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On December 11, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aiming to preempt state-level AI regulations by establishing a unified federal framework. The order directs the Attorney General to challenge state laws deemed burdensome and threatens to withhold federal funding from states enforcing conflicting AI rules. This move has ignited bipartisan opposition, legal challenges, and fierce pushback from states like California, which have enacted their own AI safety laws.
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On December 19, 2025, the US Congress permanently repealed the 2019 Caesar Act sanctions on Syria, following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Signed by President Donald Trump, the repeal removes major economic restrictions, aiming to facilitate Syria's reconstruction and reintegration into the global financial system under the new government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
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Since September, the US military has targeted alleged drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, killing over 100 people. The operations, led by SOUTHCOM, face legal and ethical scrutiny for potential extrajudicial killings and violations of international law, amid escalating tensions with Venezuela and calls for diplomatic solutions.
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A congressional investigation reveals that the Department of Energy has funded research collaborations with Chinese entities linked to China's military and cyber activities. Recommendations include stricter policies to prevent taxpayer-funded research from benefiting China's military buildup amid rising US-China tensions.
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On December 18, 2025, Jared Isaacman was confirmed by the US Senate as NASA administrator with a 67-30 bipartisan vote. Isaacman, a private astronaut and businessman with close ties to SpaceX, aims to accelerate lunar missions under the Artemis program and push toward Mars exploration amid budget cuts and competition with China. His appointment follows a complex nomination process influenced by political and industry dynamics.
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The US announced a significant arms package for Taiwan, including HIMARS rocket systems, howitzers, and drones, amid rising tensions with China. The deal, pending congressional approval, aims to bolster Taiwan's defenses against potential Chinese aggression, with Beijing condemning the move as destabilizing.
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The US pledges $2 billion for UN humanitarian efforts in 2026, a significant reduction from previous years, amid reforms aimed at consolidating aid functions and reducing bureaucracy. The move impacts global aid programs, with many countries facing funding shortfalls and increased humanitarian needs.
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A new AP-NORC poll shows about half of Americans have already donated for 2025, with only 24% planning to give before year-end. Economic pressures, inflation, and political factors have contributed to a decline in charitable donations, especially among lower-income households, during a year of economic uncertainty.
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The US State Department has notified at least 29 ambassadors, mostly appointed during Biden's administration, that their postings will end in January. The move affects key countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, as part of a broader effort to align diplomacy with the current administration's priorities.
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Clashes between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led SDF have resumed in Aleppo amid stalled efforts to integrate the SDF into Syria's military. Despite a ceasefire, tensions persist as both sides blame each other for violence, with regional actors warning of potential escalation before the December 31 deadline for the deal's implementation.
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The FCC added DJI, Autel, and other foreign-made drones to its 'Covered List,' effectively blocking new product releases. The move aims to address security risks from Chinese drones amid ongoing US-China tensions, impacting law enforcement and commercial drone use. Existing devices remain unaffected.
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Recent elections and legal challenges across the US highlight ongoing political shifts. Iowa Democrats secured a key Senate seat, preventing a GOP supermajority, while legal disputes threaten to reshape congressional districts nationwide. The Supreme Court's upcoming decision on race-based districts could significantly impact future elections.
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On January 3, 2026, Donald Trump authorized US military strikes against Venezuela, capturing President Maduro and signaling potential ongoing involvement. The move has sparked bipartisan criticism over legality and risk of escalation, while some Republicans support the action as a crackdown on drug trafficking and regime illegitimacy.
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The FAA plans to replace outdated radar systems across the U.S. by summer 2028, aiming to improve safety and maintenance. The project, led by RTX and Indra, addresses aging infrastructure that has caused system failures and delays, with a budget of over $6 billion so far and a total estimated cost of $20 billion.
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Congress remains divided over extending COVID-era health subsidies, with ongoing negotiations risking higher premiums and reduced coverage for millions. The open enrollment deadline is January 15, and recent data shows enrollment is declining amid political uncertainty and rising costs.
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President Trump announced plans to block large institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, citing housing affordability concerns. The move aims to curb corporate influence in the housing market but faces resistance from Wall Street and political critics. Details remain unclear, with further discussions expected at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
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Congress is actively challenging President Trump’s authority on military and budget issues. Recent votes in the Senate and House show bipartisan opposition to Trump’s policies on Venezuela and vetoes on spending bills, highlighting ongoing partisan tensions and debates over executive power and foreign intervention. The story is current as of Thu, 15 Jan 2026.
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Elon Musk has reportedly contributed $10 million to a super PAC backing GOP Senate candidate Nate Morris in Kentucky. This is Musk's largest known political donation since 2024, signaling increased engagement in US politics amid intra-party tensions and his recent repair of ties with Trump.
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In a series of posts on Truth Social, Donald Trump announced plans to increase the US defense budget to $1.5 trillion in 2027, a 66% rise from the current $901 billion. The proposal aims to fund a 'Dream Military' amid global tensions, with Trump citing tariff revenues as the funding source. The plan faces congressional approval and criticism over its feasibility and reliance on tariffs.
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The US government has enacted a law allowing schools to serve full-fat and 2% milk, reversing a policy from 2012 that mandated only low-fat options. This aligns with new dietary guidelines promoting whole dairy products, sparking debate over childhood nutrition and health impacts.
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Amid rising tensions, US President Donald Trump has threatened tariffs and possible force to push for control over Greenland, prompting protests in Denmark and Greenland. Congressional visits aim to de-escalate, but disagreements persist over the island's future and strategic importance.
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Protests erupted across Denmark and Greenland in response to US President Trump's threat to seize Greenland, citing strategic and mineral interests. Demonstrators demand respect for Greenland's self-determination, with polls showing 85% oppose US annexation. US lawmakers and Greenlandic groups oppose Trump's plans, emphasizing diplomatic and legal concerns.
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Two Georgia Democratic state representatives, Sharon Henderson and Karen Bennett, face criminal charges related to falsely claiming unemployment benefits during the pandemic. Henderson was indicted on theft and false statements, while Bennett pleaded guilty to similar charges. Both are awaiting sentencing, with Henderson suspended from office pending trial.
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The U.S. plans to reopen its embassy in Venezuela, with officials preparing for diplomatic normalization amid ongoing political tensions. The move follows recent efforts to restore relations and includes sending staff to Caracas, while the U.S. considers further measures in the region.
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On February 12, 2026, Panama's Supreme Court upheld a January ruling declaring the concession held by Hong Kong's CK Hutchison subsidiary to operate the Panama Canal's Balboa and Cristóbal ports unconstitutional. The decision halts Chinese management of these strategic terminals, temporarily transferring operations to Denmark's A.P. Moller-Maersk amid ongoing legal disputes and geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China.
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Multiple articles reveal that days before Trump's 2025 return to office, a senior Emirati official invested $500 million in a Trump-linked crypto firm, raising questions about foreign influence, potential conflicts of interest, and US policy reversals on AI chip exports to the UAE.
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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security faces a government shutdown over funding disputes, with Democrats demanding reforms to ICE following fatal shootings in Minneapolis. Congressional hearings are underway to investigate use of force by federal immigration agents amid protests and political tension.
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Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado estimates a 9-10 month timeline for a democratic transfer via manual voting, following her recent meetings with US officials and the capture of Maduro. US interest in Venezuela's political future is increasing amid questions about Rodriguez's support.
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Lawmakers will review unredacted files related to Jeffrey Epstein, with over 3 million documents now available at the Justice Department. The files, heavily redacted, are part of ongoing transparency efforts following Epstein's death in 2019 amid allegations of sexual abuse and trafficking.
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A classified whistleblower complaint alleges that Tulsi Gabbard limited access to a sensitive NSA report mentioning Jared Kushner during Iran discussions in 2025. The complaint, which remains classified, has caused tensions within the intelligence community and political debates over transparency and political motives.
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Recent analyses show the US fiscal outlook has worsened modestly, with higher deficits and debt projections for 2026-2036. Key factors include recent policy changes such as tax cuts, tariffs, and immigration crackdowns, which have increased deficits and debt levels, raising concerns about long-term fiscal stability.
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As of Saturday, a partial US government shutdown began after Democrats and the White House failed to agree on funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The impasse centers on Democrats' demands for stricter immigration enforcement reforms following fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis. Essential DHS operations continue without pay, affecting agencies like TSA and FEMA, while negotiations remain stalled.
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Taiwan's opposition blocks proposed $40 billion defense budget aimed at countering China. Despite U.S. lawmakers' concerns, Taiwanese parliament plans to prioritize negotiations once the new session begins. President Lai emphasizes the urgency of strengthening defenses amid ongoing tensions with China.
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Tricia McLaughlin, Homeland Security assistant secretary, is expected to leave the Biden administration next week. Her departure follows recent shootings involving immigration enforcement in Minneapolis and ongoing internal tensions within DHS. She delayed her exit after the shootings but now plans to step down amid political and operational challenges.
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A man identified as Carter Camacho was detained near the U.S. Capitol after running toward the building with a loaded shotgun, tactical gear, and ammunition. The incident occurred a week before the State of the Union, but security remains unaffected. The motive is under investigation.
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Senator Bernie Sanders is campaigning in Los Angeles to support a proposed wealth tax, which opponents argue could harm innovation and drive wealthy residents away. The measure faces strong opposition from California business leaders and a health care union, with efforts underway to block its passage via ballot measures.
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President Trump delivered a lengthy prime-time speech to Congress, aiming to rally support amid economic setbacks, Supreme Court rulings, and escalating tensions with Iran. He highlighted economic gains, border policies, and peace efforts, while facing criticism over tariffs and his tone towards the judiciary.
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On February 25, 2026, Donald Trump delivered a lengthy State of the Union address, emphasizing American military strength and national pride. Critics highlighted his focus on military achievements and patriotic rhetoric, while Democrats condemned his limited focus on domestic issues like affordability and healthcare amid low approval ratings.
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The US and Iran are set to meet in Geneva for the third round of nuclear negotiations amid heightened US military presence in the Middle East. Tensions escalate as Trump accuses Iran of restarting nuclear and missile programs, while Iran insists its nuclear activities are peaceful. The talks aim to prevent conflict.
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On February 25, 2026, President Donald Trump delivered the longest State of the Union address in history, highlighting economic growth, immigration enforcement, and military achievements. Despite Republican applause, Democrats criticized his policies and rhetoric amid low approval ratings and looming midterm elections. Trump also addressed the Supreme Court tariff ruling and tensions with Iran, while largely avoiding new policy proposals.
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President Trump is considering military action against Iran over its nuclear program, with recent troop movements and diplomatic efforts intensifying. Congressional briefings and regional preparations suggest a potential escalation, though public support remains limited. The story highlights ongoing negotiations and military posturing as tensions rise.
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Recent speeches by Donald Trump reveal ongoing political strategies and vulnerabilities. His latest address, the longest in history, avoided key issues and employed psychological techniques to rally support, while also exposing reliance on executive actions and unaddressed policy questions. Today's date is Thu, 26 Feb 2026.
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On February 26-27, 2026, Hillary and Bill Clinton testified behind closed doors before the Republican-led House Oversight Committee in Chappaqua, New York, marking the first time a former president was compelled to testify before Congress. The depositions focus on Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking network and the Clintons' ties to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell amid bipartisan calls for transparency.