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National news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
NationalTexas Attorney General Sues Discord for Allegedly Misleading Parents on Child Safety
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Discord, Inc. for allegedly misleading parents about the safety of its platform while allowing child predators to exploit minors. The lawsuit follows an investigation that began in October 2025 after reports of serious incidents involving minors, including a 13-year-old girl who was sexually assaulted and a 15-year-old boy who died by suicide after being coerced into producing explicit content. Paxton is demanding that Discord enhance safety measures, including defaulting all settings to maximum protection and implementing age verification, along with civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.
National"It moved away at high speed": encounter with a UFO left intelligence officer "speechless"
WASHINGTON — Late last year, a senior U.S. intelligence officer, who was on a helicopter mission investigating 'dry hits' near a mountain range, encountered a mysterious orange sphere: an object that split in two and changed direction. 'The ground team suddenly radioed that the object had ascended from the ground, approached within ten feet of the helicopter, descended below us, and moved away at high speed,' the officer detailed in a memorandum from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence following the strange encounter. The document was included in a second batch of declassified files — released this Friday — regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena (previously and more notoriously known as unidentified flying objects or UFOs); documents that have been disclosed this year by the Trump administration. The U.S. government had kept these files under wraps for decades. Questions about whether humans are alone in the universe and whether extraterrestrial life has ever visited Earth have captivated Americans since at least the late 19th century, fueled by science fiction and urban myths about strange sightings and even alleged abductions by aliens.
NationalSpaceX Reschedules Starship Launch After Cancelling Previous Day
SpaceX announced that the twelfth test flight of Starship could take place this Friday, May 22, from Starbase in South Texas. The launch window will open at 5:30 PM Central Time. Elon Musk explained that the suspension of Thursday's scheduled flight was due to a failure in a hydraulic component responsible for securing the launch tower arm. Now, with this setback resolved, SpaceX will attempt to debut the new generation of Starship and Super Heavy vehicles, along with a new version of the Raptor engine and a redesigned launch platform. The main objective of the flight will be to test several modifications and redesigns aimed at achieving rapid and complete reusability of the system under real conditions. During the mission, the Super Heavy booster will attempt to successfully complete the stages of launch, ascent, separation, return ignition, and landing at a maritime point in the Gulf of Mexico. Since this is the first flight of this redesigned version, the booster will not attempt to return to the platform for capture. This twelfth Starship launch is considered one of the most important as it involves the new Starship V3 version, described as the largest and most powerful spacecraft built to date. Among its objectives are the deployment of 20 Starlink simulators and two modified satellites that will test technologies planned for the next generation of Starlink V3. The company will also evaluate the performance of Starship's thermal shield using sensors and images transmitted from space. The live broadcast can be followed on Telemundo 40's digital platforms.
NationalKevin Warsh Takes Office as New Federal Reserve Chairman
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump led the swearing-in ceremony for the new Federal Reserve Chairman, Kevin Warsh, at the White House on Friday, expressing his desire for Warsh's assistance in stimulating the economy while emphasizing that the nation's central bank would maintain its independence. Trump spent months criticizing Warsh's predecessor, Jerome Powell, for being reluctant to cut interest rates; the Republican president argued that lower borrowing costs would provide an economic boost. By holding the unusual ceremony in the White House's East Room instead of at the Federal Reserve's headquarters, Trump made it clear he was pleased that Warsh is now in charge. The conflict with Iran has caused a spike in gas prices, destabilized financial markets, and raised inflation concerns across the economy. These developments have led to recent doubts about whether Warsh would heed Trump's calls and pressure the Federal Reserve to lower rates.
NationalTulsi Gabbard to Resign as Director of National Intelligence
Tulsi Gabbard, the top intelligence official in the United States, informed President Donald Trump on Friday that she is resigning from her position following her husband’s cancer diagnosis, according to two senior administration officials. A third source familiar with Gabbard's plans told NBC News that her husband, Abraham Williams, has been diagnosed with a rare and serious type of cancer. Fox News was the first to report her resignation, with her last day set for June 30. Gabbard never secured a place in the president's inner circle. The former Democratic congresswoman broke with her party to endorse Trump for the 2024 presidency and had clashed with her counterpart at the CIA, John Ratcliffe, and other administration officials. During critical moments, as Trump deliberated over potential military action or watched live video feeds of operations in Iran or Venezuela, Gabbard was often not in the room, highlighting her outsider status. However, she was not sidelined like former Attorney General Pam Bondi or former Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. This story was translated from English with the help of a generative artificial intelligence tool. An editor from Telemundo Los Angeles reviewed the translation.
NationalTulsi Gabbard to Resign as Director of National Intelligence
Tulsi Gabbard, the top intelligence official in the United States, informed President Donald Trump in a letter on Friday that she is resigning from her position following her husband's cancer diagnosis. In her letter, which she posted on X, Gabbard stated that her husband, Abraham Williams, has been diagnosed with a severe and rare form of bone cancer. 'At this moment, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him in this fight,' she wrote. She noted that her last day will be June 30.
NationalThe Classic Flavor of New York Pizza Could Change Forever
NEW YORK – The famous pizza and bagels of New York may be on the brink of one of the biggest changes in decades. A proposal approved by state lawmakers and awaiting the signature of Governor Kathy Hochul seeks to ban the use of potassium bromate, a chemical additive found in the flour used by thousands of pizzerias and bagel shops across the state. This ingredient, used to enhance the texture and elasticity of dough, has been identified as a potential carcinogen and is already banned in much of the world, including the European Union, Canada, China, and India. Local Impact According to experts and business owners, about 80% of New York's pizzerias and bagel shops use bromated flour. "This is an earthquake for New York pizza," said Scott Wiener, a pizza historian known for his pizza tours in the city. "That ingredient is part of the identity of the New York slice." The potential ban has divided bakers and pizza makers. Some fear that changing traditional recipes will alter the flavor, texture, and even the famous 'bite' of the New York bagel. "You can achieve that same texture... but it will be much more work and more expensive," explained Jesse Spellman, a second-generation owner of Utopia Bagels, who is already experimenting with new recipes and fermentation times. Others believe the change could ultimately improve the quality of pizza and bagels. Salvatore Lo Duca, owner of a family pizzeria in Brooklyn, stated that after trying non-bromated flours, he ended up preferring the results. "It's a bit more expensive, but the quality is there," he said. Health experts assert that there is no benefit to consumers from using potassium bromate and cite studies from the 1980s linking the chemical to cancer in laboratory animals. If the measure goes into effect, businesses will have one year to stop using the additive and additional time to deplete existing inventory. Meanwhile, the debate is already generating reactions even outside of New York. A pizzeria owner in Florida jokingly remarked on social media that "Florida pizza is now officially better than New York pizza." But after criticism about the risks of the additive, he admitted he would try new flours. Because yes... in New York, touching pizza and bagels can feel almost like touching the identity of the city.
NationalTrump Administration Tightens Rules for Applying for a Green Card in the U.S.: Here's What You Need to Know
The Trump administration has announced a new immigration policy requiring many temporary visa holders to leave the U.S. to apply for permanent residency, or Green Card, from their home countries. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stated that this measure aims to close legal loopholes in the immigration system. Under the new rules, individuals on non-immigrant visas, such as students, temporary workers, and tourists, must return home to apply for a Green Card, except in extraordinary circumstances. The Department of Homeland Security emphasized that this policy is intended to ensure the immigration system operates as intended by law.
Backlash to Trump $1. 8B settlement fund delays GOP immigration bill
Senate Republicans left Washington without voting on a $70 billion immigration enforcement bill, frustrated by a new $1.776 billion settlement fund for Trump allies claiming political prosecution. The GOP had already dropped a $1 billion security provision for the White House ballroom due to backlash. Tensions escalated after a meeting with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, leading to a decision to postpone the vote until after Memorial Day. Democrats criticized the GOP for prioritizing Trump's ballroom amid affordability concerns. Trump's endorsement of Texas AG Ken Paxton further complicated the situation, as some senators expressed frustration over potential electoral consequences.
Trump eases refrigerant rule in a bid to address surging grocery costs
The Trump administration has relaxed federal regulations on refrigerants used in grocery stores and air-conditioning systems, aiming to reduce grocery costs. President Trump announced that the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) decision to delay restrictions on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) will save consumers over $2 billion annually. Critics, including environmentalists and some industry groups, argue that this move could lead to higher prices and increased climate pollution, undermining previous bipartisan efforts to phase out HFCs. The new rule is seen as a way to support jobs in the industry while addressing rising voter concerns about living costs ahead of the upcoming elections.
SpaceX tries to launch a bigger version of Starship but hits a series of last-minute problems
SpaceX's latest attempt to launch its largest Starship rocket was halted just 30 seconds before liftoff due to technical issues at the Starbase launch pad near the Texas-Mexico border. The 407-foot rocket was set to embark on a test flight that would take it halfway around the globe. CEO Elon Musk identified a hydraulic pin issue with the launch tower's arm as the cause of the delay. If resolved quickly, SpaceX plans to try again on Friday. This mission is crucial for future NASA moon landings, as the Starship will carry 20 mock Starlink satellites before re-entering the Indian Ocean.
NationalDHS Head Confirms ICE Deployment at World Cup
Markwayne Mullin, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), confirmed that ICE agents will be present every day during the FIFA World Cup 2026. In a recent video, he stated that ICE and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) will work together to combat ticket fraud, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and counterfeit products. They will coordinate with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) throughout the tournament, which will take place in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. While their presence has raised concerns, DHS emphasizes that it is necessary for the safety of fans attending the event.
Woman at center of sprawling Minnesota fraud case gets nearly 42-year prison sentence
Aimee Bock, the former leader of the Minnesota nonprofit Feeding Our Future, was sentenced to nearly 42 years in prison for her role in a $250 million fraud scheme that contributed to an immigration crackdown during the Trump administration. Bock was convicted of conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery, claiming she was innocent despite the evidence against her. Prosecutors described her organization as a 'cash pipeline' for fraudulent claims. The case has led to multiple convictions within Minnesota's Somali community and ongoing investigations into federal social service spending, including new charges against Fahima Mahamud, CEO of a child care center accused of fraud.
Trump will ease refrigerant rule in a bid to address surging grocery costs
The Trump administration plans to relax a federal rule on refrigerants used in grocery stores and air conditioning systems, aiming to reduce grocery prices amid rising living costs. EPA head Lee Zeldin criticized the previous Biden-era regulations as overly restrictive and costly for businesses. The new rule will allow companies to select refrigeration systems that suit them best, potentially saving billions. This move comes as inflation in the U.S. reached 3.8% in April, driven by various factors including the Iran war. Critics argue that this rollback could worsen climate pollution and disrupt industry transitions to safer refrigerants.
Inside the legal battle over undocumented immigrant right to challenge their detention.
A legal battle is unfolding regarding the rights of undocumented immigrants to contest their detention. Three Latino men, who had lived in the U.S. for 14 to 22 years without criminal records, were detained in Taylor, Texas, without bond hearings. Federal judges ruled this violated their due process rights, but the Trump administration is appealing, asserting that undocumented immigrants should be held until deportation. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals is now considering whether these immigrants have the same rights as citizens to challenge their detention. This case reflects broader issues of immigration policy and due process rights in the U.S.
NationalShooting Attacks Leave at Least 16 Dead in Honduras; Six Were Police Officers
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras – The Honduran police reported on Thursday that at least 16 people, including six police officers, were killed in two massacres carried out in different locations in Honduras. The first attack occurred in the municipality of Trujillo, in the northern department of Colón, where preliminary information indicates that about 10 people were shot dead. 'The incident took place at the Panamá estate in the Rigores sector,' said Deputy Commissioner Edgardo Barahona, spokesperson for the National Police, to The Associated Press. He added that a team was sent to the site to collect evidence and confirm the number of deceased, as 'there are no bodies at the estate; apparently, the relatives took them home, and we need to establish where they are.'
NationalJD Vance Says He Is Not Running for President
Vice President JD Vance confirmed on May 19, 2026, that he is not running for president and dismissed speculation about a potential 2028 campaign. Speaking during a White House press event, Vance emphasized his commitment to his current role, stating, "I’m not a potential future candidate. I’m a vice president, and I really like my job." Despite being mentioned as a possible contender for the Republican nomination due to his profile, there has been no formal announcement or campaign filings indicating his intention to run for the presidency as of May 20, 2026.
NationalSpaceX Prepares for New Starship Test Flight
SpaceX is gearing up for the twelfth test flight of Starship this Thursday, May 21, from Starbase. The launch window will open at 5:30 PM Central Time. The company announced that this mission will mark the debut of the new generation of Starship and Super Heavy vehicles, along with a new version of the Raptor engine and a redesigned launch platform. According to SpaceX, the main objective of the flight is to test several modifications and redesigns aimed at achieving rapid and complete reusability of the system under real conditions for the first time. During the mission, the Super Heavy booster will attempt to successfully complete the stages of launch, ascent, separation, return ignition, and landing at a maritime point in the Gulf of America. Since this is the first flight of this redesigned version, the booster will not attempt to return to the platform for capture. Meanwhile, the upper stage of Starship will aim to accomplish several objectives in space and during atmospheric reentry, including the deployment of 20 Starlink simulators and two modified satellites that will test technologies planned for the next generation of Starlink V3. The live broadcast will begin approximately 45 minutes before liftoff on Telemundo 4's digital platforms.
NationalTrump Signs Law Including Funds to Reimburse State Border Costs
On July 4, 2025, President Donald Trump enacted the 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' which allocates approximately $13.5 billion to reimburse states and local governments for immigration and border-related expenses incurred since January 21, 2021. Texas is expected to receive a substantial portion of these funds due to its significant spending on border security through Operation Lone Star, which has cost the state over $11.1 billion. Governor Greg Abbott has urged Congress for full reimbursement, emphasizing the state's extensive efforts to address illegal crossings and border crime. While the law does not specify an amount for Texas, officials aim to recover the full cost of their operations.
