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Trump did what today?

2/18/2026

Extremist rhetoric is often found in government messaging. Who's the target?

  • A recent post by former President Trump was criticized for its racist imagery of the Obamas.
  • Experts say this fits a pattern of extremist language used by the Trump administration in federal messaging.
  • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been linked to controversial propaganda regarding immigration.
  • Critics argue that messaging reflects white nationalist ideas and aids in recruiting extremists.
  • Some call this type of messaging a tool to normalize extremist views in American society.

The Justice Department is not acting like it used to, criminal defense lawyers note

  • Defense lawyers express concerns about the behavior of the U.S. Department of Justice recently.
  • They launched a Case Tracker tool to monitor unusual criminal cases and aggressive legal actions.
  • Judges are scrutinizing DOJ practices and rejecting some indictments that were previously easier to secure.
  • The new tracker aims to highlight irregular practices and government overreach.
  • Lawyers suggest political motivations may be behind some of the DOJ's recent decisions.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg to face jury in landmark social media addiction trial

  • Mark Zuckerberg will testify in a trial over social media's impact on youth mental health.
  • Plaintiffs argue that platforms like Instagram are designed to be addictive and harm young people.
  • Zuckerberg's lack of livestreaming during trial adds to the anticipation around his testimony.
  • The lawsuit could set precedent for pending cases against social media companies.
  • Meta is also facing a separate lawsuit in New Mexico over child safety on its platforms.

Surprise 4-legged Olympic competitor wows cross-country fans

  • A dog named Nazgul unexpectedly joined a cross-country ski race in Italy.
  • Nazgul escaped from his doghouse and delighted fans before officials returned him home.
  • Skiers, including Croatian athlete Tena Hadzic, were bewildered by the dog's presence.
  • While Nazgul's appearance didn't affect race results, it brought a lighthearted moment.
  • His owners said he was just trying to follow them as they left.

8 creative ways to build your village, according to our listeners

  • Readers shared ways they’ve built community connections, like hosting coffee dates with neighbors.
  • Some connect by organizing parties or helping with meals during tough times.
  • Gardening and inviting others for conversations helped foster community spirit.
  • Moms suggested creating networks for support through fun outings.
  • Others emphasized the importance of being proactive and inclusive to strengthen ties.

How well are ICE's 12,000 new officers being trained?

  • The Department of Homeland Security has significantly increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) staff.
  • Videos of aggressive tactics by officers have raised concerns about their training and methods.
  • Law enforcement experts are reassessing ICE's approach amid rising scrutiny.
  • The need for effective training and appropriate response tactics is emphasized.
  • Ongoing evaluations aim to improve policies and practices within the agency.

Meet Yolanda the wax truck, Team USA's unsung cross-country ski hero

  • Yolanda, the wax truck, plays a crucial role in preparing skis for Team USA's cross-country skiers.
  • Technicians apply special wax formulas and test them before races to ensure optimal performance.
  • U.S. athletes, including Jessie Diggins, credit the wax team for their successful races.
  • The truck has improved conditions for ski preparation significantly.
  • Yolanda became a beloved part of the team's Olympic experiences.

Watch: Moms dominate bobsleigh and why athletes get "the yips"

  • Elana Meyers Taylor and Kaillie Humphries won medals in bobsleigh, highlighting women's achievements.
  • Analysis on athletes experiencing 'the yips' sheds light on mental challenges in sports.
  • Focus on fun aspects of different sports presents a lighter side amid competition.
  • NPR hosts coverage of Olympics to engage viewers with athlete stories and experiences.
  • Expect more highlights on athletes and competitions throughout the Winter Games.

Ogden, Schumacher grab silver for U.S. in Olympic cross-country team sprint, Diggins falls short

  • U.S. skiers Ben Ogden and Gus Schumacher won silver in an Olympic team sprint event.
  • Ogden's success adds to the history of U.S. men's cross-country skiing performance.
  • Jessie Diggins and Julia Kern finished fifth in the women's sprint event.
  • The competitions showcased intense rivalries and national pride among skiers.
  • Upcoming races offer more opportunities for American skiers to excel.

Trump administration is erasing history and science at national parks, lawsuit argues

  • Lawsuit claims the Trump administration's policies are censoring history and science in national parks.
  • National Park Service staff removed exhibits regarding slavery and climate change due to new orders.
  • LGBTQ+ advocates also criticized the removal of a Pride flag from a national monument.
  • Groups argue these changes threaten the integrity and educational value of parks.
  • Recent court rulings have reinstated some educational materials removed by the administration.

The U.S. falters again in figure skating, but the women still have time to make it up

  • U.S. women figure skaters qualified for the medal event but face tough competition.
  • Reigning champion Alysa Liu stands in third place, while others encountered challenges.
  • Amber Glenn had a tough outing after a strong start but remains determined.
  • The evolving support among skaters reflects a positive change in team dynamics.
  • All eyes are on the free skate performance for potential medal outcomes.

State public-option health plans expand but can't fill gaps left by federal changes

  • Nevada's new public-option health plans have lower enrollment than expected.
  • Experts say these plans can't address gaps created by federal health policy changes.
  • While states work to make healthcare more affordable, challenges persist.
  • Enrollment in public-option plans varies across states, with mixed results reported.
  • The ongoing changes affect the overall health insurance landscape for consumers.

Where the word 'Olympics' comes from and what it means to someone who competed there

  • The word 'Olympics' originates from ancient Greece, associating with divine gatherings.
  • Modern Olympic Games began in 1896 but were inspired by ancient traditions.
  • Legal issues surrounding the term arise as organizations seek to protect trademarks.
  • An Olympian reflects on how the Games opened doors and shaped personal journeys.
  • Understanding the depth of the Olympics enriches appreciation for the event.

U.S. women's figure skaters could've been rivals. Instead, they're the 'Blade Angels'

  • Three American figure skaters, known as the 'Blade Angels,' share a supportive bond.
  • This year's Olympic team is recognized for its potential and camaraderie.
  • Their friendship contrasts past rivalries in the sport, promoting positive relationships.
  • Each skater has unique strengths and experiences that contribute to their team dynamic.
  • Their collective talent raises hopes for Olympic success this year.

The very polite, unheated rivalry between Jordan Stolz and Jenning de Boo

  • Jordan Stolz and Jenning de Boo emerge as top young speedskating rivals.
  • Both athletes admire each other's talent and share a friendly competition.
  • They have set Olympic records, showcasing their skills during the Games.
  • Their rivalry is marked by respect and mutual motivation to excel.
  • Expect to see more of them as they continue to compete on the world stage.

A curling scandal rocks Olympic ice

  • A heated exchange between Canadian and Swedish curlers raised eyebrows during a match.
  • Canadian player Marc Kennedy faced accusations of cheating yet denied any wrongdoing.
  • The incident challenges the spirit of curling, which emphasizes sportsmanship.
  • Officials have refrained from using video replays to settle disputes in matches.
  • The scandal has sparked discussions on sports ethics and professionalism.

Two U.S. moms in their 40s rocketed to gold and bronze in Olympic bobsled showdown

  • Elana Meyers Taylor won her first Olympic gold medal in bobsled at age 41.
  • Kaillie Humphries captured a bronze, highlighting the achievements of older female athletes.
  • Both women faced personal and professional challenges on their journey to the podium.
  • Their success demonstrates progress in women's sports and representation.
  • Meyers Taylor sets records as the most successful Black athlete in Winter Olympics.

Meet the power couples of the 2026 Winter Games, from rivals to teammates

  • Several athletes in the 2026 Olympics are couples, both competing and supporting each other.
  • Relationships range from teammates to rivals in various sports disciplines.
  • Highlighted couples share their journeys and contributions to their sports.
  • The dynamics of their relationships can provide unique advantages in competition.
  • These couples exemplify the intersection of love and athleticism on the Olympic stage.

U.S. Olympic speed skaters adapt NASCAR 'bump drafting,' revolutionizing team event

  • American speedskaters are using a new technique called 'bump drafting' for the Team Pursuit event.
  • This method involves pushing another skater to optimize speed and efficiency.
  • Aerospace specialists helped develop techniques that have changed their training practices.
  • The U.S. team has seen improvements in rankings through this innovative approach.
  • Trust and synchronization are essential for the success of skaters in close races.

The U.S. women's hockey team is dominating the Olympics. Now they will play for gold

  • The U.S. women's hockey team has made it to the gold medal match after six consecutive wins.
  • Their remarkable performance includes outscoring opponents 31 to 1 in the tournament.
  • Team captain Hilary Knight aims for a third Olympic medal in her fifth Games.
  • Key young talents have emerged alongside seasoned athletes to strengthen the team.
  • The matchup against Canada in the final is highly anticipated.