Voters Wary About the Economy, Dogecoin, and Democrats
President Donald Trump’s second term has brought a mix of emotions among voters. While his re-election initially boosted optimism about the nation’s direction, concerns about the economy and his handling of it are growing. A recent NBC News poll reveals that only 18% of voters view the economy as “excellent” or “good,” and a majority disapproves of Trump’s management of inflation. His overall approval rating stands at 47%, with 51% disapproving of his performance early in his second term.
The poll also highlights skepticism toward Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Nearly half of voters hold negative views of DOGE, and 51% disapprove of Musk specifically. Democrats, however, are facing their own challenges. The party’s popularity has hit an all-time low, with just 27% of respondents viewing it favorably—the lowest rating in NBC News polling since 1990. This decline is partly driven by frustration among Democrats who want the party to take a more combative approach against Trump.
Severe Weather Leaves Over 30 Dead
Deadly storm systems swept through the Midwest and South over the weekend, leaving at least 36 people dead across Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Alabama, and Mississippi. The powerful storms caused widespread destruction, including hundreds of thousands of power outages, dozens of injuries, and fatalities linked to wildfires. Nearly 16 million people were under tornado watches as the storm system moved east, stretching from Florida to the Carolinas.
The severe weather underscored the vulnerability of communities to extreme weather events. Emergency services and residents are grappling with the aftermath, while meteorologists warn of continued instability in the region. The destruction serves as a stark reminder of the growing risks posed by climate change and the need for improved disaster preparedness.
American Linked to Missing Student Has Passport Confiscated
Joshua Riibe, an American linked to the disappearance of University of Pittsburgh junior Sudiksha Konanki in the Dominican Republic, has had his passport confiscated and is confined to a hotel as the investigation continues. Speaking briefly to NBC News, Riibe said, “I’m just trying to help them out,” adding, “The ocean is a dangerous place.”
Riibe told investigators that he was with Konanki on the beach shortly before she vanished. He claimed they were in waist-deep water, talking and kissing, when a wave carried them out to sea. Riibe said he managed to get Konanki back to shore before she went missing. The case has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding Konanki’s disappearance and whether Riibe’s account is credible.
Senator Chris Murphy Calls for Democratic Urgency
On NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” Sen. Chris Murphy emphasized the need for the Democratic Party to act with greater urgency and change its tactics to address the challenges facing the nation. While expressing confidence in Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Murphy argued that Democrats must take bold action to “save American democracy.”
Asked why Democrats are struggling to connect with Americans, Murphy suggested that voters want the party to “stand up and fight” and take risks. He warned that continued collaboration with Republicans and handing more power to Trump could lead to the erosion of democracy. Murphy’s comments reflect growing frustration among progressives who believe the party must adopt a more assertive approach to counter Trump’s influence.
Politics in Brief
The White House is facing criticism over its immigration policies after Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport immigrants allegedly linked to a Venezuelan gang. A federal judge temporarily blocked the move, but the administration claimed success in deporting nearly 300 individuals.
In Canada, Trump’s influence has inspired a surge in patriotism and dampened the electoral prospects of the party most aligned with him. Meanwhile, federal workers are expressing frustration over Trump’s frequent trips to Mar-a-Lago while ordering government employees back to the office, citing hypocrisy.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent appeared on “Meet the Press” to address concerns about the stock market sell-off, which has been fueled by Wall Street’s worries over the administration’s tariffs policy. Bessent downplayed the risks, stating he is “not at all” worried about the situation.
Selection Sunday Marks the Start of March Madness
March Madness officially begins tonight with Selection Sunday, where the NCAA will reveal the brackets for the men’s and women’s basketball tournaments. One team to watch is the Missouri Tigers, who have made a historic turnaround. After a dismal 0-18 record in the Southeastern Conference last season, the Tigers have rebounded with a 22-10 record, marking the first time in SEC history that a team has gone winless in conference play one season and achieved double-digit conference victories the next.
The Tigers’ story is one of resilience and determination, making them a compelling underdog to watch in the tournament. Fans across the nation will tune in as the brackets are unveiled, marking the official start of one of the most exciting sporting events in the country.
In Case You Missed It
At least 31 people were killed in U.S. airstrikes on Yemen, according to the Houthi health ministry, with rebel leaders vowing to escalate retaliation.
Pope Francis was photographed concelebrating Mass in a hospital chapel, his first public appearance since being hospitalized for double pneumonia.
A nightclub fire in North Macedonia caused by pyrotechnic devices during a concert killed 59 people and injured over 100.
Israel’s increased use of airstrikes in the occupied West Bank since the Oct. 7 terror attack has raised concerns about escalating military tactics, with 14 killed in recent airstrikes in the Gaza Strip.
After a neo-Nazi group demonstrated in a majority-Black town, residents established an armed protection group to defend against hate groups.
A missing eaglet born to a popular Southern California eagle couple died in a recent winter storm, according to the nonprofit managing the nest cameras.
