Supreme Court Rules IEEPA Does Not Authorize Presidential Tariffs
On February 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant the president authority to impose tariffs. The decision invalidates the Trump administration's emergency-based tariff measures and brings clarity to executive power limits, though it raises questions about refunds for already collected tariffs and the fate of related national emergency declarations.
Russia escalates missile attacks on Ukraine amid broader conflict concerns
Russia intensified missile and drone strikes against Ukraine, killing dozens and intensifying pressure on Ukrainian defenses. The attacks come amid reports of new ballistic missile deployments by Ukraine and broader regional tensions involving the Middle East and France. The escalation underscores the deepening volatility of the Ukraine conflict and its ripple effects across Europe.
U.S. job market adds 254,000 positions in September, unemployment steady at 4.1%
U.S. employers added 254,000 jobs in September, significantly exceeding forecasts and signaling continued economic resilience, while the unemployment rate declined to 4.1 percent from 4.2 percent in August. The report contrasts with earlier predictions of a hiring plateau, as forecasters had estimated roughly 90,000 new positions.
Most Americans Blame Trump for High Prices as Economic Approval Hits New Low
A new AP-NORC poll reveals that 65 percent of U.S. adults blame Trump's policies for persistently high costs, with his economic approval rating hitting a new low as dissatisfaction grows amid aggressive tariff use and the approaching midterms.
Iran declares readiness to reopen Strait of Hormuz and restart nuclear negotiations
Iran has proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resuming nuclear talks within seven days, contingent on the United States lifting its naval blockade, waiving sanctions on Iranian oil sales, and observing a ceasefire including Lebanon. The proposal was presented by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to U.S. officials.
Trump signs stopgap funding bill to avert government shutdown
President Donald Trump signed a stopgap spending bill on Wednesday, temporarily preventing a government shutdown by extending federal funding through December 11, 2026, following bipartisan passage in the House of Representatives.
Hegseth establishes drone command and pledges 20% general corps reduction in first major Pentagon address
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced two major personnel changes in his 'State of the Force' speech: the creation of a new drone command to modernize military capabilities and a 20% reduction in general and admiral ranks to improve combat readiness. The speech marked his first major address since taking office.
Longitudinal study finds cognitive decline is not inevitable with aging
A three-year longitudinal study of 4,000 U.S. adults, published in Scientific Reports, challenges the assumption that aging inevitably leads to cognitive decline. Using the BrainHealth Index to assess multiple dimensions of brain function, researchers found that more than half of participants defied stereotypes of deterioration, with many showing cognitive improvement through targeted brain-healthy habits.