Daily News Article - February 2, 2026
NOTE TO STUDENTS: Before answering the questions, read the “Background” and watch the videos under “Resources.”
1. The first paragraph of a news article should answer the questions who, what, where and when. List the who, what, where and when of this news item. (NOTE: The remainder of a news article provides details on the why and/or how.)
2. a) How did the president describe INDYCAR racing in his executive order?
b) What benefit will holding a Grand Prix in Washington DC have, according to the president's executive order?
3. List the private and government agencies that are working together to organize the DC Grand Prix race.
4. The organizers (including IndyCar/Penske and Fox Sports, which airs the races) had been advocating for congressional authorization "for a long time."
The president's executive order ended the need for congressional authorization, allowing the race to proceed for August 2026.
What did the president ask the federal departments involved in the planning to do regarding permits and approvals?
5. Democrats generally have not been enthusiastic about anything President Trump does.
a) Why is Democratic DC Mayor Muriel Bowser enthused about the Freedom 250 Grand Prix?
b) Why will DC's Democratic Delegate to Congress Eleanor Holmes Norton "work to make [the race] happen"?
6. IndyCar has been advocating for congressional authorization "for a long time." How many times did IndyCar CEO Bud Denker go to Congress to ask for approval for an INDYCAR race through the streets of DC?
See "Resources" - 4th video "Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks"
7. Re-read Section 3 of President Trump's Executive Order.
a) The president's order is expected to circumvent Congressional approval. Why is Congressional approval for the race needed?
b) In your opinion, should Congress fast-track congressional approval to show their support for this event that is expected to be very popular with Americans - and will be economically beneficial to the city of DC? Explain your answer.
8. A Grand Prix in Washington DC would not be the first Indycar race on city streets. List other U.S. cities holding Grand Prix races on their streets in 2026.