TODAY'S NEWS, February 21-224, 2026

IN POLITICAL NEWS Zohran Mamdani attributes New York City’s $12 billion deficit to Mayor Eric Adams, arguing spending levels are the issue. According to Axios, some Democrats are reconsidering support for rapid AI and data center expansion amid public backlash, particularly over energy costs. Trump is expected to mention Laken Riley during the State of the Union. Carter Page will have an opportunity in court to challenge alleged FISA abuses tied to the Russia investigation. The Secret Service fatally shot an armed individual attempting to enter Mar-a-Lago. The CIA has reportedly revised or withdrawn 19 intelligence reports from the Obama era, citing tradecraft concerns. In California’s “jungle primary,” two Republican candidates advanced, reshaping expectations for the race. Judge Aileen Cannon blocked the release of certain filings from Special Counsel Jack Smith’s Trump case. GOP voter registration numbers in Pennsylvania have reportedly rebounded. Louisiana has begun placing new restrictions on SNAP purchases. An Idaho man is accused of shooting his sister with a crossbow. A Democratic report suggests Vice President Harris’s Gaza comments may have created political challenges within her coalition. The Department of Education continues shifting programs to other agencies as part of restructuring efforts. IN THE EPSTEIN FILES NEWS Debate continues over the release of Epstein-related documents, with some media voices now opposing broader disclosure. The Mar-a-Lago shooter was reportedly fixated on Epstein-related material. An Alaska lawmaker’s chief of staff was arrested on child exploitation and trafficking charges. CBS contributor Peter Attia resigned amid scrutiny over alleged Epstein contacts. In the UK, Peter Mandelson faces renewed misconduct allegations connected to past associations. Reports suggest Epstein may have stored materials in multiple U.S. locations. Epstein’s former plane was located in a Georgia aviation salvage yard. IN IMMIGRATION NEWS Some Texas companies are reducing or ending migrant hiring. California approved an additional $35 million in funding for migrant assistance programs despite budget constraints. The White House is pursuing measures aimed at preventing noncitizens from being counted in certain electoral processes. Reports also claim millions of deportations since 2024, though figures remain debated. IN CULTURAL NEWS Surveys indicate about 17% of Christians identify with young-earth creationism, while nearly half express belief in intelligent design. Americans are increasingly searching for solutions to combat loneliness. IN ECONOMIC NEWS The Dow fell more than 800 points following tariff developments. IBM shares posted their steepest drop in 25 years amid AI-related concerns. Elon Musk’s xAI and the Department of Defense reportedly reached an agreement to deploy Grok within classified systems. Mortgage rates dropped to a 41-month low. IN INTERNATIONAL NEWS Mexican authorities targeted a major cartel leader known as “El Mencho,” sparking violent retaliation in Puerto Vallarta. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s stance on U.S. cooperation has shifted since late 2024, with increasing collaboration reported. Reports indicate Mexico transferred 100 major drug figures to U.S. custody prior to the raid. The U.S. men’s and women’s hockey teams both secured major victories, and figure skater Alysa Liu captured a top title. President Trump invited the men’s team to attend the State of the Union. Commentary continues over public reactions to patriotic displays at sporting events. In China, authorities have reportedly detained individuals for sharing videos of overcrowded trains. In Japan, railway officials publicly apologized for a train departing 34 seconds late. Approximately 6,500 students reached a $20 million settlement with University College London over pandemic-era disruptions. Analysts continue debating long-term cultural and political tensions within the UK. Panama finalized an agreement limiting Chinese control over port facilities connected to the Panama Canal. IN ENTERTAINMENT NEWS HBO’s A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms drew 13 million viewers in its first three days. Prime Video’s Dark Winds, starring Zahn McClarnon as Sheriff Joe Leaphorn, returns for a new season. Netflix shares declined amid political controversy involving public figures. The Chicago Bears are reportedly exploring relocation options that could move the team to Indiana. Actor Robert Carradine died at age 71. IN MEDICAL NEWS A new study links optimism with longer life expectancy. The Texas Attorney General has filed suit against a hospital and physician over alleged provision of gender-transition treatments to minors funded through Medicaid. AND FINALLY . . . A Pennsylvania high school senior class president faces hundreds of felony charges in connection with an alleged sextortion scheme. Larry SchweikartRock drummer, Film maker, NYTimes #1 bestselling author A ...