Historical Data
Browse past Political Temperature Index measurements.
The Political Temperature Index has cooled to 68.6° as the Senate faces a stalemate over DHS funding while the Supreme Court rules on immigration detention. - The Supreme Court's ruling on immigration detention added 14.3 pts, reshaping national policy and drawing criticism from former President Trump. - A funding impasse in the Senate regarding the Department of Homeland Security contributed 13.3 pts, as Democrats blocked funding amid GOP rejection of their counter-proposal. - Tensions rise with President Trump's planned visit to Xi Jinping amid Iran conflict, adding 13.1 pts as the administration navigates complex foreign relations. - The Pentagon's preparation to send additional troops to the Middle East added 11.3 pts, raising concerns about escalating military involvement and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. Watch for developments in the DHS funding negotiations and any updates from the White House regarding military strategies in the Middle East.
The Political Temperature Index has cooled slightly to 70.7° as Congress grapples with a funding standoff impacting TSA operations and the ongoing DHS shutdown. - The deployment of ICE agents to airports amid the TSA staffing crisis added 12.9 pts, highlighting growing public concern over security and travel disruptions as the shutdown nears 40 days. - Congress's struggle to resolve a funding standoff affecting TSA operations also contributed 12.9 pts, underscoring the urgency for bipartisan action to prevent further chaos at airports. - President Trump's decision to postpone military action against Iran added 10.7 pts, reflecting a strategic pivot amid ongoing negotiations that could influence U.S. foreign policy in the region. - Ongoing negotiations for a DHS funding deal contributed 10.7 pts, with both parties facing pressure to reach an agreement to avert a prolonged government shutdown. Watch for developments in the DHS funding negotiations and any updates from the White House regarding military strategy in Iran.
The Political Temperature Index has cooled slightly to 72.5° as the Senate confirmed Markwayne Mullin as the new head of Homeland Security, amidst a backdrop of significant political maneuvering. - The Senate's confirmation of Markwayne Mullin contributed 11.5 pts, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing TSA standoff and highlighting the urgency of addressing airport security issues. - Republican states' moves to ban abortion pills added another 11.5 pts, reflecting the party's continued focus on social issues that could energize their base ahead of the midterms. - Trump's decision to vote by mail in the Florida special election garnered 11.5 pts, showcasing the contradictions in his stance on mail-in voting as he pushes for tighter regulations. - The Supreme Court's deliberations on mail-in ballot regulations contributed 9.6 pts, with potential implications for voter access as the midterms approach. Watch for developments on the Supreme Court's ruling and any further actions regarding DHS funding as both could significantly influence the political landscape.
The Political Temperature Index has cooled slightly to 72.7° as President Trump's military and immigration strategies continue to dominate headlines amid ongoing tensions over DHS funding. - The deployment of ICE agents to airports during a TSA staffing crisis added 11.8 pts, highlighting the administration's aggressive approach to immigration enforcement amid a looming government shutdown. - Democrats launched an inquiry into Corey Lewandowski, contributing another 11.8 pts as they seek to hold Trump allies accountable, reflecting heightened partisan tensions. - Trump's decision to delay U.S. attacks on Iranian energy sites added 11.8 pts, raising questions about U.S. military strategy in the Middle East and showcasing his fluctuating stance on the conflict. - Senate Republicans rejected a TSA funding proposal, contributing 9.3 pts and intensifying the standoff over DHS funding, which could lead to significant disruptions at airports nationwide. Watch for developments in DHS funding negotiations and the implications of Trump's military strategy as the situation evolves overnight.
The Political Temperature Index has cooled slightly to 74.2° as tensions around immigration and military strategy dominate the political landscape. - Trump's threat to deploy ICE agents amid a standoff with the Department of Homeland Security added 12.5 pts, heightening concerns over immigration enforcement as a government shutdown looms. - The President's consideration of winding down the Iran War, despite troop deployments, contributed 12.3 pts, signaling a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy that could reshape regional dynamics. - A federal judge's ruling against Pentagon press restrictions garnered 12.0 pts, indicating a significant change in media access and accountability within military operations. - The Supreme Court's decision to hear a case regarding Temporary Protected Status for Haitians contributed 11.9 pts, highlighting ongoing immigration debates that will influence future policy. Watch for developments in DHS funding negotiations and the implications of the Supreme Court's immigration ruling as the week progresses.
The Political Temperature Index has cooled slightly to 75.6° as Congress works to avert a Department of Homeland Security shutdown. - Congress's efforts to prevent a DHS shutdown added 14.6 pts, reflecting urgent bipartisan negotiations to secure funding and avert disruptions at airports. - Senate Republicans proposed a voter citizenship proof bill, contributing another 14.6 pts as the GOP seeks to solidify election integrity ahead of the midterms. - The passing of former FBI Director Robert Mueller at age 81 added 13.4 pts, reigniting discussions about his legacy and the Trump-Russia investigation. - Trump’s threat to deploy ICE agents at airports during the funding standoff contributed 11.5 pts, raising concerns about security and immigration enforcement amid political tensions. Watch for updates on the DHS funding negotiations and the implications of Mueller's passing on ongoing investigations.
The Political Temperature Index has cooled slightly to 78.3° as the GOP pushes forward with an election overhaul amid significant Democratic resistance. - The GOP's aggressive push for an election overhaul added 11.6 pts, highlighting the party's focus on voter access and security ahead of the midterms. - The White House unveiled an AI policy wishlist for Congress, contributing another 11.6 pts, as the administration seeks to position itself on emerging technology issues. - Trump's dinner with Japan's Takaichi garnered 11.6 pts, emphasizing his ongoing foreign policy efforts amidst domestic challenges and rising tensions in the Middle East. - The Supreme Court's ruling on state election laws added 10.4 pts, raising concerns about the implications for voter access and state authority as the electoral landscape shifts. Watch for reactions from Democratic leaders regarding the election overhaul and updates on AI policy discussions as the week progresses.
Today's political temperature is notably high at 80.5, reflecting a significant increase of 13.1 from yesterday. Key drivers include the White House's decision to freeze $50 million in aid for Gaza, a Democratic walkout during a briefing on Epstein files, and Republican momentum in the California gubernatorial race. The rhetoric heat stands at 51.4, indicating heightened discourse, while coverage polarization remains low at 25.8, suggesting a relatively unified media narrative despite the high volume of political activity, which is at 99.8.
The Political Temperature Index has cooled to 67.4° as mounting criticism of the Trump administration's Iran strategy takes center stage. - The Trump administration faced significant backlash over its handling of the Iran conflict, contributing 13.3 pts and intensifying scrutiny of U.S. foreign policy. - The Supreme Court's rejection of California's parental rights ruling added 10.8 pts, highlighting ongoing legal battles that could reshape state and federal dynamics. - Trump’s push for military operations in the Strait of Hormuz garnered 9.8 pts, escalating concerns about U.S. military engagement in the region. - Democrats expressed optimism about flipping Senate and House seats, contributing 9.5 pts as they gear up for the midterms amid shifting voter sentiment. Watch for continued developments on the Iran military authorization debate and responses from Congress as tensions rise.
Today's political temperature stands at 83.1 out of 100, reflecting a "boiling" level of intensity, with a slight increase of 0.5 from yesterday. Key drivers include the Senate's advancement of legislation to ban abortion pills, a Republican rebuke of the FCC Chair, and ongoing investigations into Epstein's death, each contributing 10.1% to the current climate. Rhetoric heat is moderate at 51.6, while coverage polarization remains low at 19.2, indicating a high volume of discourse at 100% but relatively less divisive framing. Legislative friction is noted at 45.4, suggesting ongoing tensions in the legislative process.
Today's political temperature is recorded at 82.6, indicating a "boiling" atmosphere, with a notable increase of 3.0 points from yesterday. Key drivers include former President Trump's pressure on allies regarding military operations in Hormuz, FCC Chair threats to broadcasters over coverage of the Iran conflict, and ongoing challenges to Trump's tariff order by various states. Additionally, internal divisions within the GOP over Trump's policies and the Pentagon's deployment of additional Marines amid rising tensions with Iran contribute to the heightened political climate.
President Trump’s threats to strike Iran's Kharg Island if shipping lanes remain blocked dominated the political discourse today, adding nearly 20 points to the Political Temperature Index. This aggressive stance, framed as a necessary response to ongoing tensions in the region, reflects a significant escalation in U.S. foreign policy that many analysts did not anticipate this morning. As the week progressed, the temperature fluctuated, peaking at 82.8° earlier, but has settled at a still-high 79.6°, underscoring the volatility surrounding both international and domestic issues. In addition to Trump’s provocations, Democrats expressed optimism about flipping key Senate and House seats, contributing over 12 points to the index, as they strategize for upcoming elections amidst a politically charged environment. The White House's proposal for an underground security screening center, aimed at enhancing visitor safety, also gained traction, further fueling discussions about national security. As the week wraps up, attention will likely shift to the Senate's ongoing deliberations over the SAVE America Act and the looming government shutdown, with airline executives urging immediate action to prevent operational disruptions. Expect further developments as the political landscape continues to evolve in response to both domestic pressures and international tensions.
Senate Republicans faced mounting pressure today to advance the SAVE America Act, with discussions regarding potential changes to the filibuster rules intensifying. This pivotal moment added over 10 points to the Political Temperature Index, reflecting a significant shift in momentum as lawmakers grapple with the implications of this legislation. Earlier expectations of a more subdued day were upended by the urgency surrounding the housing affordability bill, which passed with bipartisan support, showcasing a rare instance of cooperation amid rising partisan tensions. As the day progressed, the White House found itself embroiled in internal conflict over its narrative on the Iran war, further complicating the legislative landscape. The Ohio Supreme Court's impending decision on the secrecy of ICE response plans also emerged as a critical issue, as Congress struggled to reclaim its legislative power from the executive branch. Looking ahead, the political atmosphere is set to remain charged as lawmakers prepare for crucial votes and continued debates on immigration and agricultural policy.
Senate Republicans are under mounting pressure to pass the SAVE America Act, a development that propelled the Political Temperature Index to 80.5°, reflecting a notable rise amid increasing partisan tensions. This afternoon, GOP Senators, including John Cornyn, expressed support for altering filibuster rules to advance the bill, a significant shift that underscores the urgency as the midterms approach. Meanwhile, the White House is grappling with internal disagreements over claims of victory in the Iran conflict, adding further complexity to an already volatile political landscape. The Senate's bipartisan passage of a housing reform bill today, which garnered substantial support, contrasts sharply with the ongoing legislative friction, as Republicans also adjust their immigration strategies ahead of the elections. Today's developments mark a continuation of the week’s upward trend, which began at 79.0° and peaked at 82.8° earlier in the week. As the evening unfolds, expect heightened debates in Congress over the farm bill and continued scrutiny of immigration policies, setting the stage for a potentially explosive week ahead.
The Senate’s deadlock on Homeland Security funding, now in its third day of stalemate, became the day’s defining flashpoint, overshadowing even escalating tensions with Iran. Republicans blocked a bipartisan funding bill for the third time, pushing the department closer to a partial shutdown and driving the index to 82.8°—its highest this week. While the index cooled slightly from this morning’s 80.3°, the friction over immigration policy and election integrity bills kept rhetoric heat near boiling (85.8/100). The week’s trajectory remains volatile, with Iran’s conflict and midterm positioning dominating the political landscape. Tomorrow’s focus will hinge on whether Senate Republicans break their deadlock or double down, while Trump’s escalating rhetoric on Iran keeps war powers debates front and center.
Today's political temperature is hot at 71.9, an increase of 3.9 from yesterday, driven by several key issues. The top contributors include updates and polls related to the 2026 election, congressional debates on the farm bill and tariffs, the Trump administration's decision to end Haitian protections, developments in the Epstein investigation, and rising gas prices amid the Iran conflict. Rhetoric heat remains high at 83.4, while coverage polarization and legislative friction are both moderate, indicating a mix of partisan and bipartisan discussions. The volume of political discourse is also high at 91.7, reflecting significant public and media engagement with these topics.
Today's political temperature is assessed as hot at 67.9 out of 100, marking a notable decrease of 11.2 points from yesterday. Despite this drop, rhetoric heat remains high at 80.0/100, contributing to the overall intensity. Key drivers include White House discussions on gas prices and the Iran conflict, alongside ongoing debates between Congress and former President Trump regarding budget and policy. Local election dynamics, state immigration policies, and developments in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation are also significant contributors to the current political climate.
Based on the analysis of 63,395 articles and 52,581 social posts, the Political Temperature Index rose to 79.1° (Boiling) this evening, reversing a morning dip and reflecting heightened political activity. The increase was primarily driven by Trump's news conference amid the Iran conflict (+21.6 pts), White House responses to NTSB allegations (+14.2 pts), and ongoing election integrity investigations (+9.1 pts). As flagged in this morning's briefing, several anticipated drivers—including Trump's Iran rhetoric and legislative tensions—continued to generate significant heat, though the day's volatility (2.8%) remained stable. The week's trend shows a peak of 80.9° earlier, with today's temperature aligning with the week's elevated baseline. Looking ahead, lingering heat from Iran policy debates, Senate races, and the Epstein case is likely to sustain high temperatures in the coming days.
The Political Temperature Index closed the day at 80.4° (Boiling), showing a significant surge from this morning's 74.8° and reversing the overnight cooling trend, with a daily change of +0.1°. Based on the analysis of 1,293 new articles and 1,228 new social posts, this upward movement was primarily driven by escalating discussions around Trump weighing ground forces in the Iran conflict (+18.6 pts), intense focus on key Senate seats up for election (+15.7 pts), and the Supreme Court's ruling limiting Presidential Tariff Authority (+10.3 pts). The morning's forecast for further developments in judicial decisions and international tensions proved accurate, pushing the temperature back near the week's high of 80.9° after a brief dip. With momentum continuing to warm at 4.5% and the index firmly in the "Boiling" range, the political landscape remains highly charged as these key issues continue to unfold.
The Political Temperature Index concluded the day at 80.3° (Boiling), marking a sharp +6.3° increase from its morning opening of 74.0° and reversing the overnight cooling trend observed earlier. Based on the analysis of 1,326 new articles and 1,466 new social posts, today's significant rise was primarily fueled by Anthropic's legal dispute with the Pentagon (+13.0 pts), new revelations from the Epstein Files (+12.0 pts), and surging gas prices amidst Iran tensions (+10.7 pts). This surge confirms the morning's expectation of continued impact from international events and the lingering heat from the Epstein files, pushing the index back towards its weekly high of 80.9° after a week that started at 67.9°. With the index now firmly in 'Boiling' territory and momentum rapidly heating at 6.8%, the political climate is poised to remain intensely active.
The Political Temperature Index concluded the day at 79.0° (Boiling), marking a 1.9° decrease over the past 24 hours. This assessment is based on the analysis of 1,823 new articles and 1,252 new social posts. Today's temperature was primarily driven by the House's rejection of the Iran War Powers Resolution (+20.0 pts), the Lady Wolverines' run to the semis (+13.0 pts), and discussions around Trump's White House ballroom project (+12.3 pts), with the Justice Department's release of Epstein files also contributing (+10.0 pts). The morning's expectation of legislative action on Iran proved accurate as a top driver, though the anticipated impact from tariff lawsuits was not a leading factor today. Despite this daily cooling from yesterday's peak of 80.9°, the index remains firmly in "Boiling" territory, well above the week's starting point of 67.1°. With momentum rapidly heating at 9.4%, the political landscape appears poised for potential increases in temperature moving forward.
The Political Temperature Index closes this evening at a "Boiling" 80.9°, reflecting a 1.7° cooling over the past 24 hours from yesterday's smoothed temperature, yet reaching the week's highest point. Based on the analysis of 2,066 new articles and 2,018 new social posts today, the temperature was primarily driven by escalating US tensions with Iran (+17.1 pts), the nomination of Markwayne Mullin as DHS Secretary (+15.4 pts), and ongoing Republican debates over Homeland Security funding (+12.0 pts). While this morning's briefing highlighted the Iran War Powers debate, which continued to be a significant factor with "US Escalates Tensions with Iran" as today's top driver, the expected fallout from Rep. Tony Gonzales' affair receded from the top drivers. This evening's 80.9° is the highest point this week, surging from the week's start at 66.1° and maintaining a "rapidly heating" momentum. With several critical lingering heat events related to the Iran conflict and upcoming primary elections continuing to exert pressure, the index remains poised for further volatility.
Today's political temperature is "Boiling" at 80.7 out of 100, reflecting a notable increase of 2.7 points from yesterday. This heightened activity is significantly driven by discussions surrounding the Texas US Senate Primary Election for 2026 and ongoing internal conflicts within the Republican Party. Further contributing factors include Democratic debates on war powers and Iran, political developments in New York, and the investigation into the Austin mass shooting.
Today's political temperature is boiling at 78.1/100, marking a significant increase of 2.4 points from yesterday. The rise is primarily driven by several key events, including the progression of a Medicaid work requirements bill in Florida, primary elections in Texas, North Carolina, and Arkansas, final pitches from U.S. Senate candidates in Texas, U.S. airstrikes on Iran, and the release of Clinton depositions related to Jeffrey Epstein. Notably, rhetoric heat and volume signal are both elevated, reflecting heightened political discourse and media coverage.
The Political Temperature Index concluded the day at 71.9° (Hot), experiencing a notable +1.3° increase, a sharp reversal from the morning's trend. Based on the analysis of 1,489 new articles and 957 new social posts, today's rise was predominantly fueled by "White House on High Alert After Iran Strikes" (+15.8 pts), the "Texas Senate Race Heats Up Ahead Of Primary" (+15.6 pts), and the "Supreme Court Gun Rights Debate" (+14.6 pts). This significant upward movement defied the morning's expectation of a continued cooling trend, as the index surged from its earlier week's low of 55.9° to establish a new week high of 71.9°. While the morning briefing correctly identified Iran and Texas as potential drivers for a reversal, the day's rapid escalation, further compounded by Supreme Court rulings and the House Oversight Committee's Clinton Epstein depositions, points to a highly volatile environment. Continued attention is warranted on these developing narratives as substantial lingering heat persists.
Today's political temperature is hot at 60.6/100, showing a slight decrease of 0.8 points from yesterday. The temperature is primarily driven by international tensions, with the Pentagon freezing a military targeting proposal and the White House on high alert following Iran's strikes. Domestic issues also contribute significantly, including the heated Texas Senate race, the Supreme Court's consideration of marijuana and gun rights, and President Biden's accusations against former President Trump regarding U.S. leadership. Coverage polarization remains moderate at 32.0/100, while rhetoric heat and volume signal are both on the higher side, at 60.2/100 and 55.7/100 respectively. Legislative friction is relatively low at 35.1/100.
Today's political temperature remains hot at 67.9/100, showing no change from yesterday. The heat is primarily driven by several significant events, including new indictments related to protests at a Minnesota church, the downing of a Pentagon drone over Texas, and political figures' testimonies and speeches. Notably, rhetoric heat and coverage polarization are relatively low, while volume signal and legislative friction are high, indicating substantial public and political engagement without significant ideological divide in media coverage.
The Political Temperature Index concluded the day at a Hot 67.1°, marking an overall daily increase of +0.9° and a significant rebound from this morning's 59.3°. Based on the analysis of 1,981 new articles and 1,042 new social posts, today's significant warming was primarily driven by "Threats to US Elections" (+18.6 pts) and "Bill Clinton's Jeffrey Epstein Testimony" (+15.7 pts), alongside President Trump's remarks on energy policy. This strong upward movement played out against the morning's expectation, where observers questioned if a cooling trend would persist; instead, the temperature surged, now sitting above the week's starting point of 61.5° but still below the week's high of 69.5°. With momentum rapidly heating at 6.9% and a sustained "Hot" temperature, the political landscape appears poised for continued high activity as the week draws to a close.
Today's political temperature is hot at 66.1/100, showing a slight increase of 0.2 from yesterday. The primary driver is the President's State of the Union Address, contributing 23.1% to the temperature. Other significant factors include the Republican response to party criticisms, a Supreme Court ruling on tariffs sparking a refund debate, ongoing concerns about democracy and elections, and a drop in mortgage rates below 6 percent. Rhetoric heat and coverage polarization remain relatively low, while volume signal and legislative friction are moderately high.
The Political Temperature Index closed the day at a Hot 69.5°, marking a significant increase of 9.2° since this morning's opening of 60.3°. Based on the analysis of 2,419 new articles and 1,058 new social posts, today's surge was overwhelmingly driven by the fallout from the State of the Union Address, specifically Trump's delivery (+33.3 pts) and Democratic disruptions (+15.2 pts), alongside renewed attention on the DOJ being sued for Epstein files (+11.6 pts). While the morning brief correctly identified the State of the Union Address and Supreme Court Tariff Ruling as key drivers, the day saw a significant reversal from the expected "lower, yet still Hot, range," with the index climbing back towards the week's high of 71.5° after hitting a low of 46.9° mid-week. With a rapidly heating momentum of 5.5% and significant lingering heat from SOTU and tariff-related events, the political climate is poised to remain elevated.
The political temperature today is at 67.1 out of 100, indicating a hot environment, with a slight decrease of 0.5 points from yesterday. This elevated temperature is primarily driven by discussions surrounding a tariff strategy setback, election and voting rights, and the recent State of the Union Address. Further contributing factors include a Supreme Court ruling against Trump tariffs and the ongoing Anthropic-Pentagon dispute.
Today's political temperature remains high at 65.0, showing a slight decrease of 0.1 from yesterday. The primary drivers are the Supreme Court's tariff ruling, which contributes nearly 20% to the temperature, and the Mar-a-Lago security breach, accounting for 14.5%. Other significant factors include tensions between the Pentagon and Iran, ongoing Epstein-related news, and criticism from California Democrats regarding Trump's immigration policies. Despite the slight drop, political rhetoric and coverage polarization remain notable, with volume signals indicating high public and media engagement.
Today's political temperature remains high at 62.3/100, unchanged from yesterday. The primary drivers are the shooting at Mar-a-Lago, which contributed 24.2% to the temperature, and the imposition of new global tariffs by Trump, contributing 18.5%. Other significant factors include the Mar-a-Lago security breach, ICE and immigration controversies, and ongoing discussions about Trump's tariffs. Rhetoric heat and coverage polarization remain relatively low, while the volume of political discourse is high at 71.3/100. Legislative friction is moderate at 27.1/100.
Today's political temperature is warm at 46.9/100, showing a slight increase of 0.2 from yesterday. The temperature is primarily driven by reactions to the Supreme Court's decision to strike down Trump's tariffs, Trump's proposal of new global tariffs, and his responses to the court's ruling. Other contributing factors include Trump's statements on Iran and a meeting at the White House with governors. Rhetoric heat remains low, while coverage polarization and volume signal are both moderate.
The Political Temperature Index concluded the day at a Hot 61.5°, reflecting a -4.3° decrease over the past 24 hours with rapidly cooling momentum at -8.2%. Based on the analysis of 901 new articles and 1,110 new social posts, today's temperature was primarily driven by a Supreme Court ruling deeming Trump's tariffs unlawful (+33.9 pts), alongside the VA reversing a disability rating rule (+9.3 pts) and ongoing discussions on DHS funding and immigration policies. While the index opened at a week-low 55.1° this morning, it saw an increase to 61.5° by evening, a shift from the morning's flagged major drivers of Epstein associates and Iran tensions, which contributed less significantly than anticipated. This evening's reading represents the week's current low, a substantial drop from the week's starting point of 85.9°, though the index rose from its morning nadir. With significant lingering heat from numerous past events still influencing the landscape, observers should monitor how the Supreme Court's decision and other critical issues impact the cooling trend moving forward.
The Political Temperature Index closes this evening at a Hot 65.7°, reflecting a -5.6° decrease from yesterday evening's close, but also a significant rebound from this morning's week low of 58.7°. Based on the analysis of 933 new articles and 1,411 new social posts, today's primary drivers included the arrest of Prince Andrew over Epstein ties (+29.5 pts), ICE arrests in Minneapolis-St. Paul (+23.3 pts), and Trump's comments on AOC's intelligence (+15.5 pts). As anticipated in this morning's briefing, ongoing developments in the Epstein investigation and ICE operations continued to exert strong influence, leading to an intraday rise despite the overall daily cooling trend. This positions the index considerably below the week's starting point of 81.7° and its high of 85.9°. Looking ahead, the rapidly cooling momentum (-6.7%) suggests potential for further decline, though numerous critical lingering events could still fuel volatility.
The political temperature remains high at 71.5 out of 100, experiencing a negligible decrease of 0.1 points from yesterday. This elevated intensity is primarily driven by the FBI's formal denial of evidence access in the ICE agent fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, and billionaire Les Wexner's testimony before Congress regarding ties to Epstein. The looming DHS funding deadline and President Trump's meeting with Iran advisers also significantly contribute to the current climate. The passing of Jesse Jackson is another notable factor influencing the political landscape.
The Political Temperature Index warmed significantly this evening, rising +2.4° to a Hot 71.9°. Based on the analysis of 1,500 new articles and 1,106 new social posts, this surge was primarily driven by the escalating DHS Funding Deadline (+43.9 pts), an ICE raid in Chicago (+13.2 pts), and an investigation into Ilhan Omar (+11.1 pts). This marks a substantial rebound from the morning's 61.8°, confirming the vigilance warranted by ongoing DHS funding disputes as highlighted earlier today, positioning the index above the week's low of 66.0° but still below its high of 85.9°. Despite today's notable increase and the continued influence of critical lingering events, the overall momentum is rapidly cooling, suggesting potential for further moderation.
The Political Temperature Index closed this evening at a Hot 69.5°, marking a slight -1.0° daily change but a notable increase from this morning's 61.7° open. Based on the analysis of 1,372 new articles and 1,067 new social posts, today's temperature was primarily driven by the "ICE Agent Involved in Fatal Shooting of Migrant" event, contributing +44.1 points, with the "DHS Funding Deadline Looms" also adding +25.0 points. This represents a shift from the morning's expectation of continued rapid cooling, as the index warmed considerably during the day, though the DHS funding issue remained a significant factor. While the day saw a rebound from the week's low, the current 69.5° remains notably cooler than the week's starting point of 81.7° and the week's high of 85.9°. With momentum now cooling again, but numerous critical events continuing to generate heat, vigilance for further shifts in temperature is warranted as the week progresses.
Today's political temperature is hot at 70.5, a slight decrease of 1.4 from yesterday. The primary drivers are the ongoing DHS shutdown due to funding disputes, contributing 28.4%, and former President Trump's proposal for nationwide voter ID requirements, contributing 19.9%. Other significant factors include the release of Epstein files by the DOJ and Senator Schumer's criticism of the SAVE Act. Rhetoric heat remains high at 8.6, while coverage polarization and volume signal are also elevated at 43.0 and 89.0, respectively. Legislative friction is moderate at 39.8.
Today's political temperature remains high at 81.2, showing a slight decrease of 4.0 points from yesterday. The elevated temperature is primarily driven by several key issues: the partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security due to a funding lapse, congressional debates on the SAVE Act, and former President Trump's announcement of an executive order on voter-ID requirements. Other contributing factors include Pam Bondi's demand for the DOJ to halt tracking of lawmakers' searches related to the Epstein files and criticism faced by Governor Kristi Noem over a recent voting comment. Despite the slight drop, the overall political climate remains intensely heated.
The Political Temperature Index concludes the day at a Boiling 85.9°, rising +0.9° from this morning's 81.0° and contrasting with the morning's anticipated cooling trend. Based on analysis of 1,514 new articles and 1,395 new social posts, today's significant escalation was primarily driven by Pam Bondi facing contempt for Congress (+39.5 pts) and the continued fallout from Congress failing to pass the DHS Funding Bill (+23.4 pts). While the morning briefing highlighted the DHS funding issue and Pam Bondi's involvement as key concerns, their combined impact pushed the temperature higher, marking a sharp increase from the week's start at 81.1° and reaching a new weekly high of 85.9°. With the temperature at its weekly peak and critical issues like the DHS funding deadline and ongoing legal and legislative battles continuing to generate significant heat, the political climate remains intensely volatile heading into tomorrow.
Today's political temperature is at a high 81.7 out of 100, categorized as 'Boiling,' marking a significant increase of 5.0 points from yesterday. This heightened activity is primarily driven by Pam Bondi's testimony before Congress, the looming DHS funding deadline, and President Trump's threats to Republicans over policy votes. Further contributing factors include the House vote to override Trump's Canada tariffs and the Canada school shooting, all contributing to a very high volume of political discourse.
The Political Temperature Index concluded the day at 66.0° (Hot), maintaining a hot classification and extending the cooling trend observed this morning, with a 24-hour drop
The Political Temperature Index ended the day at 79.9° ("Boiling"), marking a significant reversal from its 65.8° opening this morning and pushing the index sharply
The political temperature remains exceptionally high today at 81.7/100, registering a slight increase of 0.1 from yesterday. This elevated state is driven by a very high volume of political activity (98.9/100) and moderate coverage polarization (61
The political temperature surged to 77.3° on February 8, 2026, marking a significant increase of 3.3° from the previous day, and bringing the week's gain to 29.4°. Based on analysis of 741 new articles and 845 social posts, today's top drivers included a Trump social media post featuring an AI-generated video depicting the Obamas as apes, which added 31.9 points, followed by ICE arrests in Minneapolis operations and a bombshell revelation about Trump from an Epstein reporter. The day's elevated temperature and volatility of 10.2 reflect a rapidly heating momentum of 5.2%, which has propelled the index from 47.9° at the start of the week to a boiling 77.3°. Looking ahead, the lingering heat from past events, including Trump's AI video and ICE operations, is expected to continue influencing the temperature, which may remain elevated in the coming days.
Today's political temperature is 74° (Hot). Based on analysis of 12,616 total articles, with 582 new today. Top story: ICE Asks Newsom Not to Release 33,000 Criminal Illegal Aliens.
The current political temperature is at 81.1, indicating a highly charged environment, albeit slightly decreased from yesterday's level. The top drivers of this temperature include controversial actions and statements from prominent figures, such as the sharing of a racist video and threats made by a pardoned rioter, which are contributing to the ongoing polarization. The high volume signal and moderate legislative friction also suggest a sense of urgency and tension in the political landscape. The slight decrease in temperature from yesterday, down 0.3 points, may indicate a minor easing of tensions, but the overall environment remains highly volatile.
The current political temperature is warm, registering at 59.0/100, with a slight decrease of 0.1 from yesterday. The top drivers of this temperature are primarily related to immigration and law enforcement issues, including recent arrests and warnings of mass deportation, which are contributing to increased tensions. The rhetoric heat remains relatively low at 16.2/100, but the high volume signal of 86.7/100 indicates a significant amount of attention and discussion around these issues. The overall temperature is being driven by a mix of events, with left-wing activists storming a synagogue and various immigration-related incidents contributing to the majority of the temperature.
The current political temperature is at a meltdown level of 91.2, representing a significant decrease of 12.8 points from yesterday. International tensions and global conflict and security are the primary drivers of this high temperature, accounting for 78.0% and 42.3% of the contribution, respectively. The substantial drop in temperature from yesterday suggests a notable shift in the political landscape, potentially indicating a heightened sense of urgency or instability. The high volume signal of 97.9 also indicates that these issues are being widely discussed and debated across various platforms.
The current political temperature is at 45.5, indicating a warm climate, with a notable increase of 2.7 points from yesterday. The top drivers of this temperature are the Russian Oil Purchase, India-US Trade, and Congress Demands, which collectively account for 90% of the contributing factors. The significant increase in temperature suggests a rise in tensions, likely due to the intense debate and discussion surrounding these key issues. The high volume signal of 100.0 also indicates a high level of attention and engagement with these topics, contributing to the elevated political temperature.