JANUARY 25, 2026
U.S. News
- Fatal shooting of a man by federal immigration officers in Minneapolis — A 37-year-old ICU nurse was shot and killed by federal agents during an immigration enforcement action; officials say he was armed and resisted, but it has sparked protests and renewed fears in the community amid broader crackdowns (third such incident in Minneapolis this month).
- Winter storm preparations and impacts — A significant winter storm is forecast to hit parts of the Northeast (including New York City area starting early Sunday), with emergency declarations (e.g., in West Virginia approved by President Trump) and school/business closures expected.
- Protests and reactions to federal enforcement actions — Crowds gathered in places like Eugene, Oregon, to protest the latest Minneapolis killing, highlighting tensions over immigration policies.
- President Trump's first year anniversary reflections — Marking one year since Trump's return to office, the White House highlights "365 wins" in areas like border security and prosperity; discussions on shows like C-SPAN's Washington Journal focus on his administration's impact and Campaign 2026 outlook.
- Trump's tariff threats against Canada — President Trump threatened 100% tariffs on Canadian imports if Canada pursues certain deals with China, escalating trade rhetoric.
- Trump's comments on NATO — Criticism from allies (e.g., Australia calling for respect toward NATO soldiers and their families) following Trump's remarks on alliances.
- U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization — The U.S. officially left the WHO (effective around January 22-24, 2026), drawing regret from the agency and marking the end of a year of controversial U.S. health policy shifts.
- Trump administration's international stances — Ongoing reactions to U.S. policies on NATO, trade (including Canada threats), and alliances.
- Russia-Ukraine conflict developments — Reports of Russian UAVs penetrating defenses and causing damage in Kyiv, amid continued hostilities.
- Trump administration's education overhaul — Education Secretary Linda McMahon is pushing major changes, including vouchers, emphasis on patriotism/prayer, and guidance declaring race-conscious policies illegal; seen as potentially reshaping or ending traditional public education structures.
- Recognition awards — U.S. Secretary of Education named a head custodian from Louisiana as the 2026 National winner in a school support staff category.
- Broader policy impacts — Reviews of how the administration has altered areas from Head Start to civil rights enforcement in education over the past year.
- IMF World Economic Outlook Update (January 2026) — Global growth projected at around 3.3% for 2026 (slightly up from prior estimates), with resilient but near-potential conditions expected amid ongoing factors like tariffs and volatility.
- Looking back at 2025 market moments — Analyses of 2025's defining events (tariffs, earnings growth, volatility) and implications for 2026 investments.
- Continuation of stable global outlook — Forecasts from sources like S&P Global suggest steady real GDP growth patterns persisting into 2026.
- Trump pushes for AI data centers — Administration support for AI infrastructure, though a proposed project in Alabama faces local pushback.
- Intel updates — CEO reports disappointing chip fabrication yields, with improvements targeted for 2026.
- TikTok U.S. deal details — Ongoing aspects of arrangements to keep TikTok operating in the U.S., including creator visibility and business continuity.
- U.S. exit from WHO — As noted in world affairs, the formal withdrawal has drawn international regret and highlights shifts in global health cooperation.
- HHS grant pause and reversal — The Department of Health and Human Services briefly paused (then resumed) about $5 billion in public health grants to states.
- Insurance industry scrutiny — Executives from major insurers deflected blame for rising costs, pointing to hospitals amid ongoing affordability debates.
- NBA action — Key matchups including Brooklyn Nets vs. LA Clippers, Toronto Raptors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, and others on the January 25 slate, with betting trends and previews highlighting competitive games.
- College basketball — Kentucky's 72-63 win over Ole Miss, with post-game recaps and highlights from Coach Mark Pope.
- General league notes — Various NBA games and discussions, including some postponements (e.g., Wolves-Warriors referenced in open threads, potentially tied to external events like the Minneapolis shooting).
A Veteran Teacher Shadows Two Students and Learns a Sobering Lesson (Grant Wiggins) https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/01/24/a-veteran-teacher-shadows-two-students-and-learns-a-sobering-lesson-grant-wiggins/ via @CubanLarry
### Key Points
- A veteran teacher shadowed students for two days and realized how exhausting and passive the high school classroom experience can be.
- Students spend approximately 90% of their time in class sitting passively and absorbing information, which can lead to mental and physical fatigue.
- The teacher recognized the importance of active learning strategies, such as mini-lessons, interactive activities, and starting classes with student-driven questions.
- The teacher reflected on the negative impact of sarcasm and impatience, recognizing the need for empathy and a supportive classroom environment.
- Recommendations included reducing lecture time, integrating student-led discussions, and structuring tests to allow for a question period before starting.
- The teacher gained a new appreciation for the hard work conscientious students put into their education and encouraged other educators to try shadowing students.
### Key Points
- Reflections on the role of writers in society, as discussed by Ambrose Bierce and Albert Camus.
- Criticism of Donald Trump's impact on NATO, U.S.-European relations, and global trust in American leadership.
- Discussion on the vulnerabilities within the international rules-based order and the U.S.'s role in global governance.
- Analysis of Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and its implications for international trade.
- Commentary on various political, social, and cultural issues, including pensions, education, healthcare, social justice, and international conflicts like Ukraine and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
- Mention of key events and figures, such as President Zelenskyy's address, Venezuela's political crisis, and the January 6th Capitol attack.
- Reflection on historical and cultural topics, including WWII, Roe v. Wade, and Martin Luther King Jr.
ICE: Not your friendly neighborhood cops https://teacherinastrangeland.blog/2026/01/24/ice-not-your-friendly-neighborhood-cops/ via @nancyflanagan
- The author reflects on a conversation with an acquaintance who supports ICE's actions, expressing shock at their perspective, especially given the harm caused by ICE's practices like detaining non-criminals and separating families.
- The author questions the morality of supporting government-sponsored violence against innocent people and criticizes the lack of public outcry against the agency's actions.
- The piece emphasizes the importance of speaking up against such injustices, even if it feels socially uncomfortable or unlikely to change opinions.
- The article includes a reference to a related New York Times article discussing issues with ICE, encouraging readers to explore the topic further.
We need to listen to the school children tell us what their diagnosed ADHD feels like Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
Education Research Report: Insights and Studies on ADHD, Adolescent Mental Health, Bullying, and Education Models
### Key Points
- Listening to children with ADHD can provide valuable insights into their experiences and needs to improve their learning and participation in school.
- A study on two children with inattentive ADHD shows that giving them autonomy in learning one day a week improves their motivation and engagement despite challenges with focus and self-regulation.
- Research highlights the importance of self-determination in learning, emphasizing that it can enhance motivation and effort among students with ADHD.
- ADHD is not inherently a learning challenge but an attention-related issue. A lack of support within classrooms can hinder children with ADHD from thriving.
- The debate on the legitimacy of ADHD as a diagnosis detracts from addressing the actual needs of children living with it. The focus should shift to creating inclusive learning environments.
- A new edition of "Treating and Preventing Adolescent Mental Health Disorders" highlights the importance of early intervention, prevention strategies, and addressing societal factors affecting youth mental health.
- A nationwide study on public Montessori preschool programs shows stronger academic and developmental outcomes for children in these programs, with lower costs compared to conventional preschools.
- Recycled tire rubber used in playgrounds and sports fields may release harmful chemicals and metals, posing risks to the environment and human health, especially in smaller particle sizes.
- Moral courage is a significant factor in encouraging prosocial defense behaviors in school bullying situations, and targeted training can enhance students’ awareness and decisiveness in addressing bullying.
- Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) graduates earn more than Associate’s degree holders but less than traditional Bachelor’s degree recipients, with varying outcomes depending on the field of study.
Well done Minnesota. A General Strike is a General Strike. The last time there was a general strike in Minneapolis was 1934. FRED KLONSKY https://fredklonsky.substack.com/p/well-done-minnesota-a-general-strike
- The article reflects on a memory of a kindergarten student creating a clay pot, juxtaposing it with the recent distressing image of a five-year-old, Liam Conejo Ramos, being detained by immigration authorities at school after his father was taken by ICE.
- The author expresses outrage at the incident, emphasizing that children should experience creativity and safety, not trauma caused by state actions.
- The article highlights a general strike in Minneapolis protesting ICE, marking the first such strike there since 1934 and the first in the U.S. since Oakland in 1954. Schools and businesses were closed, and people protested in the streets.
- The media’s reluctance to call the event a “general strike” and the federal government’s avoidance of terms like “ICE” in public messaging are criticized for downplaying the gravity of the situation and its emotional impact.
Schools Matter: ICE Executes Another Citizen in Minneapolis http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/01/ice-shoots-dead-another-citizen-in.html
### Key Points
- The article discusses the execution of a citizen by ICE in Minneapolis, highlighting concerns about ICE's actions and its impact on society.
- It mentions various related issues, including the dangers of AI to children, the influence of poverty on education, and the role of teacher quality.
- The blog contains critical commentary on educational policies, such as "No Excuses" teaching, standardized testing, and the effects of poverty on learning outcomes.
- A range of articles and reviews are referenced, addressing topics like teacher education, public school reform, and the implications of testing in education.
- The article discusses an incident involving ICE agents allegedly committing murder, with claims of excessive violence and shooting.
- The blog encourages viewers to watch a video of the incident and not believe official narratives.
- Additional blog content includes recent posts covering topics such as political issues, societal challenges, and book recommendations.
- Archives of previous posts date back to 2012, covering various topics like education, politics, and social issues.
Trump Education Department Folds On DEI Lawsuit Appeal From Forbes.com PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/trump-education-department-folds
The article discusses the controversy surrounding the Connetquot Central School District (CCSD) in Long Island, NY, which changed its school mascot from "Thunderbirds" to "T-birds" as part of a settlement with the state of New York. This followed a state mandate to remove Native American imagery from school mascots. The federal Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights has since deemed this change inadequate and ordered the district to revert to its original "Thunderbirds" mascot, citing Title VI violations. Native American leaders, however, argue that such mascots perpetuate stereotypes and harm their community. This decision reflects broader debates about cultural representation, equity, and the political influence on education policies.
### Key Points
- The Connetquot Central School District changed its mascot from "Thunderbirds" to "T-birds" following a New York state mandate to remove Native American mascots.
- The federal Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights deemed this change insufficient and ordered the district to revert to "Thunderbirds," citing Title VI violations.
- Native American leaders, such as Chief Harry Wallace, oppose the use of Native American imagery as mascots, arguing it perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
- The controversy reflects broader political and cultural debates about representation, discrimination, and federal versus state authority in education.
LYING in PUBLIC | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2026/01/24/lying-in-public/
- The article discusses the issue of police and politicians lying in public, emphasizing that such behavior is a deliberate demonstration of power and intimidation.
- Public lying by powerful figures is described as a tactic from authoritarian regimes to show their ability to deceive without consequence.
- The author connects this behavior to broader historical and political patterns, suggesting it is a recurring strategy in governance.
Bovino's Death Squad Wannabees Strike Again. Mayor Frey: 'How many more people need to die?' MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/bovinos-death-squad-wannabees-strike
### Key Points
- Another Minneapolis resident, Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a U.S. citizen and lawful gun owner, was killed by ICE agents, sparking outrage and protests.
- The incident occurred during a period of heightened protests against ICE's actions, including a statewide general strike in Minnesota.
- Video evidence contradicts the Department of Homeland Security's claims that Pretti was a terrorist, showing him helping a woman before being attacked and fatally shot by ICE agents.
- This is the third federal shooting in Minneapolis within weeks, highlighting a pattern of aggressive and unaccountable federal operations.
- Federal officials have claimed "absolute immunity" for agents, raising concerns about law enforcement operating without accountability.
- The article draws parallels between these actions and extrajudicial killings under Rodrigo Duterte in the Philippines, which were praised by Donald Trump.
- Former DC Police Officer Michael Fanone is highlighted for his confrontation with election-denial activist Ivan Raiklin, showcasing his continued fight against right-wing extremism.
It Is Unconscionable That Our Government Is Choosing to Harm Children Like Liam Our immigration enforcement is inflicting injury, trauma, and fear on children across the entire country https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/it-is-unconscionable-that-our-government
### Key Points
- Federal immigration enforcement is harming children through inhumane detention conditions, family separations, and raids that cause trauma and fear.
- The story of Liam Ramos, a five-year-old boy used by ICE agents during a raid, exemplifies the moral and ethical failures of current immigration policies.
- Children are being used as tools in immigration enforcement, causing profound psychological harm and destabilizing families and communities.
- ICE operations near schools and other child-centered locations have led to decreased attendance and increased fear among students from immigrant families.
- Detention centers, such as the South Texas Family Residential Center, have been reported to have inhumane conditions, including lack of clean water, spoiled food, and toxic stress for children.
- The Trump administration's efforts to eliminate the Flores Settlement, which sets minimum standards for children in custody, could exacerbate the harm faced by detained children.
- Legal representation for unaccompanied immigrant children has been reduced, leaving vulnerable minors to navigate complex legal systems without adequate support.
- Immigration enforcement policies have led to incidents of children being left alone, traumatized, and afraid due to the detention of their parents.
- Fear of immigration enforcement has caused widespread anxiety, bullying, and absenteeism among immigrant students, as well as a climate of fear in schools and communities.
- The article calls for policy reforms, including protecting the Flores Settlement, ending family detention, restoring protections for sensitive locations, ensuring congressional oversight, and guaranteeing legal representation for children in immigration proceedings.
- The article emphasizes the need for society to prioritize the well-being and rights of children over political agendas and to take action to advocate for their protection.
Choosing Democracy: Man Killed in Minneapolis was holding a cell phone: Not a gun ! https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/01/man-killed-in-minneapolis-was-holding.html
### Key Points
- Alex Jeffrey Pretti, an ICU nurse, was fatally shot by federal agents in Minneapolis, with DHS claiming he was armed.
- Verified video footage shows Pretti holding a phone, not a gun, while filming and assisting protesters before being apprehended.
- Footage indicates excessive use of force as agents pinned Pretti down, struck him, and fired multiple shots, despite him being unarmed.
- The incident highlights broader issues of law enforcement accountability and the need for democratic reforms.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, Saturday, January 24, 2026, the news regarding President Trump is dominated by significant trade threats against Canada, domestic unrest in Minneapolis, and a massive federal response to a winter storm hitting the Eastern United States.
Major Headlines
100% Tariff Threat on Canada: In a major escalation of trade tensions, President Trump has threatened to impose a 100% tariff on all Canadian imports.
This is in response to a new trade deal between Canada and China. Trump referred to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as "Governor Carney" on Truth Social, suggesting Canada is becoming a "drop-off port" for Chinese goods. Minneapolis Unrest & Federal Shootings: A second fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal agents in Minneapolis in less than three weeks has sparked nationwide protests.
Mayor Jacob Frey has publicly slammed the administration, demanding an end to the "ICE invasion" of the city. Meanwhile, a federal judge has temporarily blocked the administration's attempt to freeze child care funding for five Democratic-led states. Emergency Declarations for Winter Storm: With a "potentially catastrophic" ice storm hitting the South and East Coast, the President has approved federal emergency declarations for multiple states, including Tennessee, Arkansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, and West Virginia.
Foreign Policy & Defense
2026 National Defense Strategy: The administration officially released its new National Defense Strategy, titled "Restoring Peace Through Strength for a New Golden Age of America." The document emphasizes "burden-sharing," telling allies they must handle more of their own security, and shifts focus toward dominance in the Western Hemisphere.
Call with UK Prime Minister: Trump spoke with Keir Starmer today.
The discussion reportedly covered a "sustainable ceasefire" in Ukraine as the war enters its fourth year, as well as tensions regarding Trump’s recent comments about the performance of NATO troops in Afghanistan. Middle East "Armada": Reports indicate Trump has ordered a U.S. naval "armada" toward the Middle East to monitor Iran, following reports of high death tolls in recent Iranian internal crackdowns.
Other Notable News
Super Bowl Absence: The President announced he will not attend the upcoming Super Bowl, citing that the venue is "too far away."
Mexico City Policy: Pro-life leaders are praising the administration today for a newly announced expansion of the "Mexico City Policy," which restricts federal funding for global health organizations that provide or promote abortions.
