Labor and IBEW Local 688 are campaigning to overturn Richland County's industrial solar ban ahead of a May referendum. Organizers point to jobs and tax revenue.

Peter Thiel and Richard Uihlein each funneled new millions into a Republican PAC, renewing questions about billionaire influence as the 2026 midterms approach.

Utilities commissioners recommended an 8% water-rate rise that would add roughly $10 to a typical monthly bill as wholesale Hetch Hetchy costs climb.

A unanimous House committee vote sent HB4339 forward; the bill would require Illinois high schools to offer voter registration to eligible graduates starting in 2026–2027.

The Las Vegas Review‑Journal sued Clark County to unseal internal investigation files tied to public‑works contracting and a former county official’s wife. The paper says the county improperly withheld the records as personnel files.

Assemblymember Mia Bonta has introduced AB 2600, a bill to fund attorneys for immigrants in removal proceedings with a priority for people held in detention.

Japan’s prime minister meets President Trump in Washington with defense cooperation, rare‑earth proposals and a $36 billion investment tranche to discuss amid the Iran war fallout.

At his 2026 State of the County, David Crowley tied small‑business grants, big projects and safety programs to a "building bridges" agenda while flagging looming budget choices.

Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu announced he will not seek reelection, leaving Wisconsin’s 9th District open and adding to a string of retirements ahead of 2026. The move sets up a contested GOP primary and broader implications for control of the Legislature.

A bipartisan group of Florida lawmakers asked President Trump to use the USMCA review to impose seasonal import limits after state data showed steep market‑share losses. Advocates say quotas would protect bell pepper, tomato and cucumber growers during peak months.

No‑excuse early voting begins next Tuesday in St. Charles County with vote centers at Element St. Charles and The Meadows Mall.

The State Department added 12 nations to its visa‑bond pilot on March 18, 2026 — a move that could require some visitors to post refundable bonds up to $15,000 starting April 2.

Harris County's governing body met March 19 as fallout from Judge Lina Hidalgo's RodeoHouston confrontation continued. Commissioners signaled they would address the dispute while experts warned removal is difficult.