A 'marked shift in mood' among Russia's elites suggests that Vladimir Putin may be losing momentum in Ukraine, as the country faces mounting economic and military challenges.

Former Spanish PM Zapatero will focus his defense on annulling evidence, despite previously joking about the opposition's reaction to his potential indictment. Meanwhile, Feijóo's firm stance has surprised Catalan economic elites, who see no immediate motion to remove Sánchez, fearing another lost year.

A tragic school bus accident in Assin Homaho, Ghana, has resulted in the deaths of two pupils and injuries to 40 others from Alice Elites Academy.

At the Lisbon Book Fair, discussions are taking place about the future of books, with one expert suggesting they might become a product of the elites again.

The relentless persecution of investigative journalists in Guatemala, exemplified by cases against elPeriódico and Armando.Info, is highlighted as a mechanism by which corruption protects predatory elites. This phenomenon is used to explain aspects of Chavismo.

Several musical acts have withdrawn from the America 250 State Fair on the National Mall, citing concerns about alleged political ties to the event, leading to criticism from liberal elites.

Russian elites are now officially above the law, as personal foundations of oligarchs and Putin's inner circle have been exempted from mandatory financial audits, with this new 'law' retroactively applying to 2025.

An article provides a historical overview of Cuba before the 1959 revolution, highlighting Havana as a bustling metropolis that attracted tourists, gamblers, and elites. It describes Cuba as one of Latin America's most developed but unequal countries during that period.

Reports indicate a growing disappointment within the Russian elite regarding President Putin, primarily due to the prolonged duration of the war. This sentiment suggests increasing frustration with the ongoing conflict.

An article examines how the Arsenal football team achieved significant cultural reach among both general public and elites, despite a period of limited on-field success.

Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of Thailand's People’s Party, warned that the country remains under a 'blue regime' concentrating power among elites and advocated for a new constitution to foster a 'politics of hope'.

Studentski pokret u Srbiji uspeo je da otvori teme koje su godinama bile potisnute iz javnog života i da probudi uverenje da u društvu još postoji energija koja nije uprljana svakodnevnom partijskom…

The TMRO party in North Macedonia has questioned why there is silence regarding mass 'UÇK, UÇK' chants in the center of Skopje, criticizing Macedonian political elites for diverting public attention to Bulgaria instead of addressing the issue.

A look into ancient China reveals how elites used sophisticated methods like water-powered fans and ice sculptures, while common folk relied on practical items such as bamboo pillows to combat the summer heat.

A new budget in Pakistan is being described as burdensome, imposing austerity measures on common citizens while allegedly granting immunity to elites.

Experts suggest that Putin's appointment of a highly decorated army general and a former official from occupied Ukraine to lead the Belgorod and Bryansk regions indicates the Kremlin's militarization of Russia's elites.

Tucker Carlson asserted that the Iran War has revealed "fake" and "bizarre" markets that primarily enrich elites, stating that this reality has become too obvious to deny.

Dubai is facing an unprecedented challenge to its reputation as a safe haven and financial center, as wealthy elites are reportedly moving their capital and assets to Singapore or Switzerland amid the ongoing war in Iran.

A democracy digest covers Hungary's 'luxury elites' facing scrutiny, Poland's ongoing institutional crisis, protests in Czechia over a Sudeten German Congress, and warnings from Slovak judges regarding political attacks on judicial independence.

An opinion piece by Reverend John F. Naugle discusses the perceived contempt of elites and the author's personal experience with post-lockdown trauma, reflecting on societal changes.

Iberian civilizations from the 5th to 4th centuries B.C. sculpted influential women in stone, such as the Lady of Elche and the Lady of Baza. These figures symbolized the prestige of elites during times of crisis.

Success in Europe and this summer's World Cup are forcing changes in the Eliteserien. But in the 1st division, the decision is causing outrage.

Historian Jörg Baberowski's attempt to explain the crisis of liberal democracy has been criticized for its lack of originality. His diffuse accusations against elites are also noted as failing to offe

Iran's implementation of a 'tiered internet' system has reportedly exposed significant rifts within the ruling elites regarding public rights and internet access.

The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) and the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) co-hosted a significant PAIB Conference, gathering global finance leaders to discuss the future of the industry.

Prominent figures gathered in Sokoto, Nigeria, for the unveiling of "Military Law in Nigeria: A Quick Reference Guide to Practice and Procedure," a major publication on military jurisprudence.

An analysis suggests that Trump's blockade is impacting Iran, leading to anger among European elites, and discusses the potential for an Iranian surrender or a global energy crisis.

An analysis suggests that strategic elites in Beijing perceive global politics as transitioning into a "Warring States era," emphasizing that China's future will depend more on strategic planning than economic power.

Opinion pieces discuss the deteriorating façade of democracy, with one arguing that elites prefer an administrative state over democratic principles, contributing to a decline in governance.

Author Peter Schweizer warns that wealthy Chinese nationals are exploiting US birthright citizenship on an 'industrial scale' to secure American citizenship for their children.

Slovak President Pellegrini is scheduled to review NATO elites in Trenčín, while ministers are set to announce a historic renovation of castles and plans for new highway sections.

Former Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK, Ambassador Sharafa Tunji Ishola, expressed concern over deepening political division among Ogun State elites, warning that it is stalling the state’s development.

A commentary on the CPAC conference in Budapest highlights the emergence of a coordinated far-right network with shared ideologies, themes, and support from American political elites associated with Donald Trump.

An opinion piece argues that Iran's authoritarian regime will only collapse if citizens, elites, and security forces perceive a desirable and achievable alternative political order.

The former Revolutionary Guards commander, Tehran mayor, national police chief and presidential candidate is now a key link between the political, security and clerical elites.

Eminem won the Oscar for best original song in 2003 and performed at the ceremony in 2020. Craig Sjodin/Contributor/ABC via Getty Images On Sunday, Hollywood stars will gather at the Dolby Theatre to celebrate the Oscars. While some names feel synonymous with Oscars' history, others have been forgotten over time. Eminem won the Oscar for best original song in 2003 for "Lose Yourself." On Sunday, March 15, Hollywood's elites will descend upon the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles for the biggest ...

Sharon Osbourne has publicly criticized Hollywood elites for delivering political speeches at award shows, stating that viewers need "relief" from world events. Her comments were made on "The Osbournes Podcast."

Balendra Shah, a 35-year-old rapper, has become the new Prime Minister of Nepal, presenting himself as a rebel against old power elites and seen as a beacon of hope for Generation Z, who led protests to overthrow the previous government.

A leaked 2023 Bohemian Club alleged membership list reveals A-list celebrities like the late Paul Newman and Jimmy Buffett belonged to the exclusive secret society.

An opinion piece reflects on the legacy of Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, describing him as a multifaceted and often ambiguous leader who will be more missed by the public than the elites.

Illinois Lt. Gov. Stratton accepted millions from corporate figures despite promising grassroots-only Senate campaign funding for her political bid.

Ultimately, the US administration would not object to the emergence of new authorities in Tehran involving leaders from the current Iranian elites – says Volker Perthes, head of... to "Rzeczpospolita".

O escândalo Epstein manifesta a podridão de algumas elites: esta crise mundial é, sobretudo, uma crise moral.

Hunter Nadeau, the alleged shooter at Sky Meadow Club in New Hampshire, reportedly confessed to police that he targeted wealthy individuals because he believed they were not helping the poor.

Four individuals accused in the Greek Predator spyware scandal have received suspended eight-year sentences. The scandal, which involved data manipulation and surveillance of political elites, led to a no-confidence vote against the government and resignations of high-ranking officials.

Business executive and former Unilever Executive Vice President Yaw Nsarkoh has described Ghana’s two main political parties as “the party of the elites.”

An opinion piece argues that the wealthy have a right to free speech and that democracy needs billionaires, asserting that criticizing the rich does not solve inequality but empowers existing elites.

North Korea’s ruling party touted nuclear advances as it re-elected Kim Jong Un to the top post of general secretary, state media said on Monday, during a rare national congress. Thousands of party elites have packed the capital Pyongyang for a once-in-five-years summit of the ruling Workers’ Party, a gathering that directs state efforts on everything from diplomacy to war planning. The congress offers a rare glimpse into the political workings of reclusive North Korea, and is widely seen as ...

Country star Tim McGraw stood firm against record label executives who attempted to prevent the inclusion of his 'controversial' song 'Indian Outlaw' on his album, ultimately turning it into his first top 10 platinum hit.

“Why did you start driving inDrive?” It’s my go-to icebreaker with drivers in Pakistan. Lately, the answers have been unsettlingly similar. “I used to work in the development sector,” one man told me. “Then I lost my job.” I’ve heard that line — or a version of it — too many times to dismiss as coincidence. Since the United States pulled the plug on its aid apparatus, the fallout has been immediate. On the surface, the shutdown of USAID is being framed as just another abrupt policy reversal — a bureaucratic casualty in an era of disruption. But look closer, and it reveals something far more profound: the cumulative weight of domestic and international tensions that have been simmering, both within and beyond the US for decades. Cycles of aid, cycles of distrust The first source of strain lies beyond US borders. From its inception as a Cold War instrument, American foreign aid has been shaped by an enduring tension between its declared objectives of development and altruism and its underlying strategic and political calculations. This duality has long been apparent to the recipient elites and the broader public alike. During the Cold War, many governments acquiesced, in part because Western donors faced little competition and alternative sources of assistance were scarce. That landscape has since changed. As non-traditional donors, most notably China and the Gulf states, have expanded their presence, and as domestic political incentives within recipient countries have shifted, scepticism toward USAID has become more explicit and politically salient. In countries such as Pakistan, where mistrust of American intentions runs deep, US assistance is often perceived less as generosity than as intrusion. What is now framed as a backlash against American aid is better understood as the culmination of a long-simmering tension and a legacy of mutual misperceptions between donor and recipient. Pakistan’s experience with US foreign aid agency illustrates this dynamic with particular clarity. American assistance to Pakistan has never been linear or predictable; instead, it has unfolded in cycles closely attuned to Washington’s shifting strategic priorities. During the Cold War, aid was channelled primarily through a security-alliance framework aimed at containing the Soviet bloc, with economic assistance tightly coupled to military cooperation. These flows declined sharply after the 1965 war, reinforcing perceptions of US aid as conditional, transactional, and reversible. Another peak in this equation followed in the 1980s, when General Ziaul Haq aligned Pakistan with the US in opposing Soviet expansion in Afghanistan. Yet with the collapse of the Soviet Union, and the subsequent imposition of US sanctions on Pakistan’s nuclear programme under the Pressler Amendment, assistance once again contracted. It was only after 9/11 that the aid surged anew, this time framed around counterterrorism and stabilisation. Even at its height, however, much of this assistance remained shaped by security imperatives, short funding horizons, and heavy reliance on contractors, rather than long-term institution-building. For many Pakistanis, therefore, the shutdown of USAID feels less like an abrupt rupture than the latest turn in a familiar cycle of engagement and disengagement. The second factor is bureaucratic pathologisation. Like many large organisations, aid agencies are susceptible to institutional dysfunction, and USAID has been no exception. In practice, particularly in contexts such as Pakistan, as commissioner on the Afghanistan War Commission Andrew Wilder has noted, its programmes increasingly came to be structured through a security lens rather than a development one. Key decisions were made in Washington, filtered through multiple layers of contractors, and ultimately deployed on the ground with limited scope for local input. At the same time, bureaucratic incentives privileged projects with easily quantifiable indicators, favouring what could be measured over what was substantively effective. These patterns were neither accidental nor new, nor are they unique to the US. Over time, however, they eroded both the legitimacy and the perceived effectiveness of USAID, among recipients abroad and critics at home. These institutional dynamics had tangible consequences on the ground. In Pakistan, USAID funding became heavily concentrated in sectors aligned with stabilisation and security objectives — such as service delivery in so-called “fragile” districts or rapid-impact infrastructure — often at the expense of slower, politically unglamorous investments in local institutional capacity. NGOs and development professionals structured entire career paths around USAID project cycles, only to see those opportunities vanish when priorities shifted or funding was abruptly frozen. The result was a hollowing out of local expertise and institutional memory. When aid was withdrawn, it left behind far fewer durable institutions than its scale and visibility might have led one to expect. The mismatch between stated development objectives and the underlying security logic was further compounded by an overreliance on quantifiable metrics to demonstrate impact. This tendency was reinforced by a development ecosystem shaped by the overproduction of economists and political scientists trained as methodological specialists rather than regional experts. Programmes designed in Washington often prioritised what could be easily counted — number of schools built, clinics refurbished, trainings delivered, or kilometres of roads completed — over whether such interventions meaningfully strengthened local institutions. In Pakistan, this logic was especially evident in sectors such as education, health, and local governance, where projects were assessed primarily through output indicators rather than sustainability or local ownership. Multiple layers of contractors further diluted accountability and blurred responsibility once funding cycles ended. Over time, this produced a paradox: USAID became both omnipresent and poorly understood — associated with large budgets and extensive reporting, but yielding limited and uneven institutional impact. That credibility gap left the agency especially exposed when domestic political support in the US began to erode. The third major factor behind the dismantling of the aid lies in the domestic backlash within the US against international cooperation. Opposition to foreign aid, multilateralism, and international institutions long predates Donald Trump, reflecting decades of polarisation over globalisation and America’s role in the world. By the time Trump entered office, hostility toward international engagement was already deeply embedded in US politics. In this context, shuttering a highly visible aid agency became a potent domestic signal; it becomes a way to demonstrate responsiveness to voters who view global commitments as costly, wasteful, or illegitimate. Dismantling USAID was therefore less a recalibration of foreign policy than an act of domestic political theatre. The US government’s official justification for shutting down USAID frames the move as a response to “China’s exploitative aid model” and a means of advancing American “strategic interests in key regions around the world”. It is true that China has dramatically expanded its development footprint and largely operates outside the traditional Western aid framework. But that explanation doesn’t hold up to deeper scrutiny. If Washington were genuinely seeking to compete with Beijing in the development arena, the more coherent response would have been reform and reinvestment, not withdrawal. Moreover, Chinese and US aid are not direct substitutes. They target different sectors, rely on distinct instruments, and frequently operate alongside one another in the same countries — Pakistan among them — without displacing each other. In Pakistan, Chinese assistance has concentrated on large-scale infrastructure and energy projects, while USAID has focused primarily on education and health. Chinese aid typically flows through bilateral, government-to-government channels, whereas US assistance has often bypassed the Pakistani state, working instead through NGOs and contractors. China’s rise may well be sharpening anxieties in Washington, but it does not, on its own, explain why the US would choose to erode its own institutional capacity in response. A looming domino effect The shutdown of USAID, then, should not be understood as a one-off policy blunder or an idiosyncratic choice tied to a single administration. Rather, it reflects the convergence of long-accumulating tensions: between the professed ideals and strategic deployment of aid abroad; between development objectives and bureaucratic practices within aid agencies; between international commitments and domestic political incentives at home. USAID’s collapse is best understood not as the cause of these pressures, but as their most visible manifestation. The consequences of this decision extend well beyond the fate of a single agency. They reveal the fragility of the broader international aid regime, which ultimately depends on the willingness of a small number of leading powers to absorb the political and financial costs of institutionalised cooperation. When that willingness erodes, institutions lose both credibility and purpose and eventually collapse. Signs of this erosion are already evident, as other major donors, including the United Kingdom and Germany, begin to scale back their own aid commitments. What is at stake, then, is not merely the dismantling of USAID, but the gradual unravelling of an international aid regime built on mutual trust and a sustained commitment to lifting the world’s poorest out of poverty.

Germany's elites are advocating for "location patriotism" as the country's green industrial policy reportedly begins to unravel, facing economic and social challenges.

Chinese brands are increasingly entering the luxury car segment, with the Hongqi Guoya limousine, priced at up to 31.7 million rubles, now available in Russia and being adopted by Russian elites.

This article discusses how populist and right-wing movements worldwide present themselves as leaders of an authentic rebellion against alienated elites, paradoxically using the language of democracy and human rights while undermining democratic principles.

Ahead of the tenth History Fest, historians Husnija Kamberović and Emily Greble discussed how shared societal life poses a problem for political elites.

An opinion piece argues that central Canadian elites bear significant responsibility for the rise of Alberta's separatist movement, alongside other contributing factors.

A colonial-era club in New Delhi has been ordered to move, a decision that has sparked debate among India's elite.

A recent leak has reportedly exposed Germany's efforts to compel social media platforms to promote state propaganda and suppress dissenting voices, causing concern among European elites.

A discussion explores whether the Polish middle class is turning away from the liberal narrative of success, with residents of large cities increasingly fearing status loss and young people losing faith in a better future.

A colonial-era club in New Delhi has been ordered to move, igniting a debate about India's elite social structures and historical legacies.

Researchers are renewing their interest in studying France's upper bourgeoisie, following in the footsteps of Pierre Bourdieu, as global inequality continues to rise. Their work is providing valuable insights into the mechanisms that perpetuate social stratification.

Bosnia and Herzegovina's Ambassador to the United States, Sven Alkalaj, addressed an international conference in Sarajevo, warning that handing over state property to local power brokers could lead to the destabilization of BiH.

An Italian article discusses the historical parallels between ancient elites and modern big tech companies, warning that the immense power held by these corporations poses a significant threat to democratic principles.

Kevin Brookes, director of the think-tank GénérationLibre, argues that political elites have become mechanisms for distributing privileges and rents, leading to a disconnect from reality.

Jean-Pierre Robin's chronicle discusses how the "struggle of age classes" is prominently entering the 2027 French presidential campaign, with political elites aligning with social media's exuberant public opinion.

A Ukrainian elite soldier, Vyacheslav, who once made military history with his unique abilities, now finds that his specialized skills are no longer highly valued or needed in contemporary warfare.

A serious analysis suggests that the most painful reality for Albania's Democratic Party is not daily chronicles or political rhetoric, but a deeper phenomenon of right-wing elites abandoning the party.

An analysis suggests that wealthy elites who strike deals with authoritarian leaders often believe they are securing protection and influence, but experiences in Russia, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia demonstrate their power is often temporary and dependent on the ruler.

Following his Coachella performances, Justin Bieber held a private concert for influential figures in Hollywood and the tech industry, including Jeffrey Katzenberg.

An opinion piece suggests that Israel is strategically building alliances based on hard power, common threats, and mutual self-interest, while Western elites express concerns.

Dubai's standing as a safe financial haven is being challenged as wealthy elites reportedly move capital out of the emirate to places like Singapore and Switzerland, amidst the ongoing Iran war.

An opinion piece authored by Rev. John F. Naugle via The Brownstone Institute discusses the concept of 'the elites and their contempt,' reflecting on a personal post-lockdown trauma response.

Protests by authors at the French publishing house are a symptom of the struggle between establishment and insurgents

An opinion column by Plamen Monovski, co-founder of Blackrock Emerging Markets, discusses the theological foundations of what he terms a 'new religious war' and the re-Christianization of the elite.

Public opinion and political elites in America are increasingly distancing themselves from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Vicente Valentim, a Portuguese analyst, argues that the 'normalization of the radical right' is linked to current political elites and the abandonment of post-dictatorship consensus in Portugal.

Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed and the People’s Redemption Party are highlighted for their efforts to reintroduce populism into Nigeria's political landscape, challenging the dominance of entrenched elites.

An analysis explores four potential scenarios for Russia's future after the conflict in Ukraine, suggesting reforms might only occur if the regime faces a severe crisis following a defeat. The article highlights the potential danger from elites, currently under Putin's firm control.

Einst gefeierter Kriegsheld, jetzt in Haft: Ein hochdekorierter ehemaliger australischer Soldat soll Zivilisten in Afghanistan getötet haben. Es könnte ein historischer Prozess werden.

An analysis suggests that Pakistan's ruling elites maintain their power by perpetually keeping Baloch, Pashtun, Sindhi, and Punjabi identities in tension, thereby preventing unified opposition.

A Polish commentary discusses the prevalent irritation and criticism directed at the abstract concept of 'elites' in the 2020s, questioning the simplification of such complex notions.

An analysis explores the dynamics of President Tinubu's relationship with northern elites in Nigeria, examining potential implications for the country's political landscape.

An expert speaking at the United Nations has warned that Islamophobia in Europe is being exacerbated by a lack of political recognition and is driven more by political elites than by society at large.

Luxury ride-hailing application Wheely is expanding its services to New York City, with a strategic focus on attracting elite clientele. This move marks the company's entry into a competitive new market.

US President Trump is reportedly considering Cuba after Venezuela, with observers suggesting that old Cuban elites could benefit from a potential regime collapse.

Bogusław Chrabota suggests that a veto against the SAFE initiative could be a precursor to Poland's exit from the European Union, framing the future of the EU as a tug-of-war between pro-integration elites and right-wing politicians.

Andrew Tate has published racist and anti-Western messages, accusing those in power of theft and a fraudulent global economy. He encouraged his followers to support a 'world revolution' against elites.

An analyst suggests that Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's strategic partnership with Romania, signed during his visit to Bucharest, was a move to pressure Hungarian political elites regarding the treatment of ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine.

Owen Jones, writing for The Guardian, analyzes how British elites have become a 'cult of death' and suggests that the British public does not want to participate in what he describes as Trump's 'war obsession.' He also comments on Keir Starmer's perceived lack of political direction regarding the Iran conflict.

This exhibition invites visitors to experience the French art de vivre of the aristocratic and bourgeois elites on the eve of the Revolution.

At the Third Way conference in Charleston, centrists debated ways to win – and were sure electoral success lies with them Joe Walsh half jumped out of his seat when discussion at the Third Way conference in Charleston turned to how Democrats sound to voters. “Tone! My God!” the former Republican congressman shouted. “The Democrats come across as, like, professors, academics, elites. I mean, my God, rip off your freaking sport coat and talk to me! Listen to me like a regular human being.” Con...

Iran's feared Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) plays a key role both militarily and politically. "There is no indication that they will give in," says an expert.

Lavrov was responding to a question about whether Western leaders had “lost all instincts of self-preservation” by allegedly planning to supply Ukraine with a nuclear weapon.

New revelations highlight how extreme wealth allows elites to evade accountability, erode democratic institutions, and silence victims.

Wherever dolma traveled, it adapted to local climates, crops, and culture.

Tucker Carlson has been promoting the discredited 'Khazar' theory, which falsely claims Ashkenazi Jews are descended from a Turkic minority rather than the ancient Israelites, a theory often used by antisemites.

Nuclear bunkers are becoming a popular theme in TV dramas and a real-life investment for tech billionaires, raising questions about their motivations and potential insights into future threats.

Business executive Yaw Nsarkoh has criticized Ghana's political class, specifically the NDC and NPP, for focusing on the 2028 elections as early as 2026, calling it 'party of the elites' politics.

Most of the world knows the end of Jeffrey Epstein's story – his death in a New York cell amidst shocking accusations – but his rise, as a parasite who deceived elites, is also compelling.

Concerns are growing about the integration of AI into nuclear command systems amidst a lack of arms limitation treaties and diplomatic channels, raising questions about the trustworthiness of elites with such power.

Charles Porch (with red flower), formerly of Meta and now OpenAI, at the Met Gala. Theo Wargo/FilmMagic OpenAI just hired Charles Porch, Instagram's head of partnerships. Porch has deep connections to celebrities and Hollywood, and plans to talk to them about their "fears" of AI. Maybe OpenAI is realizing they need celebrities to stop publicly hating AI so much. A "detriment" to human creativity, said Vince Gilligan, creator of "Breaking Bad" and "Pluribus" about AI. "Horrifying," said James Cameron about the possibility of AI actors. "I'd rather die," said Guillermo del Toro. "Incredibly destructive," said Cate Blanchett. It's not hard to see why OpenAI recognizes it has a bit of an image problem among some people in Hollywood. It appears that the company is now trying to change that. OpenAI just poached Charles Porch from Meta, where he oversaw celebrity partnerships for over a decade, as Vanity Fair reported earlier. Porch is generally recognized for helping make Instagram the cultural juggernaut it is today by helping celebrities who might have been confused by or disinterested in newfangled social media join and use the platform. Porch has deep connections in the entertainment industry — celebrities like Harry Styles attended his lavish wedding this summer in France. Porch wrote on his personal Instagram about his job change: "From helping Beyoncé figure out how to launch an album exclusively on social media to onboarding Pope Francis to Instagram (he held my hands and asked me to pray for him) to watching creators become the next generation of entrepreneurs, the impact on culture that me and the team have been able to have is something that I take great pride in." It's not clear exactly what Porch's new gig will entail. He told Vanity Fair that his first step will be to go on a "listening tour" to hear the hopes and fears about AI from creatives and celebrities. I've asked OpenAI for comment. For Hollywood actors, filmmakers, and studio executives, those fears are pretty big. Why wouldn't Brad Pitt be alarmed to see a passably real AI-generated version of himself in a fist-fight against Tom Cruise? The idea that AI could replace actors, screenwriters, and other creatives is alarming, especially as Hollywood as an industry is hurting. Box office sales haven't bounced back from the pandemic, streaming is complicated, fewer and fewer projects are being made, and efforts to cut costs by filming overseas have devastated Los Angeles' middle-class of film industry workers. On top of that, AI is, as far as I can tell, widely considered a theft machine that gobbled up tons of images and videos from movies and TV for training data, largely without permission or compensation. You can see a filmmaker or actor's point of view here: They stole my face and my work to build this tool, and now they want to use it to make soulless slop that will undercut the value of my work? Why OpenAI's hire has a tough road ahead Not great! I imagine Porch has his work cut out for him. OpenAI and other AI companies have started making deals with Hollywood. Disney made a $1 billion deal with OpenAI around the time Sora 2 launched, licensing Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Darth Vader, and also becoming a customer and investor in OpenAI. Lionsgate and AMC made deals allowing their catalogs to be used for training Runway. (Business Insider, through our parent company, has a somewhat similar deal with OpenAI.) But those deals with studios, while they might stave off copyright lawsuits and create some cash flow, aren't winning over the hearts and minds of the celebrities and creatives — the kinds of people who make headlines when they call AI "horrifying." Perhaps OpenAI is realizing that celebrities still hold the kind of cultural capital that can't be built in the Bay Area. And while OpenAI has been pretty successful in pushing its agenda in Washington, thanks to an AI-friendly administration, it still has an uphill battle to win over the general public, which remains fairly skeptical of AI. And for that, you need to get the celebs on board. There's a beautiful irony now that these big AI companies are paying big bucks to hire human writers, and VCs are now obsessed with the concept of "taste." It turns out that kinds of "soft skills" that had long been undervalued in Silicon Valley are more relevant than ever now that AI can do a lot of the technical work. And someone like Charles Porch, who has the connections and ability to charm a roomful of Hollywood types and other cultural elites, is more valuable than ever. That's the kind of job AI can't take. Read the original article on Business Insider

Pelosi Appears To Have Picked Their Candidate For President In 2028 Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) may be retiring from Congress at the end of this term, but she's not done trying to shape presidential races. The 85-year-old former House speaker has turned into what one former aide calls "a Gavin fan-girl," deploying her legendary donor network and political capital to boost California Gov. Gavin Newsom as a 2028 White House contender. The move lands as a calculated slight to Kamala Harris, who polls ahead of Newsom nationally but appears to have lost Pelosi's confidence after the 2024 debacle. According to a report from Axios, Pelosi has spent months publicly and privately vouching for Newsom.  "From the standpoint of leadership, vision, and values, knowledge of the issues, strategic thinking about how to get things done, he's masterful," she told The New Yorker. She told Vogue earlier this month, “I’ve seen him grow politically, I've also seen him have this beautiful family, and for all of us who love him, seeing him evolve has been wonderful to behold.” She’s even trying to help Newsom shed the perception of coming from privilege, telling The Atlantic, "Everybody thinks of Gavin and a silver spoon. But that isn't right. He was a very hard worker in everything that he did, whether it was personally, professionally, and then civically." This week, Pelosi told Politico that Newsom "would make a great president," though she added Democrats have many strong potential candidates.  The hedge shouldn’t fool anyone.  Pelosi isn’t likely to gush unless she's decided. Former aides say she's been eager to publicly vouch for Newsom whenever asked and has privately admired how he's navigated Trump "with a combination of defiance and charm." One former staffer said Pelosi "doesn't crush on many people" and added, "She's hardly ever wrong. When she says she sees something, it's a real thing." Of course, Pelosi’s connection to Newsom isn’t limited to politics. Her brother-in-law was married to Newsom's aunt, and Pelosi frequently says she knew Newsom before he was born. Politically, they’ve been connected for years, as she's mentored him since his days as San Francisco mayor, watching him rise through California politics like a puppet master or a kingmaker. While Pelosi is reportedly focused on helping Democrats retake the House in November and making Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries speaker, she’s clearly looking to the future and sees Newsom as the next leader of the party who will bring Democrats to the White House. This may be a significant vote of confidence for Newsom, but it’s also an undeniable betrayal of another California Democrat, Kamala Harris.  Pelosi endorsed Harris quickly after Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 race, reportedly frustrating Barack Obama, who wanted a more open process. “The Obamas were not happy,” a Pelosi confidant told ABC’s Jonathan Karl for his book Retribution. 'This person summed up Obama's message to Pelosi as, essentially, "What the f*** did you just do?"'  Harris lost badly to Trump, spending more than a billion dollars in the process, leaving many major donors deeply disillusioned with her. Pelosi’s support would have gone a long way to repair the damage, but Pelosi appears to have moved on.  Harris leads the 2028 field with a 27.5 percent national polling average, according to Race to the White House, while Newsom trails at 22.7%. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez sits at 9%, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 8.7%, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro at 4.9%, and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker at 3.4%. Neither Newsom nor Harris has publicly announced their intent to seek the presidency, but both are reportedly considering, which makes Pelosi's public courtship of Newsom a calculated snub. Pelosi's endorsements carry weight with the donor class and party elites who decide primaries long before voters cast ballots. By elevating Newsom now, she's signaling to those constituencies where the smart money should flow. Whether Pelosi's bet pays off depends on factors beyond her control. Newsom has baggage from California's struggles with homelessness, crime, and out-migration on his watch. Harris, meanwhile, carries the weight of a failed campaign but has name recognition and institutional support, and isn’t a white male — a huge plus for a party that has gone all in on identity politics.  Tyler Durden Mon, 02/16/2026 - 19:30

Investigations into Jeffrey Epstein's activities reveal how he leveraged the prestige of the Nobel Peace Prize to entice elites, with further insights into his global network emerging from leaked emails.

Russia faces a worsening internal situation marked by military setbacks, an economic crisis, and unrest among elites, with suggestions that President Putin may escalate.

Christoforos Vernardakis, a former minister in the SYRIZA government, criticized Alexis Tsipras's new party, 'ELAS,' stating that its list of members resembles a conference of progressive elites rather than a social alliance.

A sociologist warns that aggressive rhetoric from political elites consistently reflects and can increase societal tolerance for aggression, humiliation, and political violence, referencing findings from the Brookings Institution. The article examines the current state of rhetoric among Czech political leaders.

A discussion explores the transformation of America's elites, referencing how wealthy Republicans in Greenwich once lived modest lives, a world that has largely disappeared today.

An opinion piece reflects on the Israelites' greatest failure, drawing parallels to today's uncertainties and emphasizing the need for sacrifice, perseverance, and courage in confronting reality.

A discussion at Matica crnogorska highlighted that Montenegro's political elites in the 20th century did not support Prince Danilo's state concept, leading to the systematic marginalization of his figure.

An article explores how Cuba appeared before the Castro regime, highlighting Havana as a destination for tourists, gamblers, and elites.

Senegalese artist Dip Doundou Guiss has released a musical sermon titled "Goundiyi Niou Tolou," criticizing the excesses of the elites.

Pakistan's ongoing energy crisis is attributed to a 2004 tariff dispute of 0.3 cents per unit, which led to the cancellation of a Thar coal project that could have provided a solution.

A commentary suggests that South Africa's Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policy should be remodelled to become broad-based, benefiting community organizations and social enterprises rather than political elites.

Lawyers representing Terenure College and the Carmelite order faced criticism for objecting to a hearing date in the John McClean abuse action, stating they are entitled to interrogate certain financial claims by victims.

Articles discuss the influence of wealthy elites on democratic processes and the challenges of holding them accountable. This includes commentary on the perception of rich individuals and the concept of elite capture.

An opinion piece criticizes a prevailing culture in Portugal where there is excessive reverence for elites and a tendency to suffer in silence, hindering societal progress.

Meta whistleblower Sarah Wynn-Williams and the late Virginia Giuffre were jointly honored with a freedom to publish prize at the British book awards, with Wynn-Williams warning against powerful elites silencing dissenting voices.

Reports indicate that several graves belonging to Bucharest elites, including that of Simona Lahovary, a lady-in-waiting to Queen Maria, have disappeared from Bellu Cemetery, prompting concerns from civil society members.

A bold operation and a recruited agent allowed Ukraine to inflict significant damage on some of Putin's elite forces stationed in Kursk, who had previously acted brutally against Ukraine.

An NGO reports that North Korea is escalating executions for citizens caught consuming foreign media, with experts noting that children of elites are particularly drawn to smuggled South Korean and American content.

Investing is no longer a 'black box' reserved for Wall Street elites. 2025 was strong for stocks, but a trio of Slovaks on the eToro platform achieved something exceptional – they significantly outperformed the world-renowned...

The war against Ukraine has already entered its fifth year, negotiations are stalled, sanctions are hitting the country harder and harder, the rating of Russian leader Vladimir Putin is falling, and…

The Pune Police chief stated that the Porsche case revealed how elites protect juveniles involved in misadventures, implying a systemic issue in how such incidents are handled.

A videopodcast discusses the controversial role of Slovak writers, such as Ľudo Ondrejov, who collaborated with totalitarian regimes, questioning their status as the nation's conscience.

A Spanish opinion piece questions the legitimacy of awarding large public prizes to literary elites when the same funds could provide more widespread support for literary creation.

The People's Party in Thailand is facing difficulties regarding institutional reform, particularly concerning the privileges and benefits enjoyed by political and state elites.

The Prodigy has released a new "dirty, acid 303" remix of Sleaford Mods' track 'Elitest G.O.A.T', marking a new collaboration between the two acts who previously worked together over a decade ago.

Citizens in Bosnia and Herzegovina are paying excise taxes, but no highways are being built, leading to questions about where the money is going and whether strategic energy projects serve the public or political elites.

Andrés Villena's comprehensive work provides a brilliant analysis of how Spanish economic elites have maintained their hegemony and power continuously from the Civil War to the present day.

The Jewish Passover festival, commemorating the liberation of Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, commences today.

A commentary piece suggests that national elites are aligning with European elites, leading to more money for the former and more power for the latter, implying a critique of EU political dynamics.

Conservative elites, including leaders from the 'Patriots for Europe' parliamentary faction, gathered in Budapest to express support for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán just weeks before crucial parliamentary elections.

Michał Kolanko reports that Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz and Poland 2050 are launching a new strategy to fight for justice for the middle class. This move positions them in rebellion against the metropolitan elites of the Third Polish Republic.

This article offers commentary on Donald Trump's perceived alignment with new tech elites and oligarchs, framing it within a broader discussion of imperialism versus nationalism.

The Republican president has tightened the relationship between the elites and the White House, and this has affected communication and the free flow of information

Anthropologist Jason Hickel argues that the climate crisis exposes the limits of capitalism, stating that an effective response to global warming requires democratizing production and limiting the power of economic elites.

Krievijas armija, visticamāk, pārvieto elites vienības uz Ukrainas dienvidiem, reaģējot uz Ukrainas bruņoto spēku veiksmīgajām operācijām Zaporižjas un Dņepropetrovskas sektoros.

Declassified documents belonging to the disgraced financier have given wings to a conspiracy theory that’s been explored in ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ and by QAnon alike: does one do evil simply because one…

Nepal's upcoming polls are seen as a critical moment, with no single party expected to secure a majority, potentially leading to a reliance on older political elites despite recent Gen Z protests.

An article explores whether the socio-cultural mirror of African elites poses an obstacle to geopolitical intelligence.

A trend popular among Silicon Valley elites using peptides to slow aging is raising alarms among health professionals who warn of potentially severe side effects.

Bohemian Grove Membership List Leaked An independent journalist has obtained and published what appears to be the 2023 attendance list for ultra-secretive Bohemian Grove, the annual summer encampment of the all-male Bohemian Club in Sonoma County, California, providing a rare look at the roster of American elites who gathered at the shadowy retreat. The list, first shared by Substack journalist Daniel Boguslaw and authenticated by at least one club member, lists more than 2,2...

Jeffrey Epstein cultivated close ties with West African political elites, forging a relationship with Karim Wade, son of former Senegalese president Abdoulaye Wade, and Nina Keita, niece of Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, according to a review of emails and financial records related to the convicted sex offender released by the US government last month.

Estimates suggest over 15 million Africans were deported during approximately 400 years of transatlantic slavery, with 10.7 to 12.8 million arriving alive in the Americas, highlighting the participation of African elites.

O que já se conhece revela outra história: a da transformação das relações entre vários segmentos das superelites, acompanhada pelo aprofundamento da sua dimensão global. Opinião de Pedro Adão e Silva

An expert emphasized the crucial role of elites and youth in achieving sustainable development goals, advocating for their active participation in environmental and social initiatives.

An article explores how blockchain technology and the digitization of the world are being used by elites to establish total control, raising concerns about a 'tokenized tyranny'.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has appealed to US allies in Europe, encouraging them to perceive a potential future Trump presidency as a temporary phase.

A new report details how Jeffrey Epstein leveraged the prestige of the Nobel Peace Prize to attract and entice his network of global elites.