The 7 ‘El Mencho’ killing; Trump’s approval rating; autism prevention study; and more
Feb 23, 2026
A major cartel leader was killed in a high-stakes military operation and related violence followed. A fatal perimeter shooting occurred at Mar-a-Lago overnight. Polling shows low presidential approval as leaders prepare for the State of the Union. A powerful nor'easter pounds the Northeast with heavy snow and outages. New studies question AI's growth impact and link environmental windows to autism risk. U.S. men's hockey wins Olympic gold.
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Killing Of El Mencho Signals Major Crackdown
- Mexico's top cartel leader El Mencho was killed during a military operation that included U.S.-Mexico task force participation.
- His death followed a crackdown that expanded the Jalisco New Generation Cartel's reach to every continent and triggered violent reprisals like burning cars and gunfire.
Mar-a-Lago Intruder Shot After Raising Shotgun
- An armed intruder, identified as Austin Tucker Martin, entered Mar-a-Lago's secure perimeter and was fatally shot after raising a shotgun.
- Palm Beach deputies and Secret Service confronted him around 1:30 a.m.; Martin had carried a gas can and had been reported missing two days earlier.
Trump Approval Hits 60 Percent Disapproval
- President Trump's approval rating was 39% approval and 60% disapproval ahead of his State of the Union, per Post/ABC/Ipsos polling.
- The poll shows 47% strongly disapprove and dissatisfaction spans economy, tariffs, inflation, and foreign relations.