Labour candidate Bev Craig won the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election triggered by Andy Burnham's move to become Prime Minister. Craig secured 66.3% of the final vote, defeating Reform UK's Sian Astley. Turnout was a record low of 25.14%. The election, the first electoral test for Burnham's government, saw Labour retain control of the £3 billion budget authority, though with reduced public engagement.
A new Economist/YouGov poll released Tuesday reveals that 60% of American respondents disapprove of President Trump's job performance, with 36% approving and 4% expressing no opinion or uncertainty. The survey, conducted among a representative sample of U.S. adults, indicates a significant majority negative assessment of the president's handling of his duties. The findings underscore ongoing public dissatisfaction with Trump's leadership, though the article does not specify the exact polling dates or margin of error. This poll adds to a series of recent surveys showing persistent disapproval ratings for the president, reflecting deep partisan and demographic divides in public opinion.
The article examines whether the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, has permanently boosted soccer's popularity in the country. While past tournaments sparked temporary interest, analysts note key differences this time: the U.S. now has established soccer infrastructure, including MLS, academies, and stadiums. Former U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati and MLS Commissioner Don Garber express optimism about long-term growth, citing youth pathways and the inspiration from the World Cup. Survey data from Ipsos shows 57% of Americans believe the World Cup will increase general interest in soccer, with enthusiasm rising from 25% in May to 38% in July. Gen Z adults are disproportionately soccer followers (18% vs 10% of the general population). However, the article notes that soccer's low-scoring nature has historically hindered its appeal compared to American football and baseball. The piece concludes that while the 2026 World Cup may be a turning point, sustained growth depends on grassroots improvements and continued engagement.
According to a Daily Mail report citing YouGov poll data, Lionel Messi's net favorability among the British public dropped sharply from +46 before the 2026 World Cup to -15 after the tournament, with positive ratings falling from 55% to 29% and negative ratings soaring to 44%. The decline is attributed to a series of controversial actions by the Argentina team, including alleged referee bias, Messi's attempt to get Spain's Cucurella sent off in the final, and political gestures such as singing about the Falkland Islands and displaying banners reading 'Las Malvinas son Argentinas.' Multiple eliminated teams—Egypt, Switzerland—complained about unfair refereeing. FIFA did not punish Argentina for political banners, and the US government supported Argentina's actions. Argentina lost the final 0-1 to Spain after extra time.
Roll Call reports that independent voters are increasingly skeptical of President Donald Trump's baseless claims about the 2020 election and election security, contributing to a broader trend of the key voting bloc abandoning him ahead of the November midterms. Multiple polls, including YouGov and Washington Post-Ipsos, show independents' approval of Trump has dropped sharply, with 77% believing he is trying to sow doubt rather than presenting concrete evidence. CNN's Harry Enten noted Trump holds the record for the lowest net approval rating among independents at this point in a second term, worse than Nixon during Watergate. Speaker Mike Johnson defended Trump's allegations, while Trump used a primetime White House address to warn about alleged cyber vulnerabilities in voting systems, reverting to his unproven claims of widespread voting fraud.
Labour has erased Reform UK's poll lead following Andy Burnham's ascension to party leader and Prime Minister, replacing Keir Starmer. A DeltaPoll survey conducted July 17-20, 2026, shows both Labour and Reform UK at 28%, with the Conservatives trailing at 18%. This marks an 8-point gain for Labour from a month earlier, while Reform's support has stalled amid questions about a £5 million gift to Nigel Farage from a crypto billionaire. Burnham chaired his first cabinet meeting, pledging a 'cost of living government' and announcing VAT cuts on electricity bills, a £2 bus fare cap, and a 20% cut in business rates for hospitality. A separate YouGov poll shows Reform's lead reduced to 2 points over the Tories, with Labour one point behind. Farage has called for an immediate general election, arguing Burnham lacks a mandate.
The article analyzes the EU Commission's Special Panel on Child Safety Online report, which rejected a blanket ban on social media for children. While the panel and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are praised for shifting the burden to platforms to prove safety, the analysis criticizes key gaps. It notes that the EU's case against Meta over addictive design took over two years to reach a preliminary finding, allowing harm to continue. The report leaves the door open to age estimation via behavioral profiling, which EU data protection authorities warn can be more intrusive and less accurate than other methods. The article calls for a nimble ex-ante certification regime with clear safety standards, default protective settings, and swift, crippling penalties for non-compliance, arguing that social media apps should face the same upfront safety requirements as physical products like toys and food.
The article analyzes the EU Commission's Special Panel on Child Safety Online report, which recommends that social media platforms prove their products are safe before children can use them, rather than imposing a blanket ban. While the panel rejects blanket bans as putting burden on families, it leaves the door open to age estimation via behavioral profiling, which EU data protection authorities warn can be more intrusive and less accurate. The article criticizes slow enforcement, citing Meta's case taking over two years for a preliminary finding, and proposes a nimble ex-ante certification regime with off-by-default addictive features, prohibitions on manipulative design, and swift penalties. It argues that physical products like toys have strict safety rules, but social media apps remain exempt, and calls for AI-enabled interoperability to provide alternatives for children turned away from unsafe platforms.
A YouGov survey conducted on behalf of the German Press Agency reveals that two-thirds of Germans (66%) see a connection between recent record temperatures and climate change, while 24% deny any link and 10% are unsure. The June 2026 heatwave in Germany is estimated to have caused approximately 5,100 deaths, according to the Robert Koch Institute. Political affiliation strongly correlates with views: 96% of Green Party supporters see the link, compared to only 29% of AfD supporters, with 60% of AfD supporters denying it. Regarding mitigation, 49% of respondents believe German climate protection policy can help reduce extreme heat, while 41% think it cannot. AfD supporters are most skeptical (16% believe it can help), while 90% of Green supporters are optimistic. The survey polled 2,230 eligible voters between July 10 and 13, 2026.
Dr Patrick English, Director of Political Analytics at YouGov, analyzes Kemi Badenoch's recent move to purge Conservative MPs and candidates who support Net Zero commitments or the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). While the move projects strength and has boosted Tory polling from mid-teens to near their 2024 election level, English argues it is risky. YouGov polling shows 63% of the public support maintaining Net Zero commitments, and 48% of 2024 Conservative voters back them. Similarly, 46% of the public support remaining in the ECHR, including 27% of Tory voters. English warns that this strategy divides the party's own base, narrows its electoral appeal, and risks alienating potential coalition partners. He draws a cautionary parallel to Labour's 2023-2026 purge of its left flank, which cost Keir Starmer his premiership. The analysis concludes that while the move projects confidence, it carries significant public opinion risks.
Dr Patrick English, Director of Political Analytics at YouGov, analyzes Kemi Badenoch's recent move to purge Conservative MPs and candidates who support Net Zero commitments or the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). While the move projects strength and has boosted Tory polling from mid-teens to near 2024 election levels, English argues it carries significant electoral risks. YouGov polling shows 63% of the public support maintaining Net Zero commitments and 46% support staying in the ECHR, while only 29% oppose each. Crucially, 48% of 2024 Conservative voters support Net Zero and 27% support the ECHR, meaning the purge alienates half the party's own base. English warns this mirrors Labour's ill-fated purge of its left flank between 2023-2026, which cost Keir Starmer his premiership. The Tories had recovered by attacking Labour on economy and competence, but pivoting to divisive internal issues risks fracturing their coalition and benefiting Reform UK.
Dr Patrick English, YouGov's Director of Political Analytics, analyzes Kemi Badenoch's decision to purge Conservative MPs and candidates who support Net Zero commitments or the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). While the move projects strength and has boosted Tory polling from mid-teens to near 2024 levels, English argues it is electorally risky. YouGov polling shows 63% of the public support Net Zero and 46% support ECHR membership, while 48% of 2024 Tory voters back Net Zero and 27% back the ECHR. English warns this divides the party's base, narrows its appeal, and plays into Reform UK's hands. He draws a cautionary parallel to Labour's purge of its left flank between 2023 and 2026, which cost Keir Starmer the premiership. The analysis concludes that pivoting from popular attacks on Labour's economic failures to divisive internal issues carries significant public opinion risks.
A new YouGov survey commissioned by the German Press Agency reveals that 46% of Germans support replacing the current 'No Means No' standard in sexual criminal law with an 'Only Yes Means Yes' model requiring explicit consent. Support is heavily age-dependent: 62% of 18-29 year olds favor the change, compared to only 37% of those aged 50-59. Gender differences are minimal (45% men, 46% women). The Bundesrat (upper house) voted in favor of the reform on July 10, 2026, following a motion by Hamburg and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) supports the change, though it is not in the current coalition agreement. The article notes that several European states including Sweden, Spain, France, and Belgium already apply the 'Only Yes Means Yes' principle, which advocates argue better protects victims who freeze in fear and cannot actively object.
The German Federal Court of Justice (BGH) in Karlsruhe ruled on July 17, 2026, that apartment owners generally have the right to install split air conditioning units with outdoor units on their balconies, provided the rights of other owners are not excessively impaired. The court clarified that noise from the unit must be tolerated within certain limits and does not automatically justify rejection. While structural changes like drilling through the facade require a homeowners' association resolution, a court can override a majority vote if no excessive impairment exists. The ruling comes amid rising demand for air conditioning in Germany, where 17% of households already have AC and 20% plan to purchase one. Sales of split units increased from 260,000 in 2023 to 320,000 in 2025, with further growth expected in 2026 following recent hot summers.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a severe leadership crisis after Labour’s disastrous local election results, losing over 1,400 seats to Reform UK and others. Despite more than 80 MPs demanding his resignation and several aides quitting, Starmer refuses to step down, warning of national instability. He announced policy shifts, including nationalizing British Steel and strengthening EU ties, to regain public trust. However, internal dissent intensifies as senior ministers urge an orderly transition, marking a critical juncture for the UK government’s stability and future direction.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated in an interview with the Spanish newspaper ABC that he faces a level of social media criticism unmatched by any of his predecessors. Despite claiming he does not complain, Merz described the online attacks as toxic and regrettable, particularly those from anonymous users that denigrate political figures. He contrasted his experience with former Chancellors Olaf Scholz and Gerhard Schröder, arguing that while they faced resistance, they were not personally attacked to the same extent. Merz attributed part of the backlash to poor expectation management, noting that democratic politics cannot provide instant gratification like an online delivery service. The interview occurred as his coalition government marked its first year in power amid low approval ratings, with recent surveys identifying him as the least popular leader in Europe. Merz defended his push for economic reforms and prioritization of security over social policy, asserting that he is the first chancellor in two decades to honestly inform Germans that their dream of prosperity is unsustainable. He emphasized that despite the sluggish nature of German democracy, his government has achieved significant progress.
UK government bonds, known as gilts, experienced a significant decline after Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham secured a pathway to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership. This development has triggered concerns among investors regarding potential political instability and a shift toward more expansive fiscal policies. The yield on 10-year gilts rose by 12 basis points to 5.11%, driven by fears that a Burnham-led government might increase public spending and borrowing. Although Burnham stated his previous comments about being beholden to bond markets were misinterpreted, market strategists view his left-leaning tendencies as a risk to fiscal discipline. This political uncertainty compounds existing economic pressures, including high energy costs and inflation exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Consequently, the British pound also weakened, becoming the second worst-performing currency among Group-of-10 nations. Analysts suggest that while Starmer and his Chancellor are seen as committed to controlling deficits, Burnham’s potential rise introduces unpredictability into UK financial markets, leading traders to adjust their positions on interest rates and currency holdings amidst a challenging global economic backdrop.
The Central Committee of German Catholics (ZdK) held its Catholic Day in Würzburg amidst societal unrest and internal church challenges. Prominent political figures, including Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt and Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, used the event to call for social cohesion and optimism. Dobrindt warned against polarization, while Steinmeier emphasized the need for 'social resistance' against extremist movements, notably excluding the AfD from the event. The gathering also highlighted debates on the church's political role. Bundestag President Julia Klöckner argued that the church should not merely follow contemporary trends but offer spiritual stability. Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV’s willingness to address political issues, such as opposing US President Donald Trump and discussing AI risks, received majority support among German citizens, according to a YouGov survey. Host Bishop Franz Jung warned against using religion to justify violence, advocating instead for the dignity of life. The event served as a platform for political leaders to project confidence and discuss the intersection of faith, democracy, and current societal tensions in Germany.
A recent representative survey conducted by YouGov for the German Press Agency reveals that more than half of citizens support Pope Leo XIV expressing himself on political matters. Specifically, 46 percent of respondents believe it is appropriate for the Pope to generally address topics of political relevance, while 25 percent argue he should limit his comments to selected issues such as war and peace. Conversely, 17 percent oppose any political commentary from the Pontiff. This debate arises as Pope Leo XIV faces verbal attacks from US President Donald Trump on Truth Social following the Pope's repeated calls for peace and criticism of war. Simultaneously, the Catholic Convention in Würzburg is discussing the church's political role. Irme Stetter-Karp, President of the Central Committee of German Catholics, emphasized that Christians must not retreat behind church doors, advocating for a church that actively professes human dignity and solidarity. The survey, involving 2,179 participants, highlights the complex intersection of religious authority and political discourse in contemporary society.
A recent NewsGuard/YouGov survey reveals that three in ten Americans believe at least one of the assassination attempts on President Donald Trump was staged. The poll, conducted from April 28 to May 4, examined public sentiment regarding three specific incidents: the 2024 Butler, Pennsylvania shooting, the September 2024 attempt at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf club, and a recent incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. While pluralities ranging from 45% to 48% viewed each attempt as legitimate, significant portions expressed uncertainty or belief that the events were fabricated. Notably, 21% of Democrats believed all three attempts were staged, compared to 12% of the general population. The survey highlights deep political divides in perceptions of these security threats. The article also references the recent arrest of Cole Allen, who attempted to assassinate Trump during the WHCD, and includes Trump’s remarks suggesting he is targeted due to his impactful political presence. These findings underscore growing misinformation challenges and partisan distrust in official narratives surrounding high-profile political violence in the United States.
Republican lawmakers are expressing significant anxiety over the National Republican Congressional Committee's decision to center its midterm election campaign around Donald Trump and the MAGA movement. Vulnerable GOP candidates in competitive districts fear this strategy will alienate independent voters, whom they desperately need to retain their seats. Reports indicate that many candidates are actively avoiding Trump or excluding him from advertising, viewing his presence as a political liability in swing districts despite his ability to generate funds and media attention. Recent polling data highlights a fracture in Trump's electoral coalition, with only 25 percent of independents holding favorable views of him, a sharp decline from previous figures. Anonymous sources within the party describe widespread nervousness among members regarding the NRCC's branding of the campaign as the 'MAGA Majority.' Furthermore, uncertainty persists about Trump's actual commitment to helping the GOP maintain congressional control, with consultants criticizing the White House for failing to provide clear guidance or a cohesive strategic plan for the upcoming midterms.
The UK Government is considering a report from the UK Trade and Business Commission (UKTBC) that recommends aligning British agricultural pesticide regulations with stricter European Union standards. Since Brexit, the UK has diverged from EU bans on numerous toxic chemicals, with ten of the fourteen banned substances in the EU still permitted in Britain despite posing serious health and environmental risks. The report suggests that realigning with EU rules through the ongoing Sanitary and Phyto-sanitary (SPS) agreement negotiations would protect public health and facilitate agri-food trade. It proposes transition periods to support farmers during this shift while maintaining UK independence in areas where domestic animal welfare standards exceed EU requirements. Environmental campaigners and polling data indicate strong public support for adopting EU environmental rules, with 58% of Britons in favor. Critics argue that current lower Maximum Residue Levels increase health risks, emphasizing that returning to European regulations is crucial for safety. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has not commented as negotiations continue.
Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting has resigned from the cabinet, signaling a potential challenge to Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership. Despite facing mockery within his party and a viral rebuke from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, Streeting enjoys strong personal approval in his Ilford North constituency. Residents describe him as approachable and visible, with many expressing fatigue with Starmer’s premiership. Although Streeting holds a slim majority of only 528 votes, local constituents across political lines view him favorably compared to the current Prime Minister. However, opinions on a leadership change are mixed; while some welcome the prospect of new leadership, others fear instability could benefit the Reform party or repeat past political crises. Polls indicate Streeting ranks third among the general public but fourth among Labour members. The article highlights the contrast between his national political vulnerabilities and his solid local reputation, suggesting his leadership bid has boosted his profile in Ilford North even as broader concerns about Labour’s electoral prospects persist.
A recent analysis reveals that while Donald Trump retains strong support from his core base, a growing segment of his 2024 voters is experiencing regret. Prominent former allies, including Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene, have publicly criticized Trump’s handling of the Iran war, the economy, and controversies involving Jeffrey Epstein. Amidst declining approval ratings, a nationally representative poll conducted by researchers indicates significant shifts among specific demographic groups. Although 84% of 2024 Trump voters would vote for him again, this figure represents a slight decline. Notably, approximately one-third of political moderates and African Americans who supported Trump in 2024 stated they would vote differently in a hypothetical re-do. Similarly, about a quarter of young and middle-aged voters expressed remorse. The data highlights that independents, educated voters, and minority groups, who contributed to Trump's previous gains, are now questioning their choice due to dissatisfaction with key policy outcomes and leadership traits.
Recent research indicates that trustworthiness is the primary factor for sixty percent of Americans when selecting a financial advisor, surpassing portfolio performance. Data from Morningstar reveals that clients prioritize comfort in handling financial issues, advice quality, and behavioral coaching over investment returns, which rank fourth. This article outlines critical red flags suggesting it may be time to change advisors. Key warning signs include feeling that the service does not justify the fees paid and lacking confidence in the advisor's trustworthiness. Experts emphasize that fees should reflect the level of guidance, coordination, and stress alleviation provided, rather than just investment outcomes. If an advisor communicates infrequently or fails to help clients stay on track with their financial goals, they may not be delivering sufficient value. The analysis encourages investors to look beyond simple benchmark comparisons, such as the S&P 500, and consider the holistic support and mentorship offered. Ultimately, the partnership should alleviate financial anxiety and provide consistent, reliable guidance to ensure long-term financial health and goal achievement.
A recent survey commissioned by CNET and conducted by YouGov reveals that most U.S. smartphone owners are not motivated to upgrade their devices based on foldable designs or artificial intelligence features. Among 2,407 respondents, only 13% considered foldable phones a reason to upgrade, while just 12% cited AI integrations. This trend poses a potential challenge for Apple, which is preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone and expanded Apple Intelligence features this fall. In contrast, practical factors remain the primary drivers for upgrades, with price (55%), battery life (52%), and storage capacity (38%) ranking as the top motivators. Camera features and display size also outranked novelty technologies. Although interest in foldables was slightly higher among current iPhone owners at 14%, analysts warn that the anticipated $2,000 price tag could further dampen consumer enthusiasm. The findings suggest that despite industry hype around new form factors and AI capabilities, mainstream consumers prioritize value and functionality over innovative but expensive technological additions.
A recent survey conducted by The Economist and YouGov reveals that a significant majority of Americans hold a negative view of the current economic trajectory. Specifically, 59 percent of the 1,549 respondents indicated that they believe the economy is getting worse. This sentiment dominates public opinion, contrasting sharply with the minority who feel optimistic about financial conditions. Only 15 percent of those surveyed stated that the economy is improving, while 20 percent reported that it remains about the same. The data, collected over a period from Saturday through Monday, highlights widespread economic anxiety among the US population. With nearly six in ten citizens perceiving a decline, the findings suggest growing dissatisfaction with economic performance, which could have implications for political discourse and consumer behavior. The survey serves as a critical indicator of public sentiment, reflecting the challenges faced by households and the broader market environment. As economic indicators fluctuate, this poll underscores the disconnect between macroeconomic data and individual lived experiences, pointing to a pervasive sense of financial insecurity across the nation.
A recent survey conducted by Yougov on behalf of SZ Dossier reveals significant skepticism among Germans regarding the upcoming introduction of the Eudi digital wallet, a key project of Federal Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger. Scheduled for launch in Germany on January 2nd, the wallet aims to store digital IDs, certificates, and contracts for various public and private services. The data indicates that 47 percent of respondents are open to using the technology, while 41 percent explicitly refuse it. Acceptance varies significantly across demographics; younger individuals, men, and those with higher education levels show greater willingness to adopt the tool. Political affiliation also plays a crucial role, with Green Party supporters showing the highest approval at 64 percent, compared to only 27 percent among AfD voters. Politicians note that right-wing critics often draw negative analogies to pandemic vaccination certificates, creating a stigma that officials aim to counter by emphasizing the voluntary nature of the wallet. Despite being an EU-mandated initiative intended to streamline administrative processes, the majority of the population remains unconvinced, highlighting the challenge of communicating the benefits of digital sovereignty and modernization to a skeptical public.
A recent survey reveals significant skepticism among Germans regarding the federal government's upcoming digital wallet initiative, known as the Eudi wallet. Scheduled for launch on January 2nd, this mandatory European project aims to store digital IDs, certificates, and contracts, serving as a key for various public and private services. According to data from Yougov, 41 percent of respondents refuse to use the wallet, while 47 percent are open to it. Acceptance varies sharply across demographics; younger, highly educated individuals, and men show higher willingness, whereas older citizens and women are more resistant. Political affiliation also plays a crucial role, with Green Party supporters showing the highest approval at 64 percent, compared to only 27 percent among AfD voters. Politicians warn that right-wing groups are drawing negative analogies to pandemic vaccination certificates, creating a stigma that the voluntary nature of the wallet must overcome. Despite being a central pillar of Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger’s policy, the majority of the population still requires convincing before the nationwide rollout.
Despite a decline in real disposable income, Austrian households continue to save at rates above historical averages, driven by geopolitical uncertainties and inflation. In 2024, the savings rate reached 11.7 percent, totaling 34 billion euros, before dropping to 9.9 percent in 2025 primarily due to reduced purchasing power rather than increased spending. A study by TeamBank reveals that financial pressure is widespread, with 34 percent of respondents reporting lower disposable income compared to the previous year. Consumers are prioritizing security over investment, leading to cautious economic behavior that stifles demand. While the population shows slight financial resilience, many lack substantial cushions; notably, young people under 30 often have minimal savings, whereas the 50-plus demographic holds more reserves but increasingly dips into them to cover rising health and housing costs. Economists warn that this reluctance to consume contributes to weak economic development in Austria, as reduced household spending limits essential economic stimulus amidst ongoing global crises.
YouGov was linked to only one event in this period, the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election. Labour candidate Bev Craig won with 66.3% of the final vote, defeating Reform UK's Sian Astley. The by-election, triggered by Andy Burnham becoming Prime Minister, saw a record-low turnout of 25.14%.
Labour candidate Bev Craig won the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election triggered by Andy Burnham's move to become Prime Minister. Craig secured 66.3% of the final vote, defeating Reform UK's Sian Astley. Turnout was a record low of 25.14%. The election, the first electoral test for Burnham's government, saw Labour retain control of the £3 billion budget authority, though with reduced public engagement.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is under investigation by Parliament’s standards watchdog for failing to declare a £5 million gift from a Thailand-based crypto billionaire and separate benefits from convicted criminal George Cottrell. Party spokesman Robert Jenrick defended Farage, insisting he will lead Reform into the next election and dismissing allegations as baseless. The controversies have sparked political debate and media scrutiny, though Reform UK continues to top opinion polls.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigned on June 22, 2026, after losing confidence from his party, canceling a planned EU-UK summit. Frontrunner Andy Burnham, former Manchester Mayor, has been authorized to receive government briefings early for a smooth transition. Labour leadership nominations run from July 9 to 16, with Burnham potentially taking office by mid-July if unopposed. The transition aims for stability, though a contested race could extend to September.