World
Jeremy Carl, nominated by former President Donald Trump, faced strong criticism from Senators over his controversial stances on race and extremism. Accusations of anti-Semitic statements, endorsement of “replacement theory,” and support for Jan. 6 rioters dominated the debate.
Political Movements
Kishore Mahbubani’s “The Dream Palace of the West” confronts how Western countries are grappling with new geopolitical realities, from Russia and China’s rising influence to the war in Ukraine. His response to “The West’s Last Chance” focuses on diplomacy and examines the role of U.S. foreign policy in shaping tomorrow’s world order.
International Politics
Policy Analysis
A new three-part documentary, “The Tony Blair Story,” has arrived on Channel 4 to take viewers behind the scenes of one of Britain’s most influential political figures. Featuring unique access, this film explores how Tony Blair shaped modern British politics and continues to impact public discourse today.
International Politics
Policy Analysis
President Donald Trump praised the special forces operation that removed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power, calling it proof of America’s “full military might.” Speaking at Fort Bragg, N.C., he told service members that this “audacious raid” demonstrates why the United States is now “feared” by its adversaries.
International Politics
Ohio and Washington each recorded 50 anti-LGBTQ incidents last year, placing both states in a tie for the fourth-highest total nationally. A new report from LGBTQ+ advocacy organization GLAAD highlights these troubling statistics and underscores persistent challenges for the LGBTQ community.
Political Movements
A newly announced federal initiative, called “MABA 250,” will guide conservation and public lands policy as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. Alongside this agenda, the Bureau of Land Management is working to streamline access to construction materials, signaling a significant shift in how federal lands are managed for both preservation and resource use.
Policy Analysis
Environmental Laws
Nebraska’s long-standing State Cultural Endowment may be replaced by a simple yearly appropriation, raising concerns about consistent funding for arts and humanities. While Gov. Jim Pillen has pledged annual support, supporters argue a permanent fund is more reliable.
Policy Analysis
A newly released Senate report highlights how private student loan lenders might profit from cuts to federal student loan programs under President Trump’s OBBBA bill. Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden joined a group of lawmakers in uncovering how policy shifts could pave the way for increased private-sector gains.
Policy Analysis
Basalt, Colorado, may soon introduce charges for the six EV stations once offered free to local drivers. Officials plan to start imposing fees in mid-March, marking a shift for those accustomed to cost-free charging.
Policy Analysis
Minnesota officials are asking the federal government to reimburse what they say is a $200 million tab from Trump-era immigration raids. But Tom Homan, a high-profile border authority, has urged local leaders to appreciate the operation rather than request payment. The clash highlights the financial and political aftershocks of large-scale enforcement efforts.
Policy Analysis
Residents across Oregon are voicing their opinions on why their state should not become anyone’s personal purse strings. Letters to the editor highlight strong public sentiment about safeguarding the state’s resources.
Policy Analysis
A new episode of the On Iowa Politics Podcast brings heated debate over controversial legislation at the Iowa Capitol, along with a surprising proposal to attract an NFL team. Hosted by The Journal’s Jared McNett and Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, the discussion explores the political tensions underpinning state-level policy decisions.
Policy Analysis
In a renewed debate at the Iowa Statehouse, Rep. Steven Holt, R-Denison, spoke on a contentious gender identity bill. The discussion underscores ongoing tensions surrounding gender identity legislation in Iowa, highlighting its continued relevance.
Policy Analysis
In a surprise development, Nithya Raman has declared her candidacy for mayor of Los Angeles after receiving Karen Bass’ support in her re-election campaign. The move has shocked the city’s political elite and sparked accusations of outright betrayal from Bass’ supporters.
Campaign Strategies
Political Movements
An opinion letter challenges the notion that noncitizens are voting en masse, arguing there is no meaningful evidence to back such claims. Senator Ron Johnson’s support for fundamental election standards raises questions about federal oversight of voting, touched upon in President Trump’s controversial proposal.
Voting Trends
Policy Analysis
A new poll indicates Idaho residents oppose then-President Trump’s pick to lead the Bureau of Land Management, citing concerns about preserving public lands. Though details of the survey remain limited, the findings point to ongoing debates about federal land oversight in the region.
Policy Analysis
A recent letter to the editor challenges the governor’s desire for expanded Turning Point USA chapters in every high school. The writer proposes adding a “Common Cause USA” chapter as well, arguing for more balanced perspectives in student organizations.
Policy Analysis
Political Movements
California’s business community has operated under complex regulations for years. Now, with 2026 on the horizon, employers face an even tougher landscape, according to a recent Chamber Commentary.
Policy Analysis
Travelers planning a trip to Japan in 2026 are facing major cost increases, as the departure tax is set to triple and visa fees surge. With a new travel authorization requirement also in the works, experts recommend early budgeting to avoid hefty surprise charges.
Policy Analysis
In a fierce contest for Los Angeles’ highest office, Mayor Karen Bass faces off against her onetime ally, Nithya Raman. The outcome promises either an improbable comeback for the incumbent or a generational shift that could reshape the city’s political future.
Campaign Strategies
In an opinion piece challenging the Affordable Care Act, James Brown argues that rising insurance costs are anything but affordable for Montana families. Pointing to concerns about fraud and financial risk, he calls for a closer look at how seemingly well-intentioned policies can weigh heavily on local households.
Policy Analysis
Healthcare Reforms