TODAY'S NEWS, February 20, 2026

TODAY'S NEWS, February 20, 2026

15:36 Feb 20, 2026
About this episode
IN POLITICAL NEWS The Supreme Court, in a 6–3 decision, struck down Trump’s tariffs. The ruling did not address how refunds would be handled. Trump is expected to explore alternative methods to reimpose them. Polling update: one survey shows Trump back at 50%, though polling remains mixed overall. The Department of Transportation decertified 550 commercial driving schools for failing to meet safety standards. President Trump signed an executive order protecting glyphosate, the key ingredient in Roundup weed killer and the subject of multiple cancer lawsuits. It is reportedly produced by a single U.S. manufacturer and has broader industrial implications. The DOJ has charged a 79th individual in Minnesota’s “Feed Our Future” fraud case. The prosecution team has faced staffing changes amid internal disputes. After criticizing prior comments about UFOs, President Trump ordered the release of additional government files related to unidentified aerial phenomena. Minnesota faces a potential $2 billion loss in Medicaid funding tied to fraud investigations, along with an estimated $200 million in costs related to recent unrest. Coverage from major outlets highlights concerns about public trust in government in California. Updates to the Obama Presidential Library project have drawn criticism from some observers over design changes. IN EPSTEIN FILES NEWS Reports suggest renewed scrutiny of Prince Andrew over alleged national security matters linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Bill Gates reportedly withdrew from an AI summit in India amid continued public attention surrounding Epstein associations. Rep. Nancy Mace has requested CIA documents related to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Investigations continue. Commentary from Jeff Childers’ “Coffee & Covid” newsletter notes that scrutiny of Prince Andrew is intensifying, potentially prompting broader inquiries within the British monarchy. No charges have been filed in the reported national security–related matters. Ongoing tracking of developments and individuals connected to the Epstein case continues. IN IMMIGRATION NEWS Authorities reported that a truck driver from India, alleged to be in the country unlawfully, ran a red light resulting in a fatal accident. H-1B visa issuances are reportedly down nearly 20%. A small Texas town reports improved stability following years of immigration-related challenges. IN CULTURAL NEWS Research from Ryan Burge suggests a notable number of individuals identifying as culturally Jewish also identify as Christian. IN TRANSGENDER POLICY NEWS Reports indicate that a suspect in a recent hockey-related shooting incident has family members with prior legal issues. The Kansas legislature overrode the governor’s veto of a bill restricting transgender access to certain public bathrooms. IN ECONOMIC NEWS In a d
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