Congressman Kweisi Mfume discussed the damaging impact of Donald Trump's presidency on American society, criticizing his divisive policies, law-breaking conduct, and efforts to undermine democratic institutions and voting rights. He highlighted issues such as ICE detention conditions in Baltimore, the significance of the Vote by Mail Act to protect voters from intimidation, and ongoing investigations into the Epstein files involving high-profile individuals. Mfume emphasized the need for unity, continued advocacy, and confronting government misconduct to uphold democratic values and address social injustices.
A former FBI supervisory agent, forced out during the Trump administration, is running for Maryland's Fifth Congressional District seat to replace retiring Steny Hoyer. Sundberg led investigations into January 6th and Trump’s classified documents, which drew criticism from conservatives and led to his ousting. He claims he was targeted for opposing the weaponization of government agencies and is one of about two dozen candidates seeking the seat, which covers several counties and is considered a Democratic stronghold.
Maryland's congressional delegation has planned varied responses to President Trump's upcoming State of the Union address, with some members boycotting the speech and others attending with invited guests who have been affected by administration policies. The boycott reflects Democratic efforts to oppose Trump through silent protest or alternative programming, while attending members aim to emphasize particular issues and reinforce the role of Congress. Several Maryland representatives, including Steny Hoyer and Jamie Raskin, will attend with guests highlighting issues such as healthcare and justice, whereas others, like Sen. Van Hollen and Reps. Ivey, McClain Delaney, and Mfume, will boycott to focus on district-specific concerns.
California is intensifying enforcement efforts against surveillance pricing practices, which involve using personal consumer data to set individualized prices. The California Attorney General has linked such practices to potential violations of the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and has initiated investigative sweeps across multiple sectors, including retail and grocery, while new legislation and amendments, such as AB 325, target algorithmic and shared pricing systems. Federal agencies like the FTC are also examining these practices through studies and investigations, with proposed bills further aiming to restrict surveillance-based price setting. Businesses operating in California are advised to review and modify their data and pricing practices to mitigate legal and antitrust risks related to surveillance pricing.
The article examines why the Jeffrey Epstein case has garnered unique public outrage compared to other sexual violence incidents, highlighting its connection to representations of elite depravity and political power. It explores how narratives about Epstein resonate with longstanding tropes, including conspiracy theories involving antisemitism and elite corruption, which cross political divides. The piece suggests that attention to Epstein's case is driven by underlying political and social grievances, rather than the nature of sexual violence alone.
The U.S. Supreme Court declared Trump's import taxes unconstitutional and instructed Congress to address the issue, but no immediate refunds are expected for Nevada workers or businesses. Legislation in Congress aims to refund the approximately $175 billion collected, prioritizing small businesses, though partisan opposition may hinder passage. Meanwhile, Trump is threatening to impose new import taxes, adding to ongoing economic chaos, with Nevada officials and Democrats advocating for refunds and accountability.
The article reports on recent use of "death cards" by ICE agents in Eagle County, Colorado, which mimic tactics from the Vietnam War era where American soldiers left personalized ace of spades playing cards at scenes of violence. These cards, associated with intimidation and violence, have sparked criticism from local lawmakers and civil rights groups, who condemn their use as unprofessional and racist. The article also highlights ongoing abuses by ICE officers, including violent confrontations, unlawful arrests, and efforts to intimidate observers, amid widespread public disapproval of immigration enforcement practices under the current administration.
Celebrity doctor Peter Attia has resigned from his role as a CBS News contributor after emails with Jeffrey Epstein, including inappropriate comments, were publicly revealed. Attia clarified that he had no involvement in Epstein's criminal activities and had visited him at his home on several occasions without witnessing illegal behavior. CBS stated that Attia's role had not yet been substantial and that he stepped back to avoid distraction.
An NPR investigation found that the Justice Department has withheld and removed some Epstein files related to allegations that President Trump sexually abused a minor. Some documents mentioning Trump in connection with Jeffrey Epstein were also removed from the public database.
Human rights defenders in the US face renewed threats, including the use of chemical agents against protestors in Oregon and the extrajudicial killing of Alex Pretti in Minnesota by ICE, highlighting ongoing issues of repression. These domestic violations echo global trends of authoritarian tactics targeting activists, journalists, and civil society, often with limited accountability. The article emphasizes the importance of local and international solidarity, support from civil society and businesses, and moving beyond American exceptionalism to protect human rights at home and abroad.
On February 20, 2026, the DOJ and Ohio Attorney General sued OhioHealth Corporation, alleging that the hospital system used its market power to restrict competition in inpatient hospital services in Columbus by imposing contractual restrictions that prevent payors from working with competing providers to develop lower-cost health plans. The agencies claim OhioHealth’s conduct, including its arrangements and refusal to negotiate different network structures, has limited price competition and reduced transparency, impacting over 85% of the local commercial insurance market. The case indicates a continued focus by antitrust enforcers on health care markets, particularly addressing practices that may hinder affordability and competition.
Rep. Robert Garcia, Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee, stated that the Department of Justice allegedly withheld and removed files related to allegations that President Donald Trump sexually abused a minor, violating subpoenas and transparency laws. He indicated that unredacted evidence suggests the DOJ may have illegally concealed FBI interviews with a survivor and announced plans to open a separate investigation.
