Category Archives: Books

2026.02.24

ICE

A former instructor at an ICE training facility in Georgia spoke before a congressional hearing Monday afternoon and shared what training efforts have looked like as DHS rapidly scales up its number of recruits. “…Even in the final days of training, the cadets cannot demonstrate a solid grasp of the tactics or the law required to perform their jobs,” Ryan Schwank said during the hearing organized by congressional Democrats. Schwank resigned “in protest” less than two weeks ago, CBS News reports, and his testimony “will likely fuel Democrats’ refusal to fund the Department of Homeland Security until the Trump administration agrees to a number of reforms for ICE, including a prohibition on agents wearing masks.” Via MinnPost
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ice-whistleblower-new-recruits-receiving-defective-training/

A group of Minnesota clergy sued the Department of Homeland Security on Monday for repeatedly blocking their visits to immigration detainees at the Whipple Federal Building. “To be able to receive pastoral care is incredibly important. For individuals to be treated with humanity instead of being treated like inventory,” Irina Vaynerman, the CEO of Groundwork Legal and one of the plaintiffs’ attorneys, said in an interview with MPR News. Via MinnPost
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/02/23/minnesota-clergy-sue-department-of-homeland-security-over-access-to-immigration-detainees

Sahan Journal caught up with three Minnesota Somali immigrants who were detained by ICE last month despite having abided by legal requirements. All three, who have since been released, described their experiences in overcrowded, unsanitary Texas detention facilities. Two were arrested outside of their immigration check-in appointments. “I kept asking them what I violated, because I was worried they might have confused me with someone else, but they refused to tell me, and it turns out there was no violation — they were just lying.” Via MinnPost
https://sahanjournal.com/immigration/minnesota-somali-immigrants-ice-texas-detentions/

Brandi Carlile concert raises over $600,000 for families affected by ICE
Singer criticizes Trump administration’s ‘violent theater’ as she supports people caught up in Minneapolis crackdown
Adrian Horton
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/feb/23/brandi-carlile-benefit-concert-minneapolis-ice

More News

‘We’re losing accessibility’: America says goodbye to the mass-market paperback
The so-called ‘pocket book’ sold in supermarkets is being phased out across the US, the latest sign of an ongoing shift in how people are choosing to read
David Smith in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2026/feb/24/america-says-goodbye-paperback

Majority believes Trump moving US in wrong direction, poll finds
Study released a day before State of the Union address shows president has lost support among Republicans
Eric Berger
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/23/trump-poll-state-of-the-union

Mexican drug cartel boss ‘El Mencho’ tracked through romantic partner
Killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader sparks wave of violence across western Mexico
Thomas Graham in Tijuana, Oliver Holmes and Tom Phillips
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/23/el-mencho-mexican-drug-cartel-boss-killing-violence

BAFTA Awards incident sparks debate on race and disability after guest with Tourette’s shouts slur
An outburst from a man with Tourette syndrome during the British equivalent of the Oscars has sparked fierce backlash and controversy.
Ariel Messman-Rucker
https://www.out.com/gay-entertainment/bafta-slur-tourette

The dust has not yet settled on the Baftas N-word row. This is why
Peter Bradshaw
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/feb/24/the-dust-has-not-yet-settled-on-the-baftas-n-word-row-this-is-why

‘I like the challenge’: French animator Florence Miailhe on being nominated for an Oscar for the first time aged 70
Phil Hoad
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/feb/24/french-animator-florence-miailhe-nominated-oscar-papillon

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms has saved the Game of Thrones universe
Stuart Heritage
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/feb/23/knight-seven-kingdoms-game-thrones

Peter Attia resigns from CBS News amid revelations about ties to Epstein
Controversial doctor steps down as contributor after Epstein files reveal communication between the two men
Sara Braun
https://www.theguardian.com/media/2026/feb/23/peter-attia-resigns-cbs-news-epstein

Robert Carradine, Revenge of the Nerds and Lizzie McGuire actor, dies aged 71
The actor killed himself, his family said in a statement that aimed to raise awareness of ‘his nearly two-decade battle with bipolar disorder’
Sian Cain
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/feb/24/robert-carradine-dies-aged-71-death-revenge-of-the-nerds-actor

Maxi Shield, beloved Australian drag queen and Drag Race Down Under star, dies aged 51
Performer appeared in closing ceremony of 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and was a mainstay of city’s drag scene
Josh Taylor
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/24/australian-drag-queen-and-drag-race-down-under-star-maxi-shield-dies

2026.02.21

ICE

The Department of Homeland Security maintains a website detailing the “worst of the worst” who were arrested in Minnesota that is rife with errors, KARE 11 reports. “The Department of Homeland Security’s “Worst of the Worst” website features people arrested in Minnesota who the department says have been convicted of serious crimes. But the list has raised many questions. The Minnesota Department of Corrections’ ongoing fact-check is having trouble confirming that some of the crimes listed were committed, even in other states. Officials also point out that hat a number of the “worst of the worst” arrests did not take place in the community during Operation Metro Surge, but actually were direct transfers from Minnesota prisons to ICE custody.” 
https://www.kare11.com/article/news/local/ice-in-minnesota/worst-of-the-worst-website-rife-with-errors-cnn/89-f052d30f-4ce0-4334-ae87-cc7bf3948936

ICE actions are keeping others from traveling to Minnesota.  “A major German soccer team canceled its trip to Minnesota due to the immigration crackdown under the Trump administration,” KOMO reports. Christoph Pieper, Werder Bremen’s head of communications, said in a statement that “[p]laying in a city where there’s unrest and people have been shot, that does not fit with our values here at Werder Bremen. Furthermore, it was unclear for us which players could be able to enter the United States due to the stricter entry requirements.”  Via MinnPost
https://komonews.com/news/nation-world/german-soccer-team-cancels-minnesota-trip-due-to-ice-tom-homan-alex-pretti-renee-good-immigrant-white-house

DoJ cases against protesters keep collapsing as officers’ lies are exposed in court
String of embarrassing defeats for prosecutors as experts condemn DoJ effort to cast people as ‘violent perpetrators’
Sam Levin in Los Angeles
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/21/doj-protesters-federal-agents-cases

‘Don’t go to the US – not with Trump in charge’: the UK tourist with a valid visa detained by ICE for six weeks
Karen Newton was in America on the trip of a lifetime when she was shackled, transported and held for weeks on end. With tourism to the US under increasing strain, she says, ‘If it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone’
Jenny Kleeman
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/21/karen-newton-valid-visa-detained-ice

Detentions and disappearances: how ICE has driven fear into Michigan’s Arab communities
Arab Americans in Dearborn and beyond are being swept up by ICE at places of worship and work, with devastating consequences
Stephen Starr in Dearborn, Michigan
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/21/michigan-arab-communities-ice-fear

US citizen shot and killed by federal immigration agent last year, new records show
Shooting death of Ruben Ray Martinez, 23, in Texas was not publicly disclosed by Department of Homeland Security
Associated Press
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/20/us-citizen-killed-federal-immigration-agent

A bar, kitchen and flat-screen TVs: the $70m jet DHS is eyeing for deportations
The department is reportedly considering buying a Boeing plane for deportation flights and for use by Trump officials
Richard Luscombe
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/20/luxury-jet-dhs-deportation-flights-trump-officials

More News

Furious Trump signs global 10% duty after supreme court issues tariff blow
President calls six justices a ‘disgrace to the nation’ while praising three justices who dissented
George Chidi
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/20/trump-tariff-scotus-response

The supreme court’s tariffs ruling puts Trump on notice with a bloody nose
Ed Pilkington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/21/trump-tariffs-ruling-supreme-court

‘Dictator vibes’ as dear leader Trump puts name and face front and center
Banner at justice department just the latest example of how president has imposed himself on daily US life
Richard Luscombe
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/21/trump-name-face-justice-department

Trump news at a glance: president lobs insults at US supreme court for striking down his global tariffs
Trump called justices ‘fools’ and ‘disgrace to the nation’ after their rebuke of his aggressive trade tactic – key US politics stories from 20 February 2026 at a glance
Guardian staff
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/20/trump-administration-news-updates-today

Epstein files place renewed attention on US authorities’ failure to stop him
Files show accuser in 2011 provided extensive account of abuse as questions mount over why action was not taken
Victoria Bekiempis
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/21/epstein-files-victim-reports-police-fbi-failures

Tale of two nations: Andrew’s UK arrest highlights US passivity on Epstein files
David Smith in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/feb/21/andrew-epstein-files-us-uk

CBS News is convulsing as Larry Ellison tries to please Trump
Margaret Sullivan
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/feb/21/cbs-trump-anderson-cooper-stephen-colbert-paramount

Ohio mayor arrested on voyeurism charges after allegedly sniffing girl’s underwear
Claims against Wesley Dingus came from teen who had been staying at his residence and hid camera in bedroom
Marina Dunbar
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/20/ohio-mayor-arrested-voyeurism-wesley-dingus

US envoy Mike Huckabee says it would be ‘fine’ if Israel took all Middle East land
Rightwing Trump ally tells Tucker Carlson Israel has biblical right to land from ‘wadi of Egypt to the great river’
Edward Helmore
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/20/mike-huckabee-israel-middle-east-tucker-carlson

‘We can see that courage’: Greece recovers long-lost photos of Nazis’ May Day executions
Culture ministry hails ‘exceptional historical importance’ of prints that show resistance fighters’ final moments
Helena Smith in Athens
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/21/greece-recovers-long-lost-photos-nazi-may-day-executions-athens-kaisariani

How the beaches, culture and people of Corfu hit me for six
A cricket match kindled my love affair with the Greek island, inspiring both a literary festival and my new novel
Alex Preston
https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2026/feb/21/corfu-beaches-culture-people-alex-preston

Meera Sodha’s recipe for rhubarb and custard trifle
Nostalgia and comfort combine in abundance in this retro dessert that’s strictly for kids of all ages
Meera Sodha
https://www.theguardian.com/food/2026/feb/21/rhubarb-and-custard-trifle-recipe-meera-sodha

2026.02.19

ICE

Why an ICE plan to turn warehouses in Shakopee and Woodbury into detention centers has failed in Minnesota — and other states
The $38 billion initiative faces hurdles as communities and local politicians oppose it on humanitarian and logistical grounds.
by Ana Radelat
https://www.minnpost.com/national/washington/2026/02/why-an-ice-plan-to-turn-warehouses-in-shakopee-and-woodbury-into-detention-centers-has-failed-in-minnesota-and-other-states/

There’s “no mystery” in how Renee Good and Alex Pretti died, according to Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty. At a Wednesday news conference she added that “a trove of investigative materials remains available to state law enforcement,” and “prosecutors are in ‘good shape’ as they consider what would be an unprecedented decision to file state charges against federal agents without the help of the federal government,” the Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
https://www.minnpost.com/glean/2026/02/fbi-formally-refuses-to-share-evidence-in-alex-pretti-shooting-with-minnesota-bca/

Minneapolis police are investigating after the memorial for Renee Good was doused in gasoline and set ablaze around 9 p.m. Tuesday evening, the Minnesota Star Tribune reports. “A fence was charred, and several items in the memorial were damaged, but the memorial site at 34th Street and Portland Avenue wasn’t burned down. No one was injured, Minneapolis police said.”
https://www.startribune.com/renee-good-memorial-site-doused-in-gasoline/601584109

White House grants ICE power to detain refugees for aggressive ‘rescreening’
A new DHS memo details plan to allow federal immigration officers to detain legal refugees in the US indefinitely
Richard Luscombe
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/19/trump-administration-memo-ice-dhs-refugees-screening

More News

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested: King Charles says ‘law must take its course’ as ex-prince taken into custody – live
Tom Ambrose (now) and Taz Ali (earlier)
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/live/2026/feb/19/police-arrest-former-prince-andrew-mountbatten-windsor-sandringham-latest-updates

South Korea’s former president Yoon Suk Yeol jailed for life for leading insurrection
Ex-leader sentenced to life imprisonment with hard labour over failed martial law declaration in 2024
Raphael Rashid in Seoul
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/19/yoon-suk-yeol-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-for-leading-insurrection-in-south-korea

Why Xcel’s bid to reinvent the virtual power plant is so controversial
Most VPPs rely on customers’ solar and batteries. Xcel says its utility-owned alternative can do a better job in Minnesota — but critics question the cost.
By Jeff St. John / Canary Media
https://www.minnpost.com/energy/2026/02/why-xcel-energys-bid-to-reinvent-the-virtual-power-plant-is-so-controversial/

Bill Gates cancels keynote speech in India amid questions over Epstein ties
Billionaire Microsoft co-founder pulls out of India’s AI Impact Summit to ‘ensure the focus’ remains on event’s ‘key priorities’
Robert Booth in Delhi
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/19/bill-gates-cancels-india-ai-impact-summit-keynote-speech-epstein-files

‘We’re no longer attracting top talent’: the brain drain killing American science
As Trump slashes science funding, young researchers flee abroad. Without solid innovation, the US could cease to have the largest biomedical ecosystem in the world
Ed Pilkington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/19/trump-science-funding-cuts

‘People are in awe’: exhibition unveils ancient Egyptian Book of the Dead
A rare gilded and complete Book of the Dead, used by ancient Egyptians to help them to the afterlife, is now on display in Brooklyn
Veronica Esposito
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2026/feb/19/book-of-the-dead-exhibition-brooklyn-museum-ancient-egypt

‘A queer true crime story’: inside a shocking he-said-he-said murder
A gay couple both have entirely different accounts of a gory murder, a fascinating story unravelled in a new HBO documentary
Owen Myers
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/feb/19/murder-in-glitterball-city-hbo-documentary

‘We’re not hippies’: why these Iowa farmers swapped pigs for mushrooms
Faaborgs rail against oppressive industrial agricultural system with unexpected evolution into indie artisan food firm
By Tom Duggins
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/19/why-iowa-farmers-swapped-pigs-mushrooms

Johann Ludwig Bach: The Leipzig Cantatas album review – this distant cousin’s music is a remarkable discovery
This is the premiere recording of sacred cantatas by JL Bach: works preserved due to his distant cousin, JS Bach, copying them for performance. Conductor Johanna Soller brings them to sensitive and vivid life
Clive Paget
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/feb/19/johann-ludwig-bach-the-leipzig-cantatas-album-review-this-distant-cousins-music-is-a-remarkable-discovery

Nepali bagpipers and a canoe marathon: photos of the day – Thursday
The Guardian’s picture editors select photographs from around the world
Eithne Staunton
https://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2026/feb/19/nepali-bagpipers-and-a-canoe-marathon-photos-of-the-day-thursday

2026.02.13

ICE

The surge is over? What’s next for state officials after a federal immigration agent drawdown
Walz and lawmakers sounded relieved. But reckoning over the collateral fallout has barely begun.
by Matthew Blake
https://www.minnpost.com/state-government/2026/02/the-surge-is-over-whats-next-for-state-officials-after-a-federal-immigration-agent-drawdown/

How Minnesota became less of a sanctuary state to Tom Homan
Greater communication with county jails, a repositioning of ICE agents, fewer ‘agitators’ and more cooperation from local law enforcement was cited for the end of Operation Metro Surge.
by Ana Radelat and Brian Arola
https://www.minnpost.com/national/washington/2026/02/how-minnesota-became-less-of-a-sanctuary-state-to-tom-homan/

Relief is on the way for some small businesses in Minnesota. “Gov. Tim Walz said Thursday he’ll back an aid package to support state businesses, especially immigrant-owned business, hurt by the surge of federal immigration agents in Minnesota over the past two months,” according to MPR News. “Walz told reporters he’ll propose a $10 million emergency fund, similar to an effort during the COVID-19 pandemic, that would offer forgivable loans targeted at small businesses.” Via MinnPost
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/02/12/walz-readies-aid-package-for-minnesota-businesses-hurt-by-ice-surge

What are Minnesota officials saying about the border czar Tom Homan’s announcement that Operation Metro Surge will soon draw to a close? WCCO has statements from a number of our state’s leaders. Via MinnPost
https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/live-updates/minnesota-ice-surge-ending-feds-say/

US paid $32m to five countries to accept about 300 deportees, report shows
Some of the world’s most corrupt countries have received huge payments in controversial third-country deportation scheme
Joseph Gedeon and Andrew Roth
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/13/us-paid-32m-to-five-countries-to-accept-about-300-deportees-report-shows

More News

As if we didn’t have enough to worry about, cases of sexually transmitted ringworm are on the rise in the Twin Cities, according to Bring Me The News. “The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) says there are currently 13 confirmed cases of TMVII, and 27 suspected cases, all within the Twin Cities metro area. The disease was first detected in the state in July 2025.” Via MinnPost
https://bringmethenews.com/minnesota-news/twin-cities-experiencing-surge-of-sexually-transmitted-ringworm-cases

Gender studies courses are shutting down across the US. The Epstein files reveal why
Joan Wallach Scott
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/feb/13/gender-studies-trump-epstein

Pride flag reinstated at Stonewall after it was removed by Trump administration
New York City officials raise flag at site of rebellion once again after ‘act of erasure’ by administration
Dani Anguiano
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/12/pride-flag-reinstated-stonewall

French police arrest nine people over suspected €10m Louvre ticket fraud
Prosecutors’ office says two museum workers, several tour guides and suspected mastermind among those detained
Angelique Chrisafis in Paris
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/13/french-police-arrest-people-suspected-louvre-ticket-fraud

‘A great wee place’: the small Scottish factory crafting Olympic curling stones
All stones in Cortina are made from granite found on tiny island in Firth of Clyde and crafted in East Ayrshire
Libby Brooks Scotland correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/feb/13/a-great-wee-place-the-small-scottish-factory-crafting-olympic-curling-stones

The best recent science fiction, fantasy and horror – review roundup
Nowhere Burning by Catriona Ward; Pagans by James Alistair Henry; Pedro the Vast by Simón López Trujillo; Operation Bounce House by Matt Dinniman; A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing by Alice Evelyn Yang
Lisa Tuttle
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2026/feb/13/the-best-recent-science-fiction-fantasy-and-horror-review-roundup

Week in wildlife: a thirsty raccoon, a superhero squid and a delinquent swan
This week’s best wildlife photographs from around the world
Elena Goodinson
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/gallery/2026/feb/13/week-in-wildlife-a-thirsty-raccoon-a-superhero-squid-and-a-delinquent-swan

2026.01.27

ICE

That’s our Gov!
https://youtu.be/Sn53Yjt9_gU

After Alex Pretti killing, Minnesota politicians are inching (definitely not bounding) toward bipartisan solutions
Maybe the Walz-Trump call marked a shift. But politicians on both sides are still reciting familiar lines.
by Matthew Blake
https://www.minnpost.com/state-government/2026/01/operation-metro-surge-after-alex-pretti-killing-minnesota-politicians-are-inching-definitely-not-bounding-toward-bipartisan-solutions/

WHITE! STRAIGHT! GUNTOTTING MALE!
Why Trump is finally waving a white flag in Minnesota
kos, author
by kos
https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2026/1/26/2365601/-Why-Trump-is-finally-waving-a-white-flag-in-Minnesota?pm_campaign=front_page&pm_source=top_news_slot_4&pm_medium=web

Border patrol commander to leave Minneapolis after shooting of Alex Pretti
Gregory Bovino, an aggressive promoter of Trump’s deportation agenda, is said to have been stripped of ‘commander at large’ title
Lauren Gambino, George Chidi and agencies
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/27/gregory-bovino-minneapolis-minnesota-alex-pretti-shooting

‘A militia that kills’: uproar in Italy over ICE security role at Winter Olympics
Milan’s mayor says agents ‘clearly not welcome’ in co-host city and that Italy can take care of security itself
Angela Giuffrida in Rome and Jakub Krupa
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/27/italy-ice-security-role-winter-olympics

How ICE is using facial recognition in Minnesota
Mobile Fortify app being used to scan faces of citizens and immigrants – but its use has prompted a severe backlash
Sanya Mansoor
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/jan/27/ice-facial-recognition-minnesota

A week of ICE and outrage in Minneapolis: the turmoil of the days leading up to Alex Pretti’s death
Since the Trump administration sent ICE agents into the city in December, there have been 3,000 arrests and two fatal shootings. In the freezing cold, as the crisis deepens, the Minnesotan people continue to resist
Oliver Laughland
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/27/a-week-of-ice-and-outrage-in-minneapolis-the-turmoil-of-the-days-leading-up-to-alex-prettis-death

State, feds clash in court over preserving evidence in Alex Pretti killing
The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension filed a lawsuit to prevent the federal government from destroying evidence in the case.
by Katrina Pross
https://sahanjournal.com/public-safety/alex-pretti-shooting-immigration-lawsuit-destroying-evidence/

More News

Renowned Minnesota author Kao Kalia Yang’s new picture books meet the current moment
‘I write because I don’t know what to do with all of the things that are going on in the world,’ Yang said.
by Sheila Regan
https://www.minnpost.com/artscape/2026/01/renowned-minnesota-author-kao-kalia-yangs-new-picture-books-meet-the-current-moment/

Families of two men killed in Trump’s military boat strikes sue US government
First-of-its kind suit filed by civil rights attorneys on behalf of families centers on 14 October strike in Caribbean Sea that killed six
Aram Roston
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/27/trump-military-boat-strikes-lawsuit

Alex Vindman, Trump impeachment witness, to run as Democrat for Senate
Vindman, who served on national security council, will challenge Republican incumbent in Florida if nominated
Associated Press
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/27/alex-vindman-running-florida-senate-trump

Girl, 5, deported to Honduras despite being US citizen, becomes latest victim of Trump crackdown
Mother whose visa application was pending says she will send girl back to US soon accompanied by another relative
Claudia Mendoza in Puerto Cortés, Honduras, and Tiago Rogero in Rio de Janeiro
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/27/five-year-old-girl-us-citizen-and-mother-deported-honduras

‘Delays, lowballs, outright denials’: how the LA wildfires have exposed the US’s broken insurance industry
Insurance practices in an age of climate volatility raise troubling questions about home ownership and housing affordability – the bedrock of the American middle class
Andrew Gumbel in Los Angeles
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/27/la-wildfires-insurance-industry

Masked thugs, sneering elites and terrified citizens: a picture of the US today. We used to have a name for this
Marina Hyde
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/27/us-masked-thugs-sneering-elites-terrified-citizens-ice-donald-trump

Why I’m launching a feminist video games website in 2026
Maddy Myers
https://www.theguardian.com/games/2026/jan/26/why-im-launching-a-feminist-video-games-website-in-2026-mothership

2026.01.25

ICE

Video: Klobuchar, Frey on Minneapolis shooting during immigration action
Three shootings, two fatal, have occurred during the immigration crackdown in Minnesota, and Democratic officials are asking agents to leave.
by Associated Press
https://www.minnpost.com/metro/2026/01/video-klobuchar-frey-on-minneapolis-shooting-during-immigration-action/

The man killed by a US Border Patrol officer in Minneapolis was an ICU nurse, family says
by Michael Biesecker, Tim Sullivan and Jim Mustain, AP
https://www.minnpost.com/metro/2026/01/alex-pretti-the-man-killed-by-a-us-border-patrol-officer-in-minneapolis-was-an-icu-nurse-family-says/

Video contradicts Trump’s claim man killed in Minneapolis was a ‘gunman’
Video evidence reviewed by Guardian shows Alex Pretti, killed by agents in Minneapolis, held a phone, not a gun
Robert Mackey
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/24/minneapolis-shooting-ice

Alex Pretti did not brandish gun, witnesses say in sworn testimony
Pair testify that Pretti did not hold weapon and was trying to help woman federal agents had shoved to the ground
Robert Mackey
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/24/alex-pretti-killing-witness-testimony

‘This is what fascism looks like’: terror in Minneapolis reminiscent of civil war
David Smith in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/25/minneapolis-shooting-ice-trump-analysis

Minneapolis officials say feds haven’t shared information with them about Nicollet Avenue shooting
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara says police don’t know what led up to the shooting, and that what they do know comes from civilian videos posted on social media.
by Joey Peters
https://sahanjournal.com/public-safety/minneapolis-ice-shooting-nicollet-avenue-brian-ohara-jacob-frey/

The last ICE murder is one-half mile from my house.

Other News

Trump’s not the first US president to fall in love with war. History shows where this is going
Peter Beinart
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/jan/25/trump-venezuela-greenland-war-history

Advantage China: Trump’s tantrums push US allies closer to Beijing
Amy Hawkins Senior China correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/news/ng-interactive/2026/jan/25/china-europe-canada-charm-offensive-trump

Trump news at a glance: groundswell of anger at second fatal shooting by federal agents in weeks
Protests erupt across US after American citizen Alex Pretti shot dead, as video shows he had been holding a phone and not a gun, contradicting federal claims – key US politics stories from 24 January
Guardian staff
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/25/trump-administration-news-updates-today

Josephine review – Channing Tatum is a knockout in shattering drama of lost innocence
Sundance film festival: taut and emotionally intelligent drama follows the aftermath of an eight-year-old witnessing a horrifying sexual assault
Adrian Horton in Park City
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/24/josephine-channing-tatum-review

I Want Your Sex review – vampy Olivia Wilde almost saves Gregg Araki’s tame dom-sub romp
Sundance film festival: As a provocative artist using sex to wield power, the actor is electric but the writer-director’s return to his campy, dayglo roots is largely underwhelming
Benjamin Lee in Park City
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/24/i-want-your-sex-review-gregg-araki

Green Dot author Madeleine Gray: ‘Chosen family is big in the queer community’
Rebecca Liu
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2026/jan/25/green-dot-author-madeleine-gray-chosen-family-is-big-in-the-queer-community

Minneapolis shooting protests and a free solo in Taipei – photos of the weekend
Warning: this gallery contains sensitive images.
The Guardian’s picture editors select photographs from around the world
Pejman Faratin
https://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2026/jan/25/minneapolis-shooting-protests-free-solo-climb-taipei-photos-of-the-weekend

2026.01.23

ICE

Minnesotans strike to protest ICE surge in state: ‘No work, no school, no shopping’
Organizers demand ICE leave state and agency be investigated for constitutional violations
Michael Sainato and Rachel Leingang in Minneapolis
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/23/minnesota-economic-blackout-ice-protests

Vice President JD Vance held a press conference in Minneapolis on Thursday, calling for “more cooperation with state, local and federal officials as a way to ‘tone down the temperature a little bit but still enforce the nation’s immigration laws’ during the federal government’s immigration enforcement surge in the Twin Cities but then blamed Minnesota officials for the problems and defended the tactics of federal agents,” according to MPR News. Via MinnPost
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/01/22/jd-vance-heads-to-minnesota-amid-high-tensions-over-immigration-actions

When will the immigration crackdown end? The Minnesota Star Tribune reports that “federal agents have no plans to end the surge of immigration enforcement in Minnesota,” citing U.S. Border Patrol Cmdr. Greg Bovino. Via MinnPost
https://www.startribune.com/no-set-end-date-for-immigration-crackdown-in-minnesota-officials-say/601568476?utm_source=gift

A knock at the door: fear of ICE is transforming daily life in America
Abdul Wahid Gulrani
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/23/ice-fear-life-america-change

More News

Klobuchar files paperwork to run for governor of Minnesota
The long-serving U.S. senator would be the only Democrat vying for the seat after Gov. Tim Walz decided against seeking a third term.
by Ana Radelat
https://www.minnpost.com/national/washington/2026/01/klobuchar-files-paperwork-to-run-for-governor-of-minnesota/

Pentagon contractor indicted over alleged leak tied to raided Washington Post reporter
Worker illegally provided classified information ‘related to national defense’ to journalist, justice department says
Richard Luscombe and agency
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/23/pentagon-contractor-indicted-washington-post-reporter

Nine bedrooms, seven untimely deaths: can ‘cursed’ Venice palace finally attract a buyer?
Palazzo Ca’ Dario, empty for years, has failed to find a new owner, with local legends suggesting it is jinxed
Angela Giuffrida in Rome
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/23/venice-cursed-palace-palazzo-ca-dario-for-sale

Kangaroos’ giant ancestor probably able to hop despite 250kg weight, scientists say
Research for first time suggests tendon and bones in heavier species would have made bounding possible
Nicola Davis Science correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/22/giant-kangaroo-ancestor-hop-250kg-weight

Grok AI generated about 3m sexualised images in 11 days, study finds
Estimate made by Center for Countering Digital Hate after Elon Musk’s AI image generation tool sparked outrage
Robert Booth UK technology editor
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/jan/22/grok-ai-generated-millions-sexualised-images-in-month-research-says

Leaked video shows Venezuela regime’s desperate struggle to control message
Interim leader Delcy Rodríguez told influencers of US threat to kill leaders if they did not cooperate after capture of Maduro
Tiago Rogero South America correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/23/venezuela-leaked-video-delcy-rodriguez-maduro

Democrats are campaigning as if the 2026 election will be fair. That’s a mistake
Austin Sarat
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/23/midterm-elections-project-2025

British crown was world’s largest buyer of enslaved people by 1807, book reveals
Exclusive: Author of The Crown’s Silence tells how navy and monarchy protected slave trade for hundreds of years
Chris Osuh Community affairs correspondent
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/23/british-crown-was-worlds-largest-buyer-of-enslaved-people-by-1807-book-reveals

‘Everybody’s at each other’s throats’: James Cameron says he has left the US permanently
Avatar director, who moved to New Zealand after the Covid pandemic says he will soon be a citizen of a country where people ‘are, for the most part, sane’
Catherine Shoard
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/23/james-cameron-left-the-us-permanently-covid-new-zealand

Week in wildlife: a proud eagle, an adorable axolotl and a goofy seal
This week’s best wildlife photographs from around the world
Joanna Ruck
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/gallery/2026/jan/23/week-in-wildlife-a-proud-eagle-an-adorable-axolotl-and-a-goofy-seal

2026.01.21

Ice

US justice department subpoenas Minnesota Democrats accused of impeding ICE efforts
Minnesota governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis mayor Jacob Frey among officials who received subpoenas
Sam Levine in New York
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/20/minnesota-democrats-subpoenas-justice-department

“Three local law enforcement leaders expressed concern over federal immigration agents’ behavior over the last few weeks, including stopping off-duty officers of color,” reports Sahan Journal. … The law enforcement leaders also said federal agents don’t seem to be coordinating their work across the metro, and that a small group of federal agents are causing problems by stopping community members in traffic and in the street with no cause, and demanding that they produce paperwork proving they’re in the country legally.” 
https://sahanjournal.com/public-safety/minnesota-police-concerns-federal-immigration-agents/

“Last week, Minnesota-based faith leaders, unions, and other community groups called for a strike and economic blackout on Jan. 23 in response to the Trump administration’s Operation Metro Surge,” Bring Me The News reports. The news site has a list of businesses closing on Friday, Jan. 23. 
https://bringmethenews.com/minnesota-lifestyle/growing-number-of-minnesota-businesses-announce-plans-to-close-for-jan-23-strike

How To Help if You are Outside Minnesota

Other News

If you need a midwinter break, here’s a YouTube visit to the Spice Islands: https://youtu.be/2IHSRjEOnoI

Toxicology report says late US chess star Daniel Naroditsky had drugs in his system
29-year-old had stimulants and kratom in system
Death investigated as possible overdose or suicide
Bryan Armen Graham
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/jan/20/daniel-naroditsky-toxicology-report-drugs-chess-death

New York’s Met Opera announces ‘necessary’ layoffs and pay cuts
‘Cost-cutting’ announcement comes amid uncertainty over deal struck with Saudi Arabia to perform in Riyadh
Maya Yang
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/jan/20/new-york-met-opera-cuts

Is it true that … you lose most body heat from your head?
This 1970s notion is a bit of a myth – but it’s still a good idea to wear a hat if it’s cold out
Kate Lloyd
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/jan/19/is-it-true-lose-most-body-heat-from-head

Hand shape in Indonesian cave may be world’s oldest known rock art
Archaeologists say stencil painted with ochre in limestone cave on Muna Island was created at least 67,800 years ago
Ian Sample Science editor
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/jan/21/hand-shape-indonesia-cave-rock-art-67800-years-old

Europe’s moment of truth over Greenland looms, as leaders ditch appeasement of Trump
From the ‘big bazooka’ to a world cup boycott, Europe has powerful weapons beyond ‘dialogue. An emergency EU summit could be a turning point
Katherine Butler, Associate editor, Europe
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/21/the-moment-of-truth-over-greenland-as-leaders-ditch-appeasement-of-trump

Doge improperly shared sensitive social security data, DoJ court filing reveals
Trump administration acknowledges that Elon Musk’s cost-cutting operation accessed Americans’ sensitive data
Joseph Gedeon in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/21/doge-social-security-data

American democracy on the brink a year after Trump’s election, experts say
Scale and speed of president’s moves have stunned observers of authoritarian regimes – is the US in democratic peril?
Lauren Gambino
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/21/trump-american-democracy

‘Who will stand up and oppose it?’: Trump’s relentless campaign of retribution in his second term
From firing lawyers and government officials to pursuing indictments – president has created a culture of vengeance
Sam Levine
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/21/trump-retribution-campaign

‘I could not stay silent’: Palestinian prisoner tells of sexual abuse in Israeli jail
Sami al-Saei has defied social stigma to speak out about what a report calls a ‘grave pattern’ of sexual violence
Emma Graham-Harrison and Quique Kierszenbaum in Qalqilya
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/21/not-stay-silent-palestinian-prisoner-sexual-abuse-israeli-jail

‘Nostalgia is not a strategy’: Mark Carney is emerging as the unflinching realist ready to tackle Trump
Leyland Cecco in Toronto
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/21/nostalgia-is-not-a-strategy-mark-carney-is-emerging-as-the-unflinching-realist-ready-to-tackle-trump

‘The most dangerous man in America’: how Paul Robeson went from Hollywood to blacklist
The groundbreaking singer, actor and athlete became a victim of McCarthyism and saw his shining career destroyed and his legacy tarnished
Howard Bryant
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2026/jan/21/paul-robeson-hollywood-blacklist-mccarthyism

We ran high-level US civil war simulations. Minnesota is exactly how they start
Claire Finkelstein
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/21/ice-minnesota-trump

Mercy review – Chris Pratt takes on AI judge Rebecca Ferguson in ingenious sci-fi thriller
It is the year 2029 and an LA cop finds himself accused of murdering his wife. He has 90 minutes to clear his name before robo-justice sends him down
Peter Bradshaw
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jan/21/mercy-review-chris-pratt-takes-on-ai-judge-rebecca-ferguson-in-ingenious-sci-fi-thriller

2026.01.13

ICE enforcement: Via MinnPost
–The federal government has made more than 2,000 arrests in Minnesota in the immigration enforcement surge that began this month, MPR reports. Federal officials did not say how many people face deportation or provide other details.  
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/01/12/latest-monday-on-ice-shooting-in-minneapolis

-Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara criticized ICE tactics in an interview with the New York Times, the Star Tribune reports. On the Times’ “The Daily” podcast, O’Hara said the shooting death last week of Renee Good by an ICE agent was “predictable and entirely preventable.”
https://www.startribune.com/in-new-york-times-interview-minneapolis-police-chief-brian-ohara-rails-against-ice-tactics/601562616

-A video captured ICE agents ramming a door and pushing their way inside a home to arrest a man in the Twin Cities. The AP report says a document agents that handed to a woman in the house is different than a warrant signed by a judge and does not authorize forced entry into a private residence.
https://www.twincities.com/2026/01/11/video-captures-minneapolis-immigration-arrest-in-a-city-on-edge-after-shooting-of-renee-good/

Minneapolis-based Sun Country Airlines is merging with the airline Allegiant, the Pioneer Press reports. Sun Country says the Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport will remain a base city for the new combined Allegiant airline. Via MinnPost
https://www.minnpost.com/glean/2026/01/more-than-2000-arrested-in-twin-cities-ice-operation/

Here’s what’s really happening with child care fraud in Minnesota
Evidence is nowhere near the epidemic levels a viral YouTube video would suggest — but it hasn’t stopped a crackdown on child care funding. Here’s a fact check. Via MinnPost
by Chabeli Carrazana
https://www.minnpost.com/other-nonprofit-media/2026/01/heres-whats-really-happening-with-child-care-fraud-in-minnesota-explained/

Trump administration ends temporary protected status for Somalis in US
Noem claims conditions have improved in east African country so Somalis no longer qualify for legal protections
Joseph Gedeon in Washington
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/13/trump-administration-ends-tps-somalia

DoJ attorneys resign over decision not to investigate agent in Minneapolis ICE shooting
At least four leaders across civil rights division step down as FBI presses on with investigation into Renee Nicole Good
Richard Luscombe
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/13/doj-attorneys-resign-minneapolis-ice-shooting

Trump may have to disclose details about assets as part of BBC lawsuit
US president is suing for defamation over documentary that joined two parts of speech he made on 6 January 2021
Michael Savage and Jamie Grierson
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/13/trump-may-have-to-disclose-details-about-his-assets-as-part-of-bbc-lawsuit

‘A bombshell’: doubt cast on discovery of microplastics throughout human body
Exclusive: Some scientists say many detections are most likely error, with one high-profile study called a ‘joke’
Damian Carrington Environment editor
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jan/13/microplastics-human-body-doubt

David Letterman calls CBS News a ‘wreck’ under newly installed leadership
Former late-night host makes comments amid merger of CBS’s parent company Paramount with Skydance Media
Anna Betts
https://www.theguardian.com/media/2026/jan/12/david-letterman-cbs-news-bari-weiss

US judge lets Danish firm resume Rhode Island offshore wind project halted by Trump
Ørsted and other wind developers have faced repeated disruptions to multibillion dollar projects under Trump
Reuters
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jan/12/orsted-rhode-island-wind-project-trump

‘Her time has come’: did Mondrian owe his success to a cross-dressing lesbian artist who lived in a Cornish cove?
Piet Mondrian found fame, fortune and glory with his grid-like paintings lit with basic colours. But did many of his ideas come from Marlow Moss? Our writer celebrates an extraordinary British talent who died in obscurity
Joanna Moorhead
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2026/jan/12/piet-mondrian-crossdressing-lesbian-artist-marlow-moss-cornish-cove

Women are feral for Heated Rivalry. What does that say about men?
The explosive popularity of the gay hockey TV drama reveals women’s desire for sex and romance without violence or hierarchy
Julia Carrie Wong
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jan/13/why-do-women-like-heated-rivalry

2026.01.10

MinnPost’s The Glean is all ICE again: https://www.minnpost.com/glean/2026/01/trump-targeted-minnesota-long-before-fatal-ice-shooting/

Leaders alarmed about fairness of FBI inquiry into Minneapolis ICE shooting
State and local officials say they do not believe investigation into shooting death of Renee Nicole Good will be objective
George Chidi
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/10/fbi-investigation-minneapolis-ice-shooting-renee-nicole-good

Minneapolis mayor accuses federal authorities of ‘hiding facts’ in ICE killing
Jacob Frey criticizes Trump administration’s response to shooting death of Renee Nicole Good
Richard Luscombe
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/09/jacob-frey-trump-minneapolis-ice-investigation
(Oh my — does The Guaridan have the slightest idea what ‘petrifying cold temperatures’ are?)

Iran protesters tell of brutal police response as regime lashes out
Videos emerging despite internet and mobile phone blackout show demonstrations continuing despite reports of escalating crackdown
William Christou and Deepa Parent
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2026/jan/10/iran-protesters-tell-of-brutal-police-response-deaths-and-forced-confessions

Analysis
Why the white America Trump dreams of is just a fantasy
Eduardo Porter
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jan/10/trump-immigration-whiteness

Trump’s territorial ambition: new imperialism or a case of the emperor’s new clothes?
Julian Borger
https://www.theguardian.com/news/ng-interactive/2026/jan/10/trump-territorial-ambition-imperialism

Renee Macklin Good’s wife says she nurtured kindness
Cari Spencer and MPR News Staff
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/01/09/renee-goods-wife-releases-statement-about-ice-shooting

Analysis
Mamdani’s first 10 days: getting things done despite right’s dystopian fantasies
Adam Gabbatt
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/10/zohran-mamdani-new-york-10-days

Kathy Hochul and Zohran Mamdani are showing what ‘pro-family’ means
Arwa Mahdawi
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/10/kathy-hochul-zohran-mamdani-childcare

The hill I will die on: Decorative cushions and throws on hotel beds should be banned, immediately
Annabel Lee
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/10/the-hill-i-will-die-on-hotel-room-bed-throws-banned

If you’ve grown weary of pumpkin pie, how about cheesecake? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOy0RF4jJMg

Vegetables
Meera Sodha’s vegan recipe for roast swede and purple sprouting broccoli curry
Earthy, sweet swede soaks up a curry sauce like a champion, and this ginger, tomato and coconut number is no exception*
Meera Sodha’s vegan recipe
https://www.theguardian.com/food/2026/jan/10/vegan-roast-swede-purple-sprouting-broccoli-curry-recipe-meera-sodha
*We call swedes rutabegas, brocolli is good enough (sprouting or not), and you can substitute paprika (or parika and chile powder) for kashmiri chilli powder. Your friendly local Asian grocery store is sure to have Thai basil, or you can do like I would do and leave it out.

AI bubble: five things you need to know to shield your finances from a crash
Some experts have voiced fears a tech meltdown could hit our savings and pensions – here’s how to protect yourself
Hilary Osborne
https://www.theguardian.com/money/2026/jan/10/ai-bubble-finances-crash-tech-meltdown-savings-pensions

What does your car say about you? A global portrait of people and their rides, from Shanghai to Santa Monica
You can tell a lot about someone from the vehicle they drive, as Martin Roemers’ collection of photographs show. Introduction by author William Boyd
William Boyd
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2026/jan/10/martin-roemers-homo-mobilis-photography-book-car-vehicle-owners-portraits