President Donald Trump announced plans to close Washington's Kennedy Center for two years starting in July for renovations, following backlash from performers after recent leadership changes. The move comes amid a wave of cancellations by artists and controversy over claims about the building's condition. Meanwhile, five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father returned to Minnesota after being released from a Texas immigration facility, sparking renewed debate over immigration enforcement. In other news, a top Justice Department official downplayed the likelihood of new charges from the Jeffrey Epstein files, despite public scrutiny over newly released documents.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said a vote to end the partial government shutdown will be delayed, blaming Democrats for their demands on immigration enforcement. In Texas, Democrat Taylor Rehmet flipped a traditionally Republican state Senate district, marking another significant win for Democrats. Forecasters warned of continued frigid temperatures across much of the United States after a weekend of heavy snow, with hazardous travel conditions expected to persist.

Internationally, Iran's supreme leader warned that any United States attack would trigger a regional war, escalating tensions as American warships remain in the region. In Gaza, preparations were underway to reopen the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, offering hope to residents seeking to leave the territory amid ongoing conflict. The centennial of Black History Month is being marked by renewed efforts to expand educational resources, despite political opposition to diversity and inclusion initiatives.

At the 2026 Grammy Awards, Bad Bunny made history by winning album of the year for a Spanish-language album, while Billie Eilish took home song of the year and used her platform to criticize immigration authorities.