SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " democratic " 3,137 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Showdown over datacenter politics at heart of North Carolina primary
Democratic rematch in Durham-area district draws focus to fight over AI datacenters increasingly shaping US elections
How the IRC supports women’s health amidst crisis in remote regions of the DRC
In times of conflict, women and girls face the greatest risks—violence, exploitation and limited access to essential care. This International Women’s Day, discover how the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is supporting survivors of gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Crockett vs. Talarico. Progressive vs. Moderate. Right?
The Texas Democratic Senate primary is more about persona than policy, and the same is true for many other races.
Can These Democrats Make Combative Centrism Happen for 2028 Election?
Third Way, the moderate Democratic advocacy group and think tank, has an expansive and expensive plan to shape the 2028 presidential campaign.
Trump's campaign against 'forever wars' hangs over Iran operation: From the Politics Desk
Plus, Democratic veterans of the Iraq war come out swinging against Trump on Iran.
Democratic Turnout Was High During Early Voting in Texas
More than 1.3 million voters cast ballots in the Democratic primary during the early voting period that ended Friday. Many counties hadn’t yet reported their data.
URI Political Science Professor Skip Mark discusses the definition and measurement of atrocities
Professor Mark recently published a peice in The Conversation titled, “Atrocities take place in democratic nations as well as autocratic ones – our database has logged them all.” The engaging and accessible story discusses how to define, measure, track, and address atrocities around the world and in the US. Link to the story: https://theconversation.com/atrocities-take-place-in-democratic-nations-as-well-as-autocratic-ones-our-database-has-logged-them-all-272879
Graham Platner picks up second U.S. senator endorsement in crucial Maine race
Platner faced early controversy over social media posts and a tattoo. His Democratic opponent, Gov. Janet Mills, has the support of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-New York).
Five Testy Moments From the Acrimonious Texas Senate Primaries
Ahead of Tuesday’s vote, the Democratic and Republican races have become increasingly personal and contentious.
Politics Unplugged Podcast: Paul Bentz on latest polling
Arizona pollster Paul Bentz joins with exclusive polling data on the heated Democratic primary in Congressional District 1, where Amish Shah holds a commanding lead, but nearly half of voters remain undecided. We discuss what voter registration trends mean for 2026, why affordability tops every other issue, and whether Democrats can replicate their 2022 success. Then, Dennis and Colin debate this year's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees—from Joy Division to Mariah Carey to Wu-Tang Clan—and reveal which acts truly deserve a spot.
MAGA Calling Newsom Racist? That’s Rich
Gavin Newsom has been reveling in the attention that comes with being the early frontrunner for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. But the California governor also seems to understand that he has work to do to convince voters that he’s more than just a slick-talking, coastal elite with progressive politics and a pretty face. To that end, he spent much of last week in the South promoting his new memoir, “Young Man in a Hurry.”
Democrats in Oregon’s Congressional delegation blast U.S.-led attack on Iran
President Donald Trump should have made the case to Congress before ordering military action, Oregon's Democratic U.S. senators and representatives said.
James Talarico believes a Texas surprise is coming in November. First, he needs to win the Senate primary
It may sound like James Talarico is getting ahead of himself when he talks about delivering an election night surprise in November, right here in Texas, where a Democratic senator has not been elected in his lifetime.
‘Trump’s not enough. And he knows he’s not enough’: California governor Gavin Newsom on populism, ‘purity tests’ and whether he’ll run for the presidency
He’s the Democratic politician with movie-star looks and a picture-perfect family, dogged by accusations of being a smooth‑talking elitist. Can he really unite the American left and win the most powerful office in the world?
‘I could see myself stepping into that void’: Gavin Newsom on fighting Trump and running in 2028
This week, Jonathan Freedland speaks to the California governor, Gavin Newsom, about why he thinks the Democratics lost so decisively to Donald Trump in 2024, why the party need to be less judgmental, and whether he intends to run for president in 2028
Democratic lawmakers say they are 'closely' reviewing new White House offer on DHS
As the Department of Homeland Security remains shut down, the White House and Democratic leaders are continuing to exchange proposals to end the impasse.
Congress prepares for war powers resolution vote to block U.S. strikes on Iran
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Friday a bipartisan coalition is working to force a vote as soon as next week on a war powers resolution that would attempt to prevent any U.S. action against Iran without approval from Congress.
Democrats push for vote on Massie's Iran resolution
House Democratic leaders say they plan to force a full vote next week on a bipartisan resolution cosponsored by Rep. Thomas Massie.
Kamala Harris is backing Jasmine Crockett in Texas’ Senate Democratic primary
Former Vice President Kamala Harris recorded a robocall encouraging voters to support Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the Democratic primary for Senate in Texas, a source familiar with the matter said.
Kamala Harris Endorses Jasmine Crockett in Texas Senate Race
The endorsement from the former vice president, her most significant since leaving office, comes as Ms. Crockett is facing a competitive Democratic primary contest against James Talarico.
Benavidez chosen to fill Senate District 21 vacancy after Michaelson Jenet resigns
A Democratic Senate District 21 vacancy committee Thursday night chose former Rep. Adrienne Benavidez, D-Adams County, to replace former Sen. Dafna Michaelson Jenet. Michaelson Jenet resigned on Feb. 13 to become the director of the David and Laura Merage Foundation for Combating Antisemitism. Benavidez served three terms in the House, rising to the position of […]
AIPAC faces test of its power in Illinois primary as Democrats debate future of Israel relationship
The aggressive spending comes after AIPAC put $2 million into a recent Democratic primary for a special election in New Jersey, an effort that's widely considered to have backfired.
What the Epstein drama reveals about Democrats' loyalty to the Clintons
The Epstein depositions demonstrate how the Clintons hold far less power in the Democratic Party, and American politics, than they once did.
AIPAC faces test of its power in Illinois primary as Democrats debate future of Israel relationship
A crowded Democratic primary in Illinois is shaping up as the next test for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, a powerful advocacy organization that has stirred anger and frustration while exacerbating tensions over the war in Gaza
Unions privately urge Chuck Schumer and Democratic leaders to stay out of Maine's Senate primary
At least three pro-Graham Platner unions are pushing Democratic leaders to stop supporting Gov. Janet Mills in the competitive Senate race.
Fostering Health Sovereignty in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Through the America First Global Health Strategy - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that advances the America First Global Health Strategy while protecting Americans and Congolese from infectious disease threats. Under the MOU, working with Congress, the Department of State intends to provide up to $900 million […]
Legislative panel clears Democratic senator of discrimination, harassment
The panel found the Democrat was disrespectful but didn’t break the Legislature’s anti-discrimination policies.
How two churches forged Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico’s politics
In the Senate Democratic primary, Talarico has made his church’s ethos of compassion central to his campaign, while Jasmine Crockett is tapping into the civic power of Black churches.
Exclusive | Spy Agency Blocks Congress From Seeing Gabbard Whistleblower Intelligence
Tulsi Gabbard’s office rejected Democratic efforts to see all the underlying material about a foreign conversation that discussed Jared Kushner.
Jasmine Crockett leads James Talarico by double digits in Senate Democratic primary, poll finds
On the Republican side, Ken Paxton and John Cornyn were neck-and-neck and in position for a runoff, according to the poll from the University of Texas’ Texas Politics Project.
Democratic response to Trump’s speech slams his immigration policy
Abigail Spanberger, in Democratic Response, Asks if Trump Is Working for Americans
“We all know the answer is no,” the Virginia governor argued in her rebuttal to President Trump’s State of the Union address.
'He lied, he scapegoated, he distracted.' Democrats responds to Trump
In a rebuttal to the State of the Union address delivered on behalf of the Democratic Party, Sen. Alex Padilla accused Trump of plunging U.S. cities into violence and hindering the economy.
WATCH: ‘We all know' Trump is not making your life more affordable, Spanberger says
In the official Democratic response to the president’s speech, Spanberger stressed how Trump’s policies on a host of daily issues, from health care to housing, hasn’t made life more affordable.
WATCH: ‘You killed Americans,’ lawmaker says as Trump asks Congress to stand for protecting citizens
While Republicans stood and applauded for two minutes, at least one Democratic lawmaker in the room shouted “you killed Americans,” a reference to two citizens shot and killed by federal agents in Minnesota in January.
Who will — and won't — be guests at the State of the Union address
Invitees at Tuesday night's address by President Trump include the gold-medalist men's U.S. hockey team, while Democratic lawmakers have invited several Epstein survivors.
Democratic U.S. rep files for reelection in Oregon’s most competitive congressional district
All seven members of Oregon’s congressional delegation up for election this year have now filed for reelection.
Guest List for State of the Union Includes Epstein Victims, Erika Kirk and U.S. Olympic Hockey Players
Democratic lawmakers invited victims of Jeffrey Epstein and of President Trump’s aggressive immigration crackdown.
WATCH LIVE: Democratic lawmakers join 'People's State of the Union' rally during Trump's address
Trump Leans on Congress to Address His False Claims of Voter Fraud
The State of the Union gives the president a high-profile chance to issue a call to action on election security legislation he has pressured Republicans to ram through over Democratic opposition.
Abigail Spanberger to Give Democratic Response to Trump’s Address
Abigail Spanberger, the newly elected governor of Virginia, was chosen to deliver her party’s response to President Trump’s State of the Union address.
Who is Abigail Spanberger? New governor giving the SOTU rebuttal
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger is giving the Democratic response to Trump's State of the Union. Learn more about her background.
Growing number of Democrats skipping Trump's 2026 State of the Union
Democratic lawmakers are split on attending Donald Trump's State of the Union Tuesday, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries offering options of "silent defiance" or absence.
Why Gavin Newsom refuses to be a "bystander" in this political moment
What does the Democratic leader see for himself in the years to come?
WATCH LIVE: Gov. Spanberger delivers Democratic response to Trump's State of the Union
Mike Gianaris discusses solidifying Democratic control of the N.Y. state Senate
A smart political tactician, Gianaris was integral in helping lead the Senate Democrats out of the political wilderness in 2018.
Oregon Democrats’ controversial plan to move transportation tax vote to May clears Senate after dayslong hold
“Both parties want the election date they want for partisan political reasons," said one Democratic lawmaker who voted for the bill.
What to watch in the race for North Carolina's open Senate seat
North Carolina’s primary election is next week, and early voting is already underway. We discuss what to watch in the race for the state's open Senate seat and a competitive Democratic primary in the state's 4th congressional district.This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and WUNC Capitol Bureau Chief Colin Campbell.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Newsom’s message to the Democratic Party: Be more ‘culturally normal’
Column: Some Democratic candidates for California governor need to drop out
The jig is up for Democrats lagging in the race for governor
How Jasmine Crockett’s unconventional Senate campaign is testing Texas politics
Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett is quick to admit she’s not running a traditional Senate campaign, a strategy that will soon be put to the test in next month’s Democratic primary.
Katie Porter holds ‘F--- TRUMP’ sign at California Democratic convention
Former Rep. Katie Porter, who is running for Golden State governor, said "F--- Trump" during remarks at the California Democratic Party state convention.
Former F.B.I. Official, Ousted Under Trump, Will Run for Congress in Maryland
David Sundberg, who led the Washington Field Office, is joining a crowded Democratic primary for Steny H. Hoyer’s open House seat.
Like Trump nationally, incumbent Colorado Dems lose sight of what matters to everyday people
My years as a high-level radioactive waste manager took me in and out of Washington, D.C. frequently during the 1990s. Following Newt Gingrich’s successful 1994 ouster of the Democratic majority in Congress, following their 40-year reign, I was surprised many Democratic lobbyists were willing to acknowledge privately Newt’s win was probably a good thing. There […]
PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
IN THE SPOTLIGHT PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of KoreaThe Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) is making significant progress in strengthening pandemic preparedness, with dedicated support from the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC).Aligned with the WHO Global Influenza Strategy and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Partnership Contribution High‑Level Implementation Plan III (2024–2030), the country is strengthening its capacity to prepare for and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats. In early 2025, a core team from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) participated in a two‑day virtual workshop, which included a mini‑simulation exercise. The workshop was organized by WHO SEARO in collaboration with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Secretariat at WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office for the DPRK. Read more A REGIONAL CONSULTATION GUIDES WHO SEARO IN DEVELOPING A ROADMAP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PREPPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE FOR EMERGING THREATS (PRET) INITIATIVE BASED RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESSInfluenza and other respiratory pathogens with pandemic potential continue to pose major public health risks globally. To strengthen regional preparedness and response, Member States of the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR) convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to review and provide input on the draft Roadmap and Action Framework for Broad Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Planning (2026–2031). Supported through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) funds, the proposed roadmap aims to advance robust, integrated preparedness and response capacities for influenza and other respiratory threats across SEAR. This work is aligned with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the SEAR Strategic Roadmap on Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies Read moreSRI LANKA’S USE OF ANTIVIRALS TO REDUCE THE SEASONAL INFLUENZA BURDEN Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by placing greater emphasis on rapid testing, timely treatment, and integration with maternal health services. With support from WHO, the country is building a stronger evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination, advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and enhance pandemic preparedness. To reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza, Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to expand access to rapid diagnostic testing and ensure prompt initiation of treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for individuals at high risk of complications, helping prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, contributing to a reliable supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.Read moreBHUTAN BOOSTS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA READINESS WITH PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS FRAMEWORK PARTNERSHIP CONTRIBUTION SUPPORTED TRAINING AND SIMULATIONSOriginally developed in 2012, the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) has long served as Bhutan’s central framework for managing influenza threats. In 2024, the plan underwent a comprehensive update to reflect evolving global and regional guidance, lessons learned from the COVID‑19 pandemic, and new capacities developed under the PIP Framework. The revised NIPPRP is now more clearly aligned with Bhutan’s broader emergency and disaster risk management structures, ensuring a coordinated, whole‑of‑government approach to pandemic response. As part of efforts to strengthen national pandemic preparedness, Bhutan conducted three national‑level training sessions followed by simulation exercises on influenza pandemic preparedness and response at five sentinel hospitals between April and May 2025, with support from the PIP Partnership Contribution (PC). These activities brought together more than 140 health professionals and key partners from across the country, with a focus on operationalizing the updated NIPPRP and enhancing readiness at key frontline facilities. Read moreSTRENGTHENING INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE: WHO BRINGS TOGETHER INFLUENZA EXPERTS FROM SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONSThe World Health Organization (WHO) convened the 18th Bi‑regional Meeting of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and Influenza Surveillance for the WHO South‑East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9–11 September 2025. Hosted by the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), the meeting brought together representatives from Member States, Territories, and Areas across both regions, alongside experts from the WHO Collaborating Centres for Reference and Research on Influenza in Australia and Japan, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals in the United States, quadripartite partners (WOAH and FAO), and other technical counterparts. The consultation provided a platform to review progress, share experiences, and outline priorities for strengthening influenza and respiratory pathogen surveillance across the two WHO regions.Read moreNETWORKS AND TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIPSSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC READINES: SOUTH-EAST ASIA ADVANCES UNITY STUDIES UNDER THE PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS INITIATIVEThe WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies initiative, also known as Unity Studies, provides a standardized, globally coordinated framework to support these efforts. Originally developed for influenza and adapted during COVID-19, Unity Studies enable countries to conduct rapid, nationally led investigations and studies to assess transmissibility, severity, susceptibility, and intervention effectiveness. To better prepare for future influenza pandemics, WHO has recently launched a network of sites which will be ready to conduct these investigations and studies rapidly in the event of a pandemic, or epidemic of an emerging or re-emerging respiratory pathogen. The WHO South-East Asia Region now hosts six sites of WHO GISRS Unity Studies across the five countries including Sri Lanka, strengthening regional capacity for early pandemic investigations. From 13–16 July 2025 in Colombo, the Global Public Health Summit offered an opportunity to advance this agenda. Read moreSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS THROUGH UNITY STUDIES: REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS FROM INDIA IN WHO’S SOUTH-EAST ASIA REGION As countries continue to strengthen their pandemic preparedness through investments in resilient health systems during the interpandemic period, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies Global Initiative, Global Initiative, commonly known as Unity Studies, remains a vital framework for respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness. These standardized epidemiological protocols enable countries to rapidly generate high‑quality data on transmissibility, infection severity, population immunity, and the effectiveness of public health interventions. To highlight how Unity Studies protocols are being adapted and applied in national settings, WHO Headquarters, together with WHO Regional Offices, including the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), hosted a global webinar. The session showcased case studies from India and the United Kingdom (UK), demonstrating innovative approaches to respiratory virus surveillance and pandemic readiness. Read moreSTRENGTHENING REGIONAL INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE AND PREPAREDNESS: WHO SEARO HOSTS HIGH-LEVEL WEBINAR AMID RISING H5 THREATS In response to the increasing detection of avian influenza A(H5) cases in humans globally and within the WHO South‑East Asia Region, the WHO Regional Office for South‑East Asia (SEARO) convened a regional webinar on 25 July 2025 to review preparedness mechanisms, strengthen surveillance pathways, and promote timely reporting of unusual respiratory events. The virtual session brought together more than 50 participants from Ministries of Health, National Influenza Centres (NICs), National IHR Focal Points (NFPs), WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices across the Region, and WHO Collaborating Centres (CCs) for influenza. The webinar provided an opportunity to share situational updates, discuss surveillance gaps, and reinforce coordination mechanisms critical for early detection and rapid response to avian influenza threats. Read moreOther Key PIP Updates (July-December 2025)MEMBER STATES:Bangladesh drafted and conducted a series of Core Group Meetings in 2025 to review and update the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Pathogens. In addition, the country carried out Rapid Response Team (RRT) trainings on seasonal and avian influenza and other re‑emerging infectious diseases. Bangladesh also updated its epidemiological data‑training programme for physicians at sentinel surveillance sites, using a revised epidemiological data‑collection tool.Bhutan revised and updated its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) in 2025 and developed a national Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for influenza outbreak management. DPR Korea conducted a nationwide simulation exercise in July 2025 to support the update of its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan (2019). This followed a PRET‑based virtual orientation and mini‑simulation exercise held in May 2025 by SEARO and the WHO PRET Secretariat. The comprehensive exercise, conducted across central and provincial levels, assessed strengths and gaps in pandemic influenza preparedness and response. The feedback gathered has been incorporated into the revised draft plan to address identified weaknesses and strengthen overall readiness.India conducted a targeted nationwide online re‑orientation training on review and updates to the influenza portal for all State Surveillance Officers (SSOs) and relevant officials using the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The training emphasized correct marking and reporting of influenza samples as “unsubtypable” or “not subtyped” where applicable, to ensure accurate national surveillance.Maldives conducted simulation exercises in three atolls based on its existing National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP). The country plans to conduct similar exercises in three additional atolls after updating the NPPRP in 2026. In addition, Maldives conducted training on FluID and FluMart as part of a broader data‑management training package for Ministry of Health and Health Protection Agency officials, aimed at improving routine reporting to WHO platforms and the DHIS2 system.In Myanmar, technical support was provided to the National Influenza Centre (NIC) through dedicated human‑resource support (January–December 2025) to sustain data management and laboratory detection capacity for influenza and other emerging and re‑emerging respiratory viruses. This support also included strengthening genomic sequencing capacity.Nepal conducted a consultative workshop on the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP) in July 2025. The workshop engaged key stakeholders from multiple sectors to review lessons from past pandemic responses, assess current mechanisms, and gather critical inputs for strengthening national preparedness. Key recommendations included revising the 2019 NPPRP and developing an updated Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan aligned with emerging risks, national priorities, and relevant international frameworks. Nepal also held a two day workshop dedicated to advancing the National Action Plan for Genomic Surveillance, aimed at reinforcing the country’s capacities for early detection and monitoring of emerging respiratory pathogens.Sri Lanka received the final report from WHO on the feasibility assessment for conducting an Influenza Burden of Disease (BoD) study in the country. The assessment, conducted from 28 April to 9 May 2025, included a desk review of existing data sources, document review, visits to sentinel surveillance sites, and key informant interviews. The study identified critical data sources required for a future BoD assessment, as well as their availability and quality. Officials from the Epidemiology Unit, the National Influenza Centre (NIC), and SARI/ILI sentinel hospitals across the country participated in the assessment.Timor Leste conducted on‑the‑job training and monitoring activities at two sentinel surveillance sites to strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity for the detection of SARI, ILI, ARI, and other respiratory infections. REGIONAL OFFICE:SEARO conducted a Member States Consultation on the first draft of the Regional Roadmap and Strategic Action Framework for implementing WHO’s PRET‑based broad respiratory pathogen pandemic planning for 2026–2031. The consultation took place on 29–30 October 2025 during the final two days of the Regional PIP PC Annual Review and PRET Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Participants included representatives from Member States, WHO Country Offices, WHO SEARO, WHO Headquarters, partner agencies, and invited multidisciplinary technical experts. They reviewed the draft and provided detailed feedback, which has since been incorporated into a revised version. The consultation helped shape a shared regional vision for robust, PRET‑aligned pandemic preparedness, building on country‑level progress, addressing existing gaps and challenges, and aligning with global and regional health security frameworks. The publication is planned for release during the SEAR regional committee in 2026.SEARO documented the evolution of the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Planning process in the Region, tracing its development from its origins as a planning tool for responding to avian influenza outbreaks in 2006, through the experiences of the 2009 and 2019 pandemics, to the current status. The document outlines the way forward for respiratory pathogen pandemic planning across all 10 SEAR countries, aligning future national plans with WHO’s PRET Framework for broad respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness.The Infectious Hazard Management (IHM) Unit has drafted the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Guidance on Influenza Prevention and Control, aligned with the Global Influenza Strategy and other regional initiatives. The draft is currently under review. Although this technical product was developed in response to a request from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (MoPH‑DPRK), SEARO is finalizing it for use not only in DPRK but also across all Member States in the Region.The Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit, in collaboration with WHE/SEARO, completed a regional landscape analysis on key barriers, challenges, and opportunities for the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccination in WHO South‑East Asia Regional (SEAR) countries.Additionally, the Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit has completed a regional landscape analysis of influenza vaccine procurement systems across the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR).KEY MEETINGS AND PUBLICATIONSMEETINGS:Six-month progress review of the implementation of the PIP-PC workplans in SEAR, focusing on Outputs 1 and 2 for the period January to June 2025, and held virtually across three sessions on 4, 8, and 10 July 2025. Read moreAnnual Regional Meeting (Hybrid) on Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) and WHO’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Implementation in SEAR in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27 to 30 October 2025. Read more18th Bi-regional Meeting (Virtual) of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and influenza surveillance in WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9 to 11 September 2025. Read morePUBLICATIONSImplications of influenza A virus surveillance in Southeast Asian Region countries: a scoping review of approaches for the surveillance of swine influenza viruses at human-swine interfaces. Read moreAnnual South-East Asia regional meeting on operational planning for implementation of global influenza strategy and preparedness for respiratory viruses in 2025 Report on annual review meeting of implementation of pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) partnership Contribution (PC) Fund in South-East Asia Region and the simulation exercise on PRET Status of influenza in who south-East Asia Region
Analysis: The GOP’s biggest 2026 risk may be hiding in plain sight
Celinda Lake, a longtime Democratic pollster, has a simple formula for her party’s success: Democrats triumph in elections when they win among women by more than Republicans win among men.
Josh Shapiro to neighbors: Get off my lawn
The Pennsylvania governor and Democratic star is embroiled in a dispute with his neighbor that has escalated into an unlikely political saga.
Commentary: Eight candidates, four minutes to run for California governor. Ready, go!
Appearing before the Democratic faithful at the state party convention in San Francisco, hopefuls offered the whys and wherefores of their candidacies. There was a great deal of Trump bashing.
Mo Brown launches primary campaign against Bill Magnarelli, a fixture of Syracuse politics
The race pits Brown, an upstart progressive Onondaga County legislator, against Magnarelli, a longtime fixture of Democratic politics.
How Jesse Jackson’s ‘radically inclusive’ vision shaped the Democratic party we know today
The civil rights trailblazer imagined a future for America in which the marginalized became the center of US politics
With no clear front runner, gubernatorial candidates to make their case at CADEM
Democrats from across California are gathering in San Francisco this weekend for the state’s Democratic convention.
Why Texas' redistricting plan isn't a sure bet
Republicans pursued that goal largely by "cracking" Democratic-leaning voters across multiple districts.
Why a Republican Supreme Court struck down Trump’s tariffs
Trump loses, and the Democratic justices didn’t need to concede anything.
How Jesse Jackson used the South to reshape Democratic politics
"He was a child of the South, and he understood the extraordinary power wielded by the state," Stacey Abrams said.
Jesse Jackson’s political legacy in the Trump era
Jenna Amatulli speaks to George Chidi about how US civil rights leader Jesse Jackson transformed the Democratic party and empowered minority communities at the ballot box, and what Jackson might have thought about the party today as it takes on Donald Trump
Texas' Senate primary race between Crockett and Talarico ramps up after pulled Colbert interview
Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas is urging supporters to look at experience in a heated U.S. Senate primary with state Rep. James Talarico as he rides on wider attention thanks to late-night host Stephen Colbert
Governors group skips White House meeting after Trump refused to invite two Democrats
The National Governors Association is pulling out of an annual meeting at the White House after President Donald Trump declined to invite two Democratic governors, undercutting one of Washington's few remaining bipartisan gatherings.
Red-state auditor's report flags Democratic gov's 'concerning' spending on 'luxury' expenditures
Kentucky Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear is facing heat from the state's Republican auditor, who released a report outlining questionable spending from the executive branch.
Gov. Abigail Spanberger Will Deliver Democratic Response to Trump’s State of the Union
In selecting the Virginia governor, Democrats turned to a centrist former congresswoman whose winning campaign last year showed how their party’s candidates can succeed in the Trump era.
Wisconsin GOP leader Robin Vos, who clashed with Trump, leaving office after reshaping the state
The longest-serving Assembly speaker in Wisconsin history, who acted as a block on the battleground state’s Democratic governor and also drew the ire of President Donald Trump, isn't running again.
A month after the pipe burst, Potomac sewage spills onto the national stage with political finger-pointing
The spill received more attention this week after Trump posted on social media about it — blaming local Democratic politicians, particularly Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.
Look who’s back: Longtime Birmingham political powerhouse returns to lead local party
Former Birmingham Mayor William Bell will lead the Jefferson County Democratic Party at a critical time – election season.
Political stink: Maryland Gov. Wes Moore calls Trump’s sewage spill blame ‘absurd'
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore pushes back against Trump after the president blamed the Democratic governor for the Potomac River sewage spill on federal land.
A former political ally tests LA liberals’ allegiance to Mayor Karen Bass
Mayor Karen Bass isn't vulnerable on her right, but she may be on her left, as City Councilmember Nithya Raman, a Democratic Socialist and ex-supporter, runs against her.
Ohio’s Covid Czar Hopes to Be the State’s Democratic Governor
Amy Acton’s service to retiring Gov. Mike DeWine gives her bipartisan credibility in a Republican state, but that service, leading Ohio’s pandemic response, also stirs charged emotions.
What is the 'equal time' rule that Colbert says led CBS to pull his Talarico interview?
Stephen Colbert's comments that network executives pulled his interview with Democratic Texas Senate candidate James Talarico over fears it would violate regulatory guidance from the Trump administration has prompted a conversation about the rules governing how media outlets treat political coverage.
Kathy Hochul's health care push runs into GOP wall
The Democratic governor has been trying to enlist the help of House Republicans to ensure people with low incomes and noncitizens can keep coverage.
Colorado group pursues ballot measure to pave the way for a new congressional map
The group is aiming to bypass Colorado's independent redistricting commission to put a Democratic-friendly map in place for the 2028 and 2030 elections.
An Architect of Virginia’s Redistricting Will Run for a New Seat Himself
Dan Helmer, a Democratic state lawmaker, played a key role in putting redrawn congressional maps before state voters.
Democrats Plan to Counter Trump’s Speech to Congress With Rally
The House Democratic leader has asked rank-and-file members to sit quietly at the speech or skip it altogether, wary of creating a distraction.
AIPAC accused of covert campaigning as Democratic support falters
Democrats in Illinois have accused the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, the powerful pro-Israel organization, of meddling in competitive primary races.
Opinion | Democrats Win in Texas With Candidates Like Taylor Rehmet
A shock Democratic victory in a Texas special election shows what the party needs to do to win more there — and many other places, too.
How the Rev. Jesse Jackson transformed American politics : Consider This from NPR
The Rev. Jesse Jackson died this week at the age of 84. The civil rights leader, minister, and protege of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. helped shape the modern Democratic Party.Abby Phillip is an anchor at CNN and the author of A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power. She says Jackson’s impact on politics can be traced back to his 1984 and 1988 failed presidential bids.The top of this episode features additional reporting from NPR's Cheryl Corley.This episode was produced by Erika Ryan and Connor Donevan with audio engineering by Hannah Gluvna and Ted Mebane. It was edited by John Ketchum. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.
Jesse Jackson made a powerful impact on politics
"He made me possible through the work that he did all of those decades ago," Democratic Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock said Tuesday
‘He gave me my wings’: Jesse Jackson opened doors for Black women in politics
Jackson, who died Tuesday, worked to diversify the electorate and brought Black women into Democratic politics who ascended to positions of power.
Stephen Colbert says CBS pulled candidate interview ahead of early voting in Texas
Late-night host Stephen Colbert said his interview with Democratic Texas Senate candidate James Talarico was pulled from Monday night's broadcast over network fears it would violate regulatory guidance from the Trump administration on giving equal time to political candidates.
Jackson’s ‘Keep Hope Alive’ Speech in 1988 Was a Call for Social Justice and Unity
Jesse Jackson didn’t win the Democratic nomination for president that year, but his address at the party’s convention moved some delegates to tears.
Political world mourns Jesse Jackson
The political sphere mourned the loss of the Rev. Jesse Jackson on Tuesday with an outpouring of support for his legacy as a world-renowned civil rights activist and Democratic strategist. Jackson …
The Jesse Jackson Speech That Helped Redefine the Democratic Party’s Base
In his 1984 speech at the Democratic National Convention in San Francisco, Mr. Jackson argued for a more diverse coalition for the party.
Texas Needs a Boring Senate Race. In Fact, We All Do
Why can’t the Texas Senate race be between John Cornyn, the Republican incumbent, versus James Talarico, a Democratic state representative? Because that would be too sane for the times we’re living in.
Democrats propose New Hampshire abortion and reproductive health shield law
A group of Democratic state lawmakers are attempting to enact an abortion shield law in New Hampshire in an effort to protect those seeking reproductive health care in the state from out-of-state restrictions.
How Jesse Jackson reshaped US politics
The civil rights leader, who died at 84, became the first major Black candidate for US president in 1984 and 1988. His groundbreaking bids expanded the Democratic electorate, built the Rainbow Coalition and laid political groundwork for future candidates, including Barack Obama.
How Maryland Democrats are thwarting Wes Moore’s political ambitions
"The operations of his political tentacles are weak," says one Democratic strategist. "His inside political network is weak.”
WA lawmakers want to restrict ICE access to schools, health facilities
A Democratic-backed bill in Washington would require judicial warrants or court orders for ICE to get into schools, day cares and emergency rooms.
Could a crowded Democratic field let Republicans sweep California’s nonpartisan primary for Governor?
Divisive crosscurrents in Crockett-Talarico Senate showdown threaten Democratic unity
Meantime, Republicans have been locked in a bruising Senate fight for months, with little sign of a truce.
Divisive crosscurrents in Crockett-Talarico Senate showdown threaten Democratic unity
Divisive online chatter in the Democratic Senate race between U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett and state Rep. James Talarico could divide the party ahead of...
Analysis: Trump’s damage is done. Democrats – and Europe – are struggling to define what’s next
Democratic presidential hopefuls descended on the Munich Security Conference over the weekend as they might normally flood Des Moines, Iowa, or Manchester, New Hampshire. They found a Europe that’s all but ignoring them – and assuming leaders like Donald Trump will define the future.