A recent Gallup poll reveals that a striking 86% of Americans disapprove of Congress, with only 10% approving, marking a near-record low. This deep unpopularity, while a persistent trend since the mid-1970s, is particularly acute, approaching the all-time low seen during the 2013 government shutdown. Notably, a significant decline in approval among Republican voters has contributed to this current nadir, with support plummeting from 63% to 20% over the past year.
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Voting-rights groups have filed a lawsuit against Alaska officials, alleging that the state’s decision to share unredacted voter rolls with the Justice Department violates residents’ constitutional privacy and voting rights. This action is part of a broader trend of Republican-led states complying with the Trump administration’s requests for voter data, which advocates fear could lead to eligible voters being removed from rolls and disenfranchised in future elections. The lawsuit seeks to declare Alaska’s agreement with the DOJ unlawful and compel the destruction of the shared data.
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According to an analysis by the US Energy Information Administration, China significantly replenished its strategic oil reserves in 2025, adding an average of 1.1 million barrels per day to reach nearly 1.4 billion barrels by December. This build-up, which included both state and commercial reserves, continued into early 2026 before the onset of the conflict in Iran. The administration estimates that by December 2025, China’s state reserves approximated 360 million barrels, while its commercial reserves reached about 1 billion barrels.
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The European Union has approved a crucial €90 billion loan package to support Ukraine’s economic and military needs for the next two years, following Hungary’s removal of its veto. This approval came after the resumption of Russian oil flows to Hungary and Slovakia through a damaged pipeline, a dispute that had previously led these two nations to block the EU loan and new sanctions against Russia. The loan disbursements are expected to begin promptly, offering vital assistance to Ukraine as it faces ongoing conflict.
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The Justice Department’s internal watchdog is launching a review of the department’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, focusing on the collection, redaction, and release processes. This audit will examine how the department complied with the law mandating the disclosure of these sensitive documents, particularly in light of complaints from Epstein survivors about improperly disclosed personal information. The review comes amid accusations that the department’s staggered and uneven release of millions of records, including errors that exposed victims’ details, was an attempt to protect President Trump, who had past ties to Epstein.
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Israeli soldiers are reportedly engaged in large-scale looting of civilian property from homes and businesses in southern Lebanon, with commanders often aware of the widespread theft. Testimonies from soldiers describe routine pilfering of items such as electronics and furniture, which are openly loaded onto vehicles as troops depart. Despite claims from the Israeli army that looting is treated with utmost severity, the report indicates a failure by commanders to take significant disciplinary action, with enforcement at exit points described as lenient. This alleged practice occurs amidst broader accusations of war crimes by Israeli forces in Lebanon and Gaza.
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A devastating case has come to light in Montreal where a two-month-old infant endured 50 fractures, a severity that included a broken femur. Following an investigation into these severe injuries, the baby’s father has been sentenced. This tragic incident highlights the vulnerability of infants and the critical importance of ensuring their safety.
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The article emphasizes that public visibility does not equate to personal familiarity. It is important to remember that observing individuals on television does not grant insight into their true character or motivations. Furthermore, this exposure does not justify any form of bullying, particularly cyberbullying, which should be avoided entirely.
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During a failed 2024 Senate campaign, then-candidate Hung Cao controversially requested a KKK hood with “slits” for better visibility, anticipating attacks from the left. Cao has also made claims of being shot at and blown up during his Navy service, stating he is “100% disabled,” yet his service record lacks a Purple Heart or Combat Action Ribbon. When questioned by USA Today in 2024 about his service record, Cao responded with anger, deeming the requests for documentation of combat and disability proof as insulting to veterans.
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The urgency of representation and the toll of age and corruption on legislative bodies are highlighted, particularly in the context of critical votes like those concerning war and voting rights. The loss of a representative, whether through resignation or death, significantly impacts constituents and party caucuses by creating gaps in representation and reducing voting power. These events prompt difficult questions for older lawmakers about their continued necessity and the potential liabilities of prolonged service.
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John Q. Hosedrinker