Major US News This Week: Trump’s Record-Breaking State of the Union 2026, Supreme Court Tariffs Ruling, Iran Crisis Escalates, Historic Northeast Blizzard – February 19-25 Recap

Trump’s 2026 State of the Union: Record Length, Economic Wins, and Sharp Partisan Jabs

On February 24, 2026, President Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term — and the longest in US history at nearly 1 hour and 48 minutes. Trump touted economic gains, lower inflation, job creation, tax cuts, and immigration enforcement successes while slamming Democrats as “crazy” for not applauding his priorities on crime, affordability, and foreign policy.

Key highlights included:

• Claims of a “turnaround for the ages” with falling mortgage rates, high refunds, and reduced dependency on welfare programs.
• Praise for US hockey teams at the 2026 Winter Games, Medal of Honor recipients, and victims of migrant-related crimes.
• Touches on global issues like Iran negotiations and peace efforts via his new “Board of Peace.”

Reactions were mixed: Supporters hailed the pro-growth message, while critics noted declining public confidence in his economic handling amid ongoing challenges.

Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump’s Global Tariffs in Landmark 6-3 Ruling

In a major blow to the administration’s trade agenda, the US Supreme Court ruled 6-3 on February 20 that President Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping global tariffs. The decision invalidated the broad “Liberation Day” levies, with Chief Justice John Roberts writing that IEEPA does not grant tariff powers.

Trump responded defiantly, announcing new tariffs — initially 15%, later adjusted to 10% in some cases — under alternative trade laws like Sections 122 and 301. Markets reacted with uncertainty, and business groups warned of “murky waters” for global trade. The ruling opens doors for potential refunds but leaves future tariff plans in legal limbo.

US-Iran Crisis Intensifies: Military Buildup, Last-Ditch Geneva Talks

Tensions between the US and Iran reached new heights this week, with indirect nuclear talks in Geneva offering a final diplomatic off-ramp. President Trump gave Iran 10-15 days for a “meaningful deal,” warning of military action if talks fail — including potential strikes on nuclear sites or leadership.

Developments include:

• Deployment of two aircraft carriers (USS Gerald Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln) and massive airpower in the Middle East — the largest buildup in decades.
• Reports of US preparations for possible weeks-long operations.
• Iranian officials signaling a deal could be “within reach” if diplomacy prevails, while rejecting zero-enrichment demands.

This foreign policy flashpoint dominates headlines, raising fears of broader conflict.

Historic Northeast Blizzard of 2026: Record Snow, Power Outages, Travel Chaos

A devastating bomb cyclone, dubbed the Blizzard of 2026 or Winter Storm Hernando, slammed the Northeast from February 22–24, dumping 2–3 feet of snow across the region — the strongest storm in a decade.

Impacts:

• Record totals in cities like Providence, RI (37.9 inches), with over 600,000 power outages.
• Blizzard warnings for ~41–50 million people, flight cancellations, school closures, and dangerous coastal flooding.
• Lingering effects include more snow in northern areas and ongoing recovery challenges.

The storm compounded issues like partial DHS resource strains from ongoing shutdown measures.

Other Major US Releases and Headlines This Week

• DHS Emergency Measures Amid Partial Shutdown: One week into a funding lapse blamed on congressional disputes, DHS suspended TSA courtesy escorts and limited non-disaster FEMA aid to conserve resources.
• US-Indonesia Trade Deal Finalized: Praised by farmers and industries, the agreement eliminates tariffs on nearly all US goods, boosting market access in a key Indo-Pacific partner.
• Additional Notes: Secret Service incident at Mar-a-Lago involving a fatal shooting of an armed intruder; cartel violence in Mexico following a US-aided raid; ongoing Board of Peace initiatives; and federal education partnerships to reduce bureaucracy.

Why This Week Shaped America’s Agenda

From a historic presidential address and judicial setback on trade to brinkmanship with Iran and a crippling winter storm, February 19–25, 2026, delivered high-impact events affecting security, economy, and daily life. ClickUSANews.com will continue tracking developments on Trump State of the Union 2026, US tariffs ruling, Iran nuclear crisis, and more.