Meridian Weekly: Jan 12, 2026-Jan 18, 2026

Meridian is a weekly, subscriber briefing for readers who want to step back from the daily cycle and understand what’s actually happening—politically, culturally, and geopolitically—and why it matters

The United States finds itself at a juncture of intensified domestic friction and assertive foreign policy actions as the new administration pursues its agenda with vigor. In the week spanning mid-January 2026, events have highlighted deepening divisions over immigration enforcement, persistent legal and political maneuvers surrounding former and current leadership, and a broader pattern of unrest in urban centers. These developments reflect a nation grappling with the implementation of strict border and interior security measures amid resistance from state and local officials, while cultural debates over identity, religion, and public expression continue to simmer. Globally, the landscape shows ongoing commitments to countering adversarial influences in key regions.