Biohackers Push Nicotine “Wellness,” Majority of Americans Oppose Trump Deportations, Jack Hughes Pride
Your Daily #InstrumIntel for Monday 2.23.26
Welcome to the Daily #InstrumIntel, where we break down what you need to know, and why, using What? So What? Now What?.
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Politics • The Trump Administration • Climate & Environment • AI & Tech • Culture & Media • Education • What the Right is Reading • Strays
Politics
Headline: Majority of Americans think Trump’s deportation campaign is going too far | Washingtonpost
What?
A Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll reveals that a majority of Americans believe President Trump's immigration policies, particularly deportation efforts, have become excessively aggressive, with significant opposition to ICE's tactics, as reported on February 20, 2026.
So What?
This growing public disapproval presents an opportunity for progressive communicators to highlight issues of civil liberties and human rights, potentially galvanizing support for policy reforms and influencing the upcoming midterm elections.
Now What?
Watch for potential shifts in congressional support for immigration enforcement policies and any legislative actions aimed at reforming ICE practices; further reading can be found in related articles on immigration policy changes and public opinion trends. [DETAILS NEEDED]
Headline: The ‘Antifa Scare’ Goes on Trial in North Texas | Texasobserver
What?
A federal trial in North Texas is underway for 19 individuals accused of being part of an "antifa terror cell" following a protest at the Prairieland ICE detention center on July 4, 2025, where a police officer was allegedly shot.
So What?
This case is significant for progressive communicators as it tests the Trump administration's efforts to label left-wing activists as domestic terrorists, raising concerns about civil liberties and the potential criminalization of protest activities.
Now What?
Watch for developments in the trial's outcome and its implications for future protest-related charges, while further reading on the broader context can be found in analyses of the Trump administration's policies on domestic terrorism and civil liberties, such as those from the ACLU and Southern Poverty Law Center.
Headline: Turns Out There Was Voter Fraud in Georgia—by Elon Musk
What?
The Georgia State Elections Board issued a formal reprimand to Elon Musk's America PAC for illegally sending prefilled absentee ballot applications during the 2024 election campaign in Georgia.
So What?
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of election integrity and the potential misuse of power by influential figures, which is crucial for progressive communicators focused on safeguarding democratic processes and promoting transparency.
Now What?
Watch for further investigations into election interference and potential legal actions against America PAC, while monitoring how this might influence future election regulations; for more context, see Brennan Center's resources on election security.
Headline: The latest on the blockades in Jalisco and beyond| Informador
What?
Following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias "El Mencho," leader of the Cártel Nueva Generación, Jalisco experienced widespread violence and blockades, leading to the suspension of flights, educational activities, and various public services on February 22, 2026.
So What?
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges of organized crime in Mexico, emphasizing the need for progressive communicators to focus on the implications for civil liberties, public safety, and the effectiveness of government responses.
Now What?
Watch for updates on the government's strategy to restore order and the potential impact on civil society, while exploring further reading on the history of the Cártel Nueva Generación and its influence in Mexico, such as this BBC article.
Headline: Ven a cinco candidatos a suceder a El Mencho | Eluniversal
What?
A dive into the potential successors to Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes "El Mencho," leader of the CJNG, who was killed in Jalisco, Mexico, and the implications for the cartel's future leadership and structure.
So What?
This development is significant for progressive communicators as it highlights the ongoing power struggles within organized crime in Mexico, which can impact civil liberties and security policies, offering opportunities for advocacy on drug policy reform and violence prevention.
Now What?
Watch for potential increases in violence and shifts in cartel dynamics as new leaders emerge, and consider reading more about the impact of organized crime on regional stability and policy responses, such as in this Brookings report.
Headline: Is This the Most Important Supreme Court Case of the Century?
What?
The Supreme Court, in a 6-3 decision on February 22, 2026, struck down President Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose global tariffs, marking a significant check on presidential power.
So What?
This ruling is crucial for progressive communicators as it reinforces the separation of powers, curbing executive overreach and preserving legislative authority, which can be leveraged to advocate for democratic governance and accountability.
Now What?
Watch for potential legal challenges to Trump's new tariff attempts and further Supreme Court decisions on executive power, with additional context available in analyses of the "major questions doctrine" and its implications for future administrations. [DETAILS NEEDED]
Headline: In France, the Far Right Has Its Martyr
What?
A French far-right militant, Quentin Deranque, died from injuries sustained during a clash with anti-fascist activists in Lyon, sparking a national scandal and political backlash against left-wing groups.
So What?
This incident highlights the escalating political violence in France and the potential for increased scrutiny and pressure on progressive groups, impacting their ability to organize and advocate for civil liberties.
Now What?
Watch for developments in the investigation into Deranque's death and potential legislative or political actions targeting anti-fascist groups, with further context available in analyses of France's political climate and far-right activities, such as those found in The Guardian.
The Trump Administration
What?
Amid an ICE surge in Minnesota, immigrants are sharing their experiences of living in hiding to avoid deportation, highlighting their struggles and fears. [DETAILS NEEDED]
So What?
This situation underscores the urgent need for progressive communicators to address the human rights and civil liberties issues faced by immigrants, offering opportunities for advocacy and policy reform.
Now What?
Watch for potential legislative responses or community organizing efforts aimed at protecting immigrant rights, and consider reading more about the impact of ICE operations on local communities at ACLU's Immigrants' Rights.
Headline: FinCEN Order on Suspected Minnesota Fraud Takes Effect | Natlawreview
What?
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has implemented a Geographic Targeting Order requiring banks and money transmitters in Hennepin and Ramsey Counties, Minnesota, to report international funds transfers of $3,000 or more from February 12 to August 10, 2026, to combat suspected fraud in federal child nutrition programs.
So What?
This order highlights the intersection of financial regulation and social welfare, emphasizing the need for progressive communicators to monitor how financial oversight can impact vulnerable communities and the potential for increased scrutiny on financial institutions.
Now What?
Watch for developments in how financial institutions adapt their compliance measures and any potential pushback from civil liberties groups; further reading on the implications of financial surveillance can be found in reports by the Electronic Frontier Foundation and the ACLU.
Headline: Trump's new 10% global tariff, explained
What?
President Trump announced a new 10% global tariff on imports after the Supreme Court struck down his previous tariff plan, with the new tariffs set to be enacted under Section 122 for up to 150 days unless extended by Congress.
So What?
This development is significant for progressive communicators as it highlights the ongoing tension between executive actions and judicial oversight, and the potential economic impact on low-income families, which could be a focal point for advocacy and policy reform efforts.
Now What?
Watch for congressional responses to the tariff extension and potential legal challenges, while further reading on the economic impact of tariffs can be found in studies like those from the Peterson Institute for International Economics (https://www.piie.com/).
What?
A Guardian analysis of government records reveals that 77% of immigrants targeted for deportation in 2025 under the Trump administration had no criminal convictions, contradicting claims that the focus was on violent criminals.
So What?
This discrepancy highlights potential civil liberties violations and underscores the need for progressive communicators to challenge narratives that justify broad immigration enforcement under the guise of targeting violent offenders.
Now What?
Watch for further investigations into the impact of these deportation practices on immigrant communities and potential legal challenges; for context, see ACLU's Immigrants' Rights for ongoing advocacy efforts.
Headline: How Epstein and Maxwell used an elite Midwest arts school to prey on girls
What?
Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell used their influence and financial contributions to gain access to the Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan, where they allegedly groomed and abused young girls from 1994 to 2000.
So What?
This case highlights the vulnerabilities in institutions that rely on donor funding, emphasizing the need for progressive campaigners to advocate for stronger safeguards and accountability measures to protect minors from exploitation by powerful individuals.
Now What?
Watch for further investigations into how educational institutions vet donors and implement child protection policies, and explore resources like RAINN's guide on child sexual abuse for more context.
Headline: The Same Banker: Deutsche Bank, Epstein, and Kushner
What?
The article explores the interconnected financial dealings involving Deutsche Bank, Jeffrey Epstein, and Jared Kushner, highlighting potential overlaps in investigations and the roles of key individuals, with events primarily occurring between 2015 and 2019.
So What?
This matters to progressive communicators as it underscores the need for transparency and accountability in financial institutions and the potential influence of powerful individuals on legal and regulatory processes, which can impact public trust and policy reform efforts.
Now What?
Watch for further investigations or disclosures regarding the financial ties between political figures and controversial financiers, and consider reading more about the implications of financial misconduct in political contexts, such as in reports by the House Oversight Committee or investigative journalism pieces on financial regulation. [DETAILS NEEDED]
Headline: Ghislaine Maxwell fights release of more Epstein documents | AP News
What?
Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyers are contesting the release of 90,000 pages of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, arguing in Manhattan federal court that a law mandating their release is unconstitutional.
So What?
This legal battle highlights ongoing concerns about transparency, accountability, and the protection of victims' privacy, which are critical issues for progressive communicators advocating for justice and systemic reform.
Now What?
Watch for court decisions on the release of these documents and potential implications for privacy rights and transparency; further reading on the Epstein Files Transparency Act can provide context on legislative efforts to address these issues.
Headline: Federal Judge Greenlights Evidence For Historic Texas Antifa Terrorism Trial
What?
A federal judge in Fort Worth has allowed a significant amount of evidence to be used in a trial treating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, involving nine defendants accused of attacking an ICE facility in Texas.
So What?
This trial could set a precedent for how activist groups are prosecuted under terrorism charges, raising concerns about civil liberties and the potential for increased government surveillance and repression of political dissent.
Now What?
Watch for the trial's outcome and its implications on future legal actions against activist groups, and consider reading about the broader context of domestic terrorism designations and their impact on civil liberties, such as in this ACLU report.
Headline: Trump’s DHS Targets ICE Critics on Social Media
What?
The Department of Homeland Security under Trump's administration has been using administrative subpoenas to obtain personal information from tech companies about individuals who criticize ICE on social media platforms, raising concerns about First and Fourth Amendment violations.
So What?
This development is significant for progressive communicators as it highlights the increasing surveillance and suppression of dissent, which could have chilling effects on free speech and civil liberties, crucial areas for advocacy and organizing.
Now What?
Watch for legal challenges to these practices and potential policy changes under future administrations, and consider reading more about the implications of administrative subpoenas on civil liberties at ACLU's Privacy and Surveillance page.
Headline: Extinction Rebellion NYC says it’s being probed after FBI agents visit ex-member
What?
Extinction Rebellion NYC claims it is under FBI investigation after agents visited a former member's home, following similar visits to activists in Boston, amid concerns about President Trump's executive order on domestic terrorism.
So What?
This development highlights potential government overreach and the chilling effect on activism, raising concerns about civil liberties and the criminalization of protest, which are critical issues for progressive communicators and campaigners.
Now What?
Watch for further developments on the FBI's actions and any legal challenges to the executive order, while exploring resources like the ACLU's analysis on domestic terrorism policies for deeper context: ACLU on Domestic Terrorism.
Headline: Pennsylvania Democrat Takes on Pam Bondi’s Secret ‘Domestic Terrorist’ List
What?
Democratic Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon questioned Attorney General Pam Bondi about a secret Justice Department list of "domestic terrorists," comparing it to historical crackdowns on civil liberties, during a recent SpyTalk podcast interview.
So What?
This issue highlights the ongoing tension between national security measures and civil liberties, providing progressive communicators with an opportunity to advocate for transparency and accountability in government surveillance practices.
Now What?
Watch for further developments on the transparency of government lists and potential legislative actions, and consider reading more about historical parallels in civil liberties crackdowns, such as McCarthyism, for context: History.com on McCarthyism.
Climate & Environment
Headline: A microreactor is airlifted, part of Trump's push on nuclear power | AP News
What?
The Pentagon and the Energy Department airlifted a 5-megawatt microreactor from California to Utah, marking a significant step in the Trump administration's push to promote nuclear energy for military and civilian use.
So What?
This development highlights the administration's prioritization of nuclear power over renewable energy, raising concerns about safety, regulatory oversight, and the potential sidelining of independent regulatory bodies, which are critical issues for progressive campaigners focused on environmental justice and energy policy.
Now What?
Watch for further developments on the commercial licensing of microreactors and the administration's plans for nuclear waste disposal, as these will have significant implications for energy policy and environmental safety; for more context, see Union of Concerned Scientists on Nuclear Power Safety.
Headline: How the Anti-Tariff Ruling Will Affect Clean Energy | Heatmap
What?
The Supreme Court ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act did not authorize certain tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, affecting the clean energy sector's ongoing tariff challenges.
So What?
This ruling highlights the complexities of tariff policies and their impact on clean energy, offering progressive communicators an opportunity to advocate for clearer, fairer trade policies that support sustainable industries.
Now What?
Watch for potential legal disputes over tariff refunds and further tariff investigations, and explore the implications of these developments on clean energy supply chains; for more context, see Reuters coverage.
Headline: Trump administration eases limits on coal plants for emitting mercury, other toxins
What?
The Trump administration's EPA announced a rollback of stricter mercury and toxic emissions standards for coal-fired power plants on Friday in Louisville, Kentucky, reverting to 2012 standards.
So What?
This regulatory rollback could undermine public health protections and environmental progress, presenting a challenge for progressive communicators advocating for stricter environmental regulations and climate action.
Now What?
Watch for potential legal challenges from environmental groups and states, and monitor the impact on coal plant operations and emissions; further reading on the implications of regulatory rollbacks can be found at AP's climate and environment coverage.
Headline: Trump climate health rollback likely to hit poor, minority areas hardest, experts say
What?
The Trump administration's EPA has overturned a key climate regulation, potentially increasing pollution and health risks in poor and minority communities across the U.S., particularly in areas like Louisiana's Cancer Alley.
So What?
This rollback highlights systemic environmental injustices and presents an opportunity for progressive communicators to advocate for stronger environmental protections and equitable health policies.
Now What?
Watch for legal challenges to the EPA's decision and increased advocacy from environmental justice groups; further reading on the implications can be found in the AP's environmental coverage.
Headline: Lawmaker introduces an 'anti-glyphosate' bill following Trump's executive order
What?
Kentucky GOP Rep. Thomas Massie announced the introduction of the “No Immunity for Glyphosate Act” in response to President Donald Trump's executive order promoting glyphosate, on Thursday in Washington, D.C.
So What?
This development highlights a potential rift within the GOP and presents an opportunity for progressive communicators to emphasize the health and environmental risks associated with glyphosate, potentially mobilizing public support against its use.
Now What?
Watch for reactions from environmental and health advocacy groups, as well as any shifts in public opinion or legislative support, and consider reviewing studies on glyphosate's health impacts, such as those from the World Health Organization, for further context.
AI & Tech
Headline: OpenAI Employees Raised Alarms About Canada Shooting Suspect Months Ago | WSJ
What?
OpenAI employees considered alerting law enforcement about Jesse Van Rootselaar's violent ChatGPT posts months before she became a suspect in a mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, in February 2026.
So What?
This incident highlights the tension between privacy and public safety for AI companies, raising questions about the responsibilities of tech firms in preventing violence and the implications for civil liberties and user privacy.
Now What?
Watch for discussions on policy changes regarding AI's role in public safety and privacy, and follow developments in the investigation into Van Rootselaar's digital footprint; further reading on AI ethics can be found at Brookings Institution.
What?
The article reveals that OpenAI, in collaboration with the US government and Persona, has developed a surveillance system that uses facial recognition and watchlists to monitor identities, with findings based on publicly accessible data from sources like Shodan and DNS logs.
So What?
This development raises significant concerns about privacy and civil liberties, highlighting the potential for misuse of surveillance technology and the need for progressive communicators to advocate for transparency and accountability in AI and government collaborations.
Now What?
Watch for responses from OpenAI and Persona regarding these allegations and any legal or policy actions that may arise, while further reading on the implications of AI surveillance can be found in related discussions on privacy rights and technology ethics at EFF's Privacy page.
Headline: Hackers Expose Age-Verification Software Powering Surveillance Web
What?
Hackers discovered that Persona, a company used by Discord for biometric identity verification, had exposed its surveillance software on a US government server, revealing extensive data collection and monitoring capabilities.
So What?
This exposure highlights significant privacy concerns and the potential misuse of surveillance technology, which could impact civil liberties and raise alarms for progressive communicators focused on digital rights and privacy advocacy.
Now What?
Watch for further developments on government and corporate responses to this exposure, and consider reading about the implications of biometric surveillance in digital spaces, such as in articles from the Electronic Frontier Foundation or Privacy International.
Headline: The left is missing out on AI | Transformernews
What?
The article argues that the political left has largely ignored the implications of artificial intelligence, despite its potential to significantly impact society, with notable exceptions like Bernie Sanders and Cory Doctorow who have raised concerns.
So What?
This matters to progressive communicators because engaging with AI's societal impacts could provide opportunities to shape policy and protect civil liberties, ensuring that technological advancements do not exacerbate existing inequalities.
Now What?
Watch for emerging discussions on AI regulation and ethical considerations within progressive circles, and explore further reading on AI's societal impacts, such as the works of Emily Bender and Timnit Gebru, to better understand the debate. [DETAILS NEEDED]
Headline: Man accidentally gains control of 7,000 robot vacuums | Popsci
What?
A software engineer named Sammy Azdoufal inadvertently gained access to the live feeds and controls of nearly 7,000 DJI robot vacuums across 24 countries while developing a remote-control app, revealing a significant security flaw that has since been resolved by DJI.
So What?
This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in smart home devices, raising concerns about privacy and surveillance, which are critical issues for progressive communicators focused on civil liberties and consumer protection.
Now What?
Watch for further developments in smart home device security and potential regulatory responses, as well as consumer advocacy efforts to ensure privacy protections; for more context, see related discussions on smart home privacy at EFF's Privacy page.
Culture & Media
Headline: What Not Reading Does to Your Writing | Countercraft
What?
The article discusses the impact of not reading on writing quality, highlighting how reliance on visual media can lead to poor prose, as seen in a recent viral example of "TV brain" writing.
So What?
This matters to progressive communicators as it underscores the importance of diverse media consumption for effective storytelling, which is crucial for engaging and mobilizing audiences in advocacy and campaign work.
Now What?
Watch for discussions on the role of media literacy in writing and communication, and explore resources like The New York Times Books section for further insights into the intersection of reading habits and writing quality.
2 weeks ago The Epstein Files podcast didn’t exist.
— levy.eth (@levychain) February 20, 2026
today it’s about to cross 500,000 downloads and sitting in apple podcasts top 20 series between the new york times and nbc news.
i vibe coded every episode with claude from real epstein court documents, emails, and doj… https://t.co/913w8FyvHY pic.twitter.com/hKf0ZCVQ0Y
Education
What?
Purdue University in Indiana is allegedly implementing an unofficial policy to reject students from China and other countries designated as "adversary nations" following pressure from US legislators, despite the university's denial of such a policy.
So What?
This situation highlights the tension between national security concerns and academic freedom, raising significant civil liberties issues and potential discrimination that progressive communicators can address in their advocacy for inclusive and equitable education policies.
Now What?
Watch for potential legal challenges to these admissions practices and further actions by other universities, while exploring resources like the Federation of Asian Professor Associations' statements on the implications of such policies; further reading can be found in coverage of the China Initiative and its impacts on academia.
What the Right is Reading
What?
Code Pink co-founder Jodie Evans, married to Marxist businessman Neville Roy Singham, is promoting trips to China that highlight the country's socialist history and achievements, with recruitment efforts taking place in January via a Zoom meeting.
So What?
This development is significant for progressive communicators as it highlights the intersection of international relations and grassroots activism, offering a potential avenue for dialogue on global socialist movements and their implications for U.S. foreign policy and civil liberties.
Now What?
Observers should watch for reactions from U.S. policymakers and media regarding these trips, as well as any potential shifts in public opinion on U.S.-China relations; further reading on the influence of international socialist networks can be found in reports by the State Department on foreign information manipulation.
Headline: End the climate lawsuit feeding frenzy
What?
The article discusses the potential implications of the Supreme Court's decision on whether to hear the case Suncor Energy v. County Commissioners of Boulder County, which could impact climate change litigation across the United States.
So What?
This case is significant for progressive communicators as it highlights the tension between local environmental initiatives and federal energy policies, emphasizing the need for strategic advocacy to protect climate action efforts from being undermined by legal challenges.
Now What?
Watch for the Supreme Court's decision on whether to hear the case, as it could set a precedent for future climate litigation; further reading on the implications of federal preemption in environmental law can be found in resources like the New York Times.
Headline: Alaska celebrates Trump administration decision to open 2.1 million acres of land
What?
The Trump administration, supported by Alaska's Republican leaders, has opened 2.1 million acres of land in Alaska for oil, gas, and mineral development, revoking previous Public Land Orders.
So What?
This decision could significantly impact environmental protections and indigenous rights, presenting challenges for progressive campaigners focused on conservation and community sovereignty.
Now What?
Watch for legal challenges from environmental groups and potential policy responses from progressive lawmakers; further reading on the implications can be found at Center for Biological Diversity.
Headline: Trump Admin Has ‘Once-In-Generation’ Chance To Put Deep State On Defense Post-Epstein Files
What?
Former State Department official Mike Benz argues that the Trump administration must increase transparency and expose government corruption before the midterm elections to maintain support from its base.
So What?
This matters to progressive communicators as it highlights the ongoing tension between government transparency and accountability, offering opportunities to advocate for civil liberties and challenge power structures.
Now What?
Watch for potential disclosures or investigations into government agencies and their practices, and consider reading about the implications of transparency initiatives on civil liberties and public trust, such as in this Brennan Center report.
Strays
Headline: Biohackers and wellness influencers are pushing nicotine as part of their ‘stacks’
What?
On February 20, 2026, STAT reported that biohackers, wellness influencers, and startups are promoting nicotine pouches and energy drinks as cognitive and performance enhancers, despite legal gray areas and health concerns, with some products marketed to nonsmokers and endorsed by high-profile figures.
So What?
This matters because the normalization and marketing of addictive substances as wellness tools—especially to young people and nonsmokers—raises serious public health, regulatory, and equity concerns, while highlighting the influence of tech and wellness elites on health trends and policy debates.
Now What?
Watch for FDA enforcement actions, public health campaigns, and organizing by groups like the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids and Truth Initiative as the debate over nicotine’s role in wellness intensifies.
What?
Bellingcat's investigation reveals that Captain Suniel Kumar Sharma has been involved in issuing fraudulent maritime paperwork and false flag certificates for vessels, impacting incidents in India, Senegal, and Malaysia as recently as 2025.
So What?
This matters to progressive communicators as it highlights systemic issues in maritime regulation and the potential for exploitation by fraudulent actors, which can undermine international law, environmental safety, and economic justice.
Now What?
Watch for further investigations into fraudulent maritime activities and potential regulatory responses, and explore Bellingcat's detailed findings for deeper insights into the implications of these practices on global maritime governance; further reading can be found on Bellingcat's website.
In this 2024 interview, Jack Hughes, who just scored the game-winning goal for the US Olympic hockey team, explains why it was important for him to embrace Pride Night when many other NHL players refused to do so.
— Ron Filipkowski (@ronfilipkowski.bsky.social) February 22, 2026 at 1:29 PM
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