Taiwanese voters have decisively rejected attempts to recall a significant number of opposition Nationalist Party lawmakers. This outcome thwarts the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's ambitions to gain a legislative majority and indicates a continued challenging political landscape for President Lai Ching-te's administration. The Nationalists and Taiwan People's Party maintain their collective majority, signaling potential legislative hurdles for the government's agenda. This electoral decision underscores the complex political dynamics within the self-governed island.

A panel of New York Times opinion writers discusses the mounting public and local resistance to the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement. The conversation highlights concerns over the methods used by immigration authorities, their impact on communities, and the broader political implications of these policies ahead of future elections. The experts explore the disconnect between public perception and the realities of these actions, alongside the Democratic Party's struggle to counter the administration's narrative.

The American corporate landscape is currently experiencing a split reality due to recent tariffs. While certain sectors, particularly those reliant on imports like automotive and some consumer goods, report significant financial strain, others, especially in technology and finance, are thriving. This divergence highlights the varied impact of trade policies across industries, prompting businesses to adapt their strategies amidst ongoing economic uncertainty. Investors, surprisingly, remain optimistic, as major stock indices reach new highs.

The current political landscape in Washington is dominated by a surge of competing conspiracy theories, significantly impacting public discourse and policy priorities. Fueled largely by former President Trump, these narratives, ranging from the Jeffrey Epstein files to claims against Barack Obama, overshadow critical national and international issues. This phenomenon reflects a broader trend of diminishing trust in established institutions and the pervasive spread of unsubstantiated assertions through various media channels, including social media. The article delves into how these theories, some with historical roots in American society, have been weaponized, particularly by political figures seeking personal or partisan gain, leading to a climate where fact and fabrication often become indistinguishable.