#ourCOG Daily Brief [February 1, 2026]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for February 1, 2026.

In today’s top stories, a new batch of Jeffrey Epstein files has been released, detailing his communications with powerful contacts, though it’s unclear if they’ll satisfy all inquiries. Stateside, a partial government shutdown began Saturday, expected to be brief but setting the stage for significant debates on immigration enforcement. Minneapolis continues to inspire protest songs, with artists like Billy Bragg highlighting their impact, while President Trump’s nomination of Kevin Warsh to head the Federal Reserve has calmed markets and could usher in a new monetary course. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is also garnering attention, with his book tour seen by many as groundwork for a potential presidential run, showcasing his strong “Yinzer” roots. On the global stage, Gaza’s Rafah crossing is preparing for a partial opening following Israeli strikes that killed at least 30 Palestinians, indicating a ceasefire is moving forward. Myanmar’s recent junta-backed elections, widely denounced as a sham, still offer a glimmer of hope for some in the war-torn nation to move toward democratic norms. Meanwhile, a US immigration crackdown, particularly in Minnesota, is reportedly hastening the erosion of European esteem for their long-time American ally under President Trump.

Turning to our video segment, we only have one recent title to share: “The Glory of God 2/1/26 Bro David Lamb, Sunday Service | Sundays at 9:30AM & 11:30AM EST | citylife church, Join us now for this morning’s worship experience! [11am EST Service]”.

For our FaithNews update, we regret to report that no recent faith-based news has been found.

In prophecy news, discussions are ongoing regarding the legal justification of the Alex Pretti shooting on February 1st, although Pretti himself is noted to have committed a federal felony by interfering with an officer. Broader analysis from January 31st suggests Democrats are viewed as “useful idiots” for globalist and Marxist forces aiming to destabilize Western civilization, pointing to events in Minneapolis as part of a “sponsored revolution.” Previously, on January 30th, White House border czar Tom Homan announced a reduction in federal agents in Minnesota, contingent on state cooperation with ICE. And looking back to January 29th, the EU and India forged a significant free-trade agreement, dubbed the “mother of all deals,” in response to Trump-era tariffs, illustrating how middle powers are adapting to shifting global trade dynamics.

Finally, in Jewish history, we look at significant events from February 1st. In 682 AD, Visigoth King Erwig intensified persecution, making Jewish rites illegal across much of modern-day Spain and forcing Jews to convert or emigrate. Centuries later, on February 1st, 1119, Callixtus II became Pope, and during his reign, he was a notable protector of Roman Jews. In fact, in 1120, he issued the first of the “Sicut Judaeis” bulls, specifically aimed at safeguarding Jews from the horrific consequences of the First Crusade. And by February 1st, 1225, papal orders were even being issued to grant commercial privileges to Jewish merchants, marking a different kind of interaction.

That concludes our daily brief. Thank you for joining us.