Today’s Top Stories in the US, January 30, 2026
1. Massive Nationwide Protests and General Strike Over ICE Shootings
Across the United States, a large wave of protests and walkouts is taking place in response to fatal shootings by federal immigration agents—including the recent killing of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Students, labor unions, and activist groups have called for a general strike (dubbed the “National Shutdown”) urging people to skip work, school, and shopping to protest aggressive enforcement by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection. Demonstrations and business closures are reported in dozens of cities as organizers demand policy changes, withdrawal of ICE agents from Minnesota, and broader reform.
Organizers say the strike builds off earlier actions in Minnesota and aims to pressure lawmakers on immigration enforcement funding, particularly as Congress negotiates related budget bills.
2. President Trump to Announce Federal Reserve Chair Nominee
President Donald Trump is preparing to name his pick for the next Federal Reserve Chair Friday morning. The move comes as the current chair, Jerome Powell, nears the end of his term and Trump has publicly criticized Powell’s cautious approach to rate cuts amid high inflation. Several candidates are under consideration, with former Fed governor Kevin Warsh widely rumored as a potential frontrunner. Markets and economists are closely watching the decision, which could shape U.S. monetary policy and signal the administration’s stance on central bank independence.
3. Washington Deal to Avert Government Shutdown
Lawmakers in Congress and the White House reached a temporary agreement to avoid a partial government shutdown, particularly over funding for the Department of Homeland Security. The deal provides short-term funding while negotiations continue over broader spending, including provisions tied to immigration enforcement—a central point of national debate following recent protests.
Speaker comments emphasized the urgency of keeping federal operations funded and maintaining public services, though political friction remains high between parties on multiple fronts.
4. “ICE Out” Strike Garners Widespread Participation
In tandem with protests, the “ICE Out” strike movement has spread nationwide, engaging not just activists but students, unions, and community groups. The campaign not only highlights grievances over immigration tactics but also seeks solidarity actions such as organized boycotts and targeted business closures. Supporters argue the strike underscores broader human rights issues, while critics warn of social disruption.
5. Additional Context: Weather and Travel Disruptions
The U.S. continues to feel the effects of a historic winter weather event that brought extreme cold and heavy snow in recent days, disrupting travel and impacting daily life in large parts of the country. NASA reports lingering frigid temperatures across wide regions, compounding the challenges faced by commuters and emergency services.
6. Corporate Earnings: ExxonMobil Reports Strong 2025 Results
In business news, ExxonMobil announced robust earnings for the fourth quarter of 2025, with billions in profits and significant shareholder distributions through dividends and buybacks. The results reflect continued strength in the energy sector despite global economic uncertainty.
In Brief
- Protests and a general strike dominate national headlines over immigration policies and federal enforcement actions.
- A key economic decision from the White House on the Federal Reserve chair is imminent.
- A temporary congressional deal has averted an immediate government shutdown.
