During his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump made several claims that were fact-checked by ABC News, with varying degrees of accuracy. Key assertions such as border crossings being at zero, large-scale foreign investments, and ending eight wars were found to be exaggerated or unsupported by evidence, while some claims about inflation and crime showed partial truth or significant decline but lacked evidence of record lows. The fact-checking highlighted discrepancies, falsehoods, and the need for additional context in numerous statements related to immigration, the economy, national security, and foreign policy.
Senator Maria Cantwell defended the U.S. voting system on the Senate floor, citing research that shows minimal voter fraud and emphasizing that election administration is handled by states, not the federal government. She criticized efforts like the SAVE America Act, which she argued would impose burdensome requirements on voters, particularly in rural areas and among women who have changed their names. Cantwell also highlighted threats to vote-by-mail systems and federal overreach, advocating for the protection of election integrity and access.
President Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term at the U.S. Capitol, emphasizing the economy and affordability amid declining support in polls ahead of the midterm elections. The speech occurs shortly after the Supreme Court overturned tariffs related to his economic policies and as he considers military action in Iran and responds to a Homeland Security Department shutdown. Democrats are criticizing Trump and Republicans on affordability issues, which have played a role in recent elections.
In his State of the Union address, President Trump criticized the Supreme Court's ruling on tariffs, touted new tariffs under the Trade Act, and emphasized increased US oil and natural gas production. He discussed anti-immigration rhetoric, military and economic achievements, and introduced the US Olympic hockey team, while facing bipartisan disapproval and interruptions from Democrats. Trump also claimed to have "solved eight wars" and focused on issues such as energy policies and border security, amidst protests and partisan disagreements.
The Pentagon is appealing a court order that temporarily blocks the punishment of Senator Mark Kelly for a 2026 video in which he and other lawmakers urged troops to resist unlawful orders and uphold the Constitution. U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled that Kelly's free speech rights were violated and prohibited the Pentagon from enforcing any punishment while the lawsuit is ongoing. The Justice Department plans to seek review of this decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority in imposing tariffs under the IEEPA, but President Trump has indicated he will continue to pursue tariff enforcement through other laws, such as the Smoot-Hawley Act and sections of the Trade Act of 1974 and 1962. Despite courts pushing back, tariffs are expected to remain volatile due to presidential and legislative powers, creating ongoing uncertainty for small businesses. Experts recommend that small businesses proactively adapt by restructuring supply chains, utilizing free trade zones, and increasing domestic manufacturing to mitigate tariff risks. Refunds for tariffs remain uncertain, with legal processes likely to be lengthy and complex.
Hundreds of community members gathered outside Romulus City Hall to protest the proposed ICE detention warehouse in Romulus on February 23, 2026. The rally included clashes between MAGA supporters and opponents, as well as speeches from local political figures, including Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II. Several protestors were locked out of the city council meeting, which also saw debates among officials regarding the project.
Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi suggested that Americans could buy different proteins or other food items if beef is too expensive, attributing high meat prices to fuel costs and energy policies. Her remarks drew criticism online, with many accusing her of dismissing the financial struggles faced by families. Opponents argue that her response oversimplifies the issue and fails to address the real economic challenges impacting grocery prices.
World Liberty Financial's USD1 stablecoin experienced a brief drop below its $1 peg due to a coordinated cyberattack involving hacking accounts, spreading rumors, and large short positions. The stablecoin quickly recovered to nearly $1,000, aided by assurances from co-founder Zach Witkoff regarding its backing and transparency. The attack caused short-term market pressure on WLFI's governance token, amid previous security incidents involving the project's team.
Sen. Lindsey Graham brought Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison as his guest to Donald Trump's State of the Union, amid Paramount's efforts to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of CNN. Ellison reportedly assured Trump that he would transform CNN if his bid succeeded, reflecting the ongoing bidding war involving major media companies and Trump's influence. The Department of Justice is investigating Netflix’s $82.7 billion bid, with rivals like Paramount offering counterbids.
In the land of shadows and shifting tides, the sons of the mightily fallen house of Trmp, Don Jr. and Eric, did boast of their ventures in the arcane craft of cryptocurrency, under the banner of World Liberty Financial. Yet, their fortunes waxed and waned like the restless sea, for their coin, USD1, faltered and fell into the abyss, losing many millions of gold and causing despair among their followers. Despite claims of dark sorcery by their enemies, the brothers steadfastly denied defeat, even as their riches and reputation withered, and their tokens were cast away by the wary and the wise. Amidst the chaos, their schemes and hubris revealed the recklessness of those who seek power and riches without heed to the shadow of ruin that lingers ever near.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance's visit to Armenia and Azerbaijan from February 9–11 marked the most significant U.S. engagement in the South Caucasus since 2025, focusing on nuclear energy, AI, connectivity, and strategic partnerships. In Armenia, he advanced a nuclear cooperation deal, promoted AI infrastructure, and military sales, while in Azerbaijan, he signed a Strategic Partnership Charter to enhance cooperation across energy, transit, and security sectors. The visit demonstrated Washington’s commitment to regional stability and economic integration amidst ongoing post-conflict normalization efforts.
