TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
MARCH 24, 2026
Here are the top news stories as of March 24, 2026, grouped by category. These draw from major U.S. and international outlets, with a focus on the most prominent developing stories.
U.S. News
- Partial government shutdown and airport chaos: A prolonged partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (now in its 35th day) has caused massive lines and delays at airports nationwide as TSA officers call out sick without pay. The White House is deploying ICE agents to assist at major hubs like Newark and others starting today, drawing mixed reactions from TSA workers.
- Deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport: A passenger jet collided with a fire truck on the tarmac at New York's LaGuardia, killing two pilots; the airport has since reopened amid broader travel disruptions.
- Trump administration actions: Markwayne Mullin was confirmed as the new DHS Secretary, replacing Kristi Noem. A statue of Christopher Columbus was placed on White House grounds.
Politics
- DHS funding deadlock: No deal has emerged to end the partial shutdown after bipartisan talks; Trump has rejected certain off-ramps, tying the impasse to broader immigration and border security priorities. Senate hearings and confirmations (including Mullin) continue amid the crisis.
- Supreme Court arguments on mail-in ballots: The Court heard cases testing whether states can count ballots mailed on time but arriving after Election Day, with potential implications for future voting rules.
- Immigration and deportation efforts: Trump's mass deportation plans face court challenges, while ICE deployments at airports highlight ongoing enforcement tensions.
World Affairs
- U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict de-escalation signals: President Trump announced a five-day pause on planned strikes against Iranian power plants and energy sites after "very good and productive" talks with Iran (mediated in part by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner). Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz fully if strikes occur, while recent Iranian missile strikes hit Israeli residential areas. Negotiations are in early stages but mark the first public hint of possible resolution in the fourth week of conflict.
- Global energy and economic ripple effects: The war has driven oil price surges and fears of a major energy crisis; Russia and China have criticized U.S. actions, warning of broader instability.
- International reactions: European countries have been reluctant to strongly oppose U.S. moves, while Gulf states reassess reliance on American security guarantees.
Education
- Federal shifts in education policy: The Trump administration is moving over 100 Department of Education programs to other agencies; lawsuits and actions target issues like alleged discrimination at institutions such as Harvard and voter-related activities on college campuses.
- Student data and privacy concerns: Reports of potential breaches in anonymous tip apps that could expose sensitive student information across thousands of schools.
- Ongoing debates: Discussions around DEI standards for accreditors and federal student aid data continue, with limited major breaking stories today.
Economy
- Oil price volatility amid Middle East war: Energy markets surged (with suspicious pre-announcement trading activity noted) due to threats around the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian attacks on infrastructure; analysts warn of inflation spikes and potential 1970s-style shocks if disruptions persist.
- Broader market reactions: Stocks and bonds fell as the Iran conflict showed no immediate end; S&P Global raised 2026 inflation forecasts and lowered growth outlooks due to the crisis.
- Fed policy context: Recent decisions held rates steady, with uncertainty over future cuts tied to energy-driven inflation risks.
Technology
- AI advancements and controversies: Breakthroughs in AI video generation are sparking IP battles with Hollywood; viral AI-generated celebrity content highlights ongoing tensions. Elon Musk's plans for a massive joint Tesla-SpaceX chip manufacturing facility in Texas (part of a "Terafab" vision for AI, robotics, and data centers) are advancing.
- Pentagon-Anthropic dispute: Industry groups back Anthropic in its lawsuit against the Defense Department over a "supply chain risk" designation, with a key hearing today; this could reshape government-AI vendor relations.
- Other developments: NASA's public event outlining accelerated Moon return plans by 2028; reports of leaked iPhone exploit kits.
Health
- Measles outbreak concerns: Cases continue rising in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma (hundreds affected, with hospitalizations and at least one death reported); officials warn it could persist for a year and reverse prior gains against the virus, though vaccination demand has increased in affected areas.
- Alzheimer's research breakthrough: Scientists identified a potential "death switch" in the brain linked to the disease and found a way to turn it off in mice, offering new hope for treatments.
- Regulatory delays: HHS and DEA postponed new telemedicine prescribing rules (including for buprenorphine) until year-end to review comments.
Sports
- NCAA March Madness: The men's tournament is in the second round with thrilling games, including a dramatic St. John's-Kansas matchup decided in the final seconds; standout performances like UConn's Azzi Fudd dropping 34 points (with 8 threes) in the women's tournament.
- Other highlights: NHL action (e.g., Senators beating Rangers); general top plays from the week across college and pro sports.
These stories reflect the dominant themes today, particularly the Iran conflict's ripple effects across multiple categories and domestic disruptions from the shutdown. Developments can shift quickly—especially around negotiations or travel impacts.
The Meidas Report: A Media Phenomenon https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/23/the-meidas-report-a-media-phenomenon/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Meidas Report, a progressive media outlet created by the Meiselas brothers in 2020, has grown into a major citizen-driven platform with six million subscribers.
- Trump posted a controversial comment celebrating the death of Robert Mueller, which was widely condemned across party lines.
- Mueller’s distinguished military service and contributions as FBI Director were praised by various leaders, including Barack Obama and George W. Bush.
- Fox News chose to downplay Trump’s comments, focusing instead on statements from other figures like George W. Bush.
- Russia allegedly considered staging an assassination attempt on Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban to influence elections, raising concerns about similar tactics in other countries.
Putting ICE in Place of TSA Won't Work, Say Experts https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/23/putting-ice-in-place-of-tsa-wont-work-say-experts/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The DHS shutdown stems from disputes over ICE reforms, with Democrats refusing to fund ICE due to its controversial tactics.
- TSA staff shortages have caused long airport delays, with some passengers waiting hours to board flights.
- President Trump proposed deploying ICE agents to replace TSA personnel, despite their lack of security screening training. Experts argue this approach is impractical and unsafe.
- TSA employees have been quitting due to missed paychecks, exacerbating staffing issues.
- Efforts to resolve the funding stalemate between Democrats and Republicans have failed, leaving DHS operations in limbo.
Thom Hartmann: A Message to MAGA Voters: You Got Played https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/23/thom-hartmann-a-message-to-maga-voters-you-git-played/ via @dianeravitch
- The article addresses MAGA voters, arguing they were misled by Donald Trump, who promised to "drain the swamp" but instead filled his cabinet with billionaires and corporate insiders.
- It highlights Trump's actions, such as giving control of federal agencies to wealthy individuals like Elon Musk, whose policies allegedly harmed Americans, including hacking Social Security information and damaging U.S. international relations.
- The author criticizes Trump for breaking promises, such as lowering drug prices, avoiding "stupid wars," and not cutting Social Security or Medicare, while accusing him of benefiting the wealthy at the expense of working-class Americans.
- The piece argues that Trump's tariffs and tax policies disproportionately hurt working-class families and rural communities, while benefiting billionaires.
- The article emphasizes the betrayal of Trump supporters, particularly those in rural and economically struggling areas, by highlighting how his policies have negatively impacted them.
- The author concludes by urging MAGA voters to recognize the alleged deception and demand better leadership.
Audrey Watters: Who Benefits from AI? Not You. https://dianeravitch.net/2026/03/23/audrey-watters-who-benefits-from-ai-not-you/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Audrey Watters critiques the history of Ed-tech and AI, emphasizing its failure to deliver better teaching and its profit-driven motives.
- NYC community groups call for a two-year moratorium on AI in schools due to risks to privacy, critical thinking, and democracy.
- Watters views AI as a harmful experiment on children and society, driven by tech sector greed.
- AI's adoption consolidates power for tech billionaires, undermining democracy and creativity.
- Jennifer Berkshire discusses the historical failures of Ed-tech and the collective amnesia surrounding its debacles.
- Technology journalists and Silicon Valley perpetuate myths about AI, ignoring its negative impacts.
- AI systems are criticized for being built on stolen work and promoting dependency on technology.
"WE TOLD YOU SO": THE FOUNDING FATHERS ON SCHOOL VOUCHERS, RELIGIOUS STRIFE, AND THE SLOW-MOTION DEMOLITION OF AMERICAN DEMOCRACY #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/03/we-told-you-so-founding-fathers-on.html
glen brown: "Nice Work, MAGA Voters" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/03/nice-work-maga-voters.html
### Key Points
- Trump's handling of the Iran war is increasingly unpopular, especially among independent voters.
- The conflict is compared to past U.S. wars, such as Vietnam, with approval ratings declining over time.
- Trump's decision-making is criticized for ignoring military intelligence and historical analysis.
- Iran's asymmetric warfare strategy prolongs the conflict, while Trump's erratic behavior exacerbates the situation.
- The war's economic impact includes higher oil prices, potential stagflation, and strain on rural America.
- The financial costs of the war are staggering, and Republicans face challenges in securing funding due to political opposition.
- Voter dissatisfaction with Trump's administration could lead to significant political consequences in upcoming elections.
The Power Of Affirmation In The Classroom Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
- The blog provides educational resources, news, and articles on topics like teacher evaluation, affirmations in the classroom, and educational policy issues.
- Recent posts include tips for scaffolding instruction for English learners, discussions on the validity of state English tests for ELLs, and opinions on teaching whole novels in high school.
- The blog shares resources for ESL/EFL/ELL, including geography and history games like "Where In The World…" and updates on AI tools for English learners.
- Features research-based instructional strategies for various subjects, including Social Studies, English, Math, and Science, with a focus on English learners and self-motivation techniques.
- Offers practical resources such as lesson plans, strategies for parental involvement, classroom management tips, and Q&A responses to common teaching challenges.
- The author shares additional content through a blog supporting their book on engaging parents in school, a Bam Radio show, and contributions to platforms like Education Week Teacher and The New York Times Learning Network.
Standardized Test Scores and Academic Performance at a Public University System Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Standardized test scores are less predictive of academic success than high school GPA at public universities. A one-standard-deviation increase in HSGPA is significantly more predictive of graduation outcomes than SAT scores, especially in test-optional models.
- Cannabis use disorder in young people is linked to higher risks of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety, while adults with cannabis use disorder have lower risks compared to other substance use disorders.
- Institutional autonomy in universities has declined globally, especially in liberal democracies like the USA, where coercive federal actions have significantly reduced autonomy since 2020. This erosion impacts academic freedom and individual scholars.
- Toddlers as young as two can predict conversational turn-taking using linguistic cues, even without fully understanding sentences. This skill develops further with age and is slower in children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD).
- ADHD in teens is linked to higher risks of anxiety and depression due to factors like low self-esteem and parental mental health. Supporting parents and fostering self-esteem in teens can mitigate these risks.
- Grade inflation negatively impacts students' long-term outcomes, including test scores, graduation rates, college enrollment, and earnings. Teachers with higher grade inflation reduce lifetime earnings significantly.
- School assignment reforms prioritizing low-income students at high-income schools can reduce segregation with minimal impacts on public school retention rates.
Teacher Tom: As If They've Never Before Seen a Human Ready and Eager to Learn https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/03/as-if-theyve-never-before-seen-human.html
### Key Points
- Teacher Tom shares that he has never encountered a bored child in his play-based preschool program, as children naturally move from one novel experience to another.
- The article explains that the brain's plasticity allows it to absorb new information, and boredom signals the need for new challenges.
- Teacher Tom emphasizes the importance of seeking novelty in life to maintain brain plasticity, even as adults.
- He critiques standard schooling for its lack of novelty and restrictive nature, which leads to chronic boredom and its negative effects.
- Teacher Tom argues that boredom should be a temporary state, prompting exploration and learning, rather than a prolonged experience.
Testimony on the DOE preliminary education budget for FY 2027 | Class Size Matters Testimony on the DOE preliminary education budget for FY 2027 | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/testimony-on-the-doe-preliminary-education-budget-for-fy-2027/
The testimony presented by Leonie Haimson, Executive Director of Class Size Matters, addresses the challenges facing New York City (NYC) schools in meeting class size reduction mandates as outlined in recent legislation. The focus is on the implications of the preliminary education budget for FY 2027 and the ongoing issues with school construction and enrollment alignment.
## Key Topics and Core Ideas
1. **Class Size Legislation and Compliance**
- The NY State Legislature passed a law mandating a reduction in class sizes to no more than 20 students in grades K-3, 23 in grades 4-8, and 25 in high school by September 2028. Compliance benchmarks increase by 20% each year starting September 2023. However, many schools are struggling to meet these requirements due to insufficient space and funding cuts from the city government ([1]).
2. **Impact of Budget Cuts**
- Mayor Adams' budget cuts in 2023 led to increased class sizes and a significant reduction in the capital plan for school construction, hindering efforts to provide adequate space for smaller classes. Although some funding was restored in July 2024, the effects of prior cuts remain impactful ([2]).
3. **Space and Staffing Challenges**
- The city has allocated funds for hiring additional teachers, yet the Independent Budget Office estimates that more funding is necessary to meet staffing needs. The lack of physical space in schools poses a significant barrier to achieving the class size goals. The School Construction Authority indicated a need for 70,000 additional school seats, but the current capital plan only addresses about half of that need ([2]).
4. **Recommendations for Improvement**
- The Class Size Working Group (CSWG) proposed several recommendations, including:
- Restarting the School Siting Task Force for public input.
- Utilizing educational construction funds effectively.
- Aligning admissions policies to balance enrollment between overcrowded and underenrolled schools.
- Shifting PreK and 3K classes to community-based organizations (CBOs) or Early Childhood Centers to create additional classroom space ([2][3]).
5. **Parental Concerns and Class Size**
- A survey indicated that a significant number of parents who left public schools cited class size as a major factor in their decision. This highlights the importance of addressing class size to retain students and attract new families ([3]).
## Conclusion
The testimony underscores the urgent need for NYC to address class size reduction effectively through adequate funding, strategic planning for school construction, and alignment of enrollment policies. Without significant changes, the city risks failing to meet legal benchmarks and compromising the educational experience for many students, particularly those in high-need communities. The recommendations from the CSWG provide a pathway to alleviate some of these challenges and improve educational outcomes in NYC schools.
Trump threatens to bomb Iran's power plants...then walks it back...Chaos at US airports. WEEKEND QUOTABLES MICHAEL KLONSKY https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/trump-threatens-to-bomb-irans-power
- President Trump initially threatened to bomb Iran's power plants if the Strait of Hormuz wasn't reopened but later walked back the threat, citing "successful talks" with Iranian leaders, which Iran denies.
- The ongoing U.S.-Israel war with Iran, which began on February 28, has led to significant regional and global consequences, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, missile attacks on Israel and U.S.-UK bases, and a spike in global oil prices.
- Iranian officials accuse the U.S. of fabricating claims of negotiations to justify military aggression, while also showcasing advanced missile capabilities that surprised global experts.
- U.S. airports are facing chaos due to unpaid TSA workers amid a partial government shutdown, with President Trump deploying ICE agents to assist TSA, sparking backlash from union leaders and raising security concerns.
- TSA workers have been working without pay, leading to staffing shortages and potential long-term losses of experienced personnel. Union leaders criticize the administration's handling of the situation.
- Broader criticisms of U.S. involvement in the war with Iran include concerns about high casualties, potential parallels to past military quagmires, and resistance from U.S. service members.
Poem: righteous (soldiers devouring angels) “There is only dance music in times of war,” “100 Horses,” Geese PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/poem-righteous-soldiers-devouring
- The poem "Righteous (Soldiers Devouring Angels)" by P.L. Thomas highlights themes of war, complacency, and the rarity of angels compared to ubiquitous soldiers and goblins. It emphasizes the need to awaken from distraction and face societal issues.
- P.L. Thomas, a Professor of Education and poetry editor for the English Journal, has been recognized for his work, including the 2013 George Orwell Award. He shares insights on education and literacy through his Substack platform.
- Thomas critiques the "Science of Reading" movement, arguing that improving comprehension on researcher-designed tests is not equivalent to improving standardized comprehension. He also addresses the perpetuation of myths about "bad teachers" in media.
- Substack is promoted as a platform for cultural and intellectual content, encouraging users to start their own publications or access the app.
No Cameras at Garfield High For the Forseeable Future Says Mayor Wilson https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/03/no-cameras-at-garfield-high-for.html
### Key Points
- Mayor Katie Wilson pauses CCTV camera expansion, citing privacy concerns, except for stadiums during the World Cup under credible threats.
- Parents express mixed opinions: some demand cameras for safety, while others voice privacy concerns.
- NYU's Policing Project will audit camera use protocols before further expansion.
- SPD to deactivate license plate readers near schools and other sensitive locations due to a new state law.
Choosing Democracy: The Resistance Continues for us all. https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/03/the-resistance-continues-for-us-all.html
- The article discusses ongoing resistance against the Trump administration, focusing on a planned protest called "No Kings Day" aimed at opposing the regime's policies.
- The protest seeks to demonstrate widespread opposition to Trump's actions, including his administration's treatment of immigrants, attacks on public health, education, and the environment, as well as his alleged abuses of power.
- Participants aim to honor individuals who have suffered or died under the Trump administration, including those in ICE custody, immigrants, and victims of military actions in Iran and Venezuela.
- The resistance movement also seeks to commemorate law enforcement officers who defended democracy during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots.
- The article emphasizes that the resistance is a fight for democracy and the principle that America belongs to its people, not authoritarian leaders or the wealthy elite.
Fred Klonsky in Retirement 1 ICE as TSA agents. What could go wrong? FRED KLONSKY https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/ice-as-tsa-agents-what-could-go-wrong
- The article discusses the deployment of ICE agents to replace unpaid TSA agents at airport checkpoints, which has raised concerns about passenger safety and the potential for escalated situations due to untrained, armed personnel.
- Everett Kelley of the American Federation of Government Employees criticized the decision, emphasizing that TSA agents have been working without pay to ensure public safety and should not be replaced by ICE agents.
- The writer sarcastically comments on the chaotic implications of this decision, highlighting the potential for increased tension and inefficiency in airport security processes.
Curmudgucation NE: Vouchers Sink Budget PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/ne-vouchers-sink-budget
- Nebraska legislators attempted to include $3.5 million for taxpayer-funded school vouchers in the state budget, despite the program being repealed by voters. This move led to a controversy that derailed the entire budget process.
- Proponents of the voucher program argued it was necessary to help poor children who might be excluded from public schools, but critics highlighted that vouchers primarily benefit wealthier families already using private schools.
- The lack of evidence supporting claims that vouchers help disadvantaged children, alongside the attempt to include the policy in the budget without proper legislation, drew significant criticism.
- The Nebraska State Education Association argued that passing policy through the budget, especially one voters recently rejected, was inappropriate and called for negotiations to remove vouchers from the budget.
- The failed attempt to revive vouchers through the budget reflects the unpopularity of taxpayer-funded school voucher programs and raises questions about the political viability of such initiatives.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today is Monday, March 23, 2026, and the news cycle is dominated by a major shift in the administration's stance on the escalating conflict with Iran, alongside several significant domestic policy moves.
Top Stories: Monday, March 23, 2026
1. 5-Day Reprieve in Iran Conflict
In a sudden turnaround, President Trump announced on Truth Social that he is extending the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
The Shift: After previously threatening to "obliterate" Iranian power plants if the strait wasn't opened by today, the President has paused potential strikes for five days.
Negotiation Claims: He cited "very good and productive conversations" with Tehran, though Iranian state media has publicly denied that any formal negotiations are taking place.
Market Impact: Global markets reacted with a "relief rally"; the S&P 500 jumped nearly 2%, and Brent crude oil prices tumbled over 10% on the news of the de-escalation.
2. ICE Deployment to U.S. Airports
Amidst a partial government shutdown that has left many TSA agents working without pay, the administration has begun deploying Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to major U.S. airports (including JFK, Atlanta, and Newark).
The Purpose: The administration states these agents are there to "supplement" security and help manage massive lines, though the move has drawn sharp criticism from Congressional Democrats who call it an "unprecedented overreach."
3. Legal Battles Over Energy and Education
The administration is facing a wave of new lawsuits from state Attorneys General:
Offshore Wind: A $1 billion deal was announced to pay a developer to cancel federal leases for offshore wind projects on the East Coast.
Critics argue this is a misuse of taxpayer funds to stifle clean energy. USDA Funding: 21 state AGs (led by Minnesota) are suing the administration for allegedly "holding hostage" billions in USDA funding (including SNAP and school lunches) by tying the money to compliance with new policies regarding DEI and immigration.
Oil Pipelines: California has filed a lawsuit to block a Department of Energy order that uses the Defense Production Act to restart controversial oil pipelines, bypasssing state environmental laws.
4. White House Symbolic Moves
Over the weekend, a statue of Christopher Columbus was installed on the White House grounds.