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Freed Venezuelan political prisoner reunites with niece at Trump’s State of the Union address
A Venezuelan opposition leader recently freed from prison reunited with his niece Tuesday during the State of the Union address, where President Donald Trump touted the US military operation that removed President Nicolás Maduro.
Recapping Trump's State of the Union address: From the Politics Desk
The key takeaways from Trump's speech before Congress.
Key takeaways from President Trump's State of the Union address
President Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term Tuesday night. We break down what he said, what his political messaging was, and how it previews the administration's goals through the midterm elections. We also analyze how the Democrats responded.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, senior political editor & correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson.This podcast was produced and edited by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Special thanks to Kelsey Snell, Natalie Winston and Neil Tevault.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.
Scotland’s new emissions strategy ‘too reliant on science fiction’, critics say
UK Climate Change Committee voices concern over Scotland’s progress on decarbonising buildings and reliance on unproved technologies
Texas’ 23rd Congressional District heads into a high-stakes primary as incumbent Tony Gonzales faces controversy
The primary race for Texas’ 23rd Congressional District is heating up as controversy swirls around incumbent Tony Gonzales.
WATCH: ‘Can't let’ Iran have a nuclear weapon, Trump says
The U.S. has been building up its largest military presence of American warships and aircraft in decades in the Middle East, as the Trump administration plans to restart talks with Iran over its nuclear program.
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's speech is longest State of the Union address in recent history
Speaking for more than an hour and 40 minutes, President Trump beat his previous record for longest speech given to a joint session of Congress.
WATCH: Trump announces public retirement plan with federal match up to $1,000 at State of the Union
Trump’s address comes after 13 months of break-neck deregulation, a record number of executive actions, mass layoffs, aggressive immigration tactics and more.
Buried by Snow—and by Shaky Science
It feels like snowstorms are becoming more intense, but science tells us that we don’t really know, writes Roger Pielke Jr.
Takeaways from Donald Trump’s State of the Union address
President Donald Trump is delivering the first State of the Union address of his second term Tuesday night at the US Capitol.
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.
Fact check: Trump makes false claims in State of the Union address
President Donald Trump made false claims in his State of the Union address on Tuesday.
Rep. Al Green ejected from Trump's State of the Union after holding a 'Black people aren't apes' sign
Green, a Democrat from Texas, was also removed last year after disrupting Trump's joint address to Congress.
California's Congress members' plans for Trump's State of the Union address
California has the nation's largest congressional delegation, so its elected officials frequently have an outsized presence in the nation's capital.
Tracking the length of Trump’s State of the Union speech compared with past presidents
President Donald Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address to the 119th Congress is likely to be lengthy. Trump is expected to address the nation’s most pressing issues and the impact of his administration’s proposed policies.
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.
30 lawmakers skipping Trump address for 'People's State of the Union'
Dozens of lawmakers and activists will attend a 'People's State of the Union' event, livestreamed as a counter to Trump's address.
Trump administration considers forcing banks to verify customers’ citizenship
The Trump administration is weighing a new requirement for US banks to verify citizenship information of current and future customers as part of the president’s aggressive immigration crackdown, sources told CNN.
Entering into politics for the first time, Mary Patterson wants to represent everyday people
Mary Patterson, a retired teacher from Durham, is joining incumbent Valerie Foushee and Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam on the ballot for congressional district 4.
Who is Mike Johnson? House Speaker set for State of the Union
House Speaker Mike Johnson will usher President Trump's address to a joint session of Congress on Feb. 24.
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 fact-checking Trump's 2026 State of the Union address
During the president's speech, our partners at PolitiFact will be providing live fact-checking here.
Trump to push Congress on health care, brag about affordability wins in State of the Union address
Behind closed doors, GOP lawmaker questioned ‘disturbing’ East Wing demolition
Rep. Michael Turner, co-chair of the congressional Historic Preservation Caucus, wrote to a top White House aide about his “substantial concerns.”
How does politics influence interpretive signs at National Park Service sites?
The Trump administration recently ordered the National Park Service to remove interpretive signs that discuss slavery at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, following an executive order issued last year stating that public monuments should not “inappropriately disparage Americans” and instead “focus on the greatness of the achievements and progress of the American people.” A […]
WATCH LIVE: House GOP leaders share how tax cuts are helping their constituents ahead of Trump's address
‘I considered starting over as a farmer’: Masao Adachi on political cinema, revolution and Japan today
The director and ex-Japanese Red Army militant discusses his new film Escape, about the anarchist fugitive Satoshi Kirishima, the frustrations of radical film-making and progressive politics
Anthropic touts new AI tools weeks after legal plug-in spurred market rout
Artificial intelligence lab Anthropic on Tuesday unveiled 10 new ways for business customers to plug in its technology to key areas of their work, weeks after other releases sparked an aggressive selloff of traditional software company shares.
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.
The State of the Union brings a big audience for Trump. But does it matter?
The carefully crafted speeches are more likely than ever to be drowned out by memes and partisan fireworks.
A Century Of Plenty: Business Leaders Role In The Next Era Of Progress
A new era demands new decisions. Business leaders need to rethink strategy, invest in productivity, and harness AI to unlock a century of plenty.
Live updates: Trump to give State of the Union speech after Supreme Court tariffs ruling
Get the latest news and live updates on Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address as he speaks before Congress on the current U.S. state of affairs.
Trump State of the Union Speech 2026: How to Watch, Time and Attendees
President Trump will speak at 9 p.m. Eastern time to a joint session of Congress. The New York Times will carry the address live.
As Rep. Julia Letlow runs for Senate, late disclosure of 210 stock trades draws scrutiny
It ties into a larger debate over whether members of Congress should be able to trade individual stocks.
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.
Upstate pols question $1.5B NYC boost vs. $150m upstate
The additional funding came as Hochul has steadfastly resisted calls from Mamdani and other progressives to raise taxes on the wealthy
Upstate pols question $1.5B NYC boost vs. $150m upstate
The additional funding came as Hochul has steadfastly resisted calls from Mamdani and other progressives to raise taxes on the wealthy
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.
Trump's big speech will be delivered to a changed nation and a Congress he has sidelined
One year back in office, Trump has emerged as a president defying conventional expectations. He has executed a head-spinning agenda, upending priorities at home, shattering alliances abroad and challenging the nation's foundational system of checks and balances.
Trump’s Suddenly High-Stakes State of the Union
The president is visiting Congress in a dramatically different place from where he was a year ago.
Adolescent Social Health May Foretell Loneliness, Aggressive Behavior, Study Suggests
Teens who are lonely and those who experience conflict in their home life are more likely to act aggressively toward peers or become victims themselves. These are some of the findings in a new University of California, Davis, study that creates a detailed picture of children’s social lives by identifying patterns and predictors of adolescent social health.
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.
Adolescent social health may foretell loneliness and aggressive behavior
Teens who are lonely and those who experience conflict in their home life are more likely to act aggressively toward peers or become victims themselves. These are some of the findings in a new University ...
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.
From Nick Shirley to Colin Hortman: What Minnesota SOTU guests say about the politics of the moment
The state’s 10-member congressional delegation will highlight with their guests where they stand on immigration, fraud, tariffs and political violence.
Business Organizations React To SCOTUS Ruling On Tariffs
Business organizations across the political spectrum from conservative to progressive are in general agreement with the Supreme Court ruling on Friday on tariffs.
Democrats demanding ICE reforms lose airport escorts in shutdown they triggered
The government shutdown hit TSA operations as the Department of Homeland Security activated emergency measures and suspended congressional escorts while keeping PreCheck operational.
Training for New ICE Agents Is ‘Deficient’ and ‘Broken,’ Whistle-Blower Says
The former official will appear with congressional Democrats, who also released documents indicating significant reductions in instructional hours for recruits.
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.
Lawmakers call on Hochul to support repowering NRG plant in Dunkirk
Sen. George Borrello, Congressman Nick Langworthy, and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor are leading the charge.
California Democrats back establishment candidates despite progressive pushback
California Democrats endorsed aging incumbents and party insiders over grassroots challengers, disappointing progressives.
This week: Snow delays congressional business before State of the Union
Congress called off Monday evening votes as a snowstorm hit the Northeast, but the State of the Union remains on track for Tuesday evening.
GO Pass: Road to Kalos
The GO Pass is a free, limited-time progression track where you earn rewards by collecting GO Points. All Trainers will receive GO Pass: Road to Kalos for free on Monday, February 23, at 10:00 a.m. local time. You can earn GO Points and rank up through Sunday, March 1, at 6:00 p.m. local time. From […]
‘Progressive membership’: Ukraine’s economic resilience shows future for EU business tie-ups
Joint ventures on defence, green energy and telecoms suggest how country could join bloc in stages rather than wait for full status
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.
Biden, aides project optimism in cancer fight, but some close friends worry
The former president announced last year he has an aggressive form of prostate cancer. He and his aides say he’s doing well and has upcoming public appearances.
Checks and balances aren’t working under Trump, growing majority says
On the eve of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, two-thirds of Americans say the system of checks and balances that divides power between the White House, Congress and the courts is not working well, according to the latest PBS News/NPR/Marist Poll.
Health care reform might be a focus in midterms. For Congress, pursuing it will be an uphill climb
Lawmakers will likely have a lot to say about health care this year. Paradoxically, they probably won't accomplish much on the subject.
Federal funding freeze stalls growth for Western Pennsylvania small businesses
Despite a push from the Trump administration to unleash American competitiveness, Congress has failed to reauthorize the nation’s largest innovation...
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 […]
Which EU country is best at digital health records?
Most European countries have made progress in access to electronic health records. Despite this progress, there is still room for improvement. Low levels of digital health literacy in some countries remain another key challenge.
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
Why keeping lawmakers in DC during shutdown may have caused more harm than good
Congress left Washington without resolving DHS funding crisis because no deal was close, avoiding potential mayhem from keeping lawmakers idle during shutdown.
6-in-10 Americans disapprove of Trump's job performance, new poll says
In a new poll released two days before Trump's highly anticipated address to Congress, 60%, said they disapprove of his performance.
Supreme Court wades into U.S.-Cuba business disputes, with billions at stake
The justices have never interpreted Title III, under which Congress authorized the U.S. president to suspend if deemed "necessary to the national interests."
Science & Medicine: Exercise is medicine for people with Parkinson's disease
Exercise can improve function and slow disease progression in people with Parkinson's disease, but why? A UT Health San Antonio researcher is studying patients who exercise and play virtual reality games to see if she can figure out the answer.
Only a fraction of House seats are competitive. Redistricting is driving that lower
Primary voters in a small number of districts play an outsized role in deciding who wins Congress. The Trump-initiated mid-decade redistricting is driving that number of competitive seats even lower.
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.
After Indiana gambit, Bears signal progress in Illinois
The back and forth comes as the team tries to advance legislation in two states without making public comments that could sour relationships or scuttle talks on either side of the border.
After Indiana gambit, Bears signal progress in Illinois
After praising Indiana’s stadium push, the Chicago Bears say talks are progressing in Illinois as both states face key legislative deadlines.
Venezuela receives more than 1,500 amnesty requests under new law
More than 370 political prisoners have already been granted amnesty under the US-backed legislation.
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.
Explainer: How the State of the Union became a stage for political confrontation
What began as a spare presidential report to the U.S. Congress has hardened into a prime-time pressure chamber shaped by an era of fierce polarization, with the State of the Union speech now unfolding as a long night of choreographed tension and open confrontation - a moment for presidents to wrest narrative from turmoil and craft the defining images of their time in power.
NC mental health overhaul: Coastal Horizons sees high demand as state releases year-one progress report
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said it is working to meet growing demand. Secretary Dev Sangvai said the state has reached a turning point.
WATCH LIVE: President Donald Trump's 2026 State of the Union address
Pappas Holds Discussion with NH Health Care Leaders on Protecting and Expanding Telehealth Access
Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) held a roundtable conversation with local health advocates from organizations and hospitals, including New Futures, Speare Memorial Hospital, Home Care, Hospice and Palliative Care Alliance of NH, HealthFirst, to highlight the importance of telehealth for Granite Staters and his recently introduced bipartisan legislation to protect and expand access to telehealth.
Supreme Court rejects Trump's tariffs as illegal import taxes
Supreme Court rules that Congress, not the president, has the power to impose tariffs.
Opendoor’s stock rallies as the home buyer shows progress in pivot to leaner business model
The home buyer said it’s making progress on becoming a less-capital intensive, more profitable business.
Trump’s dream is a giant slush fund Congress can’t touch
From Venezuelan oil to the Board of Peace, Trump is constantly looking for new sources of cash he can control.
Analysis | Congress out while DHS stays closed
The Washington Post’s essential guide to power and influence in D.C. It’s been a very quiet partial government shutdown.
When It Comes to Health Insurance, Federal Dollars Support More Than ACA Plans
Questions of fairness came up in last year’s congressional debate about extending Obamacare’s enhanced subsidies. Critics wondered why the federal government should underwrite coverage costs for people with ACA coverage. In truth, though, almost all health insurance in the U.S. comes with some federal help.
Democrats say citizenship question could derail census test and deter immigrants from participating
Congressional Democrats are warning that the U.S. Census Bureau risks undermining an upcoming test of the 2030 census by using a form that includes a citizenship question
Virginia judge temporarily blocks Democrats from work on congressional redistricting bid
A Virginia court on Thursday temporarily blocked Democrats from preparing for an April voter referendum to redraw the state’s congressional maps, handing the party another setback in its efforts to pick up four more U.S. House seats in the national redistricting battle.
Rep. Tony Gonzales had affair with aide who lit herself on fire, lawyer alleges
The congressman from Texas, who is facing a tough primary battle, has denied having an affair.
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.
Android security gets aggressive as Google bans thousands of developers and millions of sketchy apps
Google is using AI to block millions of harmful apps, crush scam tactics, and strengthen Play Protect, making Android safer.
With federal dollars secured, Salango details next steps for Capital Sports Center project
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito announced $7 million in congressionally directed spending on Wednesday.
Planning progresses on new $12 million emergency department at Essentia Health-Fosston
Work will start on a new emergency department at Essentia Health-Fosston this spring following the selection of Kraus-Anderson as the general contractor.
Democrats recruit content creators in new strategy to win back Latino voters
The strategy, developed by the Congressional Hispanic Caucus’ political arm, is being rolled out in the Houston area as early voting begins for Texas’ statewide primary on March 3.
SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT ($FUN) Releases Q4 2025 Earnings
SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT ($FUN) posted quarterly earnings results for Q4 2025 on Thursday, February 19th. The company reported earnings of -$0.91 per share, missing estimates of -$0.14 by $0.77. The company also reported revenue of $650,090,000, beating estimates of $609,083,378 by $41,006,622.You can see Quiver Quantitative's $FUN stock page to track data on insider trading, hedge fund activity, congressional trading, and more. Rec
Commentary: The missing quality that defines the flaws in our business and government leadership
We used to expect our business and government leaders to have strength of character. Today that's been replaced by a moral vacuum
Key piece of Sports Center funding comes through; officials wait on mall outcome
Almost two years after a demolition crew tore down the former Macy’s department store at the Charleston Town Center Mall to make room for the Capital Sports Center Complex, the project has received a key portion of the funding plan: $7 million of Congressionally Directed Spending funds. Officials say they are waiting to see what happens to the Charleston Town Center Mall to move forward.
Commission voting on East Wing concept has few members with arts experience, little time for public comment
The Commission of Fine Arts, an independent federal agency that advises the president and Congress on design plans for monuments, memorials, coins and federal buildings, is usually made up of experts in architecture, art and urban and landscape design.
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU - U.S. Embassy in Madagascar
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU U.S. and Malagasy health officials are convening in Antananarivo for a two-day joint review process, marking the first major step in implementing the strategic health cooperation framework established in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in December 2025. The MoU outlines the structure and terms of U.S. support to Madagascar’s health sector from 2026 through 2030, with a total commitment of $134,305,000 from the U.S. Government and $41,216,252 from the Government of Madagascar working jointly to address malaria, maternal and child health, polio and global health security issues. This approach reflects the America First Global Health Strategy by prioritizing effective, results-driven cooperation that advances mutual health security and supports Madagascar’s progress toward self-reliance and independence from foreign assistance. The events bring together U.S. Government health experts and Madagascar’s Ministry of Public Health leadership to conduct a comprehensive review of seven major health programs currently supported by United States funding, discussing current activities, and developing recommendations for programs to align with the signed Memorandum of Understanding, which advances both the America First Global Health Strategy and the Government of Madagascar’s goals. “This memorandum sets the course for U.S. strategic cooperation and support to Madagascar’s health sector over the next five years,” said Chargé d’Affaires Stephanie Arnold at the workshop’s opening. This review will help determine how to maximize the effectiveness and impact of these programs, ensuring resources provided by U.S. taxpayer dollars are used wisely,” she added. “By working together to address global health challenges, we demonstrate America’s leadership and commitment to a safer, healthier world, making both the United States and Madagascar healthier and stronger.” Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States is implementing a Global Health Strategy for foreign assistance that emphasizes increased host country ownership, resilient health systems and human resource capacity to reduce dependency, maintaining frontline support to reduce infectious disease threats, and strong performance monitoring systems for accountability and service delivery. “Diseases do not respect borders, and when we support Madagascar’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to infectious disease threats, we are contributing to global health security that benefits communities both here and in the United States,” Arnold emphasized, noting that “The MoU represents a commitment to transparency, accountability, and results.” The United States recognizes the commitment of Malagasy leadership in prioritizing investment of time and significant resources on the healthcare of their own citizens. With recent changes in leadership, Madagascar has an opportunity to strengthen governance, improve performance, and move forward toward greater self-reliance, particularly in the healthcare sector. Through strategic focus and thoughtful collaboration under this MoU, U.S. health programs in Madagascar will deliver meaningful results that advance both countries’ interests while supporting Madagascar’s journey toward greater self-reliance and a healthy future.
Business owners call for continued progress at Historic Commercial Center
A number of small businesses call for continued progress to revamp and revitalize the Historic Commercial Center.
Peru congress elects Jose Balcazar as new interim president
Peruvian lawmakers on Wednesday elected Jose Balcazar as the country's new interim president ahead of general elections in April, making him the country's eighth president in as many years.
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.