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New HMRC rules to affect thousands of DWP state pension claimants

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Cambridgeshire Live

Labour announced in the Autumn Budget 2025 that it would change the tax allowance rules

A major tax change is set to be introduced imminently that will impact certain state pensioners. The significant policy shift will alter the amount of tax some pensioners are obliged to pay.

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Labour revealed in the Autumn Budget 2025 that it would modify the tax allowance regulations so that individuals receiving solely the state pension without additional increments will be exempt from paying income tax. This new provision was announced as the full new state pension is forecast to surpass the personal allowance threshold from next April, forcing those whose only income is the state pension into paying income tax.

At present, you can earn £12,570 per year without incurring income tax under the personal allowance. However, the full new state pension now delivers £241.30 weekly, or £12,547.60 annually.

The triple lock mechanism guarantees state pension payments rise each April in line with whichever is highest among three measures: average earnings growth, inflation or 2.5 per cent. As a result, the full new state pension will inevitably exceed the threshold and incur a tax liability following the April 2027 increase.

Nevertheless, the Government has yet to set out the complete details of how the new tax exemption will operate. Kate Smith, head of public affairs at investment platform Aegon UK, commented on the change: “State pensioners receive either the new or old basic state pension.

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“At £12,547 a year, the new state pension is edging closer to the standard annual personal allowance of £12.570, which is frozen until April 5, 2031. The Government has committed that no one receiving only the new or old state Pension, without increments, will have to pay income tax during this Parliament.”

Ms Smith offered her perspective on what putting the new tax policy into practice is likely to entail. She said: “We still have no details on how this will work in practice, but we expect there to be a new allowance for pensioners identified by HM Revenue and Customs as receiving only the state pension and having no other pension income.

“This will need to be updated annually to ensure it keeps pace with triple lock increases to the state pension.” Senior HMRC officials have previously indicated that legislation would likely need to be introduced to bring this into effect, and that this could form part of the autumn finance bill, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The Treasury was recently approached for an update on the tax change policy. An HM Treasury spokesperson said: “Anyone whose only income is the full new or basic state pension without any increments will not pay income tax and we are committed to that over this Parliament.

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“By keeping the triple lock, 12 million pensioners will see their income rise by up to £470 this year, and they continue to benefit from the highest personal allowance in the G7.”

The department further confirmed that work on this policy is currently progressing, and that further details will be announced in due course. Chancellor Rachel Reeves was previously questioned about the policy amendment in March. She told the Treasury Committee: “We are working on how that will work at the moment, but we have been clear that, if your only income is from the new state pension, you will not be subject to income tax during the course of this Parliament. We will set out details later this year on how that will happen.”

Another major alteration to the state pension on the horizon relates to the age at which people become entitled to the DWP benefit, which is due to rise gradually. The qualifying age will climb in phases from 66 to 67, between April 2026 and April 2028.

Legislation is also already in place for a further increase from 67 to 68, planned to occur between 2044 and 2046. To verify how much state pension you are expected to receive, you can utilise the state pension forecast tool accessible on the Government website.

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An individual typically requires 35 years of National Insurance contributions to receive the full new state pension. If there are shortfalls in your record, you may be permitted to make voluntary payments to address them. This can only be done for up to six tax years retrospectively.

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Residents paying hundreds per year for new estate maintenance dub it ‘living hell’

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Cambridgeshire Live

One resident said she is paying more than £800 per year towards the upkeep of green spaces at the estate which she said are not being maintained

Residents who pay hundreds of pounds per year for the upkeep of communal areas on a newbuild estate have branded it a “living hell”. The first residents at the All Angels Park development in Highfields Caldecote moved into their homes in 2021.

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They believed there were going to be beautiful green spaces, with a safe play park for children. However, the green space and play park have been left in a mess, with overgrown weeds and limited access to the park.

Despite paying hundreds of pounds a year for the upkeep, residents claim no maintenance is carried out on the spaces, leaving it in a state of disarray. Carol Bursey, one of the first residents on the estate, described it as a “living hell”.

“It’s not Angels Park, it’s hell,” said Carol. She added: “It’s a significant problem. No caring person would allow their children over there. It can’t be used.”

All Angels Park was developed by Linden Homes and the maintenance is overseen by First Port. At the moment, only 18 out of the 66 properties are paying for maintenance.

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These 18 properties are the first phase of homes in the development and are overseen by First Port, while the remaining homes are overseen by Linden Homes. First Port and Linden Homes have both said that they plan to carry out repairs on the park “as soon as possible”.

When Carol was signing contracts to move to the area, she claims she was asked to pay £500 upfront and £250 a year for the upkeep of the communal areas.

She said: “It was a significant amount because I’m a widow. But I thought okay, it’s for the children.” Since then, the payment has gone up to more than £800 per year. Carol now refuses to pay the fee.

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She added: “This has devalued my house. It was originally valued between £550,000 and £600,000. I had it valued and they said it would be lucky to get £550,000.”

Residents also criticised the maintenance of the estate when CambridgeshireLive first visited in October 2024. Since then, the playground has been completed, but residents still have concerns about the upkeep of communal areas.

Carol’s neighbour Fabio Madeira is also frustrated with the lack of maintenance at the estate. He said: “It’s pretty bad. My main complaint is the lack of maintenance. Some of us are being charged and they are not doing anything. They barely contact us and I’ve opened up so many complaints.”

Fabio has young children and can’t take them to the park. He added: “It’s terrible. There have been many times when we have gone to different parks because we can’t use it. It’s just not safe.”

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Pieri Konstantinos, who also has young children, said the area is in a “bad state”. He added: “It’s a bit dangerous. They just ignore it and it’s a no-go area. If you got a house here, people may think where their kids are going to play, but there’s nowhere.”

Pieri doesn’t let his children play there. He added: “The kids just run around and play in the road. It’s quiet, but it doesn’t take much to cause an accident.”

Ana P, who was one of the first people to move to the estate in 2021, said the maintenance company has “done nothing”. She said: “My garden is at the back of it and it’s full of weeds. We try to make our gardens nice, but we can’t with the weeds.

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“It’s been years and people are complaining about it, but nothing is being done. They have not done any work at all in terms of management. I think it’s just the state of what’s going on everywhere.”

Another woman, who wished to remain anonymous, described the park as a “safety hazard”. She added: “How can they expect parents to take their kids to a place like that. What are we really paying for if nothing is being done?

“Some of the play equipment is broken as well, so that isn’t even safe. We just want to know if they will do something, because it looks horrible to everyone who lives here.”

A spokesperson for First Port and the Vistry Group said: “Our priority is to keep the communal areas at All Angels Park safe, well maintained, and enjoyable for residents. The development is being built in phases. We currently manage phase one, consisting of 18 properties, whose service charge covers the maintenance of the communal areas within this phase, including the play area.

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“We’re aware of concerns raised about the play area’s condition and the area is currently closed to the public whilst we arrange the relevant repairs as quickly as possible. We will keep residents updated as this progresses.”

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Palestine Action co-founder given permission to challenge decision to ban group – as police arrest 77 supporters at protest outside court

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Huda Ammori (right) with Palestine Action co-founder Richard Barnard, pictured in 2024, has been granted the green light to challenge the group's prohibition in the Supreme Court

The co-founder of Palestine Action has been given the green light to go to the Supreme Court and challenge a Home Office decision banning the group as a terrorist organisation.

Huda Ammori was granted permission to take the case back to the courts on the same day as 77 activists were arrested outside a court for openly stating they supported Palestine Action.

The Court of Appeal ruled in June that the decision to proscribe the group last year under the Terrorism Act 2000 was lawful, overturning a High Court decision in February that the ban should be quashed.

However Ms Ammori sought to take the case to the Supreme Court on the basis that then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper had incorrectly applied her own policy, and that it interfered with freedom of speech and freedom of association.

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On Thursday, the Supreme Court website showed that justices – Lord Sales, Lord Leggatt and Lady Simler – had given Ms Ammori the go-ahead to challenge the ban on the basis Ms Cooper had incorrectly applied her own policy.

Permission to challenge the decision based on interference with freedom of speech and freedom of association was refused.

The hearing is expected to take place between October 1 and December 21.

As the Supreme Court granted the green light, dozens of pro-Palestine supporters gathered outside Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where almost 2,000 people had received a summons to appear on Thursday.

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Huda Ammori (right) with Palestine Action co-founder Richard Barnard, pictured in 2024, has been granted the green light to challenge the group’s prohibition in the Supreme Court

Scores of pro-Palestine supporters gathered outside Westminster Magistrates' Court, where almost 2,000 people had received a summons to appear on Thursday

Scores of pro-Palestine supporters gathered outside Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where almost 2,000 people had received a summons to appear on Thursday

Some 77 activists were arrested by Met Police officers outside the court for openly stating they supported Palestine Action

Some 77 activists were arrested by Met Police officers outside the court for openly stating they supported Palestine Action

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The Court of Appeal ruled in June that the decision to proscribe the group last year under the Terrorism Act 2000 was lawful. Pictured: A demonstrator is arrested after showing support for Palestine Action

The Court of Appeal ruled in June that the decision to proscribe the group last year under the Terrorism Act 2000 was lawful. Pictured: A demonstrator is arrested after showing support for Palestine Action

Daily court listings show 1,855 people had been charged with carrying a placard in Parliament Square supporting Palestine Action.

The defendants, many of them in their 60s and 70s, were told their cases have been adjourned until October 26, pending the outcome of the appeal against the group’s proscription.

Hundreds of protesters from the activist group Defend Our Juries attended court in a mass show of solidarity for those charged under terrorism laws.

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As a result, Met Police posted on X: ‘People are beginning to gather outside Westminster Magistrates’ Court after activist group Defend Our Juries announced a mass show of support for the proscribed group Palestine Action.

‘Expressing support for Palestine Action is an offence under the Terrorism Act. Officers have begun making arrests.’

Among those arrested were environmentalist Sir Jonathon Porritt, 76, while the Met said the number of arrests had reached ‘double figures’ just after midday.

Defend Our Juries earlier posted a copy of a summons notice telling defendants: ‘Please do not attend* unless you receive further instructions directly from Westminster Magistrates’ Court.’

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A Supreme Court hearing seeking to overturn the ban is expected to take place between October 1 and December 21

A Supreme Court hearing seeking to overturn the ban is expected to take place between October 1 and December 21

Daily court listings show 1,855 people had been charged with carrying a placard in Parliament Square supporting Palestine Action - and were summoned to appear on Thursday

Daily court listings show 1,855 people had been charged with carrying a placard in Parliament Square supporting Palestine Action – and were summoned to appear on Thursday

More than 2,700 arrests under the Terrorism Act 2000 have been made since the banning of Palestine Action.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine said: ‘The law is clear. Expressing support for proscribed organisations is a criminal offence and anyone doing so can expect to be arrested.

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‘There are any number of ways to express views on the humanitarian situation in Gaza or on Israeli military action that don’t involve criminality.

‘Doing otherwise is an intentional decision and one which has a detrimental impact on the public, court staff, victims and witnesses attending court, and those trying to go about their lawful business in the local area.

‘It also affects Londoners more broadly whose local police officers are withdrawn from communities to police this operation.

‘The fact that there are no hearings related to Palestine Action taking place at the court tomorrow makes the decision to continue with this event all the more nonsensical.’

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As Larry the cat welcomes yet another prime minister, an expert explains how pets adapt to change

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As Larry the cat welcomes yet another prime minister, an expert explains how pets adapt to change

Larry, the Downing Street cat, has had to adapt to seven different prime ministers moving into No 10 over the past decade. Yet while the nation’s attention is fixed on the departing and incoming political leaders, who is thinking about the effect these upheavals might have on one of the property’s most enduring residents?

Cats thrive on predictability and the consistency of their environment is important for their welfare. On the whole cats prefer an unchanging environment. Some cats cope with change better than others. Many cats are distressed by disturbances such as moving house, changes in familiar routines, people moving into or leaving the household, or even changes to the scent of their home environment.

Unlike dogs, cats aren’t obligate social species, therefore may not have such a strong proclivity to form social attachments. However, in certain situations domestic cats can be found living in social groups, particularly in environments with a plentiful food supply.

Some cats enjoy the company of people, while others prefer a more solitary life. This is determined partly by their early experiences. A young kitten that learns in the early weeks of their life that contact with people is associated with nice experiences is more likely to seek social interactions with people as an adult. Kittens raised by mothers who show friendly behaviour towards people can learn to value human company through the process of social learning.

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Genetics also influence a cats friendliness towards people. Researchers in a 1995 study found that the kittens of friendlier fathers were more likely to show friendly behaviour towards unfamiliar people even if they weren’t socialised as a new kitten.

Some cats appear to suffer when separated from their caregivers, although some researchers question whether this can be described as a secure attachment (one that is necessary to maintain feelings of safety and security in threatening situations).

Researchers have identified five different forms of cat-owner relationship, based on the level of emotional investment of the owner, the way the cat relates to others, their aloofness and their need to be in close proximity to their owner. These types range from open relationships (characterised by a lightly emotionally invested owner and an avoidant cat) to casual relationships, co-dependence and friendship.

Although the Starmer family has moved out and the Burnhams have taken up residence, Larry’s main caretakers are civil servants, so his day-to-day care won’t change. Larry’s behaviour in recent days (strutting along Downing Street, nonplussed by the comings and goings and embarking on a successful hunting expedition) suggests that he takes such changes in cohabitants in his stride.

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You just try and come for his job.
EPA/NEIL HALL

Other animals

The new prime minister has a dog called Axel, and although cats and dogs can live together harmoniously and even form close bonds, integrating Axel into Larry’s home might cause tensions if not handled well. However, not even the prime minster would dare to disturb Larry’s position as chief mouser. Andy Burnham has told the BBC he’s not bringing Axel to London with him because he doesn’t think the two animals will get on.

If he changes his mind there are a few things he could do to help Axel and Larry get along. Introducing a dog into a household with a cat should be done gradually, with the aim to prevent any chasing or aggression between the pets.

Before the dog arrives, settle the cat into a safe space, which the dog won’t have access to. This might be a bedroom, bathroom or any part of the house that the cat likes to relax in, ensuring the cat has access to everything they need such as places to hide, litter trays, food and water.

Scent is incredibly important to both cats and dogs, so getting them accustomed to each other’s aroma in the home helps to smooth the introduction. This can be done by introducing bedding or toys used by the other pet, or gently wiping a damp cloth across the body of the pet to pick up their scent.

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It’s vital that the first meeting goes well and there are a few things that will help to ensure they get off on the right foot. Make sure the dog isn’t full of energy by exercising them before the meeting. Start with a barrier such as a baby gate between them.

When they first meet give both pets plenty of their favourite food treats, to reward calm behaviour and so that they associate the presence of other with something nice happening.

Signs of stress

Cats can be difficult to read but there are known warning signs of stress in cats. More obvious stress behaviour includes hissing, growling, swiping or puffed up fur. But indicators also include the cat running away or hiding and refusing treats they normally avoid. Flattened ears, dilated pupils, tense body posture and a flicking tail are all signals a cat is feeling tense.

Larry seems like quite an independent confident cat if reports “he has the run of the house” are anything to go by, so it’s likely that he will soon teach the new inhabitants of No 10 how he likes things done.

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Gianni Infantino: Can Fifa president survive after Uefa threatens World Cup boycott?

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Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin (left) and his Fifa counterpart Gianni Infantino

No-one can be certain what happens now. And no-one knows what the future for Infantino is.

Fifa is yet to respond to Uefa’s statement, which was followed up by another from Concacaf, which governs football in North and Central America and hosted this year’s World Cup, saying their 41 members rejected the proposals.

Yet, in a sense, it is not Fifa’s argument.

Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt is a Fifa vice-president. She spoke out against the plan at Uefa’s emergency meeting on Thursday. The FA said it stands “shoulder to shoulder with our European colleagues” on the matter.

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Scottish FA president Mike Mulraney is also chair of Fifa’s finance committee. The Scottish FA’s statement said the organisation “agrees unequivocally” with Uefa’s stance.

The repeated responses from those who have spoken out are of fury at the lack of proper consultation and lack of dialogue from Infantino, including with his Fifa colleagues, as much as with the proposals themselves.

“Anger,” said one source, when asked for the prevailing mood at Uefa’s emergency meeting.

Infantino became Fifa president in 2016 when he beat Asian Football Confederation president Sheikh Salman al-Khalifa by 115 votes to 88. The Swiss is due to stand for a fourth term in March.

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Prior to this week, it had been anticipated he would be re-elected unopposed. FAs around the world, including some in Europe, have already confirmed their intention to support the 56-year-old.

But sources say in addition to rejecting Infantino’s plan, the vast majority of the Concacaf members are either losing faith in the Fifa president’s ability to govern the game, or have lost it altogether.

Now there is talk of trying to find someone to stand against him.

The name of Nasser Al-Khelaifi has been mentioned. This is understandable. Qatari Al-Khelaifi is already one of the most powerful figures in football, not only through his status as president of back-to-back Champions League winners Paris St-Germain but his leadership of European clubs.

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Previously known as the European Clubs’ Association, Al-Khelaifi took over as chairman in the aftermath of the other seismic event that threatened to pull the game apart – the ill-fated European Super League, which collapsed within 48 hours in 2021.

Al-Khelaifi presided over a name change – to European Football Clubs. More importantly, he expanded it to over 800 members. Of the biggest clubs, only Real Madrid remain outside.

In theory, he would be the best person to challenge Infantino. But he doesn’t want to. “He genuinely, genuinely, genuinely doesn’t want the job,” was the response of a source close to the 52-year-old when asked about the possibility on Thursday.

Historically, sitting Fifa presidents are not challenged in elections. The last president to lose an election was Englishman Sir Stanley Rous when he was beaten by Brazilian Joao Havelange in 1974.

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“I don’t know, in all honesty,” said McAllister, when asked if Infantino will keep his job.

Former FA chairman David Bernstein was asked the same question by BBC Sport.

“In a normal organisation, if he has to back down due to something of this magnitude he’d probably be shown the door,” Bernstein said.

“But Fifa is not a normal organisation. If he has the support of enough of the national associations, he will continue.”

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Former Uefa chief executive Lars-Christer Olsson told the BBC that Infantino has overplayed his hand and his position could be in trouble.

He suggested Fifa should instigate a reform where the presidency circulates around figures from different confederations “rather than giving people so much power” as it has done with Infantino and his predecessors, Switzerland’s Sepp Blatter and Brazil’s Havelange.

When asked if Infantino should be removed from his role, Olsson said: “I think that should be a new start for football.”

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Seattle police chief resigns after festival shooting, mayor says

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Seattle police chief resigns after festival shooting, mayor says

SEATTLE (AP) — Seattle’s police chief has resigned amid criticism of the city’s response to a fatal shootout at a food festival last weekend, Mayor Katie Wilson said Thursday.

The announcement followed hours of speculation about whether Police Chief Shon Barnes would step down, as some of his supporters said he had rebuffed Wilson’s request that he resign.

Wilson said she was appointing Deputy Chief Andre Sayles, a law enforcement veteran with more than two decades of experience, as interim chief.

Barnes told The Seattle Times on Thursday that whether he remains chief is “up to the mayor.” He said he was off for the day and spending time with family. A police department spokesperson told The Associated Press he did not have any information to share about the situation.

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Barnes was out of town at a law enforcement conference when gunfire erupted last weekend at the Bite of Seattle, an annual three-day festival that draws hundreds of food and retail vendors and performers. Three people, including one suspect, were killed, and four people were wounded. One of the injured was a 2-year-old boy.

Dozens of officers were at the event, and at least one saw a 15-year-old suspect firing into a crowd and quickly persuaded him to surrender, according to court documents. Police are still searching for at least one other person.

Both the Seattle Police Department and Wilson have faced criticism for slow and confusing communication in the shooting’s aftermath.

After an initial social media post announcing that there had been a shooting with multiple victims, it took nearly five hours for police to provide any additional information to the public, including whether there was any ongoing threat. In the meantime, Wilson announced that two people had been taken into custody, a statement she later retracted.

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Assistant Seattle Police Chief Tyrone Davis finally provided an update around 11 p.m. Sunday night during news conference that was also attended by the mayor, Gov. Bob Ferguson and U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal.

Barnes is the second Black police chief in Seattle.

Several Black community organizations, including the Seattle NAACP and the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, rallied to try to save his job Thursday. In an open letter to the mayor’s office, they credited him with improving relations between the department and the community, helping reduce gun violence and strengthening the department’s operations.

“This is the wrong decision at the wrong time and would disrupt Seattle’s progress in public safety,” the letter said. “The tragic fatal shooting at the Bite of Seattle was heartbreaking for our city, but Chief Barnes should not be made a scapegoat for the complex challenges of public safety.”

Civil rights lawyer James Bible was with a small group of Black leaders who met with Wilson early Thursday. Wilson didn’t “tip her hand” regarding whether she’ll fire Barnes but appeared to be considering their argument in favor of keeping him on the job, he said.

“I’m hopeful that she will take a step back and make a different decision for now and then create criteria for any future decisions,” Bible said.

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Barnes was appointed by Seattle’s previous mayor, Bruce Harrell, in December 2024 after serving as chief of the Madison, Wisconsin, police department.

When Wilson — a democratic socialist who once supported defunding police — won the mayor’s race last year, she kept Barnes on as chief. That was a signal to the city’s business establishment and community groups that she did not intend to take a radically different approach to public safety.

Wilson came into office with no prior elected or management experience, but with a reputation as someone who thought deeply about social and policy issues. A lingering question was how decisively she would act as mayor.

“She looks weak and vacillating,” Seattle political consultant Sandeep Kaushik said Thursday. “There’s almost 24 hours now where it’s not clear whether the police chief is still the police chief.”

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Barnes has faced some criticism for spending time in Chicago, where his family lives. Sgt. Patrick Michaud, a department spokesperson, said Thursday that Barnes has made four trips to Chicago this year and spent in total about 18 days traveling there. Barnes also has traveled to several police executive and recruitment conferences.

Barnes was named as the chief of police in Seattle five days after he was thrust into the national spotlight because of a shooting at a religious school in Wisconsin that killed a teacher and student. At the time, Harrell said Barnes had demonstrated “impressive leadership capabilities” during an investigation into the shooting.

The tension between the mayor and police chief comes as Seattle heads into another big festival weekend. Seafair Weekend Festival 2026 — a boating event, air show and festival — starts Friday.

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Meet the artist adding some colour to Belfast ahead of the Fleadh

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Belfast Live

Danni Simpson has completed her mural for the Fleadh this week

Danni Simpson unveils latest mural ahead of the Fleadh

Australian artist Danni Simpson moved to Belfast over eight years ago and has been leaving her mark on the city one mural at a time.

Danni quit her job and left Australia for Europe, but didn’t expect that a pit-stop in Northern Ireland would result in it becoming her new home.

She has worked on countless pieces across the city, from adding some colour to the electric boxes and large murals throughout the city.

Danni’s artwork can also be spotted all across Belfast in many cafés and bars, and she has worked for clients such as Belfast City Council, Translink and Malfy Gin, with one of her most recognised pieces being her ‘Belfast you are here’ mural on North Street in the city centre.

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As the Fleadh rolls around this weekend, Dani has put the finishing touches on a large-scale piece that can be found right beside Writer’s Square, facing St. Anne’s Cathedral. The piece depicts a man leaning against the wall, holding a fiddle, and has a Guinness glass at the bottom filled with coins and flowers.

She drew inspiration from “the huge amount of musical influence in the city”, adding that it is “really nice to be able to capture that” in this new mural.

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Many would be forgiven for thinking that the piece appeared out of nowhere, as it only took Danni three days on and off to bring it to life. A major factor that needs to be taken into account when creating something like this is the weather, and in typical Belfast fashion, it didn’t play ball in the process, with some rain holding her back.

While Danni herself hasn’t given the piece a name, she hopes the people of Belfast will use their famous creativity to give the new mural a fitting title.

The new mural isn’t the only thing that Danni has created for the Fleadh Cheoil na Héireann, which is expected to bring 800,000 visitors to Belfast across the festival.

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Danni has created a collection of merch that she hopes will become a keepsake for any of her customers of the incredible week that is planned in the city.

She has become known for her illustrated maps, and the collection for the Fleadh is a map of the many different pubs and the atmosphere of the Cathedral Quarter throughout the festival.

She created the pieces in collaboration with Willie Jack from the Duke of York, who can be spotted on one of the t-shirts and hopes that they act as “a fun little way to capture the event”.

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As someone who is relatively new to the city, she gave some advice to people who are making their way to Belfast for the event, saying that “the best way to do it is to see where the music takes you and make lots of friends”.

Danni went on to urge people to “support the local businesses who have put a lot of effort into making this week really special”.

If you are out and about soaking up the atmosphere during the Fleadh, Danni will be holding a pop-up shop and live painting on Commercial Court underneath the famous neon umbrellas.

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She finished off by saying, “Come down and say hello to see what I’ve been creating”.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here

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Stacey Dooley joins forces with TV doctors for brand new BBC health series

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Presenter Stacey Dooley is set to front Clickbait Clinic, a new BBC One and iPlayer series investigating social media health trends

Stacey Dooley is set to front a brand new BBC One and iPlayer series alongside doctors Alex George and Nighat Arif, as the trio investigate some of social media’s biggest health claims.

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The new programme, Clickbait Clinic with Stacey Dooley, is produced by the award-winning team at Nutopia and aims to separate medical fact from online misinformation. It comes as studies suggest around one in three people in the UK now turn to social media for health advice.

Across the series, Stacey will examine some of the internet’s most viral wellness trends, looking at how they become so popular and meeting the content creators behind them. With support from Dr Alex and Dr Nighat, she’ll also explore whether the science behind these online health claims stands up to scrutiny.

Supported by former Love Island contestant Dr Alex and This Morning regular Dr Nighat, she’ll scrutinise the scientific basis underpinning these viral phenomena, reports OK!.

The presenter will examine subjects ranging from extreme leg-lengthening procedures and NAD+ infusions to the carnivore diet, testosterone therapies, methylene blue and assertions that dog deworming medication can treat cancer.

Dr Alex initially gained prominence as a Love Island participant in 2018. Subsequently, he was named the UK Government’s inaugural Youth Mental Health Ambassador and has authored several bestselling publications centred on health and wellbeing.

Dr Nighat Arif, meanwhile, is a prominent British GP, broadcaster and advocate for women’s health issues. She has established herself as a recognisable presence on television programmes such as ITV’s This Morning, while leveraging her profile to champion crucial health matters.

Speaking about the new series, former A&E doctor and mental health advocate Dr Alex George said: “I’ve spent plenty of time searching online for answers about my own health, but I’ve also spent years working as a doctor.

“Looking at some of the claims going viral from both perspectives has been fascinating, and I’m really excited to explore them with Stacey and Nighat.”

Dr Nighat Arif said: “This is a dream project for me and even better it’s with Stacey and Alex. I’ve often seen the very real impact of harmful online health advice in my clinic, so helping to untangle this for viewers could not be more important.

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“The one thing I want them to be able to say, ‘is this something that is evidence-based or is this something that could potentially not work or even do me harm?”

Clickbait Clinic with Stacey Dooley will air on BBC One and iPlayer later this year.

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Cancer-stricken Real Housewives star Jeana Keough’s REAL finances revealed amid backlash for using GoFundMe for personal expenses

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Real Housewives of Orange County star Jeana Keough is receiving backlash online for using GoFundMe to pay for her personal expenses while battling tongue cancer

Real Housewives of Orange County‘s Vicki Gunvalson has defended her former castmate Jeana Keough after Keough started a GoFundMe page to help pay for personal expenses while battling cancer.

Keough’s daughter Kara Bosworth launched the GoFundMe on July 19 after her realtor mom, 70, started treatment for tongue cancer.

While the GoFundMe has already reached over $70,000, many fans of the Real Housewives franchise – which follows the lives of affluent women in exclusive social circles – have criticized the fundraising move due to Keough’s apparent wealth. 

Defending her co-star and friend on SiriusXM’s Jeff Lewis Live last week, Gunvalson insisted that Keough isn’t as rich as some people think she is.

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‘Jeana owns two houses in Florida,’ Gunvalson explained.

‘When she sold the house next to me she bought two houses, rental property. It doesn’t have a lot of equity, the real estate in Florida has gone down,’ she continued.

Real Housewives of Orange County star Jeana Keough is receiving backlash online for using GoFundMe to pay for her personal expenses while battling tongue cancer

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Keough shot to fame as an original cast member on Bravo's Real Housewives franchise, which follows affluent groups of women in exclusive social circles

Keough shot to fame as an original cast member on Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise, which follows affluent groups of women in exclusive social circles

‘She is getting a small pension from [ex-husband] Matt [Keough], she’s getting her social security. It’s not enough to support her rent in Coto de Caza, she rents a house there, and her life.’

Both Gunvalson and Keough currently live ‘two doors down’ from each other in Coto de Caza, an exclusive, gated community where the Real Housewives of Orange County was originally filmed.  

Gunvalson also pointed out that Keough is a commission-based realtor and has been unable to work during treatment, so her ‘income stopped’.

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She clarified that Keough’s ‘medical care is covered’, and that the GoFundMe is to help with other expenses. 

On the official GoFundMe page, Keough’s eldest daughter states, ‘Any funds raised will go directly toward expenses, everyday living costs, nutrition, and the additional support she needs while undergoing treatment.’

The fundraising goal was originally set at $50,000, but it has since been raised to $90,000 following a flood of generous donations from both fans and Bravo stars alike.

The top donor to the GoFundMe is currently ‘Andrew Cohen’, who contributed $5,000.

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Real Housewives of Orange County newcomer Carmella Garcia is also listed as having donated $1,000.

Daily Mail has contacted both Keough and her daughter Kara Bosworth for comment. 

Defending her friend and fellow Housewife on SiriusXM's Jeff Lewis Live last week, RHOC star Vicki Gunvalson insisted that Keough isn't as rich as some people think she is

Defending her friend and fellow Housewife on SiriusXM’s Jeff Lewis Live last week, RHOC star Vicki Gunvalson insisted that Keough isn’t as rich as some people think she is

Keough's GoFundMe was started by her daughter Kara Bosworth and has so far raised over $70,000

Keough’s GoFundMe was started by her daughter Kara Bosworth and has so far raised over $70,000

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Keough family’s full statement 

Keough’s daughter Kara Bosworth, who launched the GoFundMe, issued a statement to Daily Mail about the online backlash.  

‘Some folks have been pretty aggressive and hateful regarding Jeana’s financial struggles, and even about her getting cancer in general, but it doesn’t surprise me in the slightest. I unfortunately have seen it firsthand – there were people who found ways to be hateful after my newborn son died, so it doesn’t come as a shock that they’d do the same in this situation,’ she said.

‘I warned my mom when she asked me to start the GoFundMe that she would have to reveal that, despite her best efforts to put up a happy facade, she would have to admit publicly that she is struggling,’ she continued.

‘Some were outraged that I was “asking people less fortunate” than me for help, but I can sleep at night knowing the truth: that I reached out via my personal Instagram to my village —people that were asking me how they could help support Jeana— and they responded with their own free will. 

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‘I found it to be the best way to reach people that love my mom, and want to help. A wider population found out about her cancer journey via the media, and for the most part their responses have been beautiful.

‘Unfortunately, there are also haters. In general, most people are being supportive, kind, and helpful — sending advice, encouragement, and prayers.

‘My mom has always been great at focusing on the good in any situation, and she’s doing that now – joyfully ignoring the haters and basking in the love and support from those that actually know her situation and her spirit.’

She added, ‘Here’s to hoping I can do the same someday! In the meantime, lots of blocking and deleting.

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Keough originally lived in a large mansion in Coto de Caza, but she sold it in 2016 for $3.4 million to downsize to a smaller home in the area and to buy property in Florida.

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The former 1980 Playboy Playmate of the Month was one of the founding cast members on The Real Housewives of Orange County, lasting on the reality series for its first five seasons before stepping back and making sporadic guest appearances in the following years.

She returned to the franchise this year for RHOC’s landmark 20th season for a cameo at a party featuring various past cast members, which will be shown on an upcoming episode.

Keough, a staunch conservative, occasionally shared her political viewpoints in early seasons of the series.

Earlier this week, Bosworth took to Instagram with an update on how her mother is dealing with her tongue cancer treatment and confirmed that she currently cannot speak.

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‘Right now, Jeana isn’t talking,’ Bosworth said. ‘The tongue and throat pain, paired with the mucus from radiation on the area, is just brutal. Poor mama has to spit into tissues all day.’

Bosworth thanked the company Blow Tissues for sending tissues for Keough to use, adding, ‘She’s never needed a delivery more.’

Keough, 70, is unable to speak as she undergoes treatment for tongue cancer

Keough, 70, is unable to speak as she undergoes treatment for tongue cancer

Keough recently filmed a cameo on the Real Housewives of Orange County's 20th season, which is airing now

Keough recently filmed a cameo on the Real Housewives of Orange County’s 20th season, which is airing now 

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Keough, a regular on the first five seasons of the Real Housewives of Orange County, is also mother to sons Shane, 39, and Colton, 34, with late ex-husband Matt Keough. 

Bosworth on July 19 detailed her mother’s health woes in a statement on GoFundMe, saying that Keough had complained about ‘a painful spot on her tongue’ for almost a year’s time.

‘A biopsy confirmed our worst fear: squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue,’ Bosworth said, adding that she underwent a pair of surgeries to remove the cancer and then her lymph nodes.

She said her mother has continued with a ‘relentless’ regimen of ‘chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy’ which has left her ‘exhausted’ and ‘malnourished’ due to related pain.

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Bosworth said that each day ‘is a battle just to get enough nutrition and hydration to continue treatment.’

She noted that the ailment had left her mother ‘unable to work,’ as ‘the loss of income has created an enormous financial burden at the very time she needs to focus all of her energy on healing.’

Keough first shot to fame as a Playboy model and was named the Playmate of the Month for the November, 1980 issue of the magazine

Keough first shot to fame as a Playboy model and was named the Playmate of the Month for the November, 1980 issue of the magazine

A young Keough is pictured on an episode of the '80s variety show Pink Lady

A young Keough is pictured on an episode of the ’80s variety show Pink Lady

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In subsequent updates to the fundraising page, Bosworth said July 21 that her mother had experienced more complications, as she had been slated to be set up with a feeding tube known as a G-tube to help with nutrition as she had been unable to eat for two weeks.

Doctors had to pause their plans due to the discovery of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) blood clot in her leg which presented further danger, Bosworth said.

In a pair of updates last week, Bosworth said that her mother was cleared for surgery to receive a ‘PEG feeding tube placed so she can receive the nutrition her body desperately needs. 

‘This will allow us to bypass the painful swallowing and choking that happen every time she tries to eat or drink.’

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Keough was a fulltime cast member on the first five seasons of the Real Housewives of Orange County

Keough was a fulltime cast member on the first five seasons of the Real Housewives of Orange County

She still keeps in touch with her fellow RHOC stars and is pictured enjoying a lavish lunch with Jo De La Rosa and Alexis Bellino in 2024

She still keeps in touch with her fellow RHOC stars and is pictured enjoying a lavish lunch with Jo De La Rosa and Alexis Bellino in 2024

Following the procedure, Bosworth said that her mother had been ‘recovering’ and ‘able to stay on track with her treatment despite the setbacks from the blood clot and infection.’

Bosworth said in a Friday update that her mother had been ‘finally feeling a little more like herself’ after she ‘gave her the full “spa treatment” at the hospital’ consisting of washing her hair with a shampoo cap and shaving her legs.

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‘She’s still very weak, and her mobility is limited, but we’re hopeful that now that she’s finally able to get the nutrition her body desperately needs, she’ll begin to regain her strength,’ Bosworth said.

Bosworth thanked the people who have ‘checked in, prayed, donated, shared your own experiences as patients or caregivers, and lifted our family up.’

She added, ‘Every message, every prayer, and every act of kindness has meant more than you know. Your positivity is healing.’

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The One Show’s Alex Jones teary as she admits she’s ’emotional’ after moving episode

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The One Show hosts Alex Jones and Clara Amfo were left visibly moved in the BBC One studio

The One Show was full of emotional moments on Thursday’s episode.

During Thursday’s programme, presenters Alex Jones and Clara Amfo disclosed they had recruited Spider-Man: Brand New Day stars Zendaya, Tom Holland and Jacob Batalon to surprise nine-year-old youngster Oliver.

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Oliver, nine, from Barnsley has been raising money for The Brain Tumour Charity by running the equivalent of nine marathons in four months.

Inspired by his own family’s journey after his dad Tom was diagnosed with a brain tumour aged just 39, Oliver set himself an incredible challenge: to run nine marathons, one for every year of his life, in support of the Brain Tumour Charity that had been there for his family when they needed it most.

Oliver has raised more than £16,500 to help ensure other families facing a brain tumour diagnosis receive the same vital support and hope.

His inspiring achievement earned him a very special One Big Thank You on The One Show, where the cast of Spider-Man: Brand New Day surprised Oliver in London before inviting him to the London movie premiere, leaving the youngster in tears.

Back in the studio, The One Show hosts Alex Jones and Clara Amfo were left visibly moved. Alex, 49, was seen fighting back tears as she said: “Thank you so much to Tom and Zendaya and Jacob.

“And true to their word, last night Oliver went along to the premiere with his family to see the film and you can watch Spider-Man: Brand New Day in cinemas now” before emotionally sighing and composing herself.

Co-host Clara, 42, then added: “Oh, such a beautiful gang and if you know someone… we’ll try not to cry” with Alex admitting: “Well, emotional!”

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Clara then continued: “If you know someone who you think is a hero, who deserves one big thank you, please please do get in touch.”

Taking to Twitter, now X, over the emotional show moment one person said: “Oh that #OneBigThankYou for the boy Oliver raising money for the Brain Tumour Trust was so good. What good eggs Tom, Zendaya and Jacob are #Spiderman #TheOneShow.”

To which a different viewer added: “Best one big thank you ever!! So emotional and the stars were so lovely to Oliver” with a heart emoji.

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The One Show continues on weeknights at 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer

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Haiti starts to register voters in violent capital and beyond in push for general elections

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Haiti starts to register voters in violent capital and beyond in push for general elections

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Voter registration began Thursday in Haiti’s capital and beyond, marking a critical milestone in the push for general elections even as concerns over widespread gang violence persist.

The government opened 10 registration centers across Port-au-Prince in neighborhoods considered generally safe as dozens of hopeful Haitians trickled through.

“This may be the first time that I’m going to vote,” said 34-year-old construction worker Vadley Bernadel.

Haiti hasn’t held general elections in more than a decade, and the country hasn’t had a president since President Jovenel Moïse was killed at his private residence in July 2021.

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Gang violence has only surged since then, but Haiti’s unelected prime minister is under pressure to hold elections, with Dec. 13 marking the first round.

“Haiti needs someone with a vision, someone who can lead the country in a better direction,” said Bernadel, who decried his country’s multiple crises.

Armed men still control swaths of land

Gang violence has displaced more than 1.4 million people, with armed men controlling an estimated 70% of Port-au-Prince and the main roads that lead to the country’s Central and Artibonite provinces, which also are under fire.

More than 50% of Haiti’s electorate live in those three regions, and it’s unclear whether all those seeking to vote will be able to register, let alone vote, given the violence.

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“The country can hold elections in three months if it chooses to. The question is, what kind of elections?” said Diego Da Rin, an analyst with the International Crisis Group.

If the government insists on holding elections on Dec. 13, “a large part of the electorate will be left out,” he warned.

Da Rin noted that police and a U.N.-backed mission have seized back areas near the National Palace in Port-au-Prince and made other inroads, but powerful gangs still control vast amounts of territory.

“There has been no significant progress,” he said. “The government will not be able to organize elections in territories controlled by gangs.”

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Jacques Desrosiers, president of Haiti’s Provisional Electoral Council, said he plans to open more voter registration centers in upcoming weeks, including 20 in Pétion-Ville, considered one of the safest areas.

As for the possibility of opening centers in other communities, he said that lies in the hands of the Haitian government.

Haitians fear being killed as country prepares for elections

Lawyer Francky Cavetan said he does not plan to vote because it’s too risky, but he did visit one registration center out of curiosity.

“Elections are not going to happen because the government and electoral council are lying to the population,” he asserted. “They are making people believe that elections will bring security, but they have to have security before elections.”

More than 5,900 people were killed last year across Haiti, and more than 1,600 others from January to March of this year, according to the United Nations. In addition, 5,500 gender-based violent incidents were reported in the first half of the year, with 70% of cases involving rape, many of them gang rapes, Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for the U.N. Secretary-General, recently said.

Cavetan questioned how candidates would even campaign. He was also upset because he believes a large number of Haitians are not aware that they will also be asked to participate in a referendum the same day as the elections as the government pushes to change the country’s Constitution.

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“They’re not even explaining to people what they’re planning to change in the Constitution,” Cavetan said.

Da Rin echoed that sentiment, noting that the public still doesn’t know what changes the government is seeking.

His biggest concern surrounding the elections is safety, though.

“The challenge for the authorities right now is to organize elections without having defeated the gangs and to minimize their influence on the elections as much as possible,” he said.

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Da Rin noted that longtime links between gangs and certain powerful elites in Haiti are still active.

Gangs have long been used to intimidate voters or convince them to select certain candidates, as well as to destroy ballot boxes when some members of Haiti’s elite believed that their candidates might not win, Da Rin said.

“Gangs have been a very important tool for elites to help their candidates win elections,” he said.

At a registration center in the community of Laboule, only three people had signed up an hour after doors opened.

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Victor Valensky, a 38-year-old driver of a colorful bus known as a tap-tap, was one of them.

He said he was angry at his country’s situation but also feared gang violence.

“I want to take part in the elections, but I have to make sure I’m safe,” he said. “If I die now, my wife probably won’t be able to support my two kids by herself. … I’m going to be very careful before I step out on election day.”

___

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Coto reported from San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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