Sunday, February 15, 2026

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS FEBRUARY 15, 2026

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS

FEBRUARY 14, 2026

U.S. News

Partial DHS shutdown begins amid Senate stalemate over funding and ICE reforms, impacting immigration enforcement operations.
Nancy Guthrie abduction case updates — FBI increases reward to $100,000 and releases new suspect details in the ongoing search for the 84-year-old missing woman.
Four new astronauts arrive at the International Space Station via SpaceX to replace NASA's evacuated crew due to health concerns, restoring full operations.
U.S. military airstrikes on Islamic State targets in Syria in retaliation for a prior ambush killing American personnel.
Severe weather and storm disruptions across parts of the South, including potential tornadoes and impacts on areas like Houston.

Politics

DHS funding bill stalls in Senate, leading to partial shutdown and debates over immigration reforms and ICE policies.
Trump's approval rating hits new low amid growing immigration backlash and related enforcement controversies.
SAVE Act and election overhaul discussions — Republicans push for stricter voting rules, raising concerns about potential disenfranchisement.
Texas Senate primary race heats up with intense campaigning and fireworks on both sides ahead of key elections.
Epstein files and DOJ updates — Ongoing scrutiny, including letters on redactions and related political investigations.

World Affairs

Russia-Ukraine war developments — Deadly drone strikes on Odesa, high Russian casualties reported, and upcoming ceasefire talks in Geneva involving U.S. envoys.
Trump-Netanyahu agreement on pressuring Iran to cut oil sales to China as part of maximum pressure campaign.
Munich Security Conference tensions — European leaders (e.g., Macron, Merz) call for stronger EU autonomy and reset with U.S. amid criticisms of Trump's foreign policy shifts.
U.S. airstrikes on ISIS in Syria tied to broader Middle East security dynamics.
India's Jaishankar denies loss of strategic autonomy amid shifts in oil imports and U.S. trade agreements.

Education

(Note: Specific breaking stories for February 15 are limited; key ongoing/trending topics include:)

Continued push for math proficiency reforms and adolescent literacy supports in state policies.
Cellphone bans and screen time reductions expanding in districts to improve student focus.
Educator pay gains building on recent increases, driven by union efforts.
Post-affirmative action admissions data analysis revealing takeaways and challenges for colleges.
Higher education funding restrictions in recent bills limiting administration flexibility.

Economy

S&P 500 weekly decline signals market complacency and rotation toward value/foreign stocks amid caution.
U.S. January inflation at 2.4% — lowest in five years, with positive implications for economic stability.
Global growth signals strengthening — boosted by fiscal policies in Germany, Japan, and U.S. initiatives.
Dow surpassing 50,000 highlighted in discussions of economic success under current administration.
Upcoming economic data previews — including PMI, GDP, and inflation figures for major economies.

Technology

Pentagon threatens to cut ties with Anthropic over AI safeguards and military use restrictions.
Nvidia CEO skips India AI Impact Summit as India positions itself as a global AI growth multiplier.
China's ByteDance releases Doubao 2.0 AI model focused on the "agent era."
AI in translation industry concerns — publishers testing machine translation for books, sparking backlash from professionals.
Ongoing AI bubble worries and investor nervousness in the sector.

Health

Breakthroughs in male birth control research — potential advances unlocking new options.
Protein discovery rejuvenating aging brain cells — promising for neurodegenerative conditions.
GLP-1 weight loss drugs (e.g., Ozempic) — big results but ongoing questions and reviews by WHO.
Measles cases surpass 900 in U.S. across 24 states, per CDC alerts.
Rising colorectal cancer concerns in younger populations highlighted by recent celebrity cases.

Sports

2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina — Day 8 highlights include Jordan Stolz setting Olympic record and winning gold in speed skating; U.S. medals in dual moguls (Jaelin Kauf, Elizabeth Lemley); men's hockey win over Denmark.
NBA All-Star Game preparations — Set for today (February 15) at Intuit Dome with new U.S. vs. World format.
U.S. figure skater Ilia Malinin finishes 8th in recent events, amid Olympic competition.
Ongoing Olympic coverage — Including hockey matchups like Canada vs. France.
Team USA bounce-back in Olympics after tougher prior days, with strong performances in multiple events.

These reflect the most prominent and recurring stories from available sources today. News can evolve quickly!

Big Education Ape: THE TENTACLES OF REPUTATION: HOW JEFFREY EPSTEIN'S ACADEMIC OCTOPUS STRANGLED THE IVORY TOWER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/the-tentacles-of-reputation-how-jeffrey.html

Big Education Ape's article delves into the revelations from , highlighting how he exploited universities and prominent figures to launder his reputation despite his criminal record. The investigation exposes unethical practices, financial manipulation, and complicity within prestigious institutions such as , , , and , showcasing how money and prestige corrupted . The article also discusses the involvement of public figures like and the systemic failures that allowed Epstein's misconduct to persist.

### Key Points

- Jeffrey Epstein used donations and connections with prominent academics to gain legitimacy despite his criminal history, targeting elite institutions such as Harvard, MIT, and Columbia.

- Several academics and institutions ignored Epstein's criminal record, accepting his funds and influence while compromising ethics and reputation.

- Epstein manipulated systems to gain favors, such as admissions for his associates, visa sponsorships, and laundering money through universities.

- Prominent figures, including Bill Gates, were implicated in questionable interactions with Epstein, raising concerns about their judgment and actions.

- The investigation revealed over 3.5 million pages of documents, exposing systemic corruption and complicity in academia, with further unredacted releases expected.

Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 2-8-26 TO 2-14-26 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/the-top-news-stories-this-week-2-8-26.html

The article provides an extensive overview of various global, political, economic, educational, technological, and sports-related events and developments from February 8–14, 2026. Key topics include political shifts under the , international tensions, major educational reforms, economic fluctuations, technological advancements, and highlights from the Super Bowl and .

### Key Points

- and political fallout continues to dominate headlines.

- Trump administration faces backlash over and funding standoff threatening a .

- ends , marking a significant environmental policy shift.

- Deployment of U.S. aircraft carriers to the Middle East amid and nuclear negotiations.

- Capture of celebrated by Trump administration.

- impacts over 60 million people across the East Coast, causing travel disruptions.

- implemented under Trump administration.

- announced between with U.S. pressure on Kyiv for resolution.

- assassinated in Libya, sparking international concern.

- Global trade shifts due to new U.S. tariffs affecting countries like South Africa and Italy.

- launches investigations into higher education policies and sexual assault cases.

- initiated in Louisiana and Washington State regarding discrimination and safety concerns.

- observed in North America.

- reaches $96.5 billion, driven by .

- sees Seattle Seahawks defeating New England Patriots; Kenneth Walker III named MVP.

- Winter Olympics highlights include Lindsey Vonn’s crash, U.S. curling team victory, and figure skating results.

- Trump administration faces scrutiny over Epstein case files and related congressional hearings.

- International education issues include Canada’s cap on international enrollments and Gaza’s tent schools amidst conflict.

- Economic updates show inflation easing, solid consumer spending, and stock market rebound.

- NASA and SpaceX successfully launch Crew-12 mission to ISS.

Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS FEBRUARY 14, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01895896350.html

The article compiles a wide range of topics, including education reforms, political controversies, global issues, economic developments, societal challenges, and advancements in technology. It highlights systemic issues like inequality, privatization, and corruption while emphasizing the need for accountability, equity, and collective action in addressing these problems.

### Key Points

- Jeffrey Epstein's influence on academia and the broader implications of his connections are explored, including the misuse of reputation and power.

- visited an , exposing inhumane conditions, overcrowding, and inadequate facilities for detainees. He demanded immediate action.

- Ukrainian President was nominated for the 2026 , sparking debates about global leadership and recognition.

- Oklahoma's legislative session is marked by controversial bills, including those targeting funding, tribal sovereignty, and transgender rights.

- proposed a bill to criminalize librarians and educators for recommending "sexually explicit" books, raising concerns over and First Amendment violations.

- like NEA and AFT are fighting privatization and advocating for equitable education while exposing billionaire-backed attempts to undermine public schools.

- Teacher strikes in San Francisco highlight the funding crisis in public education, exacerbated by privatization and systemic underfunding.

- The Trump administration continues to roll back environmental protections, including the repeal of the EPA's "endangerment finding," which could worsen .

- ICE's controversial practices, including excessive force and constitutional violations, have led to public outcry and calls for reform.

- Tennessee's Education Freedom Scholarships program sees increased applications but faces criticism for lack of accountability and transparency.

- Florida's Education Finance Program (FEFP) struggles with funding instability due to voucher program expansion, with temporary fixes failing to address structural issues.

- Economic inequality is growing in the U.S., with wealth concentrated among the top 1%, while many struggle with basic needs like housing and food. Collective organizing and worker power are proposed solutions.

- The Trump administration announced significant policy changes, including environmental deregulation, immigration enforcement, and public health funding cuts, sparking legal challenges and protests.

- Play is essential for child development, as it fosters creativity, adaptability, and emotional readiness. Connecticut has implemented legislation to promote play-based learning in early education.

- A Ukrainian athlete was disqualified from the Winter Olympics for honoring war victims, leading to legal challenges and broader discussions on social justice and human rights.

- The article emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments for healing and recovery, both personally and in society, with a focus on equity and care.

- CS Beef Packers recalled over 22,000 pounds of ground beef due to E. coli contamination, urging consumers and food operators to dispose of affected products.

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: FEBRUARY 14, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/morning-news-update-february-14-2026.html?

Big Education Ape's article dives into various global and domestic issues, including the fallout from Jeffrey Epstein's academic connections, U.S. federal government shutdowns, geopolitical tensions, and advancements in education and technology. It highlights key developments across health, politics, and education, emphasizing the intersection of AI and societal challenges.

### Key Points

- Jeffrey Epstein's influence on academic institutions continues to unravel, with newly unredacted files revealing high-profile connections.

- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security faces a partial shutdown due to funding disputes, sparking debates on immigration policies.

- AI is being positioned as a solution for rural healthcare shortages, with mixed reception from critics.

- New Jersey ranks as one of the most educated states in the U.S., with a strong focus on university quality and .

- The addresses global tensions, including U.S.-Europe alliances, the , and China's warnings over Taiwan.

- The U.S. Department of Education introduces significant policy changes, including accreditation reforms and investigations into diversity and inclusion programs.

- Concerns arise over students' over-reliance on AI tools, potentially undermining critical thinking skills.

- The UK plans to rejoin the , boosting student mobility in Europe.

- India's education spending abroad surges, prompting international universities to establish local campuses.

- Global technological advancements include China's progress in AI and chips, and the formation of a global tech alliance for transparency and safety.

- Health breakthroughs include AI-assisted prediabetes screenings and potential treatments for pregnancy complications.

- The 2026 Winter Olympics are underway, with notable events and controversies, while college sports see innovative changes with LED glass floors.

Big Education Ape: BEYOND THE APPLE: THE HIGH STAKES OF TEACHER SOLIDARITY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/beyond-apple-high-stakes-of-teacher.html

The article discusses the ongoing battle over public education in the United States, focusing on the role of , the challenges posed by , and the broader implications for democracy. It highlights the critical work of unions like the in advocating for equitable education and social justice, while exposing the strategies of wealthy individuals and corporations attempting to dismantle public education for profit.

### Key Points

- Teachers' unions, such as the NEA and AFT, play a pivotal role in defending public education and advocating for teachers, students, and communities.

- Unions are increasingly adopting "," addressing issues like racial justice, student health, and housing to improve education outcomes.

- Billionaires and corporations are funding efforts to privatize education, weaken unions, and promote that divert public funds to private schools.

- The fight over public education reflects a larger struggle between democracy and oligarchy, with public education seen as essential for an informed citizenry.

- The article encourages readers to support public education by tracking funding, attending school board meetings, and advocating for policies that benefit all students.

Big Education Ape: SFUSD STRIKE UPDATE: TOO RICH TO CARE: SAN FRANCISCO'S EDUCATION CRISIS PROVES MONEY CAN'T BUY COMMON SENSE #SupportSFTeachers #UESFStrong #FundOurSchools #IronyIsn'tDead https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/sfusd-strike-update-too-rich-to-care.html

Schools across the U.S. are facing severe challenges due to underfunding, privatization, and systemic issues. San Francisco, despite being one of the wealthiest cities globally, is grappling with an ongoing as educators demand fair wages, healthcare, and adequate resources. The crisis is exacerbated by historical policies like , which shifted school funding from stable property taxes to volatile state revenues. Meanwhile, privatization efforts, such as and voucher programs backed by billionaires, are diverting funds from public education, further straining already struggling districts.

### Key Points

- Tennessee school vouchers are criticized for benefiting the wealthy while neglecting public schools.

- Ohio spends significantly more on school privatization than public schools in many communities.

- are striking for fair pay, healthcare benefits, and better resources, highlighting the education funding crisis in one of the wealthiest cities.

- California's Proposition 13 has led to chronic underfunding of public schools since 1978, moving school funding from property taxes to unstable state revenues.

- Urban school districts across California, including Los Angeles and Oakland, are struggling with severe financial issues due to systemic underfunding.

- , such as , are draining resources from public education without significant improvements in student outcomes.

- 's proposed education reforms, including centralizing control and withholding funds, face criticism for promoting privatization and undermining public education.

Big Education Ape: SPECIAL: ’s Opening Statement at Hearing Slamming ’s Epstein Cover-Up, Betrayal of the Principle of Justice for All https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/special-ranking-member-raskins-opening.html

Big Education Ape SPECIAL: at Hearing Slamming highlights major accusations against Attorney General for mishandling the ’s oversight, particularly regarding the case. Representative criticized Bondi for protecting abusers, exposing victims’ identities, and turning the DOJ into a political tool for former President Trump. The statement calls for accountability, transparency, and a return to justice.

Big Education Ape: SPECIAL STRIKE COVERAGE: WHEN THE GOLDEN CITY CAN'T AFFORD GOLDEN TEACHERS #SupportSFTeachers #UESFStrong #FundOurSchools #IronyIsn'tDead https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/special-strike-coverage-when-golden.html

highlight the challenges educators face in one of the wealthiest cities in the world. Teachers demand fair wages, fully funded healthcare, and better support for vulnerable students, as the school district struggles with a budget deficit despite being in a city of immense wealth. The strike has gained widespread attention, symbolizing a broader crisis in California's education system.

Big Education Ape: IMMIGRATION CONTROL OR TERROR CAMPAIGN? IS OUT OF CONTROL #NoKingsProtest #NoKingsMar28 #NoKingsInAmerica #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/02/immigration-control-or-terror-campaign.html

This article discusses the controversial actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the United States, focusing on its militarization, alleged violations of , and the resulting public outcry. It highlights the expansion of ICE operations under Homeland Security Secretary , including the use of excessive force, warrantless searches, and the killing of American citizens. The article also emphasizes the need for accountability, proportional law enforcement, and the protection of constitutional rights, urging citizens to take action through protests, voting, and community support.

Does Love Really Make the World (or Classroom) Go ‘Round? A Valentines Day Reflection NANCY FLANAGAN https://flanagann.substack.com/p/does-love-really-make-the-world-or

Does Love Really Make the World (or Classroom) Go ‘Round?

### Key Points

- The article discusses whether love and care are essential for fostering success in classrooms and communities, emphasizing the importance of relationships, kindness, and respect.

- Fear, threats, and humiliation are counterproductive for students, as they lead to shutdowns or resistance, highlighting the need for a supportive environment in schools.

- The piece references the 's findings about the negative impact of political rhetoric and policies on immigrant students and their families.

- for decision-making, focusing on truth, fairness, goodwill, and benefit, are proposed as principles for improving societal and educational practices.

- While love for students isn't mandatory, caring for one another is presented as a solution to challenges in education and society.

Schools Matter: Make Sure Your Community Says NO to New U.S. Concentration Camps http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/02/make-sure-your-community-says-no-to-new.html

The article discusses the controversial plans by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Trump administration to spend over $38 billion to convert warehouses into massive detention centers for immigrants. The plan involves retrofitting industrial buildings to detain up to 10,000 people at a time, as part of a broader mass deportation effort. This initiative has faced significant opposition from both Republican and Democratic officials, as well as local communities across the United States. Concerns include the economic impact, local resistance, and the ethical implications of detaining immigrants in facilities not designed for human habitation.

### Key Points

- ICE plans to spend over $38 billion to convert warehouses into detention centers for mass deportations.

- The facilities are intended to detain up to 10,000 immigrants at a time, expanding the existing detention system.

- The initiative has sparked bipartisan opposition from local officials and communities, including those in Republican-leaning areas.

- Concerns have been raised about the ethical and practical implications of detaining people in retrofitted industrial buildings.

Infographic: “Chart: What Powered the World in 2024?”... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/

This article provides an overview of various educational resources, teaching strategies, and reflections shared by an educational blogger. It includes topics like teaching in turbulent times, International Mother Language Day, Ramadan resources, , and strategies for motivating students. The author also highlights their books, blog, and other professional contributions.

### Key Points

- The blog shares educational resources, teaching strategies, and reflections, including posts on teaching during challenging times and International Mother Language Day.

- Resources for Ramadan and other cultural events are highlighted as helpful for educators.

- Infographics on global risks and energy trends are suggested for classroom discussions.

- The author discusses AI tools and their applications in education.

- Books authored by the blogger focus on instructional strategies for various subjects and levels, including ELLs and parental involvement.

- The blog provides tips for student motivation, self-achievement, and classroom management.

- The author contributes to external platforms like Education Week and the New York Times Learning Network, sharing insights and strategies.

Frederick Douglass Chose This Day To Be His Birthday – Here Are Teaching & Learning Resources About Him | Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2026/02/14/frederick-douglass-chose-this-day-to-be-his-birthday-here-are-teaching-learning-resources-about-him-2/

### Key Points

- Frederick Douglass chose a specific day to celebrate as his birthday, with teaching and learning resources available about him.

- The article mentions various educational resources and anniversaries, including the Parkland Massacre, Sandy Hook Massacre, and Ruby Bridges integrating an all-white school in Louisiana.

- The author, Larry Ferlazzo, is a retired high school teacher who shares educational resources and reflections on historical events.

- Recent posts and comments on the blog touch on topics like teaching during turbulent times, AI tools for educators, and using photos in lessons.

glen brown: Hartmann on the Craziness of the trump administration https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/02/hartmann-on-craziness-of-trump.html

### Key Points

- The article critiques the Trump administration and its policies, highlighting corruption, environmental deregulation, voter suppression, and human rights violations.

- It discusses the Trump administration's detrimental impact on climate change policies, including the repeal of scientific findings on greenhouse gas regulations, which has severe environmental and economic consequences.

- The article highlights voter suppression efforts under the Trump administration, with particular focus on the SAVE Acts and restrictions on voting rights for minorities, women, and low-income individuals.

- It criticizes the Trump administration for its treatment of immigrants, including reports of inhumane practices by ICE, such as deporting migrants to unsafe countries and mistreatment of detainees.

- Allegations against Trump and Jeffrey Epstein are mentioned, including claims of sexual abuse and murder, with criticism of the lack of investigation by the FBI and DOJ.

- The article raises concerns about misogyny and white supremacy within the Trump administration and its supporters, referencing statements by figures like Nick Fuentes.

- Economic issues under the Trump administration, such as a housing crisis, rising delinquency rates, and tax policies favoring the wealthy, are discussed.

- The article mentions public health mismanagement, including the rejection of a potentially life-saving flu vaccine and poor leadership in addressing health crises.

- It also includes references to various societal issues, such as social justice, pensions, education reform, climate change, and domestic terrorism.

Seattle Schools Community Forum: This and That, February 14, 2026 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/02/this-and-that-february-14-2026.html?spref=tw

Seattle Schools Community Forum discusses various topics related to Seattle Public Schools, national events, and broader educational issues. The article touches on Presidents Day events, controversies surrounding U.S. politics and their impact on international events like the FIFA World Cup, local crime incidents affecting students, support for immigrant families in schools, concerns about the use of technology and AI in education, potential school closures, changes in advanced learning programs, and issues of within the school district.

### Key Points

- Seattle Schools Community Forum highlights Presidents Day free admission to national parks for U.S. citizens/residents, with concerns about the exclusion of international visitors starting in 2026.

- Discussions around U.S. politics, including actions by President Trump, raise concerns about hosting FIFA World Cup matches in the U.S.

- Seattle Police are investigating the murder of two Rainier Beach High School students and seeking public assistance for information.

- Seattle Public Schools (SPS) has launched a webpage to support immigrant students and families, offering resources like a deportation defense hotline.

- A new group, Seattle Families for Intentional Tech (SFIT), advocates for clear policies on the use of technology and AI in classrooms, emphasizing transparency and consent.

- SPS Superintendent Shuldiner discusses potential school closures, citing under-enrollment and aging buildings, and hints at changes to the Highly Capable program to address enrollment issues.

- The article mentions a scandal involving nepotism within Seattle Public Schools, highlighting concerns about promotions based on personal connections.

NYC Public School Parents: Hearings and testimony on Mayoral control from and others https://nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com/2026/02/hearings-and-testimony-on-mayoral.html

NYC Public School Parents blog discusses recent hearings on mayoral control, highlighting critiques from parents, advocates, and experts like Diane Ravitch. The governance system is criticized for being undemocratic and prone to corruption, with testimonies proposing alternative solutions. A recent bribery scandal involving school safety leadership and tech vendors further underscores systemic issues. The blog also promotes petitions, events, and resources related to education reforms, class size reduction, and data privacy in NYC schools.

### Key Points

- Hearings on mayoral control featured incisive questioning and testimonies criticizing the governance system's flaws and lack of checks and balances.

- Diane Ravitch and other advocates highlighted issues of waste, corruption, and undemocratic practices under mayoral control.

- A bribery scandal involving the School Safety division head and a tech vendor was revealed shortly after the hearings, emphasizing systemic problems.

- NYC Kids PAC President Naila Rosario criticized Mayor Mamdani for reversing his stance on mayoral control without explanation.

- The blog promotes petitions, events, and resources addressing class size reduction, AI use in schools, and student data privacy.

Today's vocabulary word: '' Nearly 3,000 Palestinians have been ‘evaporated.’ MICHAEL KLONSKY https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/todays-vocabulary-word-thermobaric

Subscribe Today's vocabulary word: 'Thermobaric'

### Key Points

- Nearly 3,000 Palestinians have been "evaporated" in Gaza since October 2023, with the use of U.S.-supplied thermobaric and high-temperature munitions.

- Thermobaric weapons create fireballs, pressure waves, and vacuums, incinerating bodies and leaving minimal biological traces. These weapons are internationally restricted due to their indiscriminate effects but are supplied by major U.S. defense companies.

- Independent verification of the destruction in Gaza is hindered by Israel's restriction on outside investigators, but evidence aligns with the known effects of these weapons.

- Gaza’s Civil Defense teams use a “method of elimination” to document victims, identifying those “evaporated” based on the lack of recoverable remains.

- The U.S. bipartisan political system continues to support military aid to Israel despite growing opposition from Democratic voters, many of whom view Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide.

- Democratic leaders receive significant financial backing from pro-Israel networks, aligning their policies with military aid transfers despite public dissent among their voter base.

- The Trump administration, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has further accelerated weapons shipments to Israel while supporting diplomatic shielding.

Choosing Democracy: ICE Grows and Grows https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/02/ice-grows-and-grows.html

The article discusses the rapid and aggressive expansion of across the United States under the Trump administration. This expansion is driven by a significant increase in ICE personnel and funding, bypassing usual government lease procurement procedures due to "national security concerns." ICE's new offices are strategically located near sensitive civilian locations, such as schools, hospitals, places of worship, and detention facilities, raising concerns about its growing physical presence and impact on communities.

### Key Points

- ICE and DHS have launched a secret campaign to expand ICE's physical presence across the US, with over 150 leases and office expansions planned.

- ICE offices are being situated near sensitive civilian locations, such as schools, medical facilities, childcare agencies, and places of worship.

- The General Services Administration (GSA) is playing a critical role in facilitating ICE's expansion by bypassing standard lease procurement procedures under "national security concerns."

- ICE has more than doubled in size since President Trump took office in 2025, with 22,000 officers and agents and plans to hire thousands more.

- The "ICE surge" team within GSA is tasked with rapidly acquiring new office locations and expanding existing ones, often prioritizing speed over standard procedures.

- ICE's expansion includes legal and enforcement operations, such as its Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).

- ICE requested to bypass the Competition in Contracting Act (CICA) due to "unusual or compelling urgency" for leasing space to accommodate its hiring surge.

- ICE's expansion is concentrated in key states like Texas, California, and New York, with dozens of projects underway nationwide.

- Many ICE offices are strategically located near existing detention facilities and warehouses used for immigrant processing and detention.

- Concerns have been raised about ICE sharing spaces with unrelated government agencies and being located near sensitive community areas.

TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY

Today, February 14, 2026, the news cycle is dominated by President Trump’s escalating rhetoric regarding Iran and a new domestic push for federal control over election regulations.

Here are the top stories involving the President today:

Foreign Policy: Iran and Middle East Escalation

Regime Change Rhetoric: While traveling to Palm Beach for the holiday weekend, President Trump stated that a change in power in Iran "would be the best thing that could happen." This signals a significantly tougher line as the administration weighs potential military action against Tehran.
Second Aircraft Carrier Deployed: Trump confirmed the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford to the Middle East to join the USS Abraham Lincoln. He noted the carrier is being sent "in case we don't make a deal" regarding Iran's nuclear program and regional activities.
Netanyahu Meetings: These developments follow recent high-level talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been pushing for the U.S. to neutralize Iran’s ballistic missile program.

Domestic Policy: Voting & Elections

Executive Order Threat: President Trump has threatened a new executive order to mandate voter ID requirements nationwide. This comes as the "SAVE America Act"—which requires proof of citizenship to register—passed the House but faces a difficult path in the Senate.
Federal Takeover of Elections: In recent comments, Trump suggested the federal government should "nationalize" or take over the voting process in specific locations, challenging the constitutional precedent that states manage their own elections.

Legal & Regional Tensions

Public Health Funding Lawsuit: California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota have filed a joint lawsuit against the Trump administration today. They are challenging the White House's decision to cut $600 million in CDC public health grants, alleging the cuts are "arbitrary political animus" against Democratic-led states.
DHS Partial Shutdown: A partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security began today after funding expired. While ICE and CBP operations remain funded via previous legislation, services like domestic flight oversight and the Coast Guard face potential disruption.
Tariff Rebuke: In a rare show of bipartisan friction, the House recently voted to block Trump’s tariffs on Canada, a move the President warned would have political consequences for Republicans who supported it.

Diplomatic Climate

Munich Security Conference: While Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in Germany attempting to reassure allies of "trans-Atlantic ties," California Governor Gavin Newsom is also at the conference, positioning his state as a "stable international partner" in direct contrast to the administration’s "America First" withdrawal from traditional alliances.

Latest News and Comment from Education

Sunday, February 15, 2026