National
National news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
NationalBad Bunny and Pope Leo XIV Hold Private Meeting in Madrid
Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny met with Pope Leo XIV at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain, as confirmed by several Spanish media outlets. Although images of the meeting have not yet been released, the newspaper El País cited a Vatican source confirming that the meeting was private. According to reports, the singer was accompanied by family members and greeted the pontiff before he left the stadium for the city of Barcelona, where he continues his visit to the country. Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, the real name of the urban music artist, is currently on a series of concerts in Spain as part of his world tour 'Debí TiRar MáS Fotos WoRLd Tour.' The artist kicked off the tour in Barcelona and is currently performing in Madrid, where he has sold out approximately 10 shows at the Riyad Air Metropolitano Stadium.
NationalMiami Airport Denies Entry to World Cup Referee; He Will Miss the Tournament
Somali referee Omar Artan will not officiate at the 2026 World Cup after being denied entry to the United States. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) office stated on Monday that a Somali citizen planning to referee at the World Cup was denied entry upon arriving at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday. Although the CBP statement did not name the individual, Artan is the only World Cup referee from Somalia. FIFA later confirmed on Monday that Artan would not be able to train and officiate at the World Cup and issued a statement on behalf of the referee. 'Despite the circumstances, I am in good spirits and focused on the upcoming challenges in my career as a referee,' Artan said in the statement. 'I would like to thank FIFA and the African federation for all their support and I promise to maintain my level of officiating while I concentrate on the future. I want to thank the football family for their messages and wish my colleagues the best of luck during the World Cup, and I hope to join them again in future competitions.'
NationalFor $750, you could have expedited visa interviews at certain embassies, according to AP
The U.S. State Department is launching a pilot program from July 1 to December 31 that offers expedited visa interviews for business and tourist applicants. For a fee of $750, in addition to the standard $185 application fee, applicants can schedule an interview within 10 days at select U.S. embassies and consulates. The specific locations for this service will be announced before the program starts. This initiative may address delays caused by previous immigration policies, which have led to long wait times for visa interviews. However, paying the premium fee does not guarantee visa approval.
NationalUS Helicopter Crashes Near Strait of Hormuz; Trump Says Pilots Are Fine
A U.S. Army Apache helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz, with President Donald Trump confirming that both pilots are safe. The incident occurred while the helicopter was patrolling regional waters, and the cause is currently under investigation. U.S. Central Command reported that the pilots were rescued within two hours and are in stable condition. The crash comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent conflicts between Iran and Israel. Trump expressed optimism about potential negotiations with Iran, suggesting a deal could be reached soon, despite ongoing challenges in achieving a lasting ceasefire.
NationalTeachers Plan to Protest Around Azteca Stadium During World Cup Opening Match
The National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) plans to protest outside the Estadio Azteca during the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Pedro Hernández, leader of CNTE's Section 9, stated that hundreds of teachers will gather with banners and slogans as Mexico faces South Africa on June 11. The protest aims to demand changes to the 2007 ISSSTE Law and educational reforms, while ensuring no confrontation with fans or security. The federal government has expressed willingness to dialogue with CNTE, urging peaceful demonstrations that do not disrupt students or the public, as the city prepares for over 5 million tourists.
NationalDonald Trump Booed at Madison Square Garden During National Anthem
Donald Trump faced loud boos at Madison Square Garden on Monday when his presence was announced during the national anthem at the NBA Finals game between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs. Invited by Knicks owner James Dolan, Trump became the first sitting U.S. president to attend an NBA Finals. Despite some applause, the boos from the crowd were significantly louder. New York authorities implemented strict security measures, including early arrival requirements and no backpacks. Since returning to power in 2025, Trump has frequently attended major sporting events, including the U.S. Open and the Super Bowl.
NationalJudge Strikes Down $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visas Imposed by Trump
A federal judge has overturned the $100,000 fee imposed on new H-1B visas by the Trump administration. Judge Leo Sorokin in Boston ruled in favor of 20 states that challenged the policy, stating that the executive branch exceeded its authority and violated the Administrative Procedure Act. The fee aimed to deter foreign workers from taking jobs from Americans, but it raised concerns among employers and workers. The H-1B visas are typically issued for high-skilled jobs, with a significant number going to Indian workers. The ruling may lead to further legal challenges across different circuit courts.
National"We will not fall for provocations": Sheinbaum assures that the World Cup opening will be peaceful
Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum assured that the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place peacefully, emphasizing that her administration will not resort to repression in response to potential provocations during planned protests. During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum stated that federal authorities are working to ensure the normal development of World Cup-related events. She highlighted ongoing mobilizations by the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) and other groups demanding better wages and working conditions. Sheinbaum reiterated her commitment to dialogue and maintaining tranquility, especially in light of the upcoming mega-demonstration on June 11 near the Estadio Ciudad de México.
NationalU.S. Citizenship to Be Revoked for 17 Individuals; Cases Include Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico
The Department of Justice has announced plans to revoke U.S. citizenship for 17 individuals, including naturalized citizens from Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. The announcement, made on Monday, states that these individuals face serious criminal charges such as sexual abuse, drug distribution, and electronic fraud. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that citizenship can be revoked if it was obtained illegally or by concealing significant facts. The Department of Homeland Security also reiterated its commitment to enforcing laws against foreign criminals. The affected individuals include Leidys Delmas Garcia from Cuba and Armando Mendoza from Mexico, among others.
NationalNASA Reveals Names of Astronauts for Artemis III Mission This Tuesday
NASA will unveil the astronauts who will be aboard Artemis III, a crewed mission scheduled for 2027 in which four astronauts will launch aboard the Orion spacecraft, propelled by the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The announcement will take place on June 9 at 11 a.m. ET. NASA will provide details about the design and crew of the Artemis III mission closer to the planned launch next year. On April 1, 2026, the launch of Artemis II took place, marking the first crewed flight of the Artemis program, which is a key step toward a long-term return to the Moon and future missions to Mars.
National7.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes the Philippines, Leaving at Least 32 Dead
A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Monday, resulting in at least 32 fatalities and over 200 injuries. The quake, centered offshore near Mindanao, caused significant damage in General Santos, including collapsed buildings and a major bridge. A tsunami of 1 meter was recorded, prompting temporary evacuations. Search and rescue teams are working to locate at least 12 missing individuals. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the cancellation of classes and immediate disaster response efforts. The earthquake, the strongest in the region this year, also affected infrastructure and led to flight cancellations at General Santos International Airport.
NationalLawsuit seeks to stop the UFC fight on the White House South Lawn for Trump birthday
A federal lawsuit has been filed to stop a UFC fight scheduled for June 14, 2026, on the South Lawn of the White House, coinciding with President Trump's 80th birthday and the nation's 250th anniversary. The Public Integrity Project, representing two Virginia residents, argues that the Trump administration's approval of the event violates National Park Service regulations against sporting events on federal lands. They claim no environmental review was conducted and that Congress did not consent to the construction. The White House dismissed the lawsuit as baseless, asserting the event is similar to other permitted White House activities.
NationalBritish deputy prime minister tells JD Vance he was wrong to blame immigration for teen murder
British Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy criticized U.S. Vice President JD Vance for blaming immigration for the murder of 18-year-old Henry Nowak, who was fatally stabbed in Southampton. In a recent phone call, Lammy emphasized that the assailant, Vickrum Digwa, is British and that the crime is unrelated to mass migration. Digwa, who was convicted of murder, falsely claimed Nowak had attacked him racially. Lammy urged Vance to refrain from inflammatory comments, highlighting the Nowak family's wish for unity rather than division. The incident has sparked protests and drawn attention from anti-immigration activists in the U.K.
NationalFive Injured in Stabbing at Penn Station in New York City
At least six people were injured in a stabbing incident at Penn Station in New York City. Amtrak police have taken one individual into custody, believed to be suffering from mental health issues. The New York City Fire Department received reports of the attack shortly after 7 p.m. One victim is in critical condition, while others have non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities do not consider the incident an act of terrorism. New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the violence, stating that New Yorkers deserve to feel safe wherever they go. The investigation is ongoing.
NationalHundreds Turn Out to See the Pope's Procession Decorated with Thousands of Flowers
Pope León XIV praised Spain's century-old religious devotion during a mass attended by one million people in Madrid. The event featured a procession on flower petal carpets, with 16 elaborate designs created by Galician florists using over 30,000 flowers. This visit marks the Pope's first trip to Spain in 15 years, coinciding with the Catholic feast of Corpus Domini. León emphasized the importance of these traditions in fostering faith among younger generations in a country where religious practice has declined. The mass concluded with the Pope walking on the floral carpets, as children scattered more petals in his path.
NationalFBI Warns Drone Operators to Stay Away from World Cup Matches
As the FIFA World Cup approaches, the FBI warns drone operators to stay away from match venues. Over 60 local, county, and state law enforcement agencies have completed a federal training program aimed at detecting unauthorized drones. The FBI plans to continue training even after the tournament ends. Drones pose unique challenges due to their evolving technology and potential to carry harmful payloads. The FAA has established flight restrictions around major events. While no credible threats have been identified, officials anticipate security incidents. The tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19, featuring 48 teams across 16 cities in North America.
NationalMountain Guide Dies After Falling into Crevasse on Mount McKinley in Alaska
A seasonal mountain guide with the National Park Service, Robin Pendery, tragically died after falling into a crevasse on Mount McKinley in Alaska. The incident occurred near a camp at 14,000 feet, where Pendery was part of the climbing patrol. Despite rescue efforts, she did not survive. Pendery, originally from Enumclaw, Washington, had been with Denali National Park since 2024, focusing on climber safety and emergency response. She previously worked with Alpine Ascents International, earning respect for her skills and compassion. The park superintendent expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a dedicated colleague and friend.
NationalShooting at a festival in Ohio leaves several injured
A shooting near the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio, on June 6, 2026, left at least 12 people injured, with two in critical condition. Toledo Police reported that the incident prompted a chaotic scene as festival-goers sought shelter. Authorities believe at least two individuals were exchanging gunfire. Videos shared on social media captured the panic as shots rang out. Witness Kevin Berry, present at the festival, recounted seeing people hit by bullets and immediately began assisting the injured. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed deep concern, emphasizing that summer festivals should be safe spaces for families.
NationalJudge halts Trump administration efforts to impose conditions on SNAP
A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration's attempt to impose new conditions on states seeking funding from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This decision comes after 20 Democratic states filed a lawsuit against the Agriculture Department, arguing that the proposed conditions, which include restrictions on 'gender ideology' and 'immigration,' are unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Myong Joun issued a preliminary injunction and plans to provide further explanation later. SNAP supports around 39 million Americans, but recent data shows a decline in beneficiaries, attributed to new requirements from a tax and spending cut bill passed last summer.