National
National news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
NationalLeavitt to leave White House press secretary role, Trump says
President Trump announced via TruthSocial that White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will step down from her role at the end of the month to focus on her family.
NationalGoing to trial: Judge orders prosecution of former governor for the disappearance of 43 students
MEXICO CITY — A Mexican judge ordered on Wednesday the prosecution of former Guerrero state governor Ángel Aguirre, who is detained, for his alleged involvement in the forced disappearance of individuals related to the case of the 43 students from the Ayotzinapa rural teachers' college, who went missing in September 2014. This decision comes six days after Aguirre's arrest, which shook the Mexican political landscape and refocused attention on the case, the most emblematic of the disappearance crisis that has plagued Mexico for decades. To date, more than 134,000 people are missing. The former governor, one of the highest-ranking officials arrested in connection with the case, was linked to the prosecution early Wednesday under the hypothesis that he concealed information of 'high relevance' to the investigations, according to a statement from the Mexican Attorney General's Office, led by Ernestina Godoy. The judge confirmed the preventive detention of the 70-year-old former governor, who will remain incarcerated in the maximum-security federal prison of Altiplano, in the State of Mexico. Aguirre governed Guerrero from 2011 until October 2014, one month after the crime occurred in the city of Iguala between September 26 and 27. Nearly twelve years after the incident, neither the motive for the crime nor the fate of the students is clear, although charred remains of three of the young men were found, and it is presumed that all were murdered by members of a local cartel trafficking heroin, who acted in collusion with security forces and local, state, and federal authorities, including the military. According to the Mexican attorney general's office, the former governor allegedly participated in concealing videos that may have recorded the events.
NationalTurbulence Ahead? US Evaluates Mexico's Air Safety
Mexico's aviation authority is undergoing an evaluation this week by the United States regarding compliance with international air safety standards, a crucial assessment to maintain the Category 1 status that the country regained in 2023 after being downgraded for over two years. The Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) reported that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is conducting the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) from August 10 to 14. This review is part of the follow-up activities outlined in the bilateral air transport treaty between Mexico and the United States and assesses compliance with operational safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The IASA program does not directly evaluate the safety of a specific airline but rather the ability of a country's civil aviation authorities to oversee their airlines in accordance with international standards. The review is particularly significant given the May 2021 downgrade when the FAA reduced Mexico from Category 1 to Category 2 after determining that its air safety oversight system did not meet ICAO's minimum standards. Mexico remained in that category for over two years until it regained Category 1 status in September 2023 following a technical cooperation process between both authorities to address identified deficiencies.
NationalUS Creates Task Force Against 'Birth Tourism'; Here's What It Will Do
The U.S. Department of State announced the creation of a Task Force for the Prevention of Birth Tourism, an initiative aimed at detecting and penalizing individuals who use tourist visas to travel to the country primarily to give birth and obtain U.S. citizenship for their children. According to the agency, the special group will work in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to investigate cases of alleged birth tourism, revoke visas, and dismantle networks that promote such services. Authorities reported that as part of these efforts, over 600 visas have already been revoked for foreign nationals in various countries. The U.S. government claims that some businesses and facilitators have turned birth tourism into a lucrative industry, offering advice on visa processing, coordinating medical services, and organizing travel with the goal of having children born on U.S. soil. According to the Department of State, some of these operators present themselves as doulas, midwives, or wellness consultants while promoting packages focused on giving birth in the United States.
NationalKaroline Leavitt to Leave Her Position as White House Press Secretary at the End of the Month
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the youngest person to hold the position, will step down at the end of the month, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday. Leavitt, 28, recently returned to the White House after taking a brief maternity leave following the birth of her second child in May. Having worked with Trump as a press advisor during his first term, she has been one of the most visible advocates of Trump's 'Make America Great Again' movement. The Republican president described her as one of his 'most trusted advisors' in a social media post announcing her departure. He stated that Leavitt 'will leave her position at the end of the month to spend more time with her beautiful young children and her family, a decision I fully understand and respect. Karoline will now become one of my top outside advisors and an influential voice within the Republican Party as we work to challenge history and win decisively in the midterm elections.'
NationalTrump on third term: 'The law is very strong'
Trump has repeatedly teased the idea of running for the presidency again, despite the 22nd Amendment blocking a president from serving more than two terms.
NationalLos Angeles Lakers Sold to Bob Iger and Josh Kushner for $12 Billion
The Los Angeles Lakers have been sold to a group led by Bob Iger and Josh Kushner for $12 billion, as confirmed by the entrepreneurs to NBC News. They expressed their honor in becoming custodians of one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world. Iger and Kushner emphasized their commitment to building on the legacy of previous owners Jerry and Jeanie Buss, aiming to compete at the highest level and serve the team, its fans, and the city of Los Angeles. The Lakers were previously sold to Mark Walter in October 2025 for approximately $10 billion.
NationalInflation Report: Prices Continue to Rise Faster than Wages in the U.S.
Inflation in the U.S. rose by 0.1% from June to July, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Year-over-year inflation slightly decreased from 3.5% to 3.4%, but remains above wage growth, which is at 3.2%. Energy prices continue to drive inflation, with Brent crude reaching $90 per barrel and U.S. crude nearing $84. The national average for regular gasoline is now $4.03 per gallon. Other costs, including healthcare, airfares, and education, have also increased. The Federal Reserve is considering raising interest rates, with a decision expected in mid-September.
NationalMinute by Minute: Over 200 Dead After Earthquake in Colombia; Search for Survivors Among the Rubble
A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on Monday, resulting in over 200 fatalities. Emergency teams are actively searching for survivors among the rubble three days after the disaster. The cities of Cali and Pereira have reported the highest number of casualties, while other areas such as Quibdó, Manizales, and Armenia also experienced significant impacts. Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing aid for those affected by the earthquake. The latest reports from regional authorities, including the Association of Capital Cities, indicate at least 211 confirmed deaths as the situation continues to develop.
NationalFeds plan to sell three warehouses near El Paso it bought for migrant detention centers, Congress member says
(THE TEXAS TRIBUNE) -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is planning to sell three warehouses in El Paso County it purchased last year for $123 million to convert into detention centers that could hold more than 8,000 immigrants awaiting deportation, U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, said on Tuesday. The announcement marks the latest shift
NationalRussia Releases Former Marine Robert Gilman After Four Years in Detention; His Health is Affected
Robert Gilman, a 32-year-old former Marine, has been released by Russia after four years in detention, with his health reportedly deteriorated. The announcement was made by former President Donald Trump, who stated that he negotiated with Russian President Vladimir Putin for Gilman's release on humanitarian grounds. Gilman was arrested in January 2022 in Voronezh, Russia, accused of assaulting a police officer, with additional charges leading to a total sentence of ten years. He is expected to arrive in Washington soon and will be taken to a military hospital in Texas for evaluation. Gilman's case highlights ongoing efforts to secure the release of Americans detained abroad.
NationalUSDA and DHS Sign Agreement to Strengthen U.S. Response to New World Screwworm
On August 10, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the USDA and DHS at Moore Air Base in Texas. This agreement aims to enhance federal coordination in protecting the nation’s food and agriculture systems from threats like the New World screwworm. The MOU will facilitate improved threat detection, information sharing, and operational readiness. It also includes real-time biosurveillance and joint training efforts. The USDA noted that this collaboration is crucial in combating illegal cattle smuggling from Central America, which poses biosecurity risks. Sterile fly production at Moore Air Base is progressing ahead of schedule to prevent the screwworm's spread.
NationalZuckerberg Outlines Meta Vision for a Future Built Around Personal Superintelligence
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has shared his vision for a future centered on personal superintelligence in an essay titled "The Path to a Positive AI Future." He argues for the democratization of AI, making it accessible to all rather than a select few. Zuckerberg envisions AI tools that empower individuals in areas like learning, health, and career development. Meta plans to create personal AI agents that assist users while ensuring privacy and security. The company aims to support communities with job creation and educational investments, while also addressing potential risks associated with AI technology.
NationalAbbott Proposes Opening Austin and San Antonio Electricity Markets to Competition
Governor Greg Abbott has introduced legislation aimed at transforming electricity sales in Austin and San Antonio by allowing competition among providers. This proposal seeks to end the monopoly held by municipal utilities, enabling customers to choose their electricity supplier. Abbott's office estimates that this change could lower electricity costs by approximately 10% for Austin residents and 13% for those in San Antonio. Additionally, the proposal would restrict the use of utility revenues for city budgets, addressing concerns about taxation without representation. The initiative is part of Abbott's broader agenda to keep Texas affordable.
NationalWe're ready for the moment they tell us to go: Sheinbaum awaits call from Colombia
Mexico has prepared a contingent of 255 military personnel specialized in search and rescue, along with tons of medications, food, and equipment to deploy to Colombia as soon as it receives a formal request for assistance from the Colombian government following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that occurred on Monday, leaving hundreds dead and injured. Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Secretary of Defense, explained during a presidential press conference that the Army activated the so-called 'Agrupamiento Cali,' which 'would be a grouping very similar to the one that supported Venezuela.' The contingent will be led by a general and will include specialists in search and rescue, canine teams, and medical personnel. The operation also includes the shipment of four tons of medications and 8.4 tons of rescue tools and equipment, as well as satellite phones, radios, generators, and tents. The Defense Secretary specified that Mexico is ready to ship 8,798 food packages and 13,890 food baskets, in addition to medical aid. The plan from the Secretariat of National Defense (Defensa) is to transport personnel and some materials on two Boeing aircraft, while the rest of the humanitarian aid would travel on a Hercules C-130 and a Spartan from the Mexican Air Force. The planned destination is Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, which serves the Colombian city of Cali. However, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified that the deployment still depends on an official request from Colombian authorities. 'We are waiting for the formal request from the government of Colombia; we are ready for the moment they tell us to go help,' the president stated. The preparation of the contingent comes after Sheinbaum instructed the Mexican Armed Forces to prepare personnel and resources to support Colombia, as part of Mexico's humanitarian assistance policy in response to emergencies in other Latin American countries. The Mexican government has previously relied on specialized military teams to provide international aid in disasters and emergencies through search, rescue, medical care, and supply distribution contingents. Trevilla indicated that the 'Agrupamiento Cali' would have similar characteristics to the contingent previously deployed to provide humanitarian assistance in Venezuela and affirmed that all personnel and supplies are ready to leave once Colombia formalizes the request for support. The earthquake in Colombia, which has claimed at least 240 lives so far, struck at 07:34 local time (12:34 GMT), had its epicenter in the municipality of San José del Palmar in the Chocó department, at a depth of 103 kilometers, and caused damage across much of the central and western parts of the country. Pereira, Cali, Quibdó, Manizales, and Armenia are the main cities that remain on red alert due to the extent of the damage, with at least 165 buildings reported collapsed.
NationalProtecting the 'green gold': hundreds of soldiers guard avocado crops
Mexico has deployed at least 46 operational bases to safeguard the inspection, production, and export of avocados in Michoacán following a security alert last week. On Wednesday, August 5, the United States temporarily suspended agricultural personnel activities to certify phytosanitary requirements for avocados exported from Michoacán after the U.S. Embassy issued a warning about a threat to its interests. However, two days later, inspections were announced to resume. Mexico's Secretary of National Defense, Ricardo Trevilla, explained in a press conference on Tuesday that the avocado protection operation includes a regional intelligence fusion center in Uruapan, the most important avocado-producing area, where information will be centralized and actions coordinated under the command of the 21st Military Zone. Of the 46 bases, 17 will be located at packing facilities in Tingüindín, Tocumbo, and Peribán, while the other 29 will operate in Cotija, Tocumbo, Tingüindín, Los Reyes, and Peribán, with around 870 agents, Trevilla detailed. The National Guard will also deploy 228 agents and 48 vehicles to monitor routes between Jiquilpan, Tocumbo, Tingüindín, Jacona, Peribán, Tancítaro, and Uruapan, while federal forces will accompany health personnel at five inspection points located in Zamora, Cotija, Apatzingán, Buenavista, and Aguililla. The Mexican Army stated that surveillance will be permanent and estimated that about 9,500 Defense and National Guard personnel are deployed in Michoacán, of which nearly 1,500 are specifically assigned to the avocado sector.
NationalIVP: Energy Secretary visits Valley, changes made to asylum process, Eric Flores interview
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Another cabinet Secretary visited the Rio Grande Valley as Energy Secretary Chris Wright held a roundtable discussion at the Port of Brownsville. Wright was in town to promote the Trump administration's domestic energy agenda. Inside Valley Politics spoke exclusively to Secretary Wright about his visit, asking about shortages in the liquified
NationalCensus Data Shows Rising Uninsured Rates Across Hundreds of U.S. Counties
Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau's Small Area Health Insurance Estimates (SAHIE) reveals a troubling trend in health insurance coverage. Between 2023 and 2024, the number of counties with uninsured individuals under 65 increased by 427, while only 65 counties saw a decrease. In 2024, 41.4% of U.S. counties reported uninsured rates below 10%, a drop from 46.3% in 2023. The median uninsured rate across counties rose to 9.8%. Notably, uninsured rates among working-age adults and children varied significantly, with working-age women generally having lower rates than men. For detailed statistics, visit the U.S. Census Bureau's resources.
NationalHegseth Speaks to Airmen at Newly Named Joint Base Lindsey Graham
Joint Base Charleston in South Carolina has been renamed Joint Base Lindsey Graham in honor of the late senator and Air Force veteran. The renaming ceremony took place on August 10, 2026, with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, and Senator Darline Graham in attendance. Hegseth praised Graham's dedication to military service and his commitment to national security. Following the ceremony, Hegseth met with airmen from the 437th Airlift Wing, highlighting their contributions to logistics and modernization efforts in the U.S. military, emphasizing the importance of logistics in successful military operations.