bougainvillaea and white-washed buildings with blue window shutters and doors – unlike Greece, coffee costs 25p.

Lisa said: “Relatively undiscovered by us Brits, Djerba is a great-value option for those looking to explore beyond the Med favourites.

“Sizzling in summer, temperatures remain high all the way through to November and rarely dip below the 20Cs, even in the depths of winter, making it ideal for out-of-season sunshine.

Woman standing in front of a uniquely designed building in Djerba, Tunisia.

6

Lisa explored Tunisia and discovered Star Wars filming locationsCredit: Supplied

The island is a great place to explore for any fans of Star Wars as the small town of Erriadh was used as a filming location.

Back on the mainland, the city of Tataouine was said to have inspired the location for Star Wars with its desert look and unique house exteriors.

George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, even called his fictional planet, Tatooine.

EasyJet runs flights to Tunisia from multiple airports across the UK – one-way flights from London Southend to Enfidha in November are as cheap as £26.

It launched year-round flights to the island of Djerba from both London Luton and Manchester with one-way flights starting from £35 in November.

EasyJet even runs multiple tours from Djerba, over the ancient Roman Road that crosses the sea to southern Tunisia. 

TUI also offer all inclusive holidays to Tunisia, as do Thomas Cook and On the Beach to name a few.

Read more on Sun Travel’s favourite TUI holidays from African beach resorts to European bucket list hotels.

Plus, discover the other two African destinations that Brits are heading to rather than Europe.

Beach scene in Monastir, Tunisia, with a castle in the background.

6

Tourists are returning to Tunisia for winter sun according to new statisticsCredit: Alamy

Source link

Mulberry Black Friday 2025: what to expect this November

MULBERRY’S premium leather handbags will never go out of style, and you don’t need to spend the big bucks to get your hands on one.

The Mulberry Black Friday sale is the perfect opportunity to score a discount on the item on your wishlist – here’s everything we know about the mega-sale.

mulberry-black-friday-sale
Mulberry has an impressive roster of A-list fans including Sienna Miller and Kate MossCredit: Mulberry

Mulberry sale

The British luxury brand is known and loved for its timeless leather accessories that are loved by celebrities, including Mulberry’s iconic Bayswater Bag.

For Black Friday 2025, we’re anticipating huge deals on Mulberry must-haves, including discounts from other retailers that stock the luxury label.

John Lewis, House of Fraser, and Selfridges are just three retailers worth checking out when the highly-anticipated sales event arrives.

Read on to find out more, including how to secure marked-down Mulberry items on Cyber Monday, and how to bag additional fashion deals.

When is Black Friday 2025?

When is Black Friday? This year, it lands on 28 November 2025.

The mega-sale traditionally takes place the day after the US Thanksgiving (which falls on the last Thursday of November), and it has become a global shopping event known for its dramatic discounts.

Black Friday has become just as popular in the UK as in the US in recent years, and brands and retailers often kick off their sales ahead of the main event.

UK shoppers can expect many retailers — both online and in-store — to launch their Black Friday deals early, with some sales kicking off from the beginning of November.

Wondering what the meaning behind Black Friday is? Check out our explainer.

Is Mulberry taking part in Black Friday this year?

Mulberry has participated in Black Friday in the past, so it’s highly likely that the retailer will return with more discounts this year.

In previous years, shoppers have enjoyed huge savings on bags, purses, holdalls, and other accessories.

Shopping directly from Mulberry’s website is usually where you’ll find the best offers and discounts.

While the Mulberry is yet to officially announce the details of its Black Friday sale, we’re expecting the brand to follow a similar suit to previous years.

To keep up-to-date with information on the Mulberry Black Friday sale, bookmark this page, as we’ll be updating it with all the sale news as it comes in.

More Luxury Fashion Deals

What to expect from Mulberry’s Black Friday sale 2025

Shoppers can expect to save on some of the brand’s most popular styles which include the AlexaLily, and Darley.

The brand is best known for its Bayswater bag, and even the iconic arm candy has been previously slashed in the Mulberry Black Friday sale.

Plus, other retailers taking part in the Black Friday sale could also include Mulberry items, so keep an eye out for offers at John LewisFarfetchSelfridges, and House of Fraser.

Shoppers will need to be quick when the sale does drop though, as big discounts on the most popular styles are likely to sell out fast.

What was in the Mulberry Black Friday Sale last year?

In 2024, Mulberry’s Black Friday sale featured a range of discounts on some of its most sought-after items.

Here are just a few of our favourite finds from last year’s Black Friday sale:

Mulberry

Brown leather handbag with gold clasp.
Mulberry’s website is usually where you’ll find the best offersCredit: Mulberry

More Mulberry deals

Beige Mulberry handbag with braided handle and gold buckles.
Keep an eye out for Black Friday dealsCredit: John Lewis

When is Cyber Monday 2025 and is Mulberry taking part?

When is Cyber Monday? This year, it will take place on 1 December.

Most brands and retailers continue their Black Friday sales through until Cyber Monday, serving as a final chance to make a big saving.

It’s possible that further reductions will be made on items for Cyber Monday, but it’s not always the case.

However, if there’s a particular item you have your eye on, waiting until Cyber Monday to snap it up means you could risk it selling out.

While Mulberry hasn’t confirmed its plans for Cyber Monday 2025, it’s likely that the discounts will continue throughout the Cyber weekend.

How much does Mulberry’s shipping cost?

If you’re planning to shop online during Mulberry’s Black Friday sale, it’s good to know about its shipping policies.

Mulberry offers free standard shipping on all UK orders, which will take between to and five business days to arrive.

The brand is also currently offering complimentary shipping on new arrivals, although it’s unlikely that these pieces will be reduced in the sale.

Mulberry also provides faster delivery options at an additional cost, including express delivery (1-2 working days) and same-day delivery (if ordered before 3pm).

Express Delivery is priced at £6.95, while Same Day and Saturday Delivery will cost £12.

As it’s the most popular shopping event of the year, it’s worth considering that Black Friday is likely to impact shipping times.

Does Mulberry offer any other discounts?

While Black Friday offers the biggest discounts of the year, Mulberry does have other ways to save.

The brand usually runs sales in the summer and winter, with discounts on selected items.

Plus, Mulberry has been known to occasionally provide promotions through its newsletter.

If you want to shop on a budget outside of Mulberry’s Black Friday sale, it’s worth checking out the brand’s Pre-Loved section or Buy Back option online.

Other retailers stocking Mulberry may also slash the prices of selected items throughout the year, so it’s worth checking various stockists before making a purchase to get the best deal.

Mulberry sale

More Amazing Black Friday Deals


Find your favourite brand’s Black Friday deals in our A-Z directory


Source link

Ex-Angels star Mark Teixeira announces congressional campaign in Texas

Slide over, Steve Garvey. It appears another former Major League Baseball slugger with Southland ties will run for political office.

Mark Teixeira, who batted a robust .358 in a two-month stint with the Angels in 2008 before signing a longterm lucrative contract with the New York Yankees, announced his campaign for Texas’ 21st Congressional District in the U.S. House on Wednesday.

Teixeira, an avowed conservative who has lived in or near Dallas much of his adult life, said he is “ready to help defend President Trump’s America First agenda, Texas families, and individual liberty.”

Garvey is also a Republican, and he lost in a landslide to Democrat Adam Schiff for California’s open seat in the U.S. Senate last November. Despite being a beloved former Dodgers great, Garvey, 75, held few public events and struggled to gain traction with voters in a state that has not elected a Republican to statewide office in nearly two decades.

Unlike Garvey, Teixeira, 45, is running in a heavily Republican district that Chip Roy won by 26% of the vote in November. Teixeira’s announcement follows Roy’s decision not to seek re-election because he is running for the office of the Texas Attorney General.

Teixeira, a former first baseman, played 14 seasons for four MLB teams — the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, Angels and Yankees. He retired after the 2016 season with 409 career home runs.

The Angels acquired him from the Braves in a trade late in the 2008 season, and he helped them to the only 100-win season in franchise history by hitting 13 home runs and driving in 43 runs while batting .358 in 54 games.

Teixeira also performed well in the American League Division Series, batting .467 with a .550 on-base percentage, although the Angels fell in four games to the Boston Red Sox. He was a free agent after the season and Angels owner Arte Moreno offered him $160 million over eight years before retracting the offer two weeks later.

Several other teams made similar if not more lucrative offers, and Teixeira signed with the Yankees for $180 million over eight years. The slugging switch-hitter helped New York to the 2009 World Series championship, leading the AL with 39 homers and 122 runs batted in.

The Yankees defeated the Angels in the AL Championship Series before beating the Philadelphia Phillies in the World Series. The following season, Teixeira spoke highly of the Angels despite leaving Anaheim for the greener pastures of New York.

“I hope there are no hard feelings between Arte and myself,” Teixeira told The Times’ Mike DiGiovanna. “I loved that organization. Arte, [Manager Mike] Scioscia, it’s first class, top to bottom. But your wife and kids being happy is more important than your personal desires.”

Source link

Padilla sidesteps questions about a possible run for governor

U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) on Wednesday brushed aside questions about whether he might jump into California’s 2026 governor’s race, but declined to rule out the idea.

Padilla instead said he was wholly focused on promoting the special election in November when voters will be asked to redraw California’s congressional districts to counter efforts by President Trump and other GOP leaders to keep Republicans in control of Congress.

“I’m focused and I’d encourage everybody to focus on this Nov. 4 special election,” Padilla said during an interview at a political summit in Sacramento sponsored by Politico.

The 52-year-old added that the effort to redraw congressional districts, championed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in response to similar efforts in GOP-led states, is not solely about the arcane process known as redistricting.

“My Republican colleagues and especially the White House know how unpopular and damaging what they’re doing is, from gutting Medicare, nutrition assistance programs, really all these other areas of budget cuts to underwrite tax breaks for billionaires,” Padilla said. “So their only hope of staying in power beyond next November is to rig the system.”

In recent days, Padilla’s name has emerged as a possible candidate to replace Newsom, who cannot run for another term. The field is unsettled, with independent polling conducted after former Vice President Kamala Harris opted not to run for governor showing large numbers of voters are undecided and with no clear front-runner.

Padilla pointed to his more than quarter-century history of serving Californians at every level of government when asked what might be appealing about the job.

“I love California, right?” he said. “And I’ve had the privilege and the honor of serving in so many different capacities.”

In 1999, the then-26-year-old was elected to Los Angeles City Council. At the time, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology grad still lived with his parents — a Mexican-born housekeeper and a short-order cook — in Pacoima.

Padilla continued his steady climb through the state’s political ranks in the decades that followed, serving in the state Senate and as California secretary of state. Newsom appointed him to fill Harris’ Senate seat in 2020, making him the first Latino to represent California in the Senate, and Padilla was elected to fill a full term in 2022. His current Senate term doesn’t end until 2029, meaning he wouldn’t have to risk his seat to run for governor.

Source link

Inquiry into former Trump prosecutor Jack Smith is based on ‘imaginary premise,’ lawyers say

A watchdog investigation into former special counsel Jack Smith over his prosecutions of President Trump is based on an “imaginary and unfounded” premise, Smith’s lawyers wrote in a letter obtained by The Associated Press on Tuesday.

The letter marks the first response by Smith and his legal team to news that the Office of Special Counsel, an independent watchdog office, had launched an investigation into whether Smith engaged in improper political activity through his criminal inquiries into Trump.

The attorneys told Jamieson Greer, the acting head of the office, that his investigation into Smith was “wholly without merit.”

“Mr. Smith’s actions as Special Counsel were consistent with the decisions of a prosecutor who has devoted his career to following the facts and the law, without fear or favor and without regard for the political consequences, not because of them,” wrote Smith’s lawyers, Lanny Breuer and Peter Koski.

The Office of Special Counsel, which is totally distinct from the Justice Department special counsel position that Smith held for more than two years starting in November 2022, confirmed the investigation following a request from Republican Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who asked it to examine Smith’s activities for potential violations of the Hatch Act, a federal law that bans certain public officials from engaging in political activity.

Cotton had alleged that Smith sought to interfere in the 2024 presidential election through his prosecutions and sought to effectively fast-track the cases toward resolution, including by asking the Supreme Court to weigh in on a key legal question before a lower court had a chance to review the issue.

But Smith’s lawyers say that argument is contradicted by the facts and note that no court ruling or other authority prohibits prosecutors from investigating allegations of criminal conducts against candidates for office. Politics, they say, played no part in the decision to bring the cases.

“A review of the record and procedural history demonstrates the opposite — Mr. Smith was fiercely committed to making prosecutorial decisions based solely on the evidence, he steadfastly followed applicable Department of Justice guidelines and the Principles of Federal Prosecution, and he did not let the pending election influence his investigative or prosecutorial decision-making,” Smith’s lawyers wrote.

“The predicate for this investigation,” they added, “is imaginary and unfounded.”

Smith, who was appointed special counsel under the Biden administration, brought two cases against Trump, one accusing him of conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and the other of hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Both were brought in 2023, well over a year before the 2024 presidential election, and indictments in the two cases cited what Smith and his team described as clear violations of well-established federal law.

Both cases were abandoned by Smith after Trump’s November win, with the prosecutor citing longstanding Justice Department policy prohibiting the indictment of a sitting president.

Tucker writes for the Associated Press.

Source link

Millions of dollars flow into redistricting battle on November ballot

Millions of dollars began flowing into campaigns supporting and opposing an effort to redraw California’s congressional districts on the November ballot, notably $10 million from independent redistricting champion Charles Munger Jr.

The checks, reported Friday in state campaign finance disclosures, were made on Thursday, the day the state Legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom called a special election to replace the congressional districts drawn by an independent commission in 2021 with new districts that would boost the number of Democrats elected to Congress in next year’s midterm election.

The move is an effort by California Democrats to counter Texas Republicans’ and President Trump’s efforts to boost the number of GOP members.

Munger, a GOP donor and the son of a billionaire who was Warren Buffett’s right-hand man, bankrolled the 2010 ballot measure that created independent congressional redistricting in California. He donated $10 million to the “No on Prop. 50 – Protect Voters First” campaign,” which opposes the proposed redistricting.

“Charles Munger Jr. is making good on his promise to defend the reforms he passed,” said Amy Thoma, a spokesperson for the Voters First Coalition, which opposes the ballot measure and includes Munger.

A spokesperson for the campaign supporting the redrawing of congressional boundaries accused Munger of trying to boost the GOP under the guise of supporting independent redistricting.

“It’s no surprise that a billionaire who has given extensively to help Republicans take the house and [former Republican House Speaker] Kevin McCarthy would be joining forces to help Donald Trump steal five House seats and rig the 2026 midterm before a single American has voted,” said Hannah Milgrom, spokesperson for “Yes on 50: the Election Rigging Response Act.” “Prop 50 is America’s best chance to fight back – vote yes on November. 4.”

The campaign backing the ballot measure received $1 million on Thursday from a powerful labor group, SEIU’s state council; $300,000 from businessman Andrew Hauptman; and a flurry of other donations, according to the California secretary of state’s office. That is on top of the $5.8 million the campaign reported having in the bank as of July 30, including millions of dollars in contributions from House Majority PAC, which is focused on electing Democrats to Congress, and Newsom’s 2022 gubernatorial reelection campaign.

Redistricting typically happens once a decade after the U.S. census. Trump asked Texas lawmakers to redraw their congressional districts earlier this year, arguing that the GOP was entitled to five more members from the state. In response, California Democrats have pitched new district boundaries that could result in five more Democrats being elected to Congress.

Source link