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House Republicans Defy President Trump by Blocking Canadian Tariffs, Impacting Trade Policy

House Republicans Defy President Trump by Blocking Canadian Tariffs, Impacting Trade Policy

Six House Republicans have joined Democrats in a vote against President Trump's proposed tariffs on Canadian goods, marking a significant challenge to the president's trade agenda. This move represents a rare instance of Republican lawmakers opposing a key policy of President Trump, who has frequently used tariffs as a tool to exert pressure on both allies and adversaries. The Congressional Budget Office has reported that while these tariffs could potentially reduce deficits by over $3 trillion over a decade, they are also leading to increased costs for consumers, with companies passing on 90% of the tariff costs. This development comes amid growing concerns from constituents about rising costs and economic uncertainty, which have pressured some Republicans to reconsider their stance on tariffs.

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley Secures Third Term with Parliamentary Sweep

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley Secures Third Term with Parliamentary Sweep

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has secured a third consecutive term in office after her party, the Barbados Labor Party, won all 30 seats in the country's Parliament. This victory was announced by state-owned media following the general election. Mottley, who was challenged by Ralph Thorne of the Democratic Labor Party, emphasized her commitment to improving healthcare, public safety, and transportation in her victory speech. Under her leadership, Barbados has made significant strides, including cutting ties with Queen Elizabeth II in 2021 to become a republic. Mottley is also recognized for her efforts in climate disaster financing, aiming to secure more funds for developing nations. She plans to have her Cabinet sworn in soon and Parliament reopened by next week.

Maine Lottery Announces Winning Numbers for February 11 Drawings

Maine Lottery Announces Winning Numbers for February 11 Drawings

The Maine Lottery has released the winning numbers for its draw games held on February 11, 2026. The Powerball numbers drawn were 06-20-33-40-48 with a Powerball of 05 and a Power Play of 2. The Powerball Double Play numbers were 05-06-19-27-57 with a Powerball of 23. For the Pick 3 game, the day numbers were 0-0-0 and the evening numbers were 3-2-1. The Pick 4 day numbers were 6-1-4-1, and the evening numbers were 8-7-1-8. The Megabucks Plus numbers were 02-07-32-33-38 with a Megaball of 02. The Lucky For Life numbers were 02-12-18-31-40 with a Lucky Ball of 12. The Gimme 5 numbers were 16-21-22-24-27, and the Lotto America numbers were 02-14-28-41-51 with a Star Ball of 02 and an ASB of 02. These results are part of the regular lottery draws conducted by the Maine Lottery.

Yosemite National Park Prepares for Thousands as 'Firefall' Phenomenon Returns

Yosemite National Park Prepares for Thousands as 'Firefall' Phenomenon Returns

Yosemite National Park is anticipating a large influx of visitors eager to witness the 'firefall' phenomenon at Horsetail Fall. This natural event occurs each February when the setting sun illuminates the waterfall, creating the illusion of flowing fire. The optimal viewing period for this year began on Tuesday and will continue until February 26. For the 'firefall' to be visible, several conditions must align: water must be flowing, skies must be clear, and the sun must hit the waterfall at the correct angle. Park officials recommend that visitors plan to stay for multiple evenings to increase their chances of witnessing the spectacle. Unlike previous years, no reservations are required, but visitors are encouraged to carpool and use commercial vans and shuttles. Parking is available in eastern Yosemite Valley, with a temporary pedestrian lane on Northside Drive leading to the viewing areas.

US Military Withdraws from Key Facility in Syria Amid Strategic Shift

US Military Withdraws from Key Facility in Syria Amid Strategic Shift

The US military has withdrawn its last troops from the al-Tanf garrison in Syria, marking a strategic shift to a smaller US presence in the country. This move is part of a deliberate transition following the territorial defeat of ISIS in 2019. The US Central Command emphasized that forces remain ready to respond to any ISIS threats, supporting partner-led efforts to prevent the terrorist group's resurgence. The withdrawal coincides with the US's support for Syria's new president, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, who has been working to secure control over Syria after overthrowing Bashar al-Assad. Al-Sharaa, previously associated with a US-designated terrorist group, has been backed by the Trump administration as a partner in targeting ISIS.

Boston Jewish Community Study Reveals Generational Shifts and Interfaith Trends

Boston Jewish Community Study Reveals Generational Shifts and Interfaith Trends

A new study conducted by Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) highlights significant generational shifts within the Jewish community in Greater Boston. The study, which is part of a decennial series, surveyed 4,800 adults and found that the Jewish population in the area has grown by 8% over the past decade, now comprising 333,000 people in 138,200 households. Notably, 51% of these households include someone who does not identify as Jewish, and 65% of households with children are interfaith. The study also reveals that younger Jews are more likely to be in interfaith relationships, less concerned about antisemitism, and more likely to identify as anti-Zionists compared to older generations. Despite these differences, the community remains united by shared values, with a strong emphasis on charity and cultural observance.

Gallup Discontinues Presidential Tracking Poll Amid Shifts in Public Opinion Research

Gallup Discontinues Presidential Tracking Poll Amid Shifts in Public Opinion Research

Gallup, a prominent polling firm in the United States, has announced the discontinuation of its presidential approval and favorability tracking poll. This decision marks the end of a long-standing tradition that began during Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency in the late 1930s. Gallup's move is part of a broader shift in the polling industry, which is increasingly focusing on issues and conditions that impact people's lives rather than individual political figures. The firm will continue to provide trend data on public opinion regarding significant issues and the national mood. The change comes as polling methodologies evolve, with traditional telephone surveys becoming more challenging and costly due to changes in communication habits. This shift has also led to the dissolution or transformation of several high-profile polling partnerships, such as those between CNN and Gallup, and CBS News and the New York Times.

Johnstown Recognized as Most Affordable City in the U.S. for Homebuyers

Johnstown Recognized as Most Affordable City in the U.S. for Homebuyers

Johnstown, Pennsylvania, has been identified as the most affordable city in the United States for homebuyers, according to a report by Realtor.com. The report highlights that the typical home in Johnstown costs $117,000, with an annual income of $32,000 required to purchase a house, assuming a 15% down payment. Monthly housing expenses are approximately $807. Johnstown, the largest city in Cambria County, has a historical connection to the steel industry and is known for the catastrophic flood of 1889. The city is currently undergoing a revival, with redevelopment projects such as the Central Park and Inclined Plane rehabilitation nearing completion. These initiatives aim to enhance access to arts and education, contributing to the city's renaissance.

NASA's NISAR Mission Data Team Seeks Proposals for Enhanced Earth Science Collaboration

NASA's NISAR Mission Data Team Seeks Proposals for Enhanced Earth Science Collaboration

NASA has announced Amendment 48 to the Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences (ROSES) 2025, inviting proposals for the NISAR Mission Data, Applications, Research, and Technology Team (A.3 NISAR DART). This initiative, introduced in fiscal year 2026, aims to replace traditional Science and Applications Teams (SATs) with a more collaborative structure. The DART teams are designed to enhance peer support and programmatic direction across NASA's Earth Science Divisions, focusing on Data, Earth Action, Research, and Technology. The primary goal is to maximize the scientific and societal benefits of the NISAR mission by efficiently meeting mission science objectives and stakeholder needs. The final text for this program element has been released, with Step-1 proposals due by March 13, 2026, and Step-2 proposals by May 14, 2026.

Judge Blocks Pentagon's Action Against Senator Mark Kelly Over Video

Judge Blocks Pentagon's Action Against Senator Mark Kelly Over Video

A federal judge in Washington, D.C., has granted a preliminary injunction in favor of Senator Mark Kelly, blocking the Pentagon from taking disciplinary action against him. Kelly, a former Navy Captain, was facing censure from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for participating in a video where he and other Democratic lawmakers told U.S. servicemembers they could refuse illegal orders. Hegseth labeled Kelly's statements as 'seditious' and initiated a review that could have led to a demotion in rank and reduced retirement pay. The judge ruled that the Pentagon's actions threatened Kelly's First Amendment rights, emphasizing the constitutional protections for legislators speaking on public policy matters.

US-Backed Peace Plan in Gaza Faces Challenges from Militias and Contractors

US-Backed Peace Plan in Gaza Faces Challenges from Militias and Contractors

The US-backed peace plan for Gaza is encountering significant challenges as various armed groups, including militias and private contractors, vie for control. Indonesia has announced its intention to send up to 8,000 troops to join the International Stabilization Force (ISF) as part of the plan's second phase. This development comes amid reports of Gaza-based militias interrogating and detaining individuals at the Rafah crossing, a key transit point between Gaza and Egypt. The peace plan, which aims to establish security and a terror-free environment, is led by Major General Jasper Jeffers, who has been appointed Commander of the ISF. The plan also involves disarming Hamas, although the group has resisted full disarmament, agreeing only to dismantle certain weapons. Meanwhile, private security firm UG Solutions is reportedly recruiting Arabic-speaking contractors for undisclosed roles in the region.

Philanthropic Efforts in Peacebuilding Highlighted Amid Rising Global Tensions

Philanthropic Efforts in Peacebuilding Highlighted Amid Rising Global Tensions

The Peace and Security Funders Group (PSFG) is emphasizing the critical role of philanthropic funding in peace and security initiatives, especially as global conflicts and authoritarianism rise. The organization highlights the decline in peace funding at a time when it is most needed, urging funders to support initiatives that can prevent conflict and promote stability. PSFG points to successful examples of peace funding, such as efforts in Northern Ireland and Sierra Leone, and stresses the importance of supporting grassroots organizations and academic research that can inform de-escalatory policymaking. The group also addresses common concerns among funders, such as the perceived political nature of peace funding and the challenges of measuring impact.

MIT Researchers Discover Early Oxygen Use by Organisms Predating Great Oxidation Event

MIT Researchers Discover Early Oxygen Use by Organisms Predating Great Oxidation Event

Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have uncovered evidence suggesting that some early life forms evolved the ability to use oxygen hundreds of millions of years before the Great Oxidation Event. This event, which occurred around 2.3 billion years ago, marked the first significant accumulation of oxygen in Earth's atmosphere. The study, published in the journal Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, traced the evolutionary origins of a key enzyme that enables aerobic respiration. The enzyme, found in most oxygen-breathing organisms today, appears to have evolved during the Mesoarchean era, predating the Great Oxidation Event by several hundred million years. This discovery may help explain why it took so long for oxygen to build up in the atmosphere, as early organisms might have consumed the oxygen produced by cyanobacteria, delaying its atmospheric accumulation.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Health Policy Changes Erode Trust in U.S. Health Agencies

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Health Policy Changes Erode Trust in U.S. Health Agencies

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., appointed as Secretary of Health and Human Services in 2025, has faced criticism for his approach to federal health policy. Despite his promise to restore trust in U.S. health agencies through transparency, Kennedy's actions have led to increased skepticism. He has scaled back immunization guidance and dismissed scientific advisers, which has resulted in clashes with major medical groups. These groups argue that Kennedy is not adhering to scientific consensus, particularly concerning vaccines. Surveys indicate that public trust in health agencies has declined, with many Americans expressing confusion and concern over the changes. Kennedy's policies have been seen as contributing to a resurgence of diseases like measles and whooping cough, which were previously under control.

Hutchison Warns Panama of Legal Action Over Port Concession Dispute

Hutchison Warns Panama of Legal Action Over Port Concession Dispute

CK Hutchison has filed a notice of dispute with Panama, warning of potential legal action over a court ruling that declared the law establishing its port concession unconstitutional. The company, which operates terminals at the Panama Canal, claims the ruling could lead to a forced exit and disrupt operations. Hutchison is seeking arbitration and has warned other companies, including APM Terminals, against assuming control of the ports without consent. The dispute has drawn criticism from the Chinese and Hong Kong governments, who blame U.S. political pressure for the situation.

NewYork-Presbyterian Nurses Continue Strike After Rejecting Contract Proposal

NewYork-Presbyterian Nurses Continue Strike After Rejecting Contract Proposal

Nurses from NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital have voted to reject a proposed new contract, choosing to remain on strike in pursuit of better terms. This decision comes as nurses at two other major hospital systems have accepted their respective contracts. The ongoing strike highlights the nurses' demands for improved working conditions and compensation. The rejection of the contract indicates a significant divide between the hospital administration and the nursing staff, who are advocating for changes that they believe are necessary for their well-being and the quality of patient care.

Authorities Discover New Clue in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance Case

Authorities Discover New Clue in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance Case

Authorities have found a potential new clue in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. A glove was discovered by the side of the road within an FBI search area, located a mile and a half from Guthrie's home. This discovery comes as the search for Guthrie extends into its twelfth day. The glove is being examined as a possible piece of evidence that could provide insights into Guthrie's whereabouts or the circumstances surrounding her disappearance. The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to her disappearance.

Attorney General Bondi Pledges to Unredact Names in Epstein Files Amid Criticism

Attorney General Bondi Pledges to Unredact Names in Epstein Files Amid Criticism

During a recent House hearing, Attorney General Pam Bondi responded to criticism from Democratic Representative Lou Correa regarding redactions in the Justice Department's files on Jeffrey Epstein. Bondi assured that any men's names that were improperly redacted would be unredacted. This statement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the Justice Department's handling of Epstein-related documents, which have been partially withheld from public disclosure. The department's actions have drawn bipartisan criticism, with lawmakers demanding greater transparency and accountability in the release of these sensitive files.

Huntington Beach Council Rejects Proposal for Pre-Approval of Visual Presentations

Huntington Beach Council Rejects Proposal for Pre-Approval of Visual Presentations

The Huntington Beach City Council has rejected a proposal that would have required council members to submit visual presentations to the city manager for review before meetings. The proposal, introduced by City Attorney Mike Vigliotta, aimed to prevent potential legal liabilities by ensuring that all visual materials were relevant to the agenda and vetted in advance. Councilmember Chad Williams, who had previously attempted to present non-agendized visuals, opposed the measure, arguing it restricted council members' ability to express themselves. The council ultimately decided to maintain the current policy, allowing members to present visuals without prior approval.

Federal Judge Orders Improved Conditions for California ICE Detainees

Federal Judge Orders Improved Conditions for California ICE Detainees

A federal judge has ordered the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to improve conditions for detainees at a California immigration detention center. The order mandates adequate medical care, access to attorneys, and appropriate clothing and blankets for detainees. This ruling follows a lawsuit filed by detainees alleging denial of essential services and poor living conditions. The facility, operated by CoreCivic, has been criticized for its treatment of detainees, with some describing it as a 'torture chamber.'