Senator Lisa Murkowski is in the news as Alaska’s senior senator since 2002, often a key swing vote in tight US political battles.
In Minneapolis, federal agents shot and killed Alex Pretti during a confrontation, contradicting initial claims that he was a terrorist. The incident has led to political criticism, investigations, and calls for changes in immigration enforcement policies amid protests and public outrage.
As of February 2026, tensions sparked by President Trump's threats to acquire Greenland have softened following a 'framework' deal with NATO. Canada and France opened consulates in Nuuk, signaling diplomatic support amid Greenlanders' concerns. Negotiations continue between the US, Denmark, and Greenland on Arctic security, while European leaders call for stronger unity and economic resilience against US and Chinese pressures.
On March 5, 2026, President Donald Trump announced the firing of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, effective March 31. Noem, criticized for her handling of immigration enforcement, a $220 million ad campaign, and the deaths of two US citizens during federal operations, will be replaced by Senator Markwayne Mullin. Noem will become special envoy for the new "Shield of the Americas" security initiative.
As of March 20, 2026, the U.S. Department of Defense has requested over $200 billion from the White House to fund the ongoing war against Iran, which began on February 28. The request, the largest since Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, faces skepticism in Congress, with many lawmakers questioning the war's cost, strategy, and political support. President Trump has not formally submitted the request.
Congress faces increasing debate over military action against Iran, with Democrats pushing for transparency and Republicans warning of electoral backlash. Recent votes highlight deep partisan divides and concerns about the administration's objectives and costs amid ongoing conflict.
Democrat Analilia Mejía has won New Jersey's 11th District special election, maintaining Democratic control in a narrowly divided House. Meanwhile, the House has voted 214-213 against a war powers resolution aimed at limiting President Trump's military actions in Iran, reflecting deep partisan divides as the Iran conflict continues with no clear end.
The US has indicated that negotiations to end the Iran conflict could restart in Pakistan within the next two days, following the collapse of recent talks and the US-imposed blockade on Iranian ports. The situation remains tense as both sides prepare for potential escalation.
Trump has nominated Nicole B. Saphier for Surgeon General after withdrawing Casey Means. Saphier is a radiologist and MSK Monmouth director of breast imaging. The move follows tense Senate debates over Means, a Stanford-trained physician with anti-vaccine-leaning views. Means has faced questions about licensing and vaccine positions; Cassidy has been a pivotal critic. The Healthcare politics dynamic remains unsettled as Kennedy’s stance blends with broader vaccine skepticism within the administration.