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Oregon Democrats’ plan to end 3 Trump tax breaks heads to governor; Republican threatens to seek voter veto
Democrats' plan is designed to net $312 million to help stave off cuts of nearly $900 million from President Donald Trump’s sprawling tax and budget cutting bill. But a Republican announced he will seek a voter veto.
How a top analyst sees Bills player evaluations changing
After scouting for certain traits on defense in the fall, the Bills have changed the scheme.
Democrats could not even stand for ‘victims of political violence,’ TPUSA contributor says
Turning Point USA contributor Jack Posobiec discusses Democrats’ anti-State of the Union rallies on ‘Fox News @ Night.’
Bill and Hillary Clinton gear up for another Washington fight
Bill and Hillary Clinton are slated to testify this week in a House investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, part of a deal with Republicans after it became clear that Congress — with the help of some Democrats — was on track to hold them in contempt if they refused to cooperate.
Democrats are spoiling for a fight in Texas: From the Politics Desk
Plus, Trump's options in Iran.
The Democrats Who Got Weird During the State of the Union
They found a bizarre, crass way to push back against Trump.
Bipartisan opposition sinks eviction bill in Colorado
Two Democrats sided with Republicans on the House Judiciary Committee to kill a bill that would have made several changes to eviction filings and proceedings, including requiring judges to suppress court records. Sponsored by Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, House Bill 1047 would also have required landlords to provide tenants with an additional rent payment option […]
How two churches forged Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico’s politics
In the Senate Democratic primary, Talarico has made his church’s ethos of compassion central to his campaign, while Jasmine Crockett is tapping into the civic power of Black churches.
Michigan Voices: Seeking understanding after Trump's SOTU|Opinion
During the State of the Union Address, bad blood boiled over. Trump called Democrats “crazy.” Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Michigan, wore a \
Fact-checking Democrats’ responses to Trump's 2026 State of the Union address
In a move that reflected the party’s divisions, Democrats offered a range of responses to President Donald Trump’s Feb. 24 State of the Union address. PolitiFact fact-checked some of those remarks.
Exclusive | Spy Agency Blocks Congress From Seeing Gabbard Whistleblower Intelligence
Tulsi Gabbard’s office rejected Democratic efforts to see all the underlying material about a foreign conversation that discussed Jared Kushner.
Jasmine Crockett leads James Talarico by double digits in Senate Democratic primary, poll finds
On the Republican side, Ken Paxton and John Cornyn were neck-and-neck and in position for a runoff, according to the poll from the University of Texas’ Texas Politics Project.
How Democrats reorganized their State of the Union resistance
The Democrats tried something new to rebut Trump’s address.
Voters react as Trump calls Dems 'crazy' for not applauding ban on secret teen gender transitions
Voters react in real time as President Donald Trump calls Democrats “crazy" during his State of the Union over a proposed ban on school gender transitions.
Republicans stare down epic voter enthusiasm gap ahead of 2026 midterms
The 14-percentage point advantage is the Democrats’ largest in decades.
Handicapping a Gavin Newsom-Kamala Harris presidential fight
The Democrats rose together through San Francisco politics, sharing donors and, for a time, campaign strategists. A fight for their party's nomination would bring their private jostling into the open.
Midterm underdogs rally around data center politics
Democrats in particular have seized on the prospect of rising energy costs in the fight for control of Washington and state capitals.
Rep. Edwards, Smith discuss their positions on health care
With just six days to go before primary election day, Democrats and Republicans are getting ready to head to the polls to choose their party nominees including
Trump Puts On a Show, Casting Democrats as the Villains
On the defensive over the economy and with the midterms approaching, President Trump made clear that his political strategy is to paint Democrats as unpatriotic and ‘crazy.’
‘Stand Up’: With One Maneuver, Trump Tries to Box In Democrats
President Trump turned his State of the Union address into full-blown political theater, handing out medals to war veterans and tossing the spotlight to ice hockey players.
Democratic response to Trump’s speech slams his immigration policy
Signs, silence, and skipping: How Democrats protested Trump's State of the Union
The pushback comes as Democrats enter a midterm year where they hope to make gains in the House and Senate.
Abigail Spanberger, in Democratic Response, Asks if Trump Is Working for Americans
“We all know the answer is no,” the Virginia governor argued in her rebuttal to President Trump’s State of the Union address.
'He lied, he scapegoated, he distracted.' Democrats responds to Trump
In a rebuttal to the State of the Union address delivered on behalf of the Democratic Party, Sen. Alex Padilla accused Trump of plunging U.S. cities into violence and hindering the economy.
‘You have killed Americans’: Ilhan Omar tries to shout down Trump’s immigration attacks
For the first hour of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address Tuesday, Democrats in the House chamber largely stuck to their plan: Sit in stony, defiant silence.
Key takeaways from President Trump's State of the Union address
President Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term Tuesday night. We break down what he said, what his political messaging was, and how it previews the administration's goals through the midterm elections. We also analyze how the Democrats responded.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, senior political editor & correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson.This podcast was produced and edited by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Special thanks to Kelsey Snell, Natalie Winston and Neil Tevault.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
WATCH: ‘We all know' Trump is not making your life more affordable, Spanberger says
In the official Democratic response to the president’s speech, Spanberger stressed how Trump’s policies on a host of daily issues, from health care to housing, hasn’t made life more affordable.
WATCH: ‘You killed Americans,’ lawmaker says as Trump asks Congress to stand for protecting citizens
While Republicans stood and applauded for two minutes, at least one Democratic lawmaker in the room shouted “you killed Americans,” a reference to two citizens shot and killed by federal agents in Minnesota in January.
Al Green kicked out of State of the Union after holding sign protesting Trump
The Texas Democrat held a sign that read “BLACK PEOPLE ARE NOT APES!” It’s a reference to a video Trump shared on social media this month that depicted Barack and Michelle Obama as apes.
Rep. Al Green ejected from Trump's State of the Union after holding a 'Black people aren't apes' sign
Green, a Democrat from Texas, was also removed last year after disrupting Trump's joint address to Congress.
Who will — and won't — be guests at the State of the Union address
Invitees at Tuesday night's address by President Trump include the gold-medalist men's U.S. hockey team, while Democratic lawmakers have invited several Epstein survivors.
Lawmakers react to Trump's State of the Union address
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) and other Republicans praised the president's speech, while Democrats slammed it and defended colleagues who protested.
Senate Democrats Again Block D.H.S. Funding, Demanding Enforcement Curbs
Democrats refused to allow a bill to reopen the Department of Homeland Security to move ahead without new restrictions on federal agents carrying out President Trump’s immigration enforcement drive.
Democratic U.S. rep files for reelection in Oregon’s most competitive congressional district
All seven members of Oregon’s congressional delegation up for election this year have now filed for reelection.
Kornacki: Trump’s political position looks ‘an awful lot’ like it did eight years ago
Ahead of President Trump’s State of the Union address, NBC News Chief Data Analyst Steve Kornacki discusses the president’s approval rating and the polling landscape for both Democrats and Republicans heading into the midterms.
Guest List for State of the Union Includes Epstein Victims, Erika Kirk and U.S. Olympic Hockey Players
Democratic lawmakers invited victims of Jeffrey Epstein and of President Trump’s aggressive immigration crackdown.
WATCH LIVE: Democratic lawmakers join 'People's State of the Union' rally during Trump's address
15 States Sue the Trump Administration Over Vaccine Schedule Revisions
Federal health officials have pared back the number of shots recommended for children. The states, led by Democrats, say the changes were not based on science.
Trump Leans on Congress to Address His False Claims of Voter Fraud
The State of the Union gives the president a high-profile chance to issue a call to action on election security legislation he has pressured Republicans to ram through over Democratic opposition.
Abigail Spanberger to Give Democratic Response to Trump’s Address
Abigail Spanberger, the newly elected governor of Virginia, was chosen to deliver her party’s response to President Trump’s State of the Union address.
Senate Democrats investigate CBS over blocked Colbert interview
Richard Blumenthal seeks records from FCC and Paramount Global amid claims of political censorship
Democrats Counter Trump With Their Own Version of a Wall Street Landlords Ban
As the president prepares to deliver a State of the Union address likely to touch on his own plan, Senate Democrats introduced a bill with their own vision for limiting investors’ purchases of single-family homes.
Who is Abigail Spanberger? New governor giving the SOTU rebuttal
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger is giving the Democratic response to Trump's State of the Union. Learn more about her background.
Growing number of Democrats skipping Trump's 2026 State of the Union
Democratic lawmakers are split on attending Donald Trump's State of the Union Tuesday, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries offering options of "silent defiance" or absence.
Trump aims to flex political muscle in State of the Union
President Trump will deliver his State of the Union address tonight, with Democrats planning counterrallies and protests, while the U.S. Women’s Hockey Team declined an invitation to attend d…
Midterm underdogs rally around data center politics
Democrats in particular have seized on the prospect of rising energy costs in the fight for control of Washington and state capitals.
Why Gavin Newsom refuses to be a "bystander" in this political moment
What does the Democratic leader see for himself in the years to come?
5 things to watch for in Trump's State of the Union address
The president is expected to defend his economic record and tariffs, but how will he handle immigration enforcement? And what will Democrats do?
WATCH LIVE: Gov. Spanberger delivers Democratic response to Trump's State of the Union
Mike Gianaris discusses solidifying Democratic control of the N.Y. state Senate
A smart political tactician, Gianaris was integral in helping lead the Senate Democrats out of the political wilderness in 2018.
Meddling with private business need not spiral after Trump
Susan Rice wants Democrats to go after companies that supposedly played nice with the president.
Oregon Democrats’ controversial plan to move transportation tax vote to May clears Senate after dayslong hold
“Both parties want the election date they want for partisan political reasons," said one Democratic lawmaker who voted for the bill.
Jeanine Pirro's office shelves pursuit of Democrats over social video, sources say
A federal grand jury in D.C. unanimously rejected the attempt to indict six lawmakers who told military and intelligence community members on social media not to obey unlawful orders.
WA Democrats drop push for business tax to cover Medicaid costs
Washington Democrats are likely abandoning plans for a tax on employers like Walmart, whose workers get health care through Medicaid.
What to watch in the race for North Carolina's open Senate seat
North Carolina’s primary election is next week, and early voting is already underway. We discuss what to watch in the race for the state's open Senate seat and a competitive Democratic primary in the state's 4th congressional district.This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and WUNC Capitol Bureau Chief Colin Campbell.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
House Democrats bringing Jeffrey Epstein survivors to Trump's State of the Union speech
Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., said he was bringing Haley Robson as a way of "bringing accountability to the Epstein class."
Federal court rejects GOP-led effot to block House map that helps Democrats in Utah
A federal court ruling means the new Utah voting districts that give Democrats an improved shot at winning a U.S. House seat can be used in this year’s election.
Newsom’s message to the Democratic Party: Be more ‘culturally normal’
Democrats demanding ICE reforms lose airport escorts in shutdown they triggered
The government shutdown hit TSA operations as the Department of Homeland Security activated emergency measures and suspended congressional escorts while keeping PreCheck operational.
Democrats say they'll ensure Trump's new 15% tariffs are temporary
President Donald Trump is trying to use a different law to impose new 15% global tariffs. But Democrats say they'll ensure the taxes are temporary.
Training for New ICE Agents Is ‘Deficient’ and ‘Broken,’ Whistle-Blower Says
The former official will appear with congressional Democrats, who also released documents indicating significant reductions in instructional hours for recruits.
Americans sour on Trump ahead of State of the Union, polls find
New polls show the president’s approval rating falling among Democrats and independents, though it remains strong among Republicans.
Alex Padilla Plans Spanish Rebuttal to Trump’s State of the Union
Senator Alex Padilla, a Democrat from California, offered a preview of his remarks, which he expects to focus on the economy, immigration and fair elections.
Column: Some Democratic candidates for California governor need to drop out
The jig is up for Democrats lagging in the race for governor
California Democrats back establishment candidates despite progressive pushback
California Democrats endorsed aging incumbents and party insiders over grassroots challengers, disappointing progressives.
How Jasmine Crockett’s unconventional Senate campaign is testing Texas politics
Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett is quick to admit she’s not running a traditional Senate campaign, a strategy that will soon be put to the test in next month’s Democratic primary.
Katie Porter holds ‘F--- TRUMP’ sign at California Democratic convention
Former Rep. Katie Porter, who is running for Golden State governor, said "F--- Trump" during remarks at the California Democratic Party state convention.
Former F.B.I. Official, Ousted Under Trump, Will Run for Congress in Maryland
David Sundberg, who led the Washington Field Office, is joining a crowded Democratic primary for Steny H. Hoyer’s open House seat.
Democrats decry meager medical care for detainees in funding fight
Fernando Viera Reyes needed a biopsy for possible prostate cancer when the Trump administration sent him to an immigration detention center in California’s Mojave Desert.
Like Trump nationally, incumbent Colorado Dems lose sight of what matters to everyday people
My years as a high-level radioactive waste manager took me in and out of Washington, D.C. frequently during the 1990s. Following Newt Gingrich’s successful 1994 ouster of the Democratic majority in Congress, following their 40-year reign, I was surprised many Democratic lobbyists were willing to acknowledge privately Newt’s win was probably a good thing. There […]
PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
IN THE SPOTLIGHT PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of KoreaThe Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) is making significant progress in strengthening pandemic preparedness, with dedicated support from the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC).Aligned with the WHO Global Influenza Strategy and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Partnership Contribution High‑Level Implementation Plan III (2024–2030), the country is strengthening its capacity to prepare for and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats. In early 2025, a core team from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) participated in a two‑day virtual workshop, which included a mini‑simulation exercise. The workshop was organized by WHO SEARO in collaboration with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Secretariat at WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office for the DPRK. Read more A REGIONAL CONSULTATION GUIDES WHO SEARO IN DEVELOPING A ROADMAP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PREPPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE FOR EMERGING THREATS (PRET) INITIATIVE BASED RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESSInfluenza and other respiratory pathogens with pandemic potential continue to pose major public health risks globally. To strengthen regional preparedness and response, Member States of the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR) convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to review and provide input on the draft Roadmap and Action Framework for Broad Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Planning (2026–2031). Supported through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) funds, the proposed roadmap aims to advance robust, integrated preparedness and response capacities for influenza and other respiratory threats across SEAR. This work is aligned with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the SEAR Strategic Roadmap on Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies Read moreSRI LANKA’S USE OF ANTIVIRALS TO REDUCE THE SEASONAL INFLUENZA BURDEN Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by placing greater emphasis on rapid testing, timely treatment, and integration with maternal health services. With support from WHO, the country is building a stronger evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination, advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and enhance pandemic preparedness. To reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza, Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to expand access to rapid diagnostic testing and ensure prompt initiation of treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for individuals at high risk of complications, helping prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, contributing to a reliable supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.Read moreBHUTAN BOOSTS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA READINESS WITH PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS FRAMEWORK PARTNERSHIP CONTRIBUTION SUPPORTED TRAINING AND SIMULATIONSOriginally developed in 2012, the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) has long served as Bhutan’s central framework for managing influenza threats. In 2024, the plan underwent a comprehensive update to reflect evolving global and regional guidance, lessons learned from the COVID‑19 pandemic, and new capacities developed under the PIP Framework. The revised NIPPRP is now more clearly aligned with Bhutan’s broader emergency and disaster risk management structures, ensuring a coordinated, whole‑of‑government approach to pandemic response. As part of efforts to strengthen national pandemic preparedness, Bhutan conducted three national‑level training sessions followed by simulation exercises on influenza pandemic preparedness and response at five sentinel hospitals between April and May 2025, with support from the PIP Partnership Contribution (PC). These activities brought together more than 140 health professionals and key partners from across the country, with a focus on operationalizing the updated NIPPRP and enhancing readiness at key frontline facilities. Read moreSTRENGTHENING INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE: WHO BRINGS TOGETHER INFLUENZA EXPERTS FROM SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONSThe World Health Organization (WHO) convened the 18th Bi‑regional Meeting of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and Influenza Surveillance for the WHO South‑East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9–11 September 2025. Hosted by the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), the meeting brought together representatives from Member States, Territories, and Areas across both regions, alongside experts from the WHO Collaborating Centres for Reference and Research on Influenza in Australia and Japan, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals in the United States, quadripartite partners (WOAH and FAO), and other technical counterparts. The consultation provided a platform to review progress, share experiences, and outline priorities for strengthening influenza and respiratory pathogen surveillance across the two WHO regions.Read moreNETWORKS AND TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIPSSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC READINES: SOUTH-EAST ASIA ADVANCES UNITY STUDIES UNDER THE PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS INITIATIVEThe WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies initiative, also known as Unity Studies, provides a standardized, globally coordinated framework to support these efforts. Originally developed for influenza and adapted during COVID-19, Unity Studies enable countries to conduct rapid, nationally led investigations and studies to assess transmissibility, severity, susceptibility, and intervention effectiveness. To better prepare for future influenza pandemics, WHO has recently launched a network of sites which will be ready to conduct these investigations and studies rapidly in the event of a pandemic, or epidemic of an emerging or re-emerging respiratory pathogen. The WHO South-East Asia Region now hosts six sites of WHO GISRS Unity Studies across the five countries including Sri Lanka, strengthening regional capacity for early pandemic investigations. From 13–16 July 2025 in Colombo, the Global Public Health Summit offered an opportunity to advance this agenda. Read moreSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS THROUGH UNITY STUDIES: REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS FROM INDIA IN WHO’S SOUTH-EAST ASIA REGION As countries continue to strengthen their pandemic preparedness through investments in resilient health systems during the interpandemic period, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies Global Initiative, Global Initiative, commonly known as Unity Studies, remains a vital framework for respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness. These standardized epidemiological protocols enable countries to rapidly generate high‑quality data on transmissibility, infection severity, population immunity, and the effectiveness of public health interventions. To highlight how Unity Studies protocols are being adapted and applied in national settings, WHO Headquarters, together with WHO Regional Offices, including the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), hosted a global webinar. The session showcased case studies from India and the United Kingdom (UK), demonstrating innovative approaches to respiratory virus surveillance and pandemic readiness. Read moreSTRENGTHENING REGIONAL INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE AND PREPAREDNESS: WHO SEARO HOSTS HIGH-LEVEL WEBINAR AMID RISING H5 THREATS In response to the increasing detection of avian influenza A(H5) cases in humans globally and within the WHO South‑East Asia Region, the WHO Regional Office for South‑East Asia (SEARO) convened a regional webinar on 25 July 2025 to review preparedness mechanisms, strengthen surveillance pathways, and promote timely reporting of unusual respiratory events. The virtual session brought together more than 50 participants from Ministries of Health, National Influenza Centres (NICs), National IHR Focal Points (NFPs), WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices across the Region, and WHO Collaborating Centres (CCs) for influenza. The webinar provided an opportunity to share situational updates, discuss surveillance gaps, and reinforce coordination mechanisms critical for early detection and rapid response to avian influenza threats. Read moreOther Key PIP Updates (July-December 2025)MEMBER STATES:Bangladesh drafted and conducted a series of Core Group Meetings in 2025 to review and update the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Pathogens. In addition, the country carried out Rapid Response Team (RRT) trainings on seasonal and avian influenza and other re‑emerging infectious diseases. Bangladesh also updated its epidemiological data‑training programme for physicians at sentinel surveillance sites, using a revised epidemiological data‑collection tool.Bhutan revised and updated its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) in 2025 and developed a national Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for influenza outbreak management. DPR Korea conducted a nationwide simulation exercise in July 2025 to support the update of its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan (2019). This followed a PRET‑based virtual orientation and mini‑simulation exercise held in May 2025 by SEARO and the WHO PRET Secretariat. The comprehensive exercise, conducted across central and provincial levels, assessed strengths and gaps in pandemic influenza preparedness and response. The feedback gathered has been incorporated into the revised draft plan to address identified weaknesses and strengthen overall readiness.India conducted a targeted nationwide online re‑orientation training on review and updates to the influenza portal for all State Surveillance Officers (SSOs) and relevant officials using the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The training emphasized correct marking and reporting of influenza samples as “unsubtypable” or “not subtyped” where applicable, to ensure accurate national surveillance.Maldives conducted simulation exercises in three atolls based on its existing National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP). The country plans to conduct similar exercises in three additional atolls after updating the NPPRP in 2026. In addition, Maldives conducted training on FluID and FluMart as part of a broader data‑management training package for Ministry of Health and Health Protection Agency officials, aimed at improving routine reporting to WHO platforms and the DHIS2 system.In Myanmar, technical support was provided to the National Influenza Centre (NIC) through dedicated human‑resource support (January–December 2025) to sustain data management and laboratory detection capacity for influenza and other emerging and re‑emerging respiratory viruses. This support also included strengthening genomic sequencing capacity.Nepal conducted a consultative workshop on the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP) in July 2025. The workshop engaged key stakeholders from multiple sectors to review lessons from past pandemic responses, assess current mechanisms, and gather critical inputs for strengthening national preparedness. Key recommendations included revising the 2019 NPPRP and developing an updated Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan aligned with emerging risks, national priorities, and relevant international frameworks. Nepal also held a two day workshop dedicated to advancing the National Action Plan for Genomic Surveillance, aimed at reinforcing the country’s capacities for early detection and monitoring of emerging respiratory pathogens.Sri Lanka received the final report from WHO on the feasibility assessment for conducting an Influenza Burden of Disease (BoD) study in the country. The assessment, conducted from 28 April to 9 May 2025, included a desk review of existing data sources, document review, visits to sentinel surveillance sites, and key informant interviews. The study identified critical data sources required for a future BoD assessment, as well as their availability and quality. Officials from the Epidemiology Unit, the National Influenza Centre (NIC), and SARI/ILI sentinel hospitals across the country participated in the assessment.Timor Leste conducted on‑the‑job training and monitoring activities at two sentinel surveillance sites to strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity for the detection of SARI, ILI, ARI, and other respiratory infections. REGIONAL OFFICE:SEARO conducted a Member States Consultation on the first draft of the Regional Roadmap and Strategic Action Framework for implementing WHO’s PRET‑based broad respiratory pathogen pandemic planning for 2026–2031. The consultation took place on 29–30 October 2025 during the final two days of the Regional PIP PC Annual Review and PRET Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Participants included representatives from Member States, WHO Country Offices, WHO SEARO, WHO Headquarters, partner agencies, and invited multidisciplinary technical experts. They reviewed the draft and provided detailed feedback, which has since been incorporated into a revised version. The consultation helped shape a shared regional vision for robust, PRET‑aligned pandemic preparedness, building on country‑level progress, addressing existing gaps and challenges, and aligning with global and regional health security frameworks. The publication is planned for release during the SEAR regional committee in 2026.SEARO documented the evolution of the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Planning process in the Region, tracing its development from its origins as a planning tool for responding to avian influenza outbreaks in 2006, through the experiences of the 2009 and 2019 pandemics, to the current status. The document outlines the way forward for respiratory pathogen pandemic planning across all 10 SEAR countries, aligning future national plans with WHO’s PRET Framework for broad respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness.The Infectious Hazard Management (IHM) Unit has drafted the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Guidance on Influenza Prevention and Control, aligned with the Global Influenza Strategy and other regional initiatives. The draft is currently under review. Although this technical product was developed in response to a request from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (MoPH‑DPRK), SEARO is finalizing it for use not only in DPRK but also across all Member States in the Region.The Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit, in collaboration with WHE/SEARO, completed a regional landscape analysis on key barriers, challenges, and opportunities for the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccination in WHO South‑East Asia Regional (SEAR) countries.Additionally, the Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit has completed a regional landscape analysis of influenza vaccine procurement systems across the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR).KEY MEETINGS AND PUBLICATIONSMEETINGS:Six-month progress review of the implementation of the PIP-PC workplans in SEAR, focusing on Outputs 1 and 2 for the period January to June 2025, and held virtually across three sessions on 4, 8, and 10 July 2025. Read moreAnnual Regional Meeting (Hybrid) on Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) and WHO’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Implementation in SEAR in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27 to 30 October 2025. Read more18th Bi-regional Meeting (Virtual) of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and influenza surveillance in WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9 to 11 September 2025. Read morePUBLICATIONSImplications of influenza A virus surveillance in Southeast Asian Region countries: a scoping review of approaches for the surveillance of swine influenza viruses at human-swine interfaces. Read moreAnnual South-East Asia regional meeting on operational planning for implementation of global influenza strategy and preparedness for respiratory viruses in 2025 Report on annual review meeting of implementation of pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) partnership Contribution (PC) Fund in South-East Asia Region and the simulation exercise on PRET Status of influenza in who south-East Asia Region
Analysis: The GOP’s biggest 2026 risk may be hiding in plain sight
Celinda Lake, a longtime Democratic pollster, has a simple formula for her party’s success: Democrats triumph in elections when they win among women by more than Republicans win among men.
Josh Shapiro to neighbors: Get off my lawn
The Pennsylvania governor and Democratic star is embroiled in a dispute with his neighbor that has escalated into an unlikely political saga.
Commentary: Eight candidates, four minutes to run for California governor. Ready, go!
Appearing before the Democratic faithful at the state party convention in San Francisco, hopefuls offered the whys and wherefores of their candidacies. There was a great deal of Trump bashing.
60% disapprove of Trump ahead of State of the Union, Post-ABC poll finds
Democrats have made little headway in persuading Americans that they have better ideas or policies to offer.
Could you get a big tariff rebate check? Here's the latest.
President Donald Trump has floated the idea of sending checks to Americans as a rebate from tariff revenue. Now Democrats have suggested another idea.
Suspended Napa County deputy who shared nude images of wife taken without her knowledge requests mental health diversion
Napa County sheriff’s Deputy James Fotherby is requesting mental health treatment as an alternative to potential jail time.
Mo Brown launches primary campaign against Bill Magnarelli, a fixture of Syracuse politics
The race pits Brown, an upstart progressive Onondaga County legislator, against Magnarelli, a longtime fixture of Democratic politics.
How Jesse Jackson’s ‘radically inclusive’ vision shaped the Democratic party we know today
The civil rights trailblazer imagined a future for America in which the marginalized became the center of US politics
Minnesota Political Landscape Upended by Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
A fraud scandal had Democrats on the defensive and led Gov. Tim Walz to end his re-election bid. But the ICE surge upended the political landscape.
Senate G.O.P. Faces Pressure to Force ‘Talking Filibuster’ for Voter I.D. Bill
Some reluctant Republicans say an old-school filibuster showdown with Democrats could paralyze the Senate with no guarantee of success. But President Trump and their own colleagues are spoiling for the fight.
Supreme Court’s tariff ruling means good news for Pretzel Pete in Hatboro
Republican U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, who previously supported the tariffs, joined Democrats in applauding the decision.
With no clear front runner, gubernatorial candidates to make their case at CADEM
Democrats from across California are gathering in San Francisco this weekend for the state’s Democratic convention.
Trump banner on Justice Dept. building draws authoritarian comparisons
Democrats criticized the appearance of the president on the headquarters of a department that has long prided itself on being independent from the White House.
Why Texas' redistricting plan isn't a sure bet
Republicans pursued that goal largely by "cracking" Democratic-leaning voters across multiple districts.
Virginia judge blocks Democrats' referendum, a blow to redistricting effort over 4 U.S. House seats
The order runs until March 18 and clashes with early voting set to begin March 6, which could doom the referendum.
Why a Republican Supreme Court struck down Trump’s tariffs
Trump loses, and the Democratic justices didn’t need to concede anything.
In Ukraine, Senators See War’s Impact and Press for Stronger U.S. Support
Senate Democrats traveled to Kyiv and Odessa to show solidarity with the war-torn nation and make the case that the United States should do more, including imposing harsh sanctions on Russia.
Texas' Senate primary race between Crockett and Talarico ramps up after pulled Colbert interview
Some Democrats see increasing opportunity in November's elections despite not having won a statewide race in Texas in more than 30 years.
How Jesse Jackson used the South to reshape Democratic politics
"He was a child of the South, and he understood the extraordinary power wielded by the state," Stacey Abrams said.
Science Democrats Concerned Over Reports of Problematic NIST Policy for Foreign Researchers
The House Committee on Science, Space and Technology
The Primary Win That Stunned Democrats Everywhere
Analilia Mejia’s stunning upset victory in New Jersey offers invaluable insights about the past and present of liberal politics in America.
Leading US Research Lab Appears to Be Squeezing Out Foreign Scientists
House Democrats are demanding answers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology and urging it to halt rumored changes they say could undermine its mission.
Jesse Jackson’s political legacy in the Trump era
Jenna Amatulli speaks to George Chidi about how US civil rights leader Jesse Jackson transformed the Democratic party and empowered minority communities at the ballot box, and what Jackson might have thought about the party today as it takes on Donald Trump
Trump in Rome touts "affordability fix" as local Democrats, business owners push back
Texas' Senate primary race between Crockett and Talarico ramps up after pulled Colbert interview
Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas is urging supporters to look at experience in a heated U.S. Senate primary with state Rep. James Talarico as he rides on wider attention thanks to late-night host Stephen Colbert
Beshear shares vision for Democrats' path forward
Gov. Andy Beshear, D-Ky., is promoting a new book, and amid speculation he is eyeing a run for president.