TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
FEBRUARY 5, 2026
U.S. News
- Ongoing fallout from immigration enforcement actions: Reports highlight tensions around federal immigration agents' activities, including lawsuits from Minnesota school districts and teachers' unions over detentions near schools, bus stops, and daycares. This ties into broader debates on border policies under the current administration.
- President Trump unveils TrumpRx prescription drug initiative: Coverage of a live announcement and related discussions on healthcare access and drug pricing reforms.
- Protests against government agency changes: Rallies in Washington, D.C., and other areas oppose perceived efforts by the administration and associates to restructure or dismantle federal agencies.
- Disappearance case updates: Authorities in Arizona provide timelines and details in the search for Nancy Guthrie (mother of NBC's Savannah Guthrie).
- Trump endorses Japan's Prime Minister candidate Sanae Takaichi: Ahead of Japan's general election, Trump announces support and a planned March White House visit, signaling strong U.S.-Japan ties.
- U.S.-Russia nuclear arms talks progress: Indications of a potential deal to extend or observe the New START treaty beyond its recent expiration, alongside reestablishment of high-level military-to-military dialogue.
- Domestic political maneuvers: Discussions around potential midterm warnings, government funding compromises, and criticisms from figures like Sen. Mitch McConnell's hospitalization context or internal GOP dynamics.
- Trump's push on elections and other reforms: Ongoing coverage of proposals related to federalizing aspects of elections and related partisan debates.
- U.S.-Iran nuclear talks in Oman: High-stakes face-to-face negotiations begin in Muscat to address Iran's nuclear program amid escalated tensions, U.S. military buildup in the Gulf, and efforts to avert wider conflict. Regional diplomats express cautious optimism but note deep rifts over agendas like missiles.
- China's military and financial purges continue: Expulsion of former Bank of China Vice President Lin Jingzhen from the Communist Party for violations; broader questions on implications for stability, U.S. dialogue, and Xi Jinping's inner circle.
- Other global developments: Indonesia-Australia security treaty signing; Japan's household spending data; and ongoing Ukraine-Russia war updates, including POW swaps.
- Immigration enforcement near schools sparks lawsuits: Educators and districts sue over federal agent activities at or near educational sites, raising safety and access concerns.
- Private school choice programs surge: Enrollment and spending in voucher-style programs grow rapidly nationwide, with policy debates on public vs. private funding.
- Persistent faculty vacancies in India: Despite drives, thousands of posts remain unfilled in central universities, IITs, NITs, and IIMs.
- General school assembly highlights: Various international reports note student-focused events like India's PM Modi interacting with students on exams.
- Tech sector volatility amid AI spending surge: Amazon announces ~$200 billion capex for 2026 on AI, robotics, chips, and cloud, but shares fall; broader market drops in tech stocks and bitcoin (down sharply to around half its peak).
- Household wealth growth but inequality concerns: U.S. data shows trillions in gains (driven by assets/stocks), yet median/lower-income families face strains from costs; rural/farm economy outlook pessimistic due to tariffs.
- Japan's economic indicators: Household spending rises for the first time in years; currency intervention discussions tied to elections.
- Tariffs impacting agriculture and trade: Warnings of potential farm sector collapse; Mid-America business conditions lag despite IT/AI investments.
- Big Tech's massive AI investments: Amazon's $200B 2026 spend (up significantly) on AI/robotics/cloud fuels an "arms race" with Microsoft, Google/Alphabet, Meta; but triggers stock plunges and market concerns over sustainability.
- Bitcoin and crypto market plunge: Bitcoin drops sharply (to roughly half its record), hitting related companies like Coinbase and MicroStrategy hard.
- OpenAI and other AI platform rollouts: New tools like OpenAI's Frontier for easier AI agent deployment.
- Taiwan-U.S. defense tech collaboration: Partnership with Kratos to build jet-powered attack drones to counter regional threats.
- International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation: UN leaders warn 4.5 million girls at risk in 2026; over 230 million living with consequences, calling for sustained investment.
- Heart disease awareness (Wear Red Day): National push to highlight cardiovascular risks for women.
- Broader health policy shifts: Ongoing changes to ACA subsidies, Medicaid, vaccine policies, and public health under new administration rules.
- Medical innovations and outbreaks: Mentions of potential 2026-defining stories like GLP-1 drugs, vaccines, and regional alerts (e.g., measles in Mexico).
- NFL Honors and MVP announcement: Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford wins his first NFL MVP in a close vote over Drake Maye; announces return next season. Other awards include Mike Vrabel and more.
- Super Bowl LX buildup: Injury reports for teams like Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots; Hall of Fame class announcements.
- World Baseball Classic rosters: Stars like Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Juan Soto highlight lineups.
- Other notes: Horse racing plays; potential cricket controversies (e.g., Pakistan T20 World Cup boycott linked to geopolitics).
Thom Hartmann on Trump's New Grift https://dianeravitch.net/2026/02/05/thom-hartmann-on-trumps-new-grift/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The GOP-sponsored SAVES Act aims to restrict voting by canceling online registration and requiring birth certificates or passports, disadvantaging certain groups, particularly women.
- Allegations claim the FBI raid on Fulton County's voting office was intended to suppress Black and student votes in future elections, not to investigate the 2020 election.
- The reduction of drop boxes and early voting opportunities in Georgia disproportionately impacts Black and urban voters, as seen in the drastic drop in mail-in ballots during the 2022 run-off.
- The documentary "2000 Mules" falsely accuses Black voters of ballot fraud, fueling voter suppression efforts despite investigations disproving these claims.
- Voter suppression tactics, such as the return of programs like Interstate Crosscheck, are being revived to purge minority voters from registration rolls.
- The article emphasizes the importance of early voting and drop-off ballots for minority communities and the GOP's strategic efforts to restrict them.
Denis Smith: Public Funding of Private Schools Fragments Our Culture https://dianeravitch.net/2026/02/05/denis-smith-public-funding-of-private-schools-fragnents-our-culture/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Denis Smith criticizes Vivek Ramaswamy’s proposal to mandate the Pledge of Allegiance in public schools while exempting private schools, exposing a double standard.
- Publicly funded private schools are not bound by the same regulations as public schools, raising concerns about fairness and accountability.
- Smith highlights the potential for publicly funded private schools to promote ideologies that may not align with national unity or public interest.
- The use of universal education vouchers to fund private schools is seen as a violation of the Ohio Constitution and a threat to cultural cohesion.
- Smith references Dr. Kenneth Conklin’s argument that separate educational systems can contribute to societal fragmentation and weaken cultural continuity.
Congress Finally Passes Education Budget; Rejects Trump’s Proposed Funding Cuts for Public Schools https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/02/05/congress-finally-passes-education-budget-rejects-trumps-proposed-funding-cuts-for-public-schools/ via @janresseger
### Key Points
- Congress passed the FY 2026 budget, maintaining funding for education programs and rejecting Trump's proposed $7 billion cuts.
- The budget includes modest increases for charter schools, rural education, and early-childhood programs but fails to address inflation costs for schools.
- The Trump administration's efforts to dismantle the Department of Education by shifting programs to other departments continue, despite congressional concerns.
- Education funding disruptions under Trump’s administration have affected $12 billion in grants, leading to job losses and canceled school projects.
- Congressional oversight of the Department of Education remains uncertain as the administration proceeds with interagency agreements.
glen brown: Dear Trump Administration Official https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/02/dear-trump-administration-official.html
### Key Points
- The article opens with philosophical reflections on the role of a writer, quoting Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus, emphasizing the need for independence from societal doctrines.
- It discusses a wide range of topics, including political issues like pensions, education reform, healthcare, and social justice, as well as cultural and historical events.
- The blog features a mix of personal narratives, such as memories of family members, and critiques of political figures and policies, particularly those associated with the Trump administration.
- The author shares excerpts from literature and speeches, including those attributed to Thomas More/Shakespeare, to reflect on human behavior and societal challenges.
- The blog also addresses global issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, climate change, and economic injustices, alongside personal and cultural interests like poetry, music, and education.
glen brown: "...When a nation kneels before money, power, and spite..." https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/02/when-nation-kneels-before-money-power.html
### Key Points
- The blog includes critical commentary on the Trump administration, focusing on its perceived corruption, cruelty, and impact on American society.
- It highlights the importance of writers resisting oppression and embracing isolation, with references to Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
- The blog discusses various social and political issues, such as pensions, healthcare, social justice, education, and environmental concerns.
- The author delves into historical and political revisionism, comparing authoritarian leaders like Hitler, Stalin, and Trump.
- Personal anecdotes and reflections, such as memories of the author's grandfather, are included alongside the political content.
ABOLISH ICE NOW! | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2026/02/05/abolish-ice-now/
- The article criticizes the actions of ICE agents, comparing them to Nazi Stormtroopers during Kristallnacht, and argues that their behavior is rooted in directives from political leaders.
- ICE agents are described as engaging in violent and discriminatory practices in marginalized communities, targeting people of color and justifying their actions with extremist rhetoric.
- The author calls for the abolition of ICE, highlighting systemic issues and rejecting the notion that the problem lies with a few "bad apples."
- The article includes references to blog posts, events, and archives, emphasizing the author's activism and ongoing efforts against state terror.
Teacher Tom: "How Many Times Have I Told You Not to Run in the Hallway?" https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/02/how-many-times-have-i-told-you-not-to.html
### Key Points
- The physical environment significantly impacts children's behavior and learning, often contradicting verbal instructions.
- A well-designed learning environment should engage in a two-way dialogue with children, considering factors like furniture arrangement, lighting, and schedules.
- Teacher Tom promotes creating a "natural habitat for learning" that prioritizes safety, beauty, and self-motivation.
- He offers a 6-week course to help educators, parents, and directors transform their spaces into effective learning environments.
- Teacher Tom is a preschool teacher, blogger, and advocate for play-based education, with years of experience in early childhood education.
Curmudgucation: Can They Fix Chatbot Bias? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/chatbot-bias
### Key Points
- The experiment by OpenAI tested ChatGPT's responses to politically biased questions, revealing challenges in maintaining neutrality.
- OpenAI identified common biases in ChatGPT's responses, including lack of "both-sidesing," personal opinion projection, and escalation of bias.
- The article questions the feasibility of achieving unbiased AI responses, particularly in subjective areas like history and culture.
- Bias adjustments in AI responses are influenced by the perspectives of those controlling the technology, leading to ongoing debates about objectivity.
- The persistence of bias in AI highlights the flawed assumption that computers are inherently objective.
- The blog post critiques efforts to align AI with a specific political bias and warns against misleading claims of AI objectivity.
### Key Points
- Two students from Rainier Beach High School were killed in a shooting near a bus stop. The deaths have been classified as homicides.
- The community, including the new superintendent and Seattle Mayor, held a vigil to honor the victims and discuss safety concerns.
- Students and parents expressed concerns about safety in and around the school, calling for increased security measures and safer surrounding areas.
- Superintendent Ben Shuldiner emphasized the importance of strong relationships between staff, students, and families to improve safety and prevent violence.
- Suggestions for safety improvements include single-entry points, fencing, cameras, and collaboration with the Seattle Police Department.
- The article briefly mentions other topics such as nepotism within the school district and advanced learning programs.
Climbing the Stairs: Publishing The Truth Is An Act Of Resistance, Reading The Truth Requires Action DENNY TAYLOR https://teachingindangeroustimes.substack.com/p/climbing-the-stairs-publishing-the
### Key Points
- The author reflects on the metaphor of climbing stairs as a journey through life and shares optimism for safe passage amidst uncertain times.
- The article highlights the dangers children face today, particularly regarding their future in a democratic society, emphasizing the need for supportive literacy education.
- The author critiques the National Reading Panel’s Phonemic Awareness and Phonics meta-analyses, exposing flaws in the research and its influence on U.S. reading instruction policies.
- A call to action is made to create resilient literacy environments that emphasize belonging, community, and problem-solving.
- The author plans to present both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the flawed methodologies in the National Reading Panel’s research, aiming to make findings accessible to the public.
- Readers are encouraged to engage with the research, share insights, and take action to foster hopeful and caring communities for children.
- The article is part of a larger series exploring the strategies used by the Right to reshape reading instruction in the U.S.
Physical aggression by young people toward their parents occurs quite frequently – yet the subject remains taboo. Victims often struggle with shame and avoid seeking help, hoping to shield their children from repercussions. Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- A study by the University of Zurich found that 32.5% of participants aged 11–24 reported at least one episode of physical aggression toward their parents, with incidents peaking at age 13. Factors such as physical punishment, verbal aggression, and parental conflict increase the likelihood of such behavior, while supportive parenting and conflict resolution skills can reduce it.
- Black and Latino teens demonstrate higher digital literacy skills, particularly in identifying and countering race-related disinformation, compared to their white peers. These skills are often developed through lived experiences of navigating online racism.
- Girls report higher levels of well-being and safety at school compared to boys, which may be linked to biological differences such as dopamine activity. Increased physical activity and passion projects in schools could improve well-being for all students.
- A study in Ireland found a rise in self-harm among adolescents, particularly among females, trans and gender-diverse youth, and early school leavers. These groups also report higher rates of poor mental health and suicide attempts. The study emphasizes the need for targeted mental health interventions.
- Exposure to neighborhood violence is linked to higher rates of substance use among adolescents, including alcohol, vaping, and drug use. Cyberbullying has a stronger association with substance use than traditional bullying, and team sports participation is linked to increased alcohol use.
- Most college students have shown improved psychological well-being and life satisfaction post-pandemic, though not all have recovered equally. The study emphasizes the importance of tailored support systems for vulnerable individuals during transitions.
More Federal handouts For Charter Schools PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/more-federal-handouts-for-charter
### Key Points
- HB 7086, the "Equitable Access to School Facilities Act," proposes federal grants to support charter schools in acquiring or building facilities, shifting financial responsibility to taxpayers.
- The bill, introduced by Rep. Juan Ciscomani, argues that charter schools face barriers in accessing funding for facilities compared to district schools.
- Critics highlight the flawed assumption that public school systems have an easy time financing facilities, while charter operators should plan for such costs independently.
- The bill could lead to redundant facilities and increased taxpayer burdens, as public funds are diverted to support multiple school systems.
- Legislators continue to find ways to channel public money into charter schools, despite concerns about financial transparency and efficiency.
2026 SUN Bucks Implementation Webinar On March 10, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., the California Department of Education (CDE) will host a webinar to discuss 2026 SUN Bucks Implementation. https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/sunbucksimplementwebnr.asp
The article provides information about the 2026 SUN Bucks Implementation Webinar hosted by the California Department of Education (CDE) on March 10, 2026. The webinar will cover eligibility, applications, and data sharing for the SUN Bucks program, targeting local education agency (LEA) staff involved in its administration. Registration details, technical tips for Zoom, and contact information are provided. Additional related resources and updates on nutrition programs are also highlighted.
### Key Points
- The CDE will host the 2026 SUN Bucks Implementation Webinar on March 10, 2026, focusing on eligibility, applications, and data sharing for the program.
- The webinar is free, and registration includes confirmation and reminder emails with instructions for joining. Attendees are advised to test their Zoom setup beforehand.
- Contact information for LEAs with questions about SUN Bucks is provided, along with related nutrition program resources.
- Additional updates include the 2026-27 Breakfast Grant, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, and the Competitive Foods Webinar Series 2026.
- The article highlights other CDE resources, including educational standards, school nutrition programs, and various initiatives.
Choosing Democracy: Public School Parents are An Important Part of the Resistance. https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/02/public-school-parents-are-important.html
### Key Points
- Fear and disruption caused by federal immigration crackdowns have significantly impacted parents, children, and educators in Minnesota and Maine.
- Public schools have become centers of community care, with parents and educators providing resources, emotional support, and advocacy for immigrant families.
- The presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has created a climate of fear, with families altering daily routines to avoid potential targeting.
- The broader impact of these actions includes decreased school attendance, emotional trauma, and long-term effects on children’s education and well-being.
- Despite the challenges, grassroots community efforts and public school initiatives demonstrate resilience and solidarity among affected families.
### Key Points
- Ohio's education reforms, including the Youngstown Plan, are criticized as political moves to benefit donors and undermine public school systems.
- Charter Schools in Ohio often underperform compared to public schools, yet receive disproportionate funding and support.
- State leaders have failed to meet constitutional obligations for public education, prioritizing private school subsidies and Charter School expansion instead.
- The Youngstown City Schools takeover is highlighted as an example of state overreach and political manipulation.
Unity Says, "No 1096 for You!" We say otherwise, by a huge margin. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/unity-says-no-1096-for-you
### Key Points
- The meeting was led by Bennett Fischer, who restructured the meeting to prioritize old business and ensure efficiency.
- The chapter reaffirmed its support for Bill 1096 with an overwhelming 82-18% majority vote.
- Leo Casey strongly opposed Bill 1096 and attacked Marianne Pizzitola during the meeting, accusing her of being responsible for the bill’s challenges.
- Marianne Pizzitola was commended for her efforts in protecting retirees’ Medicare benefits and fighting against Medicare Advantage.
- Criticism was directed at Michael Mulgrew, President of the UFT, for supporting Medicare Advantage and lobbying against Bill 1096 using union funds.
- The article accuses Unity, a faction within the UFT, of using delay tactics to prevent progress on issues important to retirees.
- The writer expressed frustration with the union leadership, comparing their behavior to adversarial school principals.
- The meeting discussed challenges with the rollout of a PPO plan for pre-Medicare retirees, including rising drug costs and administrative confusion.
- The chapter passed resolutions supporting Social Security and Medicare, increasing fixed return rates for TDA, protecting retirees from scams, and supporting the NY Civil Rights Act.
- Concerns were raised about the lack of transparency and recognition of motions and resolutions by union leadership.
- The debate on raising the fixed return rate for TDA (Tax Deferred Annuity) to 8.25% highlighted concerns about funding and potential taxpayer burden.
- The article emphasizes the importance of union advocacy for retirees and collective action to protect benefits and rights.
Jeff Bezos Killed the Washington Post The billionaire wanted the Post to die, because a vigorous, well-resourced newspaper does not help his bottom line. https://slate.com/business/2026/02/jeff-bezos-washington-post-layoffs.html
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
As of February 5, 2026, the news cycle regarding President Trump is dominated by significant shifts in federal labor policy, a high-profile interview, and the implementation of signature "America First" legislative items.
🏛️ Major Policy Overhaul: Civil Service Reform
The Trump administration has finalized a major rule through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) that reclassifies approximately 50,000 career federal employees as at-will workers.
The Impact: This effectively revives the "Schedule F" concept, stripping long-standing civil service protections from high-ranking officials involved in policy.
The Goal: The administration argues this will allow the president to fire "obstructionist" bureaucrats and run the government "like a business."
The Backlash: Federal unions, including the AFGE, have condemned the move as a "direct assault" on a nonpartisan workforce and are already filing legal challenges.
📺 NBC Exclusive Interview
President Trump sat for a wide-ranging interview with NBC’s Tom Llamas, which aired today.
Immigration: Trump signaled a potential "softer touch" on enforcement following public backlash over recent incidents in Minnesota.
However, he maintained a firm stance on "bad criminals," noting that DHS just added 5,000 more names to its "Worst of the Worst" public database. Legacy Projects: He discussed plans to build a triumphal arch in Washington, D.C., larger than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.
Diplomacy: He described his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping as "very good" but emphasized that China is now "paying a lot of tariffs."
💊 Healthcare: Launch of TrumpRx.gov
Scheduled for 7:00 PM tonight, the President will formally launch TrumpRx.gov.
This website is the centerpiece of a "Most Favored Nation" drug-pricing initiative.
It aims to provide Americans with discounted medication prices negotiated directly with pharmaceutical companies, bypassing traditional insurance models for some shoppers.
🛡️ National Security & Foreign Affairs
Assassination Sentencing: Ryan Routh, convicted for the 2024 assassination attempt at a Florida golf course, was sentenced yesterday to life in prison plus seven years.
Winter Olympics: Vice President JD Vance arrived in Milan today to lead the U.S. delegation for the 2026 Winter Games, calling the event a rare point of national unity.
Ukraine: The White House confirmed the President held a call today with the UK Prime Minister to discuss ongoing peace negotiations regarding the conflict in Ukraine.
No Kings https://www.nokings.org/
Resource Guide & Community Response For No Kings Day — No Kings https://www.nokings.org/kyr
