Federal Executive Branch
Here's a look at documents from the U.S. Executive Branch
Featured Stories
U.S., Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE Issue Joint Statement on Iran Missile, Drone Attacks in the Region
WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The U.S. State Department issued the following joint statement on March 1, 2026, with Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates:
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Joint Statement on Iran's Missile and Drone Attacks in the Region
The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates on the occasion of recent missile and drone attacks launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran across the region.
The United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait,
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WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The U.S. State Department issued the following joint statement on March 1, 2026, with Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates:
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Joint Statement on Iran's Missile and Drone Attacks in the Region
The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates on the occasion of recent missile and drone attacks launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran across the region.
The United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait,Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates strongly condemn the Islamic Republic of Iran's indiscriminate and reckless missile and drone attacks against sovereign territories across the region, including Bahrain, Iraq -- including the Iraqi Kurdistan Region -- Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. These unjustified strikes targeted sovereign territory, endangered civilian populations, and damaged civilian infrastructure.
The Islamic Republic's actions represent a dangerous escalation that violates the sovereignty of multiple states and threatens regional stability. The targeting of civilians and of countries not engaged in hostilities is reckless and destabilizing behavior.
We stand united in defense of our citizens, sovereignty, and territory, and reaffirm our right to self-defense in the face of these attacks. We remain committed to regional security and commend the effective air and missile defense cooperation that has prevented far greater loss of life and destruction.
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Original text here: https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2026/03/joint-statement-on-irans-missile-and-drone-attacks-in-the-region/
U.S. Southern Command: Gen. Donovan Visits Ecuador
DORAL, Florida, March 3 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Southern Command issued the following news release:
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Gen. Donovan Visits Ecuador
The commander of U.S. Southern Command, Marine Gen. Francis L. Donovan, met with President Daniel Noboa and senior Ecuadorian defense officials on March 2 in Quito, Ecuador, to discuss security cooperation and reaffirm the United States' strong commitment to supporting the nation's efforts to confront narco-terrorism and strengthen regional security.
The March 1 - 2 trip to Ecuador was Gen. Donovan's second to the region since assuming command of SOUTHCOM
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DORAL, Florida, March 3 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Southern Command issued the following news release:
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Gen. Donovan Visits Ecuador
The commander of U.S. Southern Command, Marine Gen. Francis L. Donovan, met with President Daniel Noboa and senior Ecuadorian defense officials on March 2 in Quito, Ecuador, to discuss security cooperation and reaffirm the United States' strong commitment to supporting the nation's efforts to confront narco-terrorism and strengthen regional security.
The March 1 - 2 trip to Ecuador was Gen. Donovan's second to the region since assuming command of SOUTHCOMFeb. 5, underscoring Ecuador's status as a key regional partner in the fight against narco-terrorist organizations. The general's first visit to the region was to Venezuela February 18.
During meetings with President Daniel Noboa, Minister of Defense Giancarlo Loffredo Rendon and Gen. Henry Delgado Salvador, Chief of the Joint Staff, Ecuador Armed Forces, and other government officials, Gen. Donovan expressed gratitude for Ecuador's contributions in combating cartels and narco-trafficking as well as its efforts to strengthen security in the Western Hemisphere. The leaders discussed continued collaboration to address common threats and explore opportunities to expand the bilateral security partnership.
"Ecuador is one of the United States' strongest partners in disrupting and dismantling Designated Terrorist Organizations in the region," said Gen. Donovan. "The Ecuadorian people have witnessed firsthand the terror, violence, and corruption that these narco-terrorists inflict on communities across the region."
"The most effective way to defeat the threat of narco-terrorism is through shared responsibility and collaboration among regional allies and partners. Ecuadorian forces have consistently exemplified this commitment through its actions against narco-terrorists on their streets and in their communities."
Ecuador is a valued and respected democratic partner with strong and longstanding ties to the U.S. armed forces. Bilateral cooperation continues to grow, with a focus on our shared interests such as security and economic development.
Ecuador's efforts to combat narco-terrorists are critical to its own security and the stability of the region. The U.S.-Ecuador security partnership benefits the Ecuadorian people while making the region -- and the United States -- safer.
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Original text here: https://www.southcom.mil/News/PressReleases/Article/4419140/gen-donovan-visits-ecuador/
Secretary of State Rubio Issues Statement on Resources, Support for U.S. Citizens Overseas
WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The U.S. State Department issued the following statement on March 2, 2026, by Secretary Marco Rubio:
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Resources and Support for U.S. Citizens Overseas
Following Operation Epic Fury, Secretary Rubio released a video message emphasizing that the safety and security of American citizens is the Department of State's highest priority.
A courtesy transcript of the Secretary's video (https://x.com/SecRubio/status/2028604544326705290?s=20) is below:
"At my direction, the Department has activated a 24/7 task force that is providing American citizens with up-to-the-minute
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WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The U.S. State Department issued the following statement on March 2, 2026, by Secretary Marco Rubio:
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Resources and Support for U.S. Citizens Overseas
Following Operation Epic Fury, Secretary Rubio released a video message emphasizing that the safety and security of American citizens is the Department of State's highest priority.
A courtesy transcript of the Secretary's video (https://x.com/SecRubio/status/2028604544326705290?s=20) is below:
"At my direction, the Department has activated a 24/7 task force that is providing American citizens with up-to-the-minutesafety and security information.
Here is how you can stay abreast of the latest updates, as well as ways we are working around the clock to help you stay safe in the wake of Iran's cowardly attacks:
All Americans located abroad, particularly those in the Middle East, should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive the latest messages and updates from your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
U.S. citizens overseas are also encouraged to follow our "Security Updates for U.S. Citizens" channel on WhatsApp and to follow @TravelGov on social media. The latest alerts can be found at travel.state.gov as well.
Americans in the Middle East may contact the Department of State 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-202-501-4444."
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Original text here: https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2026/03/resources-and-support-for-u-s-citizens-overseas/
President Trump, First Lady Issue Statement on Read Across America Day
WASHINGTON, March 3 -- President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump issued the following statement on March 2, 2026, on Read Across America Day:
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This Read Across America Day, we proudly join millions of students, parents, teachers, and librarians across our Nation in celebrating the importance of reading in our homes and literacy in our schools as well as the unmatched power of opening a new book.
From the revolutionary pamphlets of Thomas Paine and the timeless essays of The Federalist Papers to the epic stories of Mark Twain, for 250 years, love for the written word has stirred the hearts
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WASHINGTON, March 3 -- President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump issued the following statement on March 2, 2026, on Read Across America Day:
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This Read Across America Day, we proudly join millions of students, parents, teachers, and librarians across our Nation in celebrating the importance of reading in our homes and literacy in our schools as well as the unmatched power of opening a new book.
From the revolutionary pamphlets of Thomas Paine and the timeless essays of The Federalist Papers to the epic stories of Mark Twain, for 250 years, love for the written word has stirred the heartsof countless patriots and shaped the course of our Nation's history. Those same words that once called our newfound Republic to greatness centuries ago continue to inspire young minds today.
Reading sparks imagination, builds character, and opens doors to endless possibilities. It teaches the next generation to dream boldly, think independently, and live by the creed that there is no limit to what they can achieve for themselves and for our country.
The Trump Administration remains committed to putting students and families first in education and helping every child succeed. Last December, the Department of Education granted $256 million to American schools to strengthen reading in the classroom. Strong readers build strong futures, and we will never waver in our commitment to America's children.
Today, we encourage every American to pick up a book, turn the page, and be part of the next great chapter of our Nation's story: America's new Golden Age.
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Original text here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/2026/03/the-president-and-first-ladys-message-on-read-across-america-day/
NOAA: Ocean's Underwater Ears - Tracking North Atlantic Right Whales Using Sound
WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued the following news:
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The Ocean's Underwater Ears: Tracking North Atlantic Right Whales Using Sound
Scientists are acoustically tracking endangered North Atlantic right whales in the Southeast Atlantic. The data we collect help us understand their presence in their less-studied calving habitat.
In the vast, blue expanse of the Southeast Atlantic, a mystery unfolds every year. The North Atlantic right whale, one of the world's most endangered large whales, embarks on a long journey
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WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued the following news:
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The Ocean's Underwater Ears: Tracking North Atlantic Right Whales Using Sound
Scientists are acoustically tracking endangered North Atlantic right whales in the Southeast Atlantic. The data we collect help us understand their presence in their less-studied calving habitat.
In the vast, blue expanse of the Southeast Atlantic, a mystery unfolds every year. The North Atlantic right whale, one of the world's most endangered large whales, embarks on a long journeyfrom northern feeding grounds to southern calving waters. But how do you track a giant that spends most of its life hidden beneath the waves?
Meet the SoundTrap--the underwater audio recording device that's changing the game for monitoring whales. SoundTraps are passive acoustic monitoring devices built for long-term, continuous archival recording. They're typically deployed for 6-months at a time. Later, scientists retrieve these units to analyze the vast amount of underwater audio captured during their time on the seafloor--including sounds from vocalizing animals.
Tracking Right Whale Movements
Tracking the North Atlantic right whale isn't just about curiosity; it's a science-based strategy for supporting the conservation of a species with approximately 380 individuals remaining. We use the best available science to inform management decisions.
We monitor the movements of right whales in the Southeast United States because this region serves as the species' only known calving grounds. It's not just the mom-calf pairs that are seen here; nearly a quarter of the existing population can be found in the South Atlantic during the winter and spring months. NOAA Fisheries scientists track these whales to detect their presence in the calving grounds, and monitor and understand shifts in their migration patterns. Tracking data recovered from passive acoustic technologies like SoundTraps can help scientists identify new migratory patterns and understand where specific whales were at specific dates and times. This helps us promote a sustainable coexistence between thriving marine industries and North Atlantic right whales.
Beyond simple tracking, these acoustic data are a goldmine for understanding habitat use, behaviors, and vocal variation. This is important so we can identify key behavioral patterns that allow us to take an active approach in species conservation. These data also give insights into how whales interact with human-made threats like vessel traffic.
From Sound Waves to Migratory Maps
By acting as the "eyes and ears" of the ocean, SoundTraps provide a continuous, high-fidelity window into the movements of the North Atlantic right whale. We strategically deploy SoundTraps throughout the entire southern region of the species' range. For the 2026 right whale calving season, we placed SoundTraps from Hatteras, North Carolina, all the way down to Cape Canaveral, Florida. All of this work is conducted from a small boat that is trailered up and down the Southeast.
Once we retrieve these recorders, scientists use the Low Frequency Detection Classification System, a specialized detector. It sifts through months of audio to pinpoint upcalls, the signature vocalizations used by North Atlantic right whales of all ages.
Experienced analysts then verify these acoustic detections, transforming raw sound into a detailed map. By identifying patterns in the data, researchers can track exactly when right whales are moving south to calve or north to feed, revealing how these cycles shift annually or over decades.
Efficiency of 24/7 Underwater Monitoring
Researchers have historically relied solely on aerial surveys and vessel-based operations for real-time monitoring and mitigation, photo identification, and genetic sampling. The advent of long-term acoustic recorders has revolutionized how we monitor habitat use of these endangered giants. Long-term, continuous recorders allow for acoustic monitoring 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for extended periods of time and in all sorts of weather. This level of monitoring isn't feasible for human researchers. The use of passive acoustic technologies reduces limitations such as daylight, visibility, good weather conditions, and personnel requirements.
Complementing aerial and vessel monitoring with advanced technologies like SoundTraps allows scientists to form a clear and often continuous, after-the-fact, picture of species behavior in the absence of any visual observations.
While acoustic tracking is still subject to challenges like vocalization rates and background noise from shipping traffic, it offers a remarkably continuous and reusable monitoring platform. Perhaps most importantly, the raw data captured serve as a permanent archive. This allows future generations of scientists to revisit and analyze these underwater recordings for decades to come.
As the sun sets over the Southeast coast, the SoundTraps remain active, silently documenting the movements of North Atlantic right whales. Each retrieval brings us closer to understanding the shifting rhythms of the species, providing the evidence-based roadmap needed to aid species conservation.
More Information
Learn more about how you can help right whales. Remember to report all right whale sightings from North Carolina to Florida to (877) WHALE-HELP/(877) 942-5343, and from Maine to Virginia to (866) 755-6622.
See where right whales have been spotted near you by visiting our interactive WhaleMap (https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/resource/map/north-atlantic-right-whale-sightings).
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Original text here: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/oceans-underwater-ears-tracking-north-atlantic-right-whales-using-sound
IRS Published Schedule Taxpayers Will Use to Claim Deductions on No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, No Tax on Car Loans, No Tax on Seniors
WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service issued the following news:
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IRS published schedule taxpayers will use to claim deductions on no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, no tax on car loans, no tax on seniors
New Schedule 1-A and Form 1040 instructions show how taxpayers will claim important deductions
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The Internal Revenue Service published, for tax year 2025, a new schedule that taxpayers will use to realize important tax benefits of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, including no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, no tax on car loans, and no tax
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WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service issued the following news:
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IRS published schedule taxpayers will use to claim deductions on no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, no tax on car loans, no tax on seniors
New Schedule 1-A and Form 1040 instructions show how taxpayers will claim important deductions
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The Internal Revenue Service published, for tax year 2025, a new schedule that taxpayers will use to realize important tax benefits of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, including no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, no tax on car loans, and no taxon seniors.
Schedule 1-A PDF and its related instructions (included in the Form 1040 Instructions PDF) allow taxpayers to deduct amounts for tips, overtime, car loans, and the enhanced deduction for seniors.
Part II of the new instructions explains how to determine the amount of qualified tips, how to claim the deduction, up to $25,000, and the phaseout for modified adjusted gross income greater than $150,000 ($300,000 for married taxpayers filing joint returns). Workers can claim this deduction whether they claim the standard deduction or itemize.
To claim the deduction, tips must be reported, and married taxpayers must file a joint return. The new instructions also provide examples of different scenarios for tipped workers, worksheets to help tipped workers calculate their tipped income, and information on lists and categories of occupations where workers customarily and regularly receive tips, as well as definitions of qualified tips.
Part III of the new instructions explains how certain workers can claim a deduction for overtime compensation they received. Married taxpayers must file a joint return to claim this deduction. Workers can claim this deduction whether they claim the standard deduction or itemize.
The new instructions describe how taxpayers can claim a deduction of up to $12,500 ($25,000 if married filing jointly) and explain how the deduction is reduced when MAGI exceeds $150,000 ($300,000 if married filing jointly).
The instructions define qualified overtime compensation as overtime compensation that is paid as required under section 7 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, and more than the amount of the regular rate of pay. The instructions provide illustrative examples and worksheets.
Part IV of the new instructions explains how taxpayers can claim a deduction for car loan interest. Taxpayers can deduct qualified passenger vehicle loan interest whether they claim the standard deduction or itemize.
The instructions define the terms "qualified passenger vehicle loan interest," "applicable passenger vehicle," "final assembly in the United States," and "personal use," and provide an example.
Part V describes the enhanced deduction for seniors, which can be claimed whether they take the standard deduction or itemize; to claim the deduction, married couples must file jointly.
To qualify for the enhanced deduction, the taxpayer (and/or the taxpayer's spouse, if filing a joint return) must have been born before Jan. 2, 1961. The taxpayer must have a valid Social Security number; if married filing jointly, each spouse who is claiming the enhanced deduction for seniors must have a valid SSN.
The maximum enhanced deduction for seniors is $6,000 per person. For married filing jointly, if both spouses were born before Jan. 2, 1961, and both have a valid SSN, the enhanced deduction for seniors is $12,000. The $6,000-per-person amount is reduced if the MAGI exceeds $75,000 ($150,000 for married couples filing jointly).
The IRS encourages people to file their tax returns electronically and to choose direct deposit for faster, more secure refunds. Filing electronically reduces tax return errors because the tax software performs the calculations, flags common errors, and prompts taxpayers for missing information.
For more information about these tax benefits, see One, Big, Beautiful Bill Provisions on IRS.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-published-schedule-taxpayers-will-use-to-claim-deductions-on-no-tax-on-tips-no-tax-on-overtime-no-tax-on-car-loans-no-tax-on-seniors
FBI Norfolk to Host Special Agent Recruitment Information Session for Veterans and Active-Duty Military
WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The FBI issued the following news release:
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FBI Norfolk to Host Special Agent Recruitment Information Session for Veterans and Active-Duty Military
NORFOLK, VA--The FBI Norfolk field office invites active-duty military personnel, reservists, National Guard members, and veterans to attend a Special Agent Recruitment Information Session in March 2026.
Service to our nation does not have to end when military service concludes. The FBI is actively seeking highly motivated leaders with military experience who are ready to continue protecting the American people and upholding
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WASHINGTON, March 3 -- The FBI issued the following news release:
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FBI Norfolk to Host Special Agent Recruitment Information Session for Veterans and Active-Duty Military
NORFOLK, VA--The FBI Norfolk field office invites active-duty military personnel, reservists, National Guard members, and veterans to attend a Special Agent Recruitment Information Session in March 2026.
Service to our nation does not have to end when military service concludes. The FBI is actively seeking highly motivated leaders with military experience who are ready to continue protecting the American people and upholdingthe Constitution in a new capacity.
Through their service, members of the military community have demonstrated leadership, discipline, resilience and an unwavering commitment to mission success. The Bureau offers veterans and transitioning service members the opportunity to apply their operational expertise, problem-solving abilities, and dedication to public service in one of the most challenging and rewarding careers in federal law enforcement.
"Hampton Roads is home to one of the largest military communities in the world," said Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Norfolk. "We know the caliber of leaders who serve here. The FBI offers those transitioning from military service the opportunity to take their skills, integrity, and sense of duty into a career that continues to safeguard our nation."
The March information session will provide an overview of the FBI's Special Agent role, minimum qualifications, application process, physical fitness requirements, and career opportunities within the Bureau. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage directly with recruiters and learn how their military experience translates to the FBI mission.
Individuals interested in attending or requesting additional information may email norfolkapplicants@fbi.gov to register. Registration is due by March 14, 2026.
Continue your service. Protect your community. Lead with integrity.
Additional resources and eligibility requirements: https://fbijobs.gov/military-veterans
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Original text here: https://www.fbi.gov/news/press-releases
