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After taking aim at both parties, this Republican faces a critical decision
The boundaries of Kiley's California district have been upended by the nation's partisan redistricting war, clouding his path to reelection.
Republicans and Democrats who will question Clinton speak out before deposition
Bolstering Infectious Disease Outbreak Prevention and Response in Niger and the Dominican Republic Through the America First Global Health Strategy - United States Department of State
On February 26, the United States signed bilateral health cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Dominican Republic and the Republic of Niger, reinforcing U.S. leadership in global health while advancing country ownership under the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy. In the Dominican Republic, the United States signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation […]
SNL mocked her as a 'scary mom.' In the Senate, Katie Britt is an emerging dealmaker
Sen. Katie Britt, Republican of Alabama, is a budding bipartisan dealmaker. Her latest assignment: helping negotiate changes to immigration enforcement tactics.
Is There Room in the GOP for John Cornyn?
The four-term Texan is testing whether a traditional Republican still has a place in a party reshaped by Donald Trump.
Trump heads to Texas, where 3 friends are battling it out in the Senate Republican primary
President Donald Trump heads to Texas on Friday, his first trip after his State of the Union address
Trump pushes Congress to pass SAVE Act during State of the Union; no meddling with tariffs
Republican divisions emerge over Trump's tariff policies as the president pushes Congress to pass the SAVE Act and restrict congressional stock trading.
Justice Department Sues 5 States, Most Republican-Led, for Voter Data
The Trump administration sued Utah, Oklahoma and West Virginia, as well as Kentucky and West Virginia, to obtain unredacted voter registration databases in pursuit of baseless claims of voter fraud.
How Dan Crenshaw’s feuds with Ted Cruz and MAGA threaten his political future
As GOP Rep. Dan Crenshaw and Sen. Ted Cruz prepared to board the same flight from Houston to Washington in recent months, the two famously brash Republicans had a tense exchange that now looms large over Crenshaw’s battle for political survival.
Hillary Clinton derides her Epstein deposition as GOP ‘political theater’
Hillary Clinton appeared before the House Oversight Committee as she began hours of closed-door testimony in front of the Republican-led panel.
Latest Calif. governor's poll brings 5 candidates to top of ticket
Three Democrats and two Republicans are tied in the newest governor's race poll.
Ken Paxton’s daughter defends him after a John Cornyn ad accuses him of ‘dirty deeds’
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton deployed his daughter to vouch for him Thursday after a scathing attack ad released by Sen. John Cornyn in their increasingly contentious Republican Senate primary race.
Despite Trump push for voter ID law, Senate Republicans say votes aren’t there to change filibuster rules
Despite President Donald Trump demanding that Majority Leader John Thune find some way to pass a voter ID bill in the Senate, Republicans in the chamber maintain they do not have the support to change Senate rules to bypass the filibuster.
Hillary Clinton deposition paused over leaked photo
Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert sent a photo of the closed-door proceeding to a conservative influencer.
Why top Senate Republicans are skeptical they can use a 'talking filibuster' to pass Trump's SAVE America Act
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the conference isn't "unified" on using the rarely used tool as he faces increased pressure from the right.
Clinton Halts Epstein Deposition After Republican Leaks Photo of Her Testifying
Hillary Clinton, the former secretary of state, had requested a public hearing if she was going to be forced to testify in the House Oversight Committee’s investigation, but the G.O.P. chairman had refused.
Hillary Clinton derides her Epstein deposition as GOP ‘political theater’
House Republican lawmakers on Thursday promised to deliver hourly updates on what they said would be lengthy testimony from Hillary Clinton.
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 […]
Hillary Clinton accuses Oversight Republicans of ‘political theater’ in opening statement - Live Updates
The former secretary of State said Republicans are “fully aware” that she has no knowledge that would assist their investigation into Jeffrey Epstein.
Republicans to Press Hillary Clinton in Epstein Probe
The former first lady and secretary of state sits for a deposition with GOP-led panel following a monthslong legal fight with Congress.
Wesley Hunt is facing attacks from better-known rivals Cornyn, Paxton in Texas' GOP Senate primary
Texas U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt’s rivals are increasing their attacks on the two-term Republican ahead of Tuesday’s GOP primary for U.S. Senate
Why Are So Many Democrats Running for California Governor?
With California’s political machine on the wane, nobody has emerged as a clear front-runner. Democrats worry that nine of their candidates could split the vote and hand Republicans a win.
Oregon Democrats’ plan to end 3 Trump tax breaks heads to governor; Republican threatens to seek voter veto
Democrats' plan is designed to net $312 million to help stave off cuts of nearly $900 million from President Donald Trump’s sprawling tax and budget cutting bill. But a Republican announced he will seek a voter veto.
UN World Food Programme Chief Cindy McCain to Step Down for Health Reasons
ROME, Feb 26 (Reuters) - Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) Cindy McCain plans to step down from the role in three months to focus on her health, she said on Thursday. The 71-year-old widow of the late U.S. Republican Senator John McCain suffered a mild ...
Trump’s Favorite Voter-ID Bill Would Probably Backfire
Congressional Republicans are trying to pass a strict “election integrity” law that seems almost custom-designed to disenfranchise their own supporters.
Republicans think they laid an immigration trap ahead of the midterms
But the GOP’s edge on immigration has narrowed as Trump’s mass deportations face backlash.
E-Verify requirements draw business pushback in some Republican states
Pressured by businesses on the importance of immigrant labor, some Republican states are backing off plans to require all employers to check for legal employment status before hiring workers. State and federal legislation to require that employers use E-Verify, a federal system to check legal status, has been limited this year as a push grows from business interests that say checking status could hurt state economies.
Is the Florida redistricting process delayed — or dead on arrival? Even Republicans aren't sure
Florida was eager to join Donald Trump's redistricting push. But will a legal challenge stop the process and leave campaigns racing?
'Get back to integrity': Oklahoma's Kevin Stitt on Republicans after Trump
NPR's Steve Inskeep asks Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt about his spat with President Trump, immigration and the future of the Republican Party.
Political Candidates and the Troubling Chill Factor
Whether it’s political polarization, ruthless social media or federal interference, this is a particularly tough time to be in elected office in a city or a state.
Bill and Hillary Clinton gear up for another Washington fight
Bill and Hillary Clinton are slated to testify this week in a House investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, part of a deal with Republicans after it became clear that Congress — with the help of some Democrats — was on track to hold them in contempt if they refused to cooperate.
Trump’s Push for Election Power Raises Fears He Will ‘Subvert’ Midterms
The president appears to be undermining Americans’ faith in the outcome, at a moment when Republicans face an uphill climb to keep control of Congress.
Here are 5 health topics Trump avoided in his SOTU speech
Despite President Trump's aim to make health care a "Republican issue" for the midterms, his speech left out scientific research, MAHA, abortion and rural health, among other issues.
Bipartisan opposition sinks eviction bill in Colorado
Two Democrats sided with Republicans on the House Judiciary Committee to kill a bill that would have made several changes to eviction filings and proceedings, including requiring judges to suppress court records. Sponsored by Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, House Bill 1047 would also have required landlords to provide tenants with an additional rent payment option […]
Strengthening Western Hemisphere Health Security Through the America First Global Health Strategy in Panama - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and the Republic of Panama signed a three-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that advances the America First Global Health Strategy while defending Americans against infectious disease threats and accelerating Panama’s progress toward sustainable, country-led health systems. This partnership between the United States and Panama is the first global […]
House GOP moves to censure Dem who disrupted Trump address for 2nd straight year
An Ohio House Republican is moving to have Rep. Al Green censured over his protest at President Trump's State of the Union.
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.
Republicans stare down epic voter enthusiasm gap ahead of 2026 midterms
The 14-percentage point advantage is the Democrats’ largest in decades.
Rep. Edwards, Smith discuss their positions on health care
With just six days to go before primary election day, Democrats and Republicans are getting ready to head to the polls to choose their party nominees including
Trump’s State of the Union left some viewers unconvinced that he’ll lower cost of living, CNN poll finds
President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address drew largely positive marks from a heavily Republican audience, according to a CNN poll conducted by SSRS.
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.
Trump touts his health care proposal, which hasn’t made headway in Congress yet
President Donald Trump touted his health care proposal that he brought to congressional Republicans in January.
Seatmate politics - Live Updates
So much for interparty solidarity. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), who earlier in the day telegraphed plans to sit together during the State of the Union, have evidently abandoned that idea. State of the UnionMassie wrote on X before Trump’s address that he was seated on the Republican side of the chamber. Khanna is sitting next to former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. But Reps. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), who often work together, are seated together along with some other Republicans. Mia McCarthy contributed to this report.
Lawmakers react to Trump's State of the Union address
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) and other Republicans praised the president's speech, while Democrats slammed it and defended colleagues who protested.
Sen. Ted Cruz endorses GOP primary challenger to Rep. Dan Crenshaw in Texas
Cruz backed state Rep. Steve Toth over the incumbent in next week's Texas Republican primary election.
The big question looming over Trump's State of the Union: From the Politics Desk
Plus, the challenging midterm environment facing Trump and the Republican Party.
Kornacki: Trump’s political position looks ‘an awful lot’ like it did eight years ago
Ahead of President Trump’s State of the Union address, NBC News Chief Data Analyst Steve Kornacki discusses the president’s approval rating and the polling landscape for both Democrats and Republicans heading into the midterms.
State of the Union offers Trump a chance to make the case for his foreign policy approach
President Donald Trump's State of the Union address is expected to tilt heavily on domestic issues, but it's also a chance for the Republican to make the case for his foreign policy efforts to Americans who are increasingly demonstrating uneasiness about his priorities.
N.Y. House Republicans urge meeting with Hochul to discuss state's challenges
Gov. Hochul has not met with the GOP delegation since February 2023.
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.
Live Updates: Trump's 2026 State of the Union address
President Donald Trump's State of the Union address tonight at 9 p.m. ET is likely to be a test run of the message Republicans will give to voters in November's elections for control of the House and the Senate.
Speaker Mike Johnson invites Louisiana business leader to State of Union
Trott Hunt said President Trump's policies advanced by the Republican Congress have driven expansion for his company and clients.
4 things to watch in Trump’s State of the Union
Republicans want Donald Trump to hard launch a midterm message on affordability and the economy, and the president will likely address tariffs again. Here’s what to watch.
Legislators seek to help businesses with changes to SC's ballooning jobless fund
For the first time since the Great Recession, SC’s Republican-controlled Legislature could enact major changes to the state unemployment system.
Pentagon Races to Spend $153 Billion in Added Funds for Military
The Trump administration for months ignored Congress’s demand for a plan on how the Defense Department would spend the money that Republicans pushed through in their sweeping domestic policy bill.
How Trump will use his State of the Union address to appeal to skeptical midterm voters
President Donald Trump's State of the Union address on Tuesday is likely to be a test run of the message Republicans will give to voters in November's elections for control of the House and the Senate.
GOP Rep. Tony Gonzales faces pressure from party over affair allegations
The Texas Republican is facing calls from fellow House Republicans to resign, following allegations of an affair with a staffer who later died by suicide.
KEA asks for lawmaker pledge against rising health insurance costs
The KEA and state retirement groups are the latest to sound the alarm over a state budget proposal that Republicans maintain is still a work in progress that needs more information.
House speaker tells GOP Rep. Gonzales to promptly address affair allegations
House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday said he’s spoken with Rep. Tony Gonzales about the “very serious” allegations against him and told the Texas Republican to address the claims.
Americans sour on Trump ahead of State of the Union, polls find
New polls show the president’s approval rating falling among Democrats and independents, though it remains strong among Republicans.
THE WEEK OF FEB 23, 2026
- NSF director nominee announced - Confusion over NIST foreign researcher policies - Science Republicans reviewing AI laws
Health Savings Accounts Can Be a Bad Deal for Low-Income Marketplace Enrollees
In the wake of their actions that have worsened health care affordability, President Trump and Republicans in Congress have pushed to expand health savings accounts (HSAs). But this doubles down on an inequitable coverage model.
Pingree to boycott Trump’s State of the Union address
Rep. Jared Golden said he will watch the speech from home and Sen. Angus King's office said his schedule is still in flux. Republican Sen. Susan Collins plans to attend the speech.
Politics Unplugged Podcast: Richard Ruelas on the Guthrie media circus
Arizona Republic reporter Richard Ruelas joins the pod to talk about the media circus in Tucson for the Guthrie case.
Republicans see political gold in Mamdani property tax proposal
Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s (D) “last-resort” proposal to raise property taxes in New York City has political observers questioning whether his gambit to get New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) to back a wea…
The Tennessee Legislature gets up in your spiritual business
Rep. Gino Bulso, a Brentwood Republican, is one of several Tennessee lawmakers pushing religion bills in the legislative sesison.
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
Mayor Gerard Hudspeth turns his political focus to GOP bid for Denton County commissioner
Gerard Hudspeth, who's in his last term as mayor of Denton, is working to secure the Republican nomination for Denton County Precinct 4 commissioner. He's facing the incumbent and two
Suns injury update: Dillon Brooks out with left hand fracture
Phoenix Suns face the Portland Trail Blazers in second of back-to-back Feb. 22 at Mortgage Matchup Center without their top two scorers.
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.
Anti-Trump Republicans Face Divisions and an Uncertain Future
Divisions over what and who should come next were evident as G.O.P. critics of the president, weakened in their party, gathered at a summit near Washington.
A border district in Texas is flashing warning signs for Republicans in the midterms
We visited Alcazar and South Texas as part of our “All Over the Map” project, an effort to track elections and major issue debates through the eyes of experiences of everyday Americans. That there is good reason to visit speaks volumes about President Donald Trump’s midterm political troubles.
Trump withdraws endorsement of Colorado Rep. Jeff Hurd, cites 'lack of support' on tariffs
The president pulled his support from the Republican congressman after Hurd voted against Trump's tariffs on Canada.
In a meeting Colorado GOP chair Brita Horn calls ‘illegal,’ Republicans vote to demand her resignation
Roughly half the membership of the Colorado Republican Party’s state central committee on Saturday voted overwhelmingly to approve a resolution expressing “no confidence” in state GOP Chairman Brita Horn’s leadership and calling for her immediate resignation in an online meeting Horn says wasn’t authorized and will have “zero impact.” The 250 Republican party officials who […]
Vermont’s Republican governor has been campaigning on ‘affordability’ for years. Now other politicians are catching up.
Governor Phil Scott was early to the cost of living crisis. As other politicians catch up, his experience shows the benefits and limits of preaching "affordability."
Controversy hasn’t stopped Ken Paxton yet. Will a Senate run be different?
He’s survived under a cloud of controversy all 12 years he has served as the state’s attorney general. Ken Paxton is leading the polls in Texas’ Republican primary for US Senate anyway.
Senate G.O.P. Faces Pressure to Force ‘Talking Filibuster’ for Voter I.D. Bill
Some reluctant Republicans say an old-school filibuster showdown with Democrats could paralyze the Senate with no guarantee of success. But President Trump and their own colleagues are spoiling for the fight.
Supreme Court’s tariff ruling means good news for Pretzel Pete in Hatboro
Republican U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, who previously supported the tariffs, joined Democrats in applauding the decision.
Colorado GOP officers set competing meetings to hold ‘no-confidence’ votes on state chair Brita Horn
Once again, members of the Colorado Republican Party’s central committee have scheduled separate, competing meetings to consider whether the state GOP’s governing body supports its chair, but this time neither meeting will be held under a bridge. State GOP Chair Brita Horn on Feb. 14 issued a formal call for an online meeting on March […]
Trump’s New Trade Agenda Is on a Collision Course With Midterms
After the Supreme Court ruling, the president said he would push ahead with his tariff policy. Republicans running for re-election are anxious.
Speaker Johnson denies request for Jesse Jackson to lie in honor at the Capitol
The Republican-led House said Jesse Jackson cannot lie in honor in the U.S. Capitol. The NAACP criticized the decision.
Supreme Court deals a blow to Trump's economic agenda: From the Politics Desk
Plus, two Texas House Republicans face primary trouble.
Why Texas' redistricting plan isn't a sure bet
Republicans pursued that goal largely by "cracking" Democratic-leaning voters across multiple districts.
State Politics Affecting Trump’s Push to Limit AI Regulation
The Trump administration plans to sue states for their artificial intelligence laws, but how the push is affecting work on future legislation depends on a state’s politics.
Why a Republican Supreme Court struck down Trump’s tariffs
Trump loses, and the Democratic justices didn’t need to concede anything.
Lawmakers say they’ve been stonewalled by DHS, undercutting attempts to hold Trump officials accountable
Lawmakers who oversee the Department of Homeland Security say the agency has repeatedly stymied their requests for information in recent months, with even some Republicans alleging they’ve had phone calls go unanswered and data requests left to languish.
South Dakota Is Buzzing About Kristi Noem’s Future
Some Republicans hope that she stays out of the Senate primary.
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.
Large banner featuring Trump's face is displayed on Justice Department headquarters
A large banner featuring Donald Trump’s face has been hung on the exterior of Justice Department headquarters in a physical display of the Republican president’s efforts to exert power over the law enforcement agency
Robin Vos, powerful Assembly speaker, announces his retirement
Robin Vos, the powerful Republican Assembly speaker, announced his plans to retire as the body began its final meeting of the legislative session.
Wisconsin poised to leave Arkansas as only state without expanded Medicaid for new moms
Wisconsin Republicans who long blocked a bipartisan measure to expand postpartum Medicaid coverage plan to pass the measure following pressure from Democrats
Inside Iowa Politics: Feenstra faces critics at MAGA Nation Iowa event
U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra, a Republican from Hull, faced some party activists who have criticized him for not appearing with other candidates for governor at various events.
Inside Iowa Politics: Feenstra faces critics at MAGA Nation Iowa event
U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra, a Republican from Hull, faced some party activists who have criticized him for not appearing with other candidates for governor at various events.
A new Supreme Court gerrymandering case is nightmare fuel for Democrats
A questionable lawsuit seeking to redraw a Republican district risks turbocharging Trump’s gerrymandering campaign.
Meta's money trickles into Texas elections
The Menlo Park-headquartered company is spending on Republicans and Democrats.
Gov. Tim Walz faces tough political reality as he seeks to assert himself in final year in office
Republicans in the tied Minnesota House are already signaling opposition to the governor’s policy agenda, setting up early clashes as lawmakers returned to St. Paul this week.
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.
Kevin Steele cashes out of CFO race, will seek re-election to HD 55
The Dade City Republican endorses incumbent Blaise Ingoglia in the statewide race.
Texas Congressman’s Aide Told Co-Worker of Affair Before Killing Herself
The co-worker, who no longer works for Representative Tony Gonzales, shared screenshots of the text exchange with The New York Times. Mr. Gonzales accused his Republican primary challenger of being behind the revelation.