A CNN poll indicates that President Donald Trump's approval ratings among independents have fallen to a new low, with only 32% believing he has the right priorities and 61% feeling his policies are moving the country in the wrong direction. His overall approval remains at 36%, with significant declines among young Americans and Latino voters, and a drop in strong support from Republicans, especially younger ones. The poll reveals that most Americans want Trump to focus on economic issues, particularly the cost of living, in his upcoming State of the Union address.
The Supreme Court's decision in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump, which overturned Trump's tariffs, was achieved with a majority that relied on the "major questions doctrine," a controversial legal standard often used to limit presidential and agency powers. While the ruling temporarily favored the public, conservative justices' use of this doctrine raises concerns about its potential to be wielded in ways that reinforce judicial and political influences, especially if a Court vacancy occurs during Trump's tenure. The dissenting justices argued for a more straightforward interpretation, indicating deep ideological divides, and the outcome reflects broader concerns about the Court's direction and future nominations.
Nick Swayne has maintained his role as president of North Idaho College amid a prolonged conflict involving the college's Board of Trustees, accusations of political bias, and accreditation challenges. Despite multiple efforts by the board to oust him, Swayne endured lawsuits, board instability, and formal sanctions, ultimately leading the college to regain good standing with its accreditor in 2024. The controversy reflected broader political and cultural tensions in higher education, but community support for Swayne and the college’s stability ultimately contributed to its recovery.
Spencer Gear, a Nevadan, is on trial for allegedly threatening public officials, including federal judges and law enforcement, through messages deemed by prosecutors as threatening and intended to influence or retaliate against them. The prosecution argues that Gear’s threats were serious, while his defense claims the messages are protected political speech and not true threats. Testimonies from judges and officials indicated that Gear’s messages caused concern but did not alter decisions or security measures, emphasizing the distinction between political rhetoric and criminal threats.
The article discusses the destructive impact of MAGA Trump on American institutions, democracy, and global relations, highlighting the chaos, corruption, and erosion of norms caused by his presidency. It emphasizes that the tumult has exposed systemic vulnerabilities and presents an opportunity for reform and resistance. The author remains cautiously optimistic that widespread opposition and the need for systemic change can help restore decency, legality, and stability in the United States.
On February 20, 2026, President Trump signed a proclamation imposing a temporary 10% import duty under Section 122, which automatically increased to 15% following a statement on February 21, with an Executive Order expected to formalize this change. The tariffs, which address international payments issues, take effect on February 24 and will last for 150 days unless extended by Congress. Lauan plywood is subject to the 15% tariff, while several other goods, including USMCA-compliant products and certain vehicles, are exempt. Customs guidance has been issued for importers, with tariffs under IEEPA ending and Section 122 tariffs starting at 12:01 am EST on February 24.
The Supreme Court ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not authorize President Trump to impose tariffs, limiting presidential tariff authority. Despite this, President Trump has announced plans to continue imposing tariffs under other statutes, such as Section 122 and Section 232, which are expected to face legal challenges and may lead to continued uncertainty for retailers regarding sourcing, pricing, and inventory management. Retailers are advised to evaluate their eligibility for tariff refunds, though the process is anticipated to be lengthy and contested.
A federal judge blocked former special counsel Jack Smith's attempt to release an anti-Trump report to Congress, ruling that Smith was improperly appointed and that the report contains material that would breach attorney-client privilege. The judge also stated that releasing the report could unfairly influence public perception of Trump, who maintains innocence. The Justice Department opposed the release, and the ruling was seen as unfavorable to Smith’s efforts to disclose the report's contents.
More than a dozen former U.S. Department of Justice attorneys, from both Republican and Democratic administrations, have filed an amicus brief opposing the DOJ's lawsuit seeking Maine's unredacted voter registration data. The DOJ's request, made under the Trump administration, aims to verify voter eligibility but has faced criticism from Maine officials and others who cite privacy concerns and question the department's motives. The attorneys argue the data request is linked to broader immigration enforcement efforts and exceeds the authority granted by the Civil Rights Act, calling for the lawsuit's dismissal.
A federal grand jury in D.C. rejected the attempt by Jeanine Pirro's office to indict six Democratic lawmakers, with the jury unanimously deciding there was insufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges related to a social media video encouraging military and intelligence personnel to refuse unlawful orders. Pirro’s effort to indict the lawmakers was criticized as a potential political attack, and legal experts noted that the case is now considered closed, though the possibility of pursuing it in a different district remains. The incident has drawn attention to concerns about political influence on Justice Department actions and the use of federal prosecutorial power for partisan purposes.
Most Arizona Democrats will boycott President Trump's State of the Union address, with U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly announcing his attendance as an act of defiance following recent attacks and legal challenges. Other Arizona representatives, such as Sen. Ruben Gallego and Rep. Yassamin Ansari, plan to abstain or participate in counterprogramming efforts, citing concerns about Trump's policies and treatment of families. Overall, around 50 Democrats nationwide are expected to skip the event.
House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated that Congress is unlikely to reach an agreement on President Donald Trump's tariffs after the Supreme Court struck down global tariffs. Following the ruling, Trump announced plans to impose a 10% tariff, potentially increasing it to 15%, and signed an executive order allowing him to bypass Congress for up to 150 days. Johnson emphasized the challenge of legislative consensus and pointed to the executive branch's role in responding to the decision.
