Event:
The Iran War enters Week 4
What is it?
The United States and Israel have been at war with Iran since early March. The conflict has thrown global oil markets into chaos and nearly shut down the Strait of Hormuz, the waterway that carries about a fifth of the world’s oil supply.
Ongoing since early March 2026.
Oil is up 45% since fighting started. Trump said the U.S. is considering “winding down” operations, then a day later threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants. At least 13 U.S. service members have been killed, over 230 wounded. Keep an eye on gas prices.
Sources:
NPR, Associated Press, Bloomberg
Event:
The DHS Shutdown
What is it?
The Department of Homeland Security has been partially shut down since Feb. 14. Because DHS funds the TSA, airport security has been directly impacted.
Feb. 14, 2026; negotiations ongoing.
If you flew over break, you probably lived this story. TSA officers have been working without pay, causing security lines past three hours at some airports. Senate Republicans are pushing a deal to fund 94% of DHS, but Trump is demanding it include his voter-ID bill, which Democrats refuse to support.
Sources:
CNN, CBS News, House Appropriations Committee
Event:
Watson v. RNC
What is it?
The Supreme Court (SCOTUS) is is deciding whether states can count mail-in ballots that arrive after Election Day, as long as they were postmarked by that day.
Arguments heard March decision expected by June.
The case challenges a Mississippi law that gives a five-day grace period for mail-in ballots. Fourteen states plus D.C. have similar rules. The conservative majority appeared skeptical, and a ruling against Mississippi could change how millions vote in the 2026 midterms. If you vote by mail, this one is worth watching.
Sources:
CNN, NBC News, Votebeat, Ballotpedia
Event:
Watson v. RNC
What is it?
The Supreme Court (SCOTUS) is is deciding whether states can count mail-in ballots that arrive after Election Day, as long as they were postmarked by that day.
Arguments heard March decision expected by June.
The case challenges a Mississippi law that gives a five-day grace period for mail-in ballots. Fourteen states plus D.C. have similar rules. The conservative majority appeared skeptical, and a ruling against Mississippi could change how millions vote in the 2026 midterms. If you vote by mail, this one is worth watching.
Sources:
CNN, NBC News, Votebeat, Ballotpedia
