TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
FEBRUARY 18, 2026
U.S. News
- Death of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson — The longtime activist and two-time presidential candidate passed away at age 84 in Chicago, prompting widespread tributes to his legacy alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- Armed man arrested near U.S. Capitol — An 18-year-old suspect was apprehended after running toward the Capitol building while allegedly wearing a tactical vest and carrying a loaded shotgun.
- Deadly multi-vehicle pileup in Colorado — Storms caused a massive crash involving over 30 vehicles (including trucks), resulting in fatalities and injuries.
- Investigation update in Nancy Guthrie case — DNA from gloves found near the missing woman's home did not match federal databases or home samples, complicating the ongoing probe.
- Social Security payments disbursed — Millions received February payments under the 2.8% COLA adjustment, with eligibility details for those born on certain dates.
Politics
- Major Japanese investment announcement in U.S. — President Trump highlighted $36 billion in Japanese-funded projects, including a massive natural gas power plant in Ohio, an oil export facility in Texas, and an industrial diamond plant in Georgia, tied to a trade deal reducing tariffs.
- Progress in U.S.-Iran nuclear talks — Indirect negotiations in Geneva concluded with "good progress" and agreement on guiding principles, amid Trump's warnings of potential escalation.
- Ongoing U.S.-Russia-Ukraine peace discussions — Meetings continue involving officials to negotiate an end to the Ukraine war, with follow-up rounds expected.
- Armed threat at Capitol — The arrest of a suspect near the building raises security concerns in a politically charged environment.
World Affairs
- U.S.-Iran talks advance in Geneva — Both sides reported constructive progress on nuclear issues, with plans to exchange draft proposals soon.
- Russia-Ukraine war negotiations — U.S., Russian, and Ukrainian delegations meet again, building on recent discussions; separate Ukraine-Turkey talks also focus on ending the conflict.
- Bangladesh election outcome — Tarique Rahman and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party secured a landslide victory in parliamentary elections following recent political upheaval.
- Ongoing Gaza devastation — Drone footage continues to highlight widespread destruction amid the conflict.
Education
- CBSE Class 10 and 12 exams updates — Recent Math and other papers were described as easy to moderate; incidents of cheating led to teacher suspensions in some regions (e.g., Maharashtra HSC exams).
- Higher education funding concerns — Reports highlight potential shortfalls in Pell Grants and evolving state priorities for colleges under current policies.
- Policy and access changes — Discussions around accelerated degree programs and broader undergraduate research opportunities gain momentum.
Economy
- Japanese investments boost U.S. energy and industry — $36 billion in projects announced (e.g., Ohio's record-breaking natural gas plant, Texas oil export terminal), part of a broader $550 billion pledge under trade terms.
- Social Security COLA payments — February disbursements reflect the 2.8% increase, impacting millions of recipients.
- Market and trade developments — U.S. stocks show modest gains with tech recovery; focus on FOMC minutes and global rate decisions.
Technology
- AI and digital summits — Events like India's AI Impact Summit feature high-profile keynotes (e.g., Bill Gates), emphasizing global leadership in AI.
- Tech sector rebound — U.S. tech shares recover amid broader market movements.
- YouTube outage resolution — Brief disruptions in the U.S. resolved, with company updates on causes.
Health
- Air quality alerts — Fine particulate matter advisory issued for regions like New York City metro due to weather conditions.
- Ongoing research highlights — Studies link wearables to detecting depression relapse early; continued use of drugs like Ozempic despite side effects; ultra-processed foods tied to higher risks for cancer survivors.
- Public health policy — Discussions on Medicare/Medicaid extenders and telehealth flexibilities from recent appropriations.
Sports
- 2026 Winter Olympics ongoing — Key events include U.S. men's hockey and figure skating competitions (e.g., women's events with U.S. athletes like Amber Glenn).
- College basketball matchups — High-profile games such as Gonzaga vs. USF in the West Coast Conference.
- T20 World Cup and other cricket — Matches featuring teams like New Zealand vs. Canada; Australia knocked out in recent rounds.
- Various leagues — A-League football draws (e.g., Auckland FC vs. Sydney); ongoing basketball analyses (e.g., Arizona's recent losses).
These stories reflect a mix of diplomacy, domestic incidents, economic deals, and ongoing global events dominating coverage today.
Remembering Jesse Jackson https://dianeravitch.net/2026/02/17/remembering-jesse-jackson/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The New Mexico legislature announced an investigation into Jeffrey Epstein's Zorro Ranch, following revelations that the FBI had searched his other properties but not the ranch.
- A bipartisan committee will investigate allegations of trafficking and sexual abuse at the ranch, seeking testimony from survivors and local residents.
- The investigation aims to identify guests and officials who may have been involved or aware of illegal activities at the ranch, which could implicate high-profile individuals.
- The $2.5 million investigation has subpoena power and aims to address gaps in New Mexico law that may have enabled Epstein's activities. Interim findings are expected in July, with a final report by year-end.
Colorado: Governor Polis Opts into Trump Voucher Plan https://dianeravitch.net/2026/02/17/colorado-governor-polis-opts-in-to-trump-voucher-plan/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Colorado Governor Jared Polis opted into a federal tax credit voucher program supporting private education, despite prior voter rejections of similar initiatives.
- The program offers a 100% federal tax credit for donations to SGOs, funding scholarships for private education.
- Supporters highlight the program's potential to address learning loss, special needs, and education technology, while critics argue it could harm public education and lacks accountability.
- Public education advocates express concerns over discrimination, fraud, and misuse of funds, citing examples from similar programs in other states.
- Critics emphasize that the program may strip states of regulatory power, leaving oversight to insufficient federal rules.
Trump Nominates White Extremist for High-Level Post in State Department https://dianeravitch.net/2026/02/17/trump-nominates-white-extremist-for-high-level-post-in-state-department/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- President Trump nominated Jeffrey Carl for a State Department role, despite his controversial views on race.
- Carl has voiced concerns about “white erasure” and criticized diversity, multiculturalism, and feminism.
- He supports the Great Replacement Theory, claiming anti-white racism is damaging America.
- Civil rights organizations and some Republican senators oppose Carl’s nomination.
Children Are Warehoused in Dilley, Texas as their Classmates at Home Fear ICE Near Their Schools https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/02/17/children-are-warehoused-in-dilley-texas-as-their-classmates-at-home-fear-ice-near-their-schools/ via @janresseger
### Key Points
- Children detained at Dilley Detention Center endure poor conditions and inadequate education, with failed attempts to establish proper schooling.
- ICE raids near schools have caused anxiety, fear, and disrupted learning for students and educators, particularly in cities like Chicago and Minneapolis.
- Chicago Public Schools implemented a district-wide protocol to address ICE activity near schools, improving communication and safety measures for students and staff.
- The Trump administration rescinded rules prohibiting ICE activity in sensitive locations, exacerbating the impact on schools and immigrant families.
- Violations of the 1997 Flores Settlement Agreement have been reported, as detained children are not receiving appropriate care and education.
Who Stepped Up for Jews When Universities Looked Away – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/02/17/who-stepped-up-for-jews-when-universities-looked-away/
### Key Points
- HBCUs provided refuge to Jewish scholars fleeing Nazi Germany when elite U.S. universities refused to act, showcasing moral courage despite their own systemic challenges.
- Jewish scholars and Black students at HBCUs engaged in meaningful intellectual exchanges, creating connections rooted in shared experiences of exclusion.
- Jewish leaders played a key role in the founding and support of the NAACP, emphasizing solidarity in the fight against racial injustice.
- Albert Einstein’s advocacy for civil rights and his deliberate support of HBCUs exemplified moral leadership during a time of racial and social challenges.
- The article underscores that progress stems from deliberate action and moral responsibility, not from power or inevitability.
The Curriculum of Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl Halftime Show | The Jose Vilson https://thejosevilson.com/the-curriculum-of-bad-bunny-at-the-super-bowl-halftime-show/
### Key Points
- Bad Bunny's halftime show used artistic metaphors and cultural symbols to present his music and identity while addressing themes like fame, self-belief, and the Puerto Rican diaspora.
- The performance drew parallels to culturally responsive education, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse identities and histories in learning.
- The show included references to historical and contemporary issues, such as colonization, borders, and systemic injustices, connecting them to broader social and political contexts.
- The article contrasts Bad Bunny's performance with a scripted, less impactful show by Kid Rock, criticizing dehumanizing practices in schools and media.
- The piece encourages educators to use creative and inclusive methods, inspired by performances like Bad Bunny's, to engage students in exploring identity, culture, and societal structures.
Schools Matter: CBS Enforcing What Trump’s FCC Is “Thinking About" http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/02/cbs-enforcing-what-trumps-fcc-is.html
Detailed Summary for [Why CBS Didn't Broadcast Stephen Colbert's Interview With James Talarico](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oh7DPSP65JA) by [Monica](https://monica.im)
[00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oh7DPSP65JA&t=0) Stephen Colbert introduces his new band, Louis Ko and the Great Big Joy Machine, and announces their upcoming album and single.
- Colbert expresses excitement about the show and welcomes the audience back.}
- Colbert reveals the new band name and introduces the band members.}
- The band’s self-titled album, 'The Great Big Joy Machine,' is set to release on April 16th, with proceeds going to Music Cares.}
- Colbert promotes the band's new single, 'Gratitude,' which is available for streaming.}
- Colbert teases the upcoming guest, Jennifer Garner, adding to the excitement of the show.}
[02:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oh7DPSP65JA&t=125.109) The video discusses the implications of the FCC's equal time rule and its recent scrutiny, particularly concerning political talk shows and interviews. It highlights concerns about potential partisan motivations affecting media coverage of candidates.
- Introduction to the equal time rule and its relevance to broadcast media.}
- Explanation of the exception for news interviews and its importance in informing voters.}
- Recent comments from the FCC chairman regarding the potential removal of this exception.}
- Critique of the current administration's attempts to silence critical voices in media.}
[04:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oh7DPSP65JA&t=251.67) In this segment, Stephen Colbert discusses the decision not to air his interview with James Talarico on CBS, highlighting the challenges posed by broadcasting regulations and the evolving media landscape.
- Colbert mentions CBS's reluctance to comply with specific broadcasting requirements, suggesting alternative platforms like cable channels or streaming services.}
- Colbert decides to conduct the interview with Talarico, but it will be available exclusively on the Late Show's YouTube page instead of traditional broadcast.}
- The conversation touches on the FCC's role in regulating broadcasts, with Colbert pointing out the perceived bias in how regulations apply to different media formats.}
- Colbert humorously reflects on the necessity of talk radio, indicating that it serves as a platform for certain audiences, despite ongoing discussions about media regulation.}
[06:21](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oh7DPSP65JA&t=381.28) In this segment, Stephen Colbert humorously discusses the restrictions he faces regarding showing any images or content related to James Talarico, leading to a comedic exploration of what he can present instead.
- Colbert reveals that he cannot show a picture of James Talarico, mentioning a stock photo instead.}
- He humorously states that he can't even draw Talarico due to fear of misrepresentation.}
- Colbert compares the seriousness of the situation to a cliffhanger from a classic TV show, adding comedic flair.}
- He explains the FCC's investigation into a previous interview with Talarico, emphasizing the absurdity and restrictions he's facing.}
- Colbert concludes by revealing a humorous alternative: a tasteful nude of Brendan Carr, showcasing his comedic style.}
Can UFT Welfare Fund Afford to Eliminate Retiree Prescription Premiums? It sure looks like it. ARTHUR GOLDSTEIN https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/can-uft-welfare-fund-afford-to-eliminate
### Key Points
- UFT retirees are required to pay prescription insurance premiums despite claims of premium-free insurance, with costs rising by 50% in two years.
- The UFT Welfare Fund holds significant reserves but does not provide the same benefits as other city unions like DC37 or firefighters.
- Union leadership, particularly Michael Mulgrew, is criticized for prioritizing cost-cutting over retirees' welfare, with doubts cast on their advocacy.
- A petition is being circulated to demand equal benefits for UFT retirees, similar to those of other unions.
- Concerns are raised about political alliances and campaign promises being broken, further complicating retirees' efforts.
- The article emphasizes the need for retirees to stand up for themselves and challenge union leadership.
Pay gap among academics does not stop at university Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Women with PhDs earn an average of 171 euros less per month than men immediately after graduation, with the gap increasing over time, both inside and outside academia.
- Structural societal factors contribute to the gender pay gap, and it is not solely due to women’s negotiation skills or family responsibilities.
- Academics tend to earn more within universities in the long term, but women’s income growth stagnates faster than men’s due to early exits from academia.
- A report from Adelaide University highlights high psychosocial safety risks in Australian universities, with over 80% of staff reporting emotional exhaustion and more than three-quarters experiencing elevated psychosocial risks.
- The report suggests that addressing staff wellbeing and prioritizing psychological health should become a key performance indicator for universities.
- Academic pressure at age 15 is linked to higher depressive symptoms and self-harm risks that persist into adulthood. Reducing academic pressure could improve teenagers' mental health.
- Restrictive smartphone policies in schools save minimal costs and have little impact on students’ mental wellbeing or quality of life.
- Non-formal education settings, such as science museums, can reduce negative perceptions of chemistry ("chemophobia") and increase students’ motivation to engage with the subject.
- Non-formal education activities provide interactive and meaningful learning experiences, enhancing students’ confidence and interest in chemistry.
- A study found no strong link between low to average social media use at ages 11 and 14 and later mental health issues, but heavy use at age 14 was linked to a small increase in suicide attempts by age 17.
- Researchers suggest that future studies should explore how social media is used, not just the time spent on it, to better understand its impact on mental health.
glen brown: Context Matters: Trump Administration Summons Secretaries of State https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/02/context-matters-trump-administration.html
### Key Points
- The Trump administration seeks to "nationalize" elections, aiming for greater federal control over state-run processes, raising concerns about undermining democratic integrity.
- Federal agencies, including the FBI and DOJ, invited state election officials to a call about election preparations, which has caused skepticism due to the lack of clear threats or transparency.
- Critics fear these actions could pave the way for voter suppression, intimidation, and challenges to election results, particularly in Democratic strongholds.
- A federal judge ruled that the President cannot unilaterally make new election laws or assume powers not granted by Congress or the Constitution.
- The article underscores the importance of state officials and citizens in monitoring and protecting election integrity against federal overreach.
glen brown: Research on Alzheimer's Disease https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/02/research-on-alzheimers-disease.html
### Key Points
- A study on mice with Alzheimer's-like conditions revealed that memory consolidation processes are disrupted, leading to memory loss and impaired navigation.
- Research indicates that amyloid-beta protein build-up contributes to the disruption of brain cell functions and memory storage processes.
- Findings suggest that the hippocampus's disrupted replay activity plays a role in Alzheimer's symptoms.
- The study provides insights into potential early detection methods and treatments targeting the replay process in the brain.
Nicholas Buccola's "The Fire Is Upon Us": On James Baldwin in 2026 "For the American Right, the price of power has been a deal with the devil of white supremacy" Nicholas Buccola, p. 365 PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/nicholas-buccolas-the-fire-is-upon
Nicholas Buccola's "The Fire Is Upon Us": On James Baldwin in 2026 explores the ideological and racial tensions between James Baldwin and William F. Buckley Jr., focusing on their 1965 debate about race in America. Buccola critiques Buckley’s role in shaping conservative politics, linking his ideology to the rise of figures like Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump, while presenting Baldwin as a moral counterweight, emphasizing love, accountability, and the confrontation of societal delusions. The book provides a detailed examination of how race and politics intersect in the U.S., using Baldwin and Buckley as symbols of opposing worldviews.
### Key Points
- William F. Buckley Jr. shaped modern conservative politics, advocating for a reactionary ideology rooted in white supremacy and opposing civil rights advancements.
- Buckley’s ideological foundation laid the groundwork for figures like Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump, normalizing racism and privilege in conservative politics.
- James Baldwin, a moral and intellectual counterpoint to Buckley, emphasized love, accountability, and the need for America to confront its racial sins.
- Baldwin’s views on race, love, and societal responsibility remain relevant, highlighting the denial and moral apathy of white America.
- Buccola frames the Baldwin-Buckley debate as a microcosm of ongoing racial and political tensions in the U.S., showcasing their contrasting perspectives on the American Dream.
ZNetwork: How the Charter School Industry’s Newest Scheme Could Be ‘the Death of Public Schools’ | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/how-charter-death
### Key Points
- Florida's "Schools of Hope" program allows charter schools to take over underused public school spaces rent-free, placing financial burdens on public school districts.
- Charter schools operating under this law are not required to follow certain public school regulations, such as those concerning safety and libraries, raising concerns about equity and operational challenges.
- Critics argue that the program is a lucrative business opportunity for for-profit charter operators, rather than an initiative to improve education outcomes.
- The Schools of Hope program has expanded from targeting low-performing schools to taking over any underutilized public school spaces, regardless of performance.
- The pilot project for Schools of Hope in Jefferson County, Florida, managed by a for-profit operator, failed to improve academic outcomes and led to increased costs and operational issues.
- Despite significant financial investment in Schools of Hope, the program has shown limited success, with many participating schools receiving low grades from the state.
- The charter school industry in Florida is facing challenges, including declining growth, increased competition from private schools and homeschooling, and a reduction in the number of charter schools.
- Critics argue that the Schools of Hope program prioritizes market share for large charter chains over educational equity and quality, with some districts being forced to convert public schools into charter schools or sell their buildings.
- Opposition to the program has grown, with grassroots organizations, educators, and local communities rallying under the banner of "Schools of Nope" to protest the law. A repeal bill has been introduced in the state legislature.
- The Schools of Hope program has raised concerns about its potential to be adopted by other Republican-led states, despite its questionable effectiveness and potential harm to public education.
- Research indicates that Florida's charter schools serve fewer disadvantaged students and underperform compared to public schools, leading to calls for a moratorium on charter school expansion and stricter regulations.
Teacher Tom: All the Way Down https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/02/all-way-down.html
### Key Points
- The story of "turtles all the way down" illustrates the problem of infinite regression and the perpetual unknown in understanding the universe.
- Traditional education systems are based on industrial and military practices, focusing on control and efficiency rather than scientific evidence on how humans learn.
- The outdated belief that the mind is solely a product of the brain has influenced standardized, rigid schooling methods.
- Modern research suggests that learning involves the entire body, environment, and even interactions with others and objects.
- Play is presented as a natural, curiosity-driven method of learning, free from rigid systems and theories.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
As of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, President Trump’s administration is navigating several major domestic and international headlines.
🏛️ Domestic & Government News
Partial Government Shutdown: A partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is now in its fourth day.
Negotiations stalled over the holiday weekend as the White House and congressional Democrats clashed over oversight of federal immigration officers. Key agencies like the TSA and Coast Guard are affected, though ICE and CBP operations remain funded by 2025 appropriations. Legal Blow to "Historical Sanity" Policy: A federal judge in Philadelphia has ordered the administration to restore a slavery exhibit at Independence National Historical Park.
The judge, citing George Orwell’s 1984, blocked an executive order that had removed the panels, which the administration argued "disparaged" Americans. Conflict with Blue State Governors: President Trump has excluded Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Colorado Governor Jared Polis from the upcoming White House governors' dinner.
He specifically criticized Governor Moore today over a sewage spill in the Potomac River, calling it "gross mismanagement."
🌎 Foreign Policy & Trade
Historic Taiwan Trade Deal: The administration is celebrating a major win with the signing of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade between the U.S. and Taiwan.
The deal eliminates 99% of tariffs on U.S. exports, receiving high praise from American agricultural and industrial leaders. Iran Nuclear Pressure: Tensions remain high as the President signaled a willingness to be "indirectly" involved in new nuclear talks.
However, the administration continues to threaten military action if Iran does not dismantle its nuclear infrastructure entirely. Cuba & Venezuela Blockades: The U.S. is maintaining a fuel blockade on Cuba, which the President recently labeled a "failed nation."
Meanwhile, U.S. forces reportedly boarded a tanker in the Indian Ocean that allegedly fled a similar blockade on Venezuela.
📉 Business & Economy
Support for Prediction Markets: In a move that could reshape the gambling industry, the Trump administration (via the CFTC) announced support for platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket.
This comes as several states attempt to ban these "alternative" betting markets. Wall Street "Alt" Investments: The President is championing a plan to allow "mom and pop" investors to buy higher-risk alternative investments previously reserved for the wealthy. Critics warn this could lead to significant losses for small-scale retirement savers.
Other Notable Events:
Passings: President Trump issued a statement mourning the death of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, calling him a "good man with grit."
Presidents' Day Message: Yesterday, the President marked the holiday by declaring a "New Golden Age" of American greatness and highlighting record economic growth.