latest news in politics
Kalshi Sues Utah to Block State Gambling Laws from Restricting Prediction Markets
Salt Lake City, Thursday, 26 February 2026.
Asserting federal preemption, Kalshi sued Utah officials on February 24, arguing its CFTC-regulated contracts are financial instruments, not the ‘illegal gambling’ Governor Spencer Cox claims they are.
FBI Subpoenas of Current Leadership During 2022 Probe Trigger Agent Dismissals
Washington, Thursday, 26 February 2026.
The FBI fired ten agents today after confirming the bureau subpoenaed phone records of current Director Kash Patel and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles during the 2022 special counsel investigation.
Regulators Open Inquiry to Modernize Competitor Collaboration Rules Amidst Antitrust Leadership Turmoil
Washington D.C., Thursday, 26 February 2026.
The Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission have launched a pivotal inquiry to draft new guidelines for competitor collaborations, seeking to replace frameworks withdrawn in late 2024. This initiative aims to clarify legal boundaries regarding modern practices like algorithmic pricing and AI data sharing, with public comments due by April 24, 2026. However, this push for regulatory clarity stands in stark contrast to the deepening chaos within the Antitrust Division following the abrupt February 12 resignation of chief Gail Slater. While officials argue for greater transparency, House Democrats are simultaneously investigating allegations that Slater’s ouster was engineered to facilitate specific corporate mergers, including the controversial handling of the Hewlett Packard Enterprise case. The juxtaposition of establishing new enforcement standards while facing accusations of political corruption highlights a fragile moment for U.S. economic policy.
Defense Secretary Hegseth Escalates Legal Battle to Demote Senator Kelly
Washington D.C., Thursday, 26 February 2026.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has appealed a federal court order preventing the Pentagon from demoting Senator Mark Kelly. This escalation follows a grand jury’s refusal to indict Kelly for a video advising troops to disobey illegal orders, intensifying the constitutional standoff regarding the free speech rights of retired military officers.
Report Identifies White House Staffer Behind Controversial 'Johnny MAGA' Account
Washington, Wednesday, 25 February 2026.
A Wired investigation alleges White House rapid response manager Garrett Wade secretly operates the “Johnny MAGA” account, using the anonymous profile to amplify administration narratives without disclosure.
Federal Agents Raid LAUSD Superintendent Carvalho’s Home and Headquarters
Los Angeles, Wednesday, 25 February 2026.
Federal agents executed simultaneous search warrants at the home and offices of LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. While the investigation’s scope remains sealed, the probe extends to a property in Florida, signaling a significant federal inquiry into the leadership of the nation’s second-largest school system.
Senate Scrutinizes Surgeon General Nominee Casey Means on Qualifications and Vaccine Stance
Washington, Wednesday, 25 February 2026.
Trump’s nominee for the nation’s top doctor faces the Senate today holding a lapsed medical license and unfinished residency, signaling a controversial pivot in federal health strategy amid rising measles cases.
Warren Pressures Trump to Secure GOP Support for Limits on Wall Street Home Buying
Washington D.C., Wednesday, 25 February 2026.
Following Trump’s State of the Union address, Warren demands he leverage GOP influence to curb Wall Street landlords, addressing a massive 900% surge in institutional home purchases since 2012.
Trump Administration Sues New Jersey Over Executive Order Limiting ICE Access
Trenton, Wednesday, 25 February 2026.
The Justice Department sued New Jersey Monday, alleging Governor Sherrill’s executive order barring ICE agents from state facilities violates the Supremacy Clause and intentionally obstructs federal immigration enforcement.
Trump Outlines Economic and Security Agenda in High-Stakes State of the Union
Washington D.C., Tuesday, 24 February 2026.
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, President Trump delivered a pivotal State of the Union address aimed at framing the narrative for the upcoming midterm elections. Against the backdrop of a Department of Homeland Security shutdown and a recent Supreme Court defeat regarding his tariff policies, the President emphasized a theme of “America at 250: Strong, Prosperous and Respected.” The address introduced significant regulatory proposals, notably requiring artificial intelligence companies to fund their own electricity consumption. Furthermore, the President addressed escalating tensions with Iran and the ongoing war in Ukraine. The speech underscored the nation’s deep political divide, evidenced by a Democratic boycott and a rebuttal from Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger focusing on the administration’s fiscal and social controversies.