Democrats Sweep, Blue Wave
ABHIGNA ANDEPALLI VIJAYAKUMAR REPORTER
In a landmark election day, Nov. 4, 2025, Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani was elected as the 111th mayor of New York City, securing just over 50 % of the vote. This marks as an historic victory making Mamdani the city’s first Muslim mayor, first of South Asian heritage, first born in Africa and the youngest in over a century for New York City.
Despite facing significant attacks, including Islamophobic threats and accusations of being too radical, Mamdani’s grassroots energy, support from younger voters and focus on affordability resonated.
His platform included bold promises such as freezing rents for rent-stabilized apartments, instituting free bus transit, creating city-run grocery stores to address high food costs, raising the minimum wage to $30 by 2030 and increasing taxes on the wealthy and corporations to fund these expansions.
Born in Uganda to Indian-heritage parents, Mamdani is a scholar, historian and professor at Columbia University, known globally for his work on African politics and post-colonial studies.
He moved to New York City at the age 7 and became a U.S. citizen in 2018.
His mother, Mira Nair, is a renowned, award-winning Indian filmmaker, best known for movies like “Monsoon
Wedding", “The Namesake”, and “Queen of Katwe.”
His wife, Syrian-American artist Rama Duwaji is an illustrator and animator. They met in 2021 and got married in early 2025.
Professionally, Mamdani worked as a housing counselor focused on affordability and eviction prevention before entering politics; he was elected to the New York State Assembly in 2020 and later ran for mayor on a platform prioritizing housing, transit and economic equity.
But Mamdani was not the only candidate to make history. Several women broke barriers, including:
Abigail Spanberger (Virginia): became the first female governor of Virginia.
Mikie Sherrill (New Jersey): become the second woman and the first Democratic woman to become governor in New Jersey.
Ghazala Hashmi (Virginia): became the first Muslim woman and first South Asian woman elected to lieutenant governor and statewide office in Virginia.
Mary Sheffield (Detroit): became the first woman and first Black woman to serve as the mayor of Detroit.
Dorcey Applyrs (Albany, New York): became the first Black person and first Black woman to serve as Albany's mayor
Kaohly Her (St. Paul, Minnesota): became the first woman and first Asian American/Pacific Islander woman to hold the St. Paul mayoral office.
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Michelle Wu, the incumbent Mayor of Boston, has been reelected to a second term after running essentially unopposed in the general election of Nov. 4, 2025.
Many analysts referred to the Democratic Party's overwhelming victory in several crucial contests on Nov. 4, 2025, as a "blue wave." Democrats won every statewide election and added thirteen seats to the House of Delegates in the commonwealth of Virginia, in addition to flipping the governorship with Abigail Spanberger.
In the meantime, the party obtained a supermajority in the state assembly and the governorship in the state of New Jersey. With the largest voter turnout in decades Democratic candidate Mamdani won the mayoralty of New York City.
Exit polls revealed that economic concerns drove the Democratic victory, with voters citing concerns about affordability and discontent with the current national leadership as key motivators. All things considered, the election outcomes provided the Democratic Party with fresh impetus and a tactical base as it moves into the 2026 midterm elections.
This sweep is particularly noteworthy because, in a larger sense, the elections were a barometer of public opinion regarding Donald Trump and the direction of the Republican Party, and the outcomes indicate that the Democratic Party is not only competitive but also on the rise. The message was clear: Democrats are bringing about the change that voters seem ready for.
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COVER BY KASSIDI FERGUSON
COURTESY OF PEOPLE
Mamdani plans on making buses free for the public, June 29.
COURTESY OF PEOPLE
Mamdani is the first Muslim mayor of New York, Nov. 10.
BRIDGETTE TELLER
TRANSLATOR
ETriunfo demócrata: "Ola azul"
n una jornada electoral histórica, el 4 de noviembre de 2025, Zohran Mamdani, un socialista democrático de 34 años y actual miembro de la Asamblea Estatal de Nueva York por Queens, fue elegido como el 111.º alcalde de la ciudad de Nueva York, obteniendo poco más del 50 % de los votos. Este hecho marca una victoria histórica, al convertir a Mamdani en el primer alcalde musulmán de la ciudad, el primero de ascendencia del sur de Asia, el primero nacido en África y el más joven en más de un siglo en ocupar el cargo en Nueva York. A pesar de enfrentar ataques significativos, incluidas amenazas islamofóbicas y acusaciones de ser demasiado radical, la energía popular de Mamdani, el apoyo de los votantes jóvenes y su enfoque en la asequibilidad resonaron entre los electores. Su plataforma incluía propuestas audaces como congelar los alquileres de los apartamentos con renta estabilizada, establecer transporte público gratuito en autobuses, crear supermercados administrados por la ciudad para abordar el alto costo de los alimentos, aumentar el salario mínimo a 30 dólares por hora para 2030 y elevar los impuestos tanto a las personas de altos ingresos como a las
corporaciones para financiar estas iniciativas. Nacido en Uganda de padres de origen indio, Zohran Mamdani (académico, historiador y profesor en la Universidad de Columbia, reconocido mundialmente por su trabajo sobre política africana y estudios poscoloniales) se trasladó a la ciudad de Nueva York a los siete años y obtuvo la ciudadanía estadounidense en 2018. Su madre, Mira Nair, es una célebre cineasta india, conocida por películas como Monsoon Wedding, The Namesake y Queen of Katwe. Por último, pero no menos importante, su esposa Rama Duwaji, a quien conoció en 2021 y con quien contrajo matrimonio a inicios de 2025, es una artista, ilustradora y animadora sirioestadounidense. Profesionalmente, Mamdani trabajó como asesor de vivienda, centrado en temas de asequibilidad y prevención de desalojos, antes de ingresar a la política. Fue elegido para la Asamblea Estatal de Nueva York en 2020 y posteriormente se postuló a la alcaldía con una plataforma que priorizaba la vivienda, el transporte público y la equidad económica.
Mujeres que rompen barreras:
• Abigail Spanberger (Virginia): Elegida gobernadora, convirtiéndose en la primera mujer en ocupar dicho cargo en Virginia.
• Mikie Sherrill (Nueva Jersey): Elegida
gobernadora, convirtiéndose en la segunda mujer y la primera mujer demócrata en ejercer ese cargo en el estado.
• Ghazala Hashmi (Virginia): Elegida vicegobernadora, convirtiéndose en la primera mujer musulmana y la primera mujer del sur de Asia elegida para un cargo estatal en Virginia.
• Mary Sheffield (Detroit): Elegida alcaldesa, convirtiéndose en la primera mujer y la primera mujer afroamericana en ocupar ese puesto.
• Dorcey Applyrs (Albany, Nueva York): Elegida alcaldesa, convirtiéndose en la primera persona afrodescendiente y la primera mujer afrodescendiente en ejercer la alcaldía de la ciudad.
• Kaohly Her (St. Paul, Minnesota): Elegida alcaldesa, convirtiéndose en la primera mujer y la primera mujer asiático-estadounidense/de las islas del Pacífico en ocupar ese cargo.
• Michelle Wu (Boston): Reelegida para un segundo mandato como alcaldesa tras presentarse prácticamente sin oposición en las elecciones generales del 4 de noviembre de 2025.
Triunfo demócrata, “Ola azul”: Numerosos analistas describieron la abrumadora victoria del Partido Demócrata en varias contiendas
clave del 4 de noviembre de 2025 como una “ola azul”. Los demócratas ganaron todas las elecciones estatales y añadieron trece escaños a la Cámara de Delegados en el estado de Virginia, además de obtener la gobernación con Abigail Spanberger. Mientras tanto, el partido logró una supermayoría en la Asamblea Estatal y conquistó la gobernación en Nueva Jersey. Con la mayor participación electoral en décadas, Zohran Mamdani, el candidato demócrata, ganó la alcaldía de Nueva York. Las encuestas a boca de urna revelaron que las preocupaciones económicas impulsaron la victoria demócrata, ya que los votantes mencionaron la asequibilidad y el descontento con el liderazgo nacional actual como factores clave. En conjunto, los resultados electorales dieron al Partido Demócrata un nuevo impulso y una base estratégica de cara a las elecciones legislativas de medio término de 2026. Este triunfo es especialmente significativo, pues, en un sentido más amplio, las elecciones sirvieron como un termómetro de la opinión pública respecto a Donald Trump y al rumbo del Partido Republicano. Los resultados indican que el Partido Demócrata no solo sigue siendo competitivo, sino que se encuentra en ascenso. El mensaje fue claro: los demócratas están impulsando el cambio que los votantes parecen estar listos para aceptar.
CORTESÍA DE LA UNIVERSIDAD DE NOTRE DAME
Zohran Mamdani gana la contienda por la alcaldía en Nueva York sobre el exgobernador de la ciudad Andrew Cuomo, Oct. 27.
CORTESÍA DE YUKI IWUMARU, AP PHOTOS
Zohran Mamdani dando un discurso luego de haber sido seleccionado alcalde de Neuva York
Diwali celebration illuminates MSU
SANA HUSSAIN MANAGING EDITOR
The aroma of biryani and mango lassi, the shimmer of henna and the sound of Indian music filled the Sikes Lake Center as students gathered to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, at MSU on Nov. 8, 2025.
Hosted by the Midwestern Indian Student Association (MISA), the event featured dance performances, henna artists and traditional Indian food, all aimed at sharing the spirit of Diwali with the MSU community.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals across the Indian subcontinent. Rooted in Hindu tradition but observed by Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists as well, the festival signifies the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
In Hindu mythology, Diwali marks Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya are said to have lit rows of oil lamps to welcome him home, symbolizing the renewal of hope and goodness.
In other parts of India, Diwali honors the goddess Lakshmi, who represents prosperity, wisdom and good fortune. The lights of Diwali are meant to guide her blessings into every home.
The evening began with a presentation explaining the holiday’s origins and rituals, including decorating homes with lamps, creating rangoli art, exchanging gifts and gathering for feasts.
Soon President Stacia Haynie joined the celebration. She cheered for performances by the senator of MISA, president of MISA and some other students.
Between performances, volunteers served plates of fragrant biryani, savory samosas, and cool glasses of mango lassi. For many international students, the evening offered not just a taste of home, but a
reminder that their culture is seen, valued, and celebrated.
Business administration sophomore Pujan Gajjar and the vice vresident of MISA, said the purpose of hosting the event was to bring people together and connect them to Indian culture.
“It’s a get-together,” Gajjar said. “We’re trying to connect people with Indian culture, meet new people and build a bond with them. That’s what makes Diwali important for us.”
He explained that according to the Hindu calendar, Diwali also marks the beginning of a new year.
“As per the Hindu calendar, after Diwali, it’s the New Year for us,” he said. “That’s the reason we celebrate it. It’s a festival of seven days.”
When asked about the challenges of organizing such a large event, Gajjar pointed to the behind-the-scenes logistics.
“The most difficult part is management,” he said. “Time management is really the key.”
Attendees said the event was both educational and enjoyable. Vernon College alum Selah Grace learned about the festival from her friend Abhigna, the MISA Senator.
“I didn’t really know what Diwali was before today,” Grace said. “The presentation and performances helped me understand it better. It’s amazing how people celebrate light and love with such excitement.”
Grace said she felt welcomed by the MSU Indian community and encouraged others to explore cultures different from their own.
“Don’t be afraid to try new things that you don’t know,” she said. “Different doesn’t mean bad. It’s something to learn from.”
As the event came to a close, students shared food, laughter and photos under the glow of warm lights. For many, it was more than a celebration. It was a reminder that culture, even far from home, can still feel like family.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN
Business Alum Selah Grace performs alongside Abhigna A.V. to showcase their dancing.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN
Nursing senior Retina Shrestha prepares henna to put ontochemistry sophomore Heather Rousseau's hand.
MADISYN BUTLER REPORTER
MParking problems on campus
SU closed multiple commuter parking lots across campus this semester due to construction. This includes the front parking lot at the BAC and the parking lot at Bolin Hall.
Biology and chemistry senior Maggie Fleming finds parking on campus to be challenging at times. It has caused her to be late due to not finding a spot.
“My options for the past couple semesters with construction have been the library, across the street at the church, or somewhere further where I have to walk quite a ways. While walking is not a huge issue for me, I sometimes am running behind or have a lot to carry, making the far walks a bit of an issue,” Fleming said.
Other students such as psychology and nursing junior Keaira Fillingim are also late to class due to a lack of parking on campus for commuters.
“I have had various instances of being almost late or late to class due to not finding a parking spot close to the building. For
example, I park usually within the library parking where spots are limited or within Bolin which is currently closed,” Fillingim said.
Fleming believes MSU can fix parking if they open more spots to commuters and enforce parking restrictions more on campus.
“I believe that if MSU took away a few— not saying all—of the reserved parking spaces and enforced residents not parking in our lots more strictly, commuters could have an easier time,” Fleming said. “I have noticed on many occasions that residents are parked in the BAC lot when I am needing a spot there, which is quite inconvenient, as there is a great deal of resident parking near that building.”
Fillingim shared how the lack of parking has affected how students see each other.
“The lack of parking has also impacted how some students see others, as it becomes a battle between who can acquire a spot,” Fillingim said.
For questions on where residents and commuters can park on campus, please visit MSU's website.
Problemas con estacionamientos dentro del campus
biblioteca, donde los espacios son limitados, o en el de Bolin, que actualmente está cerrado”, mencionó Fillingim.
MSU cerró varios estacionamientos a lo largo del campus este semestre debido a trabajos de construcción. Esto incluye el estacionamiento ubicado frente al BAC y aquel ubicado en Bolin Hall.
Maggie Fleming, estudiante de último año de biología y química, considera que estacionar en el campus puede ser complicado en ocasiones. Esta situación le ha causado retrasos debido a la dificultad para encontrar un lugar disponible.
“Mis opciones durante los últimos semestres, con las obras en construcción, han sido el estacionamiento de la biblioteca, el de la iglesia o algún otro más alejado, lo que implica caminar una buena distancia. Aunque caminar no representa un gran problema para mí, a veces voy con el tiempo justo o tengo mucho que cargar, por lo que los trayectos largos se vuelven un inconveniente”, comentó Fleming.
Otros estudiantes, como Keaira Fillingim, estudiante de tercer año de psicología y enfermería, también llegan tarde a clases debido a la falta de estacionamiento disponible.
“He tenido varios casos en los que he estado a punto de llegar tarde o he llegado tarde a clase porque no encontraba un lugar cercano para estacionar. Por ejemplo, suelo aparcar en el estacionamiento de la
Fleming considera que MSU podría resolver el problema del estacionamiento si habilitara más espacios y aplicara con mayor rigor las normas de estacionamiento en el campus.
“Creo que si MSU eliminara algunos —no todos— los espacios reservados y fueran más estrictos al impedir que los residentes estacionen en nuestros lotes, los estudiantes que viajamos al campus tendríamos menos dificultades”, afirmó Fleming. “En varias ocasiones he notado que los residentes estacionan en el lote del BAC cuando necesito un espacio allí, lo cual resulta bastante inconveniente, ya que hay una gran cantidad de estacionamientos residenciales cerca de ese edificio.”
Fillingim compartió cómo la falta de estacionamiento ha afectado las relaciones entre los estudiantes.
“La escasez de estacionamientos también ha influenciado la manera en que algunos estudiantes perciben a los demás, ya que se convierte en una especie de competencia por quién logra conseguir un espacio”, comentó Fillingim.
Para preguntas acerca del lugar donde los residentes y estudiantes que viajan al campus pueden parquearse, por favor visite Sitio web de MSU.
JULIETTE SALTOS MOLINA TRANSLATOR
FOTO POR MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN El estacionamiento frente al BAC cerró a inicios de agosto debido a las obras de construcción en el segundo piso del edificio, Nov. 10.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN
The parking lot in front of the BAC shut down in early August for construction on the second floor of the building, Nov. 10.
First Generation dinner offers connections for students and alumni
ASTRITH ALVAREZ REPORTER
First Generation students, alumni and professionals attended a networking dinner at the Clark Student Center Comanche on Thursday, Nov. 4.
Students were given the opportunity to network with first generation alumni and professionals who had plenty of advice.
The students who reserved their spot for the event were entered into a bookstore scholarship drawing for attending.
Before the dinner began, a game of networking bingo was introduced, and students and professionals began networking.
The goal for the bingo was to get signatures from people who had fulfilled activities on the bingo cards and in the process build connections with one another.
Dental Hygiene freshman Jaylen Titus won a bookstore scholarship for getting a black out on his bingo card along with two other students who got a regular bingo. More students were also randomly selected to receive a bookstore scholarship as well. After bingo was finished, students and professionals enjoyed Italian food and continued to network while eating together.
Attendees also created online business cards and shared them to keep in contact with others.
Pre-nursing freshman Kaylie Rico said, “One of the concerns I had was that I wouldn’t be smart enough”.
Pre-dental hygiene freshman Jaylen Titus overheard her response and said, “You are smart enough, you are good enough."
The response emphasized how important networking is not only for forming connections but for students to find their support system amongst other students.
Midwestern State University Spanish professor Claudia Montoya gave some advice to first generation students.
“My advice to first generation students would be don’t ever
feel like you are missing something because you are the builder of your future, believe that,” Montoya said.
As a former first generation student herself, Montoya also said, “It is important to get advice, but it is also important to pay attention and not to run with the wrong crowd.” Among the first generation students who attended the event were MSU’s Priddy scholars and Texas Leadership scholars.
Last home game, last home win and senior night
MIRANDA CUNNINGHAM REPORTER
The Midwestern State Volleyball team won all three of their games against UT Permian Basin on Saturday.
The first Game was 25-16.
Setter Alayna Guerrero and outside hitter Trinity Vinzant both received three points each. Outside hitter Arrianna Fields received two points.
Outside hitter Demi Stauffenberg received two points. Middle hitter Jaiden Wright and Middle Hitter Isabelle Dickens both received one point each. Defensive Specialist Aissa Villarreal received one point on her set.
Fields and Dickens both also blocked a play from the other team.
The second game was also 25-16.
Vinzant received five points, three of which were right after each other. Fields received four points. Wright and Dickens both received two points each and Wright and Dickens also blocked a play each.
Fields, Dickens and Wright blocked 1 play each.
The last game was 25-10.
Stauffenberg received four points. Dickens
received three points. Wright, Fields, and Vinzant received two points each.
Before the game Midwestern honored two seniors on UT Permian Basin teams.
Dental hygienist sophomore Emma Boyd said that this game was the first volleyball game she had ever been to since starting classes at MSU. She was invited by one of her friends and says she will come back to other games next season.
She said the game was very fast paced and exciting to watch. She also said that more students should come to the games because it was very enjoyable and engaging.
This was the last home volleyball game of the season and five seniors were honored: No. 3 outside hitter Demi Stauffenberg, No. 6 outside hitter Koryn Johnson, No. 16 outside hitter Arrianna Fields, No. 18 outside hitter Trinity Vinzant, and No. 21 Defensive Specialist Sadie Christiansen.
The last away game was at Lubbock Christian on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 6 p.m.
PHOTO BY CARMA HULSE | THE WICHITAN Alayna Guerrero (7) sets it to Jaiden Wright (10), Nov. 8.
PHOTO BY KASSIDI FERGUSON | THE WICHITAN Radiology junior Victor Flores and computer science sophomore Conner Taylor network with others at first generation dinner.
PHOTO BY KASSIDI FERGUSON | THE WICHITAN Dental hygiene freshman Jay'Len Titus wins bookstore scholarship.
SENioR night Sports
PHOTO BY KASSIDI FREGUSON | THE WICHITAN Marlene Myrvold (4) hits a header, scoring the first goal of the game. The Mustangs win the game 2-0 against St. Edward's, Nov. 10.
PHOTO BY ANNA HULL | THE WICHITAN
Dereck Espinal (9) dribbles the ball down the field to keep it away from the UT Tyler defender. The Mustangs win 2-0 Nov. 12.
PHOTO BY KASSIDI FERGUSON | THE WICHITAN
Air Force members watch the football game during the Military Apprciation Game, Nov. 8.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Alayna Guerrero (7) sets the ball to be hit during the second set. The Mustangs would lose in three sets to Angelo State, Nov. 7.
PHOTO BY CARMA HULSE | THE WICHITAN
Akil Edwards (25) blocks a player from the opposing team. The Mustangs lose 56-42 against West Texas A&M, Nov 8.
MADISYN BUTLER REPORTER
OOpinion: Christmas does NOT start Nov. 1
ct. 31 brings frights every year. Most people spend the night partying, trick-or-treating, or turning the lights off and pretending no one is home.
One might think that some of that fall festivities might carry over into the next day. However, some people have decided that Nov. 1 is officially the start of the Christmas season.
I am not one of these people.
Maybe it is because I have a December birthday or maybe it is because I am not a big seasonal decorator. But the point stands that Nov. 1 is not the start of Christmas.
November is fall. It is a time for the leaves to change colors, for the pumpkins to be carved, and cooler temperatures.
Christmas is in December, in the winter. This is when the trees are bare, hot cocoa is common, and every Dad says, “We’re not heating the outside,” anytime a door is open longer than two seconds.
Now, I am not a complete cynic. I recognize that people love the joy and good
SABRINA HARRISON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Being apathetic does not stop hopelessness. In fact, it feeds it.
More and more, Gen-Z and millennials are not only losing hope for the future, but they are becoming apathetic to it.
The constant barrage of tragedy on our feeds can make us feel so small. Sexism, racism, fascism, war, genocide – it all can become so overwhelming.
Many of us become apathetic. We shut down and go, “The world is on fire, there is nothing I can do except lay in bed and wait for the sweet embrace of death.”
In a way, I feel that many of us think that it will protect us: “We can not be let
vibes that Christmas brings each year. However, Thanksgiving also brings joy and yet we basically overlook the holiday every year.
I once saw a post that Halloween is the only thing that stops Christmas from coming sooner every year. I agree. Thanksgiving was not powerful enough to stop it, and maybe one day, Halloween will not be either.
Christmas is a joyous time full of family and love for most people. But it makes it less special when Christmas music plays for two months straight.
I love Christmas because I get to spend time with my family and friends. But I do not understand why people immediately put up their Christmas decorations as soon as they possibly can.
Does it really make it a difference if the tree is put up on Nov. 1? There are other ways to bring joy into our lives that don't include having our homes decorated for a holiday that is still almost two months away. You do not need Christmas decorations to have the joy of Christmas in your home year round.
Opinion: Apathy sucks
down if we never had our hopes up in the first
But apathy is not the solution. This idea that we can shut off our emotions and ignore the problems until they go away will only work until the problems start banging on your front
What are you going to do then?
One of the main causes of this apathy is the media we consume. If all we watch is negativity, our brain is going to be trained to only recognize the negative things that
It does not help when algorithms feed you content in order to keep you scrolling
on their app. If they know you are more likely to stay on the app after watching tragedy after tragedy, they have no problem feeding it to you.
Ultimately, to combat apathy there is one truth you need to know: every action you take has an impact, positive or negative.
Not every impact will be massive, but that does not make it any less important.
The choice to stop doomscrolling, to hang out with friends, to volunteer at your local animal shelter: none of those choices are going to change the world, but they are going to change someone’s world.
The solution to apathy is not hope, but
rather a combination of “positive action” and “positive belief.”
Without belief your actions have no foundation, and without action, your belief has no proof. Together, they work to create
In the abstract, this sounds more difficult than it really is. In actuality, this is what you are already doing, just
You believe you can not do anything to change the world, so you lay in bed and do nothing. Because you do nothing, nothing changes and the cycle continues.
In reality, it is all a mind game. You change your mindset, it will change your actions. Change your actions and it will change your beliefs. Be better. Believe in
COURTESY OF COFFEE PANCAKES AND DREAMS
According to VettedBiz.com, Christmas decoration sales are expected to bring in $4.6 billion this holiday season, Nov. 10.
SANA HUSSAIN MANAGING EDITOR
EOpinion: What’s next for EA?
lectronic Arts is being taken private in a $55 billion all-cash acquisition.
Led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake and Affinity Partners, this is the largest sponsorled buyout in history.
On paper, the deal looks like a bold move to “accelerate innovation” and “build the future of entertainment,” as EA described it. But to me, it signals something darker: less transparency, more cost-cutting and a weaker connection to players and employees.
EA has been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for decades, shaping sports franchises like “Madden NFL”, “EA Sports FC” and “The Sims.” Yet this sale feels less like a victory and more like surrender.
Going private may free EA from quarterly shareholder expectations, but it also removes one of the last layers of public accountability. Once the company is out of the public eye, there’s little incentive to be transparent about layoffs, working conditions, or creative decisions.
The consortium is funding part of this buyout with around
$20 billion in debt, which rarely leads to more freedom for developers. Debt means pressure. Pressure means efficiency. And in gaming, “efficiency” too often translates to cutting costs, limiting risk and recycling old ideas instead of fostering innovation.
EA’s recent track record already leans toward monetization over creativity.
Sports games that once felt fresh now rely on microtransactions and recycled features from earlier generations. Players remember a time when FIFA and Madden added genuine improvements year after year.
Electronic Arts owns beloved franchises like "Madden NFL" "EA Sports FC" and "The Sims," Sept. 29, 2025. (Courtesy of ABC 10)
Those days are long gone and it is hard to imagine a debtheavy, privately owned EA suddenly rediscovering its creative spark.
Some argue that going private could help EA take bigger risks without the constant scrutiny of Wall Street. Maybe. But history suggests otherwise.
When investors buy companies with borrowed money, their first goal is not innovation, it is paying off that debt.
That means more predictable revenue, fewer experiments and tighter budgets.
It is also impossible to ignore who’s behind this deal.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has made gaming a key pillar of its Vision 2030 strategy, pouring billions into esports tournaments and publisher investments.
The Kingdom has hosted Call of Duty championships and recently acquired major fighting game tournaments like Evo. Now it owns one of the most influential companies in interactive entertainment. That is not just diversification, that is also cultural influence.
EA’s leadership insists the company will “continue to push the boundaries of entertainment,” but there is little reason to believe that under such ownership. Between the massive debt load, the likely push for profitability and the broader geopolitical motivations, this feels like a step away from creative freedom; not toward it.
I do not see this deal as a rebirth for EA. I see it as a survival play that trades independence for investment capital.
While the headlines call it a historic deal, I think it could just as easily be remembered as the moment EA stopped being EA.
"Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Movie - Infinity Castle " Review
ABHIGNA ANDEPALLI VIJAYAKUMAR REPORTER
The anime "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba" was made into a new movie, "Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle" surpassed "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" with a global box office total of $666 million and a U.S. gross of $128 million. It is the fifth highest-grossing movie of 2025 and among the highest-grossing foreign films in American history.
The five seasons of Demon Slayer on Netflix are as follows: Season 1: Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc (26 episodes), Season 2: Mugen Train Arc (7 episodes), Season 3: Entertainment District Arc (11 episodes), Season 4: Swordsmith Village Arc (11 episodes), and Season 5: Harshira Training Arc (8 episodes), with the eighth episode, Hashira Unite, ending begins the start of the war between the Demon King Muzan Kibutsuji, the demons he created VS the Harshnira, and non-Hashira.
In "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba", the nine most powerful members of the Demon Slayer Corps are referred to as the Hashira, or the Pillars. They provide the strongest defense against the evils that threaten humanity.
Tanjiro Kamado, Nezuko Kamado, Zenitsu Agatsuma, Inosuke Hashibira and Kanao Tsuyuri are among the characters who are not Hashira. Although they are proficient Demon Slayers, these fighters have not yet attained the Hashira's elite level. As they
train and gain strength, they serve under the Pillars' protection and direction.
In the Demon Slayer Corps, the Hashira stand for the pinnacle of bravery, power and selflessness, while the younger Demon Slayer represent hope for the coming generation. Muzan Kibutsuji, the original demon and the origin of all others, is at the head of the Twelve Kizuki, which includes some of the most formidable demons. Kokushibo, the Upper Rank One, is one of his most devoted followers. These demons work together to give the Demon Slayer saga a dramatic and poignant conclusion.
"Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle" is a gripping, aesthetically spectacular arc that takes the action in the series to new levels. Anyone can declare the movie a blockbuster hit after seeing the incredible box office results.
Every battle has a distinct, high-stakes tension because of the maze-like battleground created by the Infinity Castle setting. As Tanjiro, his friends and Hashira battle the Upper Moons, character development is evident, fusing intense combat with emotional depth.
Every sword move and breathing technique feels powerful because of the animation's fluidity and cinematic quality. All things considered, it is an exhilarating and intense show that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Beware! This film is not the end, a sequel is on the horizon. The world is also anticipating the adventure!
COURTESY OF GAMES RADAR
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle releases in theaters July 1, 2025.
COURTESY OF GAMES RADAR
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle releases in theaters July 1, 2025.
Opinion: No rom-com couple feels more real than Harry and Sally
KHLOE SULLIVAN REPORTER
As someone who loves romantic comedies, I have never come across one that gives such a raw and real insight into relationships as “When Harry Met Sally” does.
Adapted from a screenplay written by Nora Ephron and directed by Rob Reiner, it was praised for its insight into relationships and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Starring Billy Crystal as Harry Burns and Meg Ryan as Sally Albright, the rom-com came out in 1989 and made over $92.8 million at the North American box office.
“When Harry Met Sally” follows a man and a woman who, over twelve years, keep coincidentally bumping into each other and trying to navigate the question, “Can men and women ever just be friends?”
Unlike most romantic comedies that rush love or rely on dramatic and outgoing gestures, “When Harry Met Sally” takes its time showing how real relationships grow into something more and how natural it happens.
Harry and Sally's relationship is not built on whims and sudden realizations. Their relationship is built on years of friendship, arguments, understanding, and vulnerability: traits
that make real relationships work.
Despite Harry and Sally being the same age in the film, actors Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal have an age gap of 13 years, Nov. 12. (Courtesy of IMDb)
The movie starts with Harry and Sally riding together from college to New York, where they immediately clash. By the end of the road trip, they decide they can not be friends because he is cynical and believes that men and women can not be friends since "the sex part always gets in the way," while she completely disagrees.
After many run-ins over the years, they finally decide they’re in a place to be friends. Both have grown separately as individuals through breakups and divorce. Taking them into a deep platonic friendship, which makes it feel earned.
Things get complicated when Harry comes over to comfort Sally after a rough night, and what turns into comfort turns into intimacy. Forcing them to answer the question they have debated for years, “Can men and women ever just be friends?”
We get the answer the next morning when Harry leaves abruptly, and they both call it a mistake, even though it is clear it was more than that.
One of the turning points in the film comes when Sally takes control of her worth. When Harry calls, hoping to smooth things over and still be each other's New Year's Eve date, she refuses, telling him she is not his consolation prize
and hangs up.
The movie ends with Harry alone on New Year's Eve, realizing that he loves Sally and wants to be with her. He rushes to find her and delivers arguably the best monologue in any romantic comedy.
The characters in "When Harry Met Sally" develope their relationship slowly over several years, Nov. 12. (Courtesy of IMDb)
The friendships and relationships explored throughout the movie made me reflect on my own.
The first time I watched this movie was on one of my mom and I’s rom-com movie days, where we each picked a movie we had been wanting to see.
I had always heard “When Harry Met Sally” was a classic, but I never heard many people talk about it. After watching, I realized it is severely underrated and doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.
Not only are the story and the relationship dynamics realistic, but the way the film is shot feels intimate. The music also adds a timeless feel.
The use of Frank Sinatra’s “It Had To Be You” sums it up perfectly. Showing viewers that love is truly knowing someone. Needless to say, this film is the most real representation of love I have ever seen on a screen, which is why it ranks first on my top romantic comedies of all time list.
Despite Harry and Sally being the same age in the film,
13 years, Nov. 12.
actors Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal have an age gap of
The Wichitan's crushes
COURTESY OF VOGUE
Editor-in-Chief Sabrina Harrison believes Rama Duwaji success is very attractive, Nov. 13.
COURTESY OF SPOTIFY
Staff Member Alex Rhea believes even straight men would find Ryan Reynolds attractive, Nov. 12.
COURTESY OF DEEZER
Staff Member Astrith Alvarez loves real-life Ken doll Ryan Gosling, Nov. 12.
COURTESY OF LOS ANGELES TIMES Spanish editor Juliette Saltos Molina loves Rauw Alejandro's music and performance, Nov. 13.
crushes of the week
COURTESY OF ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
Photography Editor Madisyn Butler and Staff Member Kassidi Ferguson find Miles Teller very nice to look at in "Top Gun:Maverick," Nov. 12.
COURTESY OF PRACTICAL TYPING
Managing Editor Sana Hussain loves Kakashi Hatake's smile, Nov. 12.
COURTESY OF TOM AND LORENZO
Staff Member Carma Hulse finds Tyriq Withers very fine, Nov. 12.
COURTESY OF FASHIONISTA Social Media Manager Aaron Burrows loves a woman in red, especially Olandria Carthen, Nov. 12.