A Gallup poll shows that more young Americans, specifically millennials and Generation Z, consider themselves political independents rather than affiliating with Democrats or Republicans. This trend could impact the upcoming 2026 midterm elections as independents might play a key role in deciding election outcomes.
Key Facts
A Gallup poll surveyed over 13,000 U.S. adults about political party identification.
In 2025, 45% of U.S. adults identified as independents, an increase from 2024.
Among Generation Z, 56% identified as independents, while 27% were Democrats and 17% Republicans.
Among millennials, 54% identified as independents, with 24% as Democrats and 21% as Republicans.
Older generations are more likely to identify with a political party, such as the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers.
More independents leaned toward the Democratic Party compared to the Republican Party.
The U.S. will hold midterm elections in November 2026, which could be influenced by the growing number of independents.
GoFundMe is reviewing a fundraiser set up for Jonathan Ross, an ICE agent who shot Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis. The fundraiser has collected over $370,000, and it's under review to ensure it follows GoFundMe's rules. The incident has sparked protests and calls for thorough investigation, with differing views on the circumstances of the shooting.
Key Facts
GoFundMe is examining a fundraiser that raised over $370,000 for ICE agent Jonathan Ross.
Jonathan Ross shot Renee Nicole Good on January 7 in Minneapolis, which has led to protests.
The incident involves debates over immigration enforcement practices.
The Trump administration claims Good used her car as a weapon, defending Ross's actions as self-defense.
Local officials and protesters dispute this self-defense claim.
Minnesota Democrats want the investigation to include state authorities, not just federal.
GoFundMe prohibits fundraisers for those charged with violent crimes, but Ross has not been charged.
Billionaire Bill Ackman donated to Ross's fundraiser, citing belief in the presumption of innocence.
Recent polls show that Americans have a more positive view of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell compared to President Donald Trump. The polls come amidst a Justice Department investigation related to Powell's testimony about Federal Reserve building renovations. Powell claims the investigation is influenced by the Fed's decision to set interest rates independently.
Key Facts
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is viewed more positively than President Donald Trump in recent polls.
A Gallup poll shows 44% approve of Powell's performance, while 36% approve of Trump.
A YouGov poll shows Powell with a 37% approval rating, while Trump has a 41% approval but a 55% disapproval.
Powell is currently facing a DOJ investigation related to his Senate testimony about Fed building renovations.
The investigation focuses on renovations that went $600 million over budget, totaling $2.5 billion due to inflation and other factors.
Powell claims the investigation is actually about the Fed's interest rate decisions, not the renovation costs.
President Trump denies involvement in the investigation, stating he has no knowledge of it.
In St Louis, Missouri, several vervet monkeys are loose, causing concern among local animal control officials. People in the area are advised to avoid the monkeys, which have been seen in the city for several days. Officials are working to find and safely capture the animals.
Key Facts
Multiple vervet monkeys are loose in St Louis, Missouri.
The monkeys have been on the loose since at least Thursday.
Officials do not know where the monkeys came from.
People are advised to avoid the monkeys as they might act unpredictably.
A primate expert identified the loose monkeys as vervet monkeys, native to Africa.
Owning exotic animals like monkeys is not allowed in St Louis.
Local residents have seen the monkeys in the O'Fallon Park neighborhood.
Animal control is actively searching for the monkeys but hasn't found them yet.
Residents of The Villages, a retirement community in Florida known for supporting President Donald Trump, are planning a protest against his administration's immigration enforcement. This comes after an ICE agent fatally shot Renee Nicole Good in Minnesota. The protest is organized by local Democratic and nonpartisan groups.
Key Facts
A protest in The Villages, Florida, is organized by the Villages Democratic Club and Villagers4Democracy.
The protest is a response to the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent in Minnesota.
The Villages is a community that largely supported President Trump in the 2024 election.
Protests about the ICE shooting have occurred across the United States, mainly in Democratic areas.
The ICE agent shot Good, claiming self-defense, during an incident in Minneapolis.
The Trump administration and Minnesota leaders have differing views on the incident.
Local concerns at the protest also include issues such as control of oil tankers in Venezuela and U.S. plans for Greenland.
President Donald Trump is using creative financial strategies to fund his policy goals without needing Congress's approval. He is using government entities like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to access funds, aiming to lower mortgage rates and support other initiatives. These actions are unconventional and bypass the typical congressional process.
Key Facts
President Trump is looking for ways to spend money without involving Congress.
He is using $200 billion from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for mortgage bonds.
$20 billion from a Treasury fund was used for Argentina.
Critics say these methods are unusual and lack congressional oversight.
The White House says Trump's actions support an "America First" agenda.
There is concern about long-term consequences of using Federal Reserve funds this way.
Trump aims to avoid increasing the deficit or raising taxes.
A new survey shows that many Americans are worried about President Trump's close connections with major technology companies like Google and Apple. The survey highlights concerns that these companies have too much influence in Washington, especially in shaping policies related to artificial intelligence (AI). Most people want states to have the power to create their own AI laws.
Key Facts
A majority of registered voters are concerned about President Trump's ties with big technology companies.
49% believe Trump promotes a pro-Big Tech agenda in his AI policies.
61% think major tech firms have too much influence over U.S. policies.
57% support states creating their own laws to address AI issues.
Only 24% believe states should be blocked from making AI laws to avoid complex regulations.
69% think AI might reduce job opportunities.
The survey included 1,800 registered voters with a margin of error of ±2 percentage points.
President Donald Trump's administration has launched a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell concerning the costs of building renovations, which the president has criticized. Kevin Hassett, a top economic advisor in the White House, commented on the probe, noting it is a legal matter concerning the Fed's independence. Meanwhile, several lawmakers have voiced concerns, criticizing the investigation as a potential threat to the central bank's independence.
Key Facts
The Trump administration started a criminal probe into the Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
The investigation focuses on Powell's testimony about the high costs of Fed building renovations.
President Trump has criticized the Fed for not lowering interest rates faster, which he believes affects the economy.
Kevin Hassett, a White House economic advisor, emphasized respecting the independence of the Fed and the Justice Department.
Some lawmakers, both Democrats and Republicans, criticized Trump for the probe as a threat to the Fed's independence.
Senator Elizabeth Warren and Senator Thom Tillis were among those voicing concern, with Warren calling it an abuse of power.
Jerome Powell responded with a statement defending the Fed's independence in setting interest rates based on economic conditions.
A Minnesota restaurant owner named Juan Manuel Arellano Zepeda was reported missing by his family but was later found to be detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Texas. Arellano Zepeda, who has lived in the U.S. for 25 years and has no criminal record, is currently in an ICE facility awaiting immigration proceedings because he does not have legal immigration status.
Key Facts
Juan Manuel Arellano Zepeda is a restaurant owner from Bloomington, Minnesota.
He was reported missing by his family after not arriving at work on January 6.
ICE detained him as part of an operation named Metro Surge because he has no legal immigration status in the U.S.
Arellano Zepeda has lived in the U.S. for 25 years and has no criminal record.
His family confirmed his detention through social media posts from ICE.
Initially held near Minneapolis, he was transferred to an ICE facility in El Paso, Texas.
Arellano Zepeda's family members, who are U.S. citizens, were not immediately informed of his detention.
ICE has no legal requirement to notify families about the detention of their relatives.
An economist has warned that actions by President Trump's administration against Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell could lead to significant economic problems. The Department of Justice might indict Powell, related to his earlier statements, and this is seen as possibly undermining the Federal Reserve's independence. This situation has sparked concerns similar to economic crises in other countries.
Key Facts
An economist compared the situation with Jerome Powell to actions by some countries before economic crises.
The Federal Reserve received subpoenas related to a renovation project in Washington, D.C.
President Trump has criticized the Federal Reserve for not lowering interest rates as he preferred.
There have been discussions about potentially replacing Powell.
Some lawmakers have criticized the idea of undermining the Federal Reserve's independence.
Past examples of similar actions include countries like Turkey, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.
Critics worry this could harm the U.S. economy, though such a situation is uncommon in the U.S.
President Donald Trump cannot enforce parts of an election reform order after a judge's ruling. The judge stated that Trump's order to change mail-in voting deadlines oversteps his authority. The White House plans to challenge the decision.
Key Facts
A federal judge in Washington State stopped President Trump from enforcing parts of a March election reform order.
The order aimed to set Election Day as the deadline for mail-in votes to be received.
States like Washington and Oregon usually count mail-in votes postmarked by Election Day, even if received later.
The judge, John H. Chun, stated Trump exceeded his authority as the order conflicted with states' rights.
The judge also ruled against stopping funding to states that don't use federal forms for voter registration.
The White House indicated plans to challenge the judge’s decision.
President Trump has consistently expressed concerns about mail-in voting, claiming it may lead to fraud.
On his first day as New York City Mayor, Zohran Mamdani launched initiatives aimed at making rent more affordable. He plans to build more affordable housing and freeze rent for rent-stabilized apartments, but experts say results may not be immediate. Although his proposals have gained attention, it could take years for renters to notice changes.
Key Facts
Zohran Mamdani became Mayor of New York City and began focusing on lowering rent costs.
He signed an executive order for two new task forces to speed up housing development.
Mamdani aims to freeze rent for rent-stabilized apartments, affecting 2.5 million people.
About 67% of New Yorkers rented their homes in 2023, higher than the national average.
Mamdani also wants to lower grocery costs, make buses free, and provide affordable childcare.
He proposed building 200,000 new affordable housing units over the next decade.
Experts say it could take at least three years to see noticeable changes in rent prices.
There may be political and economic challenges to implementing these changes.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) will release a Bruce Lee Forever Stamp to honor the Chinese American martial artist and actor. The stamp will be available starting February 18, 2026, and can be purchased online or in local post offices.
Key Facts
The USPS announced a Bruce Lee Forever Stamp will be issued on February 18, 2026.
The first-day event will be at the Nippon Kan Theatre in Seattle, Washington.
The stamp artwork features Bruce Lee in a flying kick with a yellow brushstroke background.
Kam Mak created the artwork using egg tempera on gesso.
Forever Stamps are valid for mailing at the current 1-ounce First-Class rate indefinitely.
The 4-cent Angel's Trumpet Stamp will also be released, part of the Low-Denomination Flowers series.
The Angel’s Trumpet stamp uses photography by Harold Davis and was first available on January 9, 2026.
Jade Mali, a trans woman from New York City, was nervous about how her elderly grandfather would react to her coming out. Her grandfather surprised her by asking for her new name, showing unexpected understanding and support. This story gained attention online, with many people praising the grandfather's open attitude.
Key Facts
Jade Mali, a trans woman, was almost a year into her medical transition when she decided to come out to her grandfather.
She was worried about her grandfather's reaction because he had not seen her in over a year and she perceived him as not very open-minded.
Mali's mother spoke to her grandfather about her being trans before Mali's Christmas visit.
A poll showed 13% of U.S. respondents would not support a family member coming out as transgender, the highest percentage among the countries surveyed.
Mali's worries were alleviated when her grandfather texted to ask for her "new name" and shared a positive story about knowing a trans woman.
Mali posted a video about the experience, which went viral with over 550,000 views.
People online praised her grandfather for his acceptance and willingness to learn.
President Donald Trump said he might veto a bill that extends subsidies for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which recently passed in the House of Representatives. The ACA subsidies have been a contentious issue, with some politicians supporting them and others wanting alternatives like health savings accounts.
Key Facts
President Trump mentioned he might veto a bill extending ACA subsidies if it passes the Senate.
The bill has passed through the House of Representatives.
ACA subsidies help make health insurance affordable for more Americans.
President Trump has shown support for health savings accounts as an alternative to ACA subsidies.
Health savings accounts allow people to save money for medical expenses with certain tax benefits.
The House bill received support from 17 Republicans, along with Democrats.
The Senate will vote on the bill, but the outcome is uncertain.
President Trump's administration denied claims that immigration agents are using racial profiling. The lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security alleges that officials have been arresting individuals without proper legal processes and targeting Latino communities.
Key Facts
The lawsuit, Escobar Molina et al. v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, was filed by D.C. residents and a nonprofit.
Plaintiffs argue that immigration officials are making arrests without warrants or probable cause.
The case claims these practices unfairly affect Latino communities.
President Trump's administration claims immigration enforcement is lawful and not based on race.
Several plaintiffs report being arrested without warrants, including José Escobar Molina and others with pending immigration applications.
The government filing states that ICE actions are based on legal authority.
In 2025, a goal of 3,000 daily arrests for ICE was set by Homeland Security officials.
Billionaire Bill Ackman donated to a GoFundMe page supporting the ICE agent who shot Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, explaining he believes in the principle of "innocent until proven guilty." The shooting has led to protests in Minneapolis, with some officials and community members disputing the claim that the agent acted in self-defense. An investigation into the incident is underway, and there are calls for state involvement.
Key Facts
Bill Ackman, a billionaire hedge fund manager, donated to support ICE agent Jonathan Ross, who shot Renee Nicole Good.
Ackman mentioned that he wanted to also donate to Good’s family, but their donation page closed before he could contribute.
The shooting has caused tensions and protests in Minneapolis, with calls for ICE to leave the city.
The Trump administration defended the agent's actions, claiming self-defense, while local authorities and protesters dispute this.
The FBI is investigating the shooting but has barred Minnesota law enforcement from participating in the investigation.
Ackman's donation to the GoFundMe page was confirmed on his social media platform X.
A GoFundMe page for Good's family raised over $1.5 million before pausing further donations.
Immigration enforcement actions and protests in Minneapolis are expected to continue.
Lawmakers from both political parties are unhappy with President Donald Trump's actions towards Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Trump is reportedly probing Powell over his handling of Fed office renovations and some lawmakers think Trump is trying to control the Fed. They have said they will block any new nominee for Powell's position until the situation is resolved.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump started a probe into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
Some lawmakers from both parties are criticizing Trump for this move.
The Department of Justice issued subpoenas related to Powell's testimony about office renovations.
Trump called Powell names for not reducing interest rates as quickly as he wanted.
Powell's testimony involved a renovation project that increased in cost from $1.9 billion to $2.5 billion.
Some lawmakers believe the probe is an attempt by Trump to control the Federal Reserve.
Trump is planning to nominate a new Fed Chair, but some senators plan to block any new nomination.
Senators argue this situation threatens the independence of the Federal Reserve.
Mary Trump, President Donald Trump’s niece, announced that she got married in October in a private ceremony. She shared this news for the first time in a blog post and mentioned that she didn't discuss it publicly until now for personal reasons.
Key Facts
Mary Trump is President Donald Trump's estranged niece.
She revealed she got married in October.
The wedding ceremony was small and private, with family and close friends.
Mary Trump shared this news in a blog post titled "Reader, I Married Her."
She described her spouse as both the love of her life and her best friend.
Mary Trump expressed happiness and personal growth since her marriage.
She mentioned challenging times in the U.S. but did not elaborate further.
A Florida mom shared text messages from her husband after they found out they were expecting triplets. The messages showed his support and excitement, and the online post gained a lot of attention on TikTok.
Key Facts
Florencia Padgett and her husband Austin are expecting triplets.
Flor shared screenshots of supportive text messages from Austin on TikTok.
The post on TikTok received over 238,000 views.
Austin initially thought the news was a prank but was excited once he realized it was true.
The couple's 3-year-old daughter was with them when they found out.
Flor experienced a challenging first trimester due to intense pregnancy symptoms.
Austin’s messages aimed to support Flor through the pregnancy.
The couple has nicknamed the unborn babies "the beans" while waiting to learn their genders.
