Department of Homeland Security officials will testify before a House committee to address concerns about immigration enforcement. Criticism surrounding President Trump’s deportation agenda and a looming funding deadline highlight the gravity of this oversight hearing.

Dan Ahlers, the executive director of the South Dakota Democratic Party, officially declared his bid for governor. His announcement marks an important moment for state Democrats seeking to gain traction in the governor’s race.

Two Newton-Conover school board members have openly endorsed three candidates—Tim Hayes, Jen Gonzalez, and Robbie Canrobert—citing their deep ties to the Newton-Conover City Schools. The letter highlights how each candidate’s personal history in the district could shape the community’s educational future.

Benton Harbor residents can learn how ongoing state and federal lawsuits address the city’s lead water crisis. On Feb. 22, attorney Elizabeth McCree hosts The Legal Hour to update the community on legal developments and next steps.

A young man left the United States for an internship, never realizing that a travel ban and shifting visa policies could strand him abroad. His story exemplifies how new restrictions, tighter vetting, and paused visa appointments are creating serious hurdles for international students.

Taiwan’s future holds major implications for democracy, security, and economic cooperation far beyond its shores. As tensions simmer in East Asia, this island’s role in global geopolitics gains renewed urgency for those seeking to protect freedom and prosperity.

Washington State lawmakers have advanced HB 2157, a bill intended to guard against algorithmic discrimination in artificial intelligence. If passed, the measure could offer consumers stronger safeguards against bias in a rapidly evolving technological era.

The Killeen City Council recently established a Charter Review Committee to address key governance issues. Central to this effort are recall policies and election procedures that could bring local rules in line with state law.

A fresh federal rule has lowered long-term care standards in the aftermath of the 2025 budget reconciliation bill, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” The New Mexico Attorney General has voiced strong objections, signaling growing tension over how financial legislation can affect healthcare at the state level.

An Iowa House subcommittee advanced a bill that would ban smoking on casino gaming floors, intending to “level the playing field” in public health standards. The Senate’s companion measure, however, did not move forward, casting uncertainty on the ban’s future.

Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled a $53 billion budget proposal for 2026-27, calling for a $15 minimum wage, increased education spending, and the legalization and taxation of marijuana. The plan underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy and public services.

Miss Manners columnist Judith Martin addresses reader worries about whether societal pressures have rapidly changed our vocabulary. She points out that language naturally evolves and that lexicographers record these shifts in response to social changes.

A legislative proposal in Illinois seeks to exempt workers’ tip income from state taxes, mirroring a federal “No Tax on Tips” policy. State Rep. Regan Deering is leading the charge, aiming to reduce financial strain on employees whose wages rely heavily on gratuities.

A surprise win by a Democratic contender in Texas has gained statewide attention and sparked speculation about November’s elections. Republican leaders are taking notice as discussions arise over what this could mean for the party’s prospects.

A plan to develop eight Gypsy and Traveller pitches on land formerly designated as green belt in Surrey has been rejected by local authorities. Officials pointed to safety and sustainability concerns, despite an acknowledged need for additional Traveller sites in Runnymede.

A new proposal in the California Senate aims to exempt residential day care centers from time-consuming environmental reviews. Lawmakers hope this will help family-run facilities avoid the costly legal battles that have hindered small providers, such as Napa’s Le Petit Elephant.

A new bill aims to ban the use of sewage sludge containing PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” from being spread on farm fields. This legislation, which earned initial support from a state Senate panel, highlights a growing concern about the health and environmental risks posed by PFAS.

A recent letter to the editor directly questions Matt Regier’s statements about a liberal agenda during the 2025 legislative session. The piece takes aim at Regier’s January 29 guest view, urging readers to reconsider how the session’s political direction is being portrayed.

In a display of rare bipartisan agreement, Bend’s Sen. Anthony Broadman is promoting an expanded Earned Income Tax Credit, a policy economists and lawmakers across the spectrum endorse. The proposed increase aims to provide working families with essential financial relief.

In a sign of changing political dynamics, President Trump has faced a newly intensified opposition unlike what he experienced in 2025. Despite his continued influence, mounting criticism and mediocre approval ratings are testing the limits of his authority.

This opinion piece explains how requiring vaccinations in schools can protect both students and staff from potentially serious diseases. By making immunizations a priority, schools can reduce the likelihood of outbreaks, keeping their communities healthier and safer.