PBS News Hour full episode, Feb. 19, 2026

Former Prince Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a charge stemming from an assessment of recently released Epstein files that suggested he shared confidential business papers while serving as a trade ambassador. This event, involving the sibling of a reigning monarch, is without modern British precedent. King Charles personally intervened with a statement signed 'Charles R.', stressing that 'the law must take its course,' an unusual move to distance the monarchy from Andrew's actions and affirm support for the investigation.

Chris Ship reported on the arrest at [02:05] and the specific charge at [02:56]. Katty Kay highlighted the unprecedented nature at [07:32] and King Charles's personal signature on the statement at [08:10], explaining its significance at [08:23]. The specific allegations of sharing confidential papers were detailed at [04:41].

President Trump convened the inaugural meeting of his 'Board of Peace' to rebuild war-torn Gaza, announcing $10 billion in U.S. commitment and $7 billion from other nations. The initiative aims to address 'terror, hate, incitement, and indoctrination' as core issues. However, the plan faces significant challenges, including a lack of clarity on funding authority, ongoing tensions in Gaza with recent Israeli airstrikes, and the absence of key U.S. allies like the U.K., France, and Canada. Palestinians expressed deep skepticism, viewing Trump as a supplier of weapons to Israel.

Geoff Bennett reported on the Board of Peace meeting at [12:34] and the funding pledges at [14:05]. Donald Trump's statement on the war being over is at [13:12]. A Palestinian father's skepticism is at [13:54]. The absence of key allies is noted at [15:03].

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to life in prison for leading an insurrection by imposing martial law in December 2024. The six-hour period saw military presence at Parliament, thwarted by protesters and opposition staffers. This conviction, alongside others for former officials, is seen as a significant affirmation of South Korean democracy and the rule of law, despite the country's history of presidents facing severe legal consequences.

Nick Schifrin reported on the sentencing at [22:12] and the details of the martial law at [23:13]. Frank Jannuzi commented on the resilience of South Korean democracy at [23:44] and the affirmation of the rule of law at [24:14].

Platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi have experienced explosive growth, allowing users to bet on outcomes of future events using 'yes' or 'no' contracts. Proponents highlight the 'wisdom of crowds' for generating informative predictions, often outperforming traditional polls. However, the industry faces scrutiny over relaxed regulation, the use of VPNs by U.S. traders to bypass domestic bans, the potential for insider trading (e.g., the Venezuelan President prediction), and the significant risk of compulsive gambling due to easy digital access.

Paul Solman introduced prediction markets at [37:34]. Yesha Yadav and Justin Wolfers discussed their history and the 'wisdom of crowds' at [39:19]. Trading volume was cited at [39:29]. Rajiv Sethi explained how they work at [39:40] and the use of VPNs at [41:37]. Insider trading concerns were raised by Justin Wolfers at [42:21] and Rajiv Sethi at [43:13]. Gambling addiction was discussed by Justin Wolfers at [43:42].

Despite suffering a stroke five years prior that affected her ability to walk and play guitar, singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams released a new album, 'World's Gone Wrong.' She views her role as an artist to comment on current events and expresses a desire for more public engagement, like marching and demonstrations, reminiscent of 1960s protest music. Her perseverance highlights a deep-seated stubbornness and commitment to her craft.

Jeffrey Brown introduced Williams' stroke and continued work at [45:33]. Williams discussed her new album's theme at [46:06] and her view on an artist's role at [46:33]. Her inspiration from 1960s protest songs is at [47:17] and her call for more action at [50:08].