Your day’s briefing: Monday, Feb. 15

Antonin Scalia, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, in 2005.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, the leading conservative voice on the nation’s highest court, was found dead Saturday while attending a private gathering in Texas. Scalia was 79. With a spot to be filled, a debate has now started on how the replacement Supreme Court justice will be picked. “I plan to fulfill my constitutional responsibility to nominate a successor in due time,” Obama said on Friday. Others legislators feel that it is the next president’s responsibility to fulfill the position. To see what the opposing sides have to say view the full story here.

Zika vaccine

NewLink Genetics, an Ames-based pharmaceutical company, recently began working on creating a vaccine for the deadly Zika virus, which has affected South and Central America, as well as European countries. View the full story to see the challenges facing the ones who want to help.

Black History month

Black History Month is dedicated to recognizing achievements by African Americans and the importance of their role in shaping the United States. Iowa State celebrates this important historical month by engaging students in activities on campus. To see how to get involved with activities on campus view the full story here.

Student Government

The election process for next year’s Student Government members is underway. See who is running for president and what they’re hoping to accomplish with your student fees. View the full story here.

Mental health

The debate over maternity leave for men and women in the armed forces continues on. Columnist Haley Brase argues that although the Department of Defense has increased leave for women from 12 weeks to 14, that the short 10 days of leave for men needs to be increased as well. View the full story here.

Galleries

Photo Galleries from this weekends events on campus.