In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here.

The 2026 World Cup is now over, leaving the nation, and the world, with countless wonderful feel-good stories that helped many Americans fall back in love with their country. It was a 250th birthday summer to remember, even if the U.S. men’s national soccer team ended its once-promising World Cup campaign with a 4-1 shellacking by Belgium in the Round of 16.