Marine veteran and U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton announced his candidacy against Senator Ed Markey in the 2026 Massachusetts Democratic primary, citing a need for fresh leadership. The race underscores broader generational debates within the party, with Moulton focusing on issues like healthcare and climate change, while Markey emphasizes his experience and endorsements.

Cook County's chief judge bans ICE from conducting civil arrests at courthouses to safeguard legal access without fear. This move responds to rising ICE activities and aligns with wider efforts to curb federal enforcement tactics.

New York reports its first locally-acquired chikungunya case since 2019, signaling the presence of transmitting mosquitoes in Long Island. With risks low due to colder weather, officials urge preventive measures like insect repellent and removing standing water.

Apple is doubling down on its China ties, boosting investments amid trade tensions, with Tim Cook stressing China's market size and industrial ecosystem. Despite diversifying production to India and Vietnam, Apple's reliance on Chinese manufacturing remains strong, as it navigates tariff challenges and plans domestic investments.

Social media usage has surged, with 5.66 billion users globally and AI tools like ChatGPT significantly altering online behaviors. As digital trends evolve, businesses must adapt strategies to engage diverse audiences, while privacy issues and connectivity gaps remain challenges.

Roku is upgrading its platform with new features, including improved screensavers, AI-enhanced Roku Voice, and real-time sports updates, to boost personalization and interactivity. The company is also launching a portable Roku projector and expanding smart home compatibility, aiming for a seamless, immersive streaming experience by the end of the season.

Vertical Semiconductor, an MIT spinoff, is pioneering vertical GaN transistors to enhance power efficiency in AI systems, backed by $11 million from investors like Playground Global. With plans to release samples by year-end and full solutions by 2026, the technology promises to transform data center power systems, drawing interest from major tech players.

New Oklahoma Superintendent Lindel Fields has officially rescinded a mandate to fund Bibles in public schools, reversing the controversial policy of former Superintendent Ryan Walters. Fields' decision comes amid legal challenges and aims to refocus the Department of Education's priorities, steering away from religious mandates and reviewing other contentious policies from Walters' tenure.

A North Carolina appeals court has upheld some of Governor Stein's appointment powers while curbing the legislature's reach over certain commissions. This decision stems from a legal battle initiated by Stein over laws enacted in 2023 and 2024, reflecting ongoing tensions over separation of powers.

The Trump administration has frozen $28 billion in federal funding amid a government shutdown, targeting projects in Democratic-led areas like New York and Illinois. The cuts, affecting energy, infrastructure, and transportation, are criticized as politically motivated, threatening economic growth and clean energy progress.