latest news in politics
White House Moves to Open $14 Trillion Retirement Market to Private Equity Risks
Washington, Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
The Trump administration is advancing a controversial policy to unlock the $13.9 trillion 401(k) market for high-risk alternative investments, such as private equity. While framed as “democratizing” access to high-yield assets, analysts warn this deregulation exposes unsophisticated investors to complex, illiquid markets they are ill-equipped to navigate. A 2025 Finra study revealed that the average investor scores a mere 5.3 out of 11 on financial literacy, yet these changes would erode “accredited investor” protections designed to shield them. The timing is particularly contentious, following President Trump’s commutation of David Gentile, a CEO convicted of a $1.6 billion alternative investment fraud. This pivot signals a regulatory environment prioritizing Wall Street’s access to retirement capital over the safety of “mom and pop” savings.
Record Dow 50,000 Milestone Fails to Boost President’s Declining Approval
Washington, Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
Despite the Dow Jones surpassing 50,000, President Trump’s net approval rating has dropped to a second-term low of -15, signaling a deep disconnect between Wall Street gains and voter sentiment.
Civil Rights Titan and Two-Time Presidential Candidate Jesse Jackson Dies at 84
Chicago, Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
The civil rights icon who transformed American politics died Tuesday at 84. A protégé of King, his groundbreaking presidential campaigns crucially paved the way for Barack Obama’s historic victory.
Michigan Targets Oil Giants with Market Manipulation Charges Over Green Tech
Lansing, Monday, 16 February 2026.
Michigan’s landmark lawsuit shifts focus from climate damages to antitrust law, accusing major oil corporations of operating as an illegal cartel to suppress renewable energy and electric vehicles.
Renderings Reveal Scale of Privately Funded $400 Million White House Expansion
Washington D.C., Monday, 16 February 2026.
Renderings detail a $400 million expansion funded by corporate giants like Apple and Lockheed Martin, proceeding rapidly despite the controversial pre-approval demolition of the historic East Wing.
OPM Directs Agencies to End Union Contracts in Potential Defiance of Court Orders
Washington D.C., Saturday, 14 February 2026.
OPM has directed agencies to terminate union contracts covering two-thirds of the federal workforce, a move unions argue explicitly defies active court injunctions blocking the administration’s labor reforms.
SEC to Automatically Reject Corporate Filings With Fee Errors Starting March 16
Washington D.C., Saturday, 14 February 2026.
Beginning March 16, the SEC will automatically suspend filings containing fee exhibit errors rather than issuing warnings, marking a critical shift toward stricter automated validation for public companies.
Virginia Supreme Court Clears Path for Critical Redistricting Referendum
Richmond, Saturday, 14 February 2026.
The Virginia Supreme Court has authorized an April 21 referendum that could flip four congressional seats to Democrats, potentially determining U.S. House control and future economic policy before the 2026 midterms.
