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National news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
NationalCountdown: Trump Has Until Today to Veto Housing Price Reduction Bill
President Donald Trump has until today to decide whether to veto the "21st Century ROAD to Housing" bill, aimed at reducing housing costs and promoting construction in the U.S. The bipartisan legislation has passed both the House and Senate but faces a critical hurdle: Trump's approval. If he does not veto it by today, the bill will automatically become law tomorrow, July 11. The legislation seeks to lower federal regulations, expedite environmental reviews, and limit corporate landlords' ability to purchase single-family homes. While it has garnered support from real estate groups, it is not a comprehensive solution to the housing affordability crisis.
NationalAction and Akara, Some of the Most Unusual Names Registered in the Last Year
In the past year, parents in the U.S. have increasingly opted for unique baby names, as reflected in the Social Security Administration's annual list. While Olivia and Liam remain the most popular names for girls and boys, respectively, a growing trend shows parents seeking inspiration from nature, places, and even surnames. Notable unusual names include Action, Danger, and Akara. In 2025, 3,606,400 babies were born in the U.S., each requiring a name for Social Security registration. This shift towards distinctive names indicates a desire among parents to break away from traditional naming conventions.
NationalCourt rejects bid to restore in-state tuition for undocumented Texas students
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected an effort to revive the Texas Dream Act, leaving in place a ruling that ended in-state tuition for undocumented students at Texas public colleges and universities.
NationalTexas AG Paxton Congratulates Aaron Reitz on Assumption of SDTX U.S. Attorney Role
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has congratulated Aaron Reitz on his appointment as the new U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas. Reitz previously served as Deputy Attorney General for Legal Strategy from 2020 to 2023, where he led significant legal initiatives, including border security and election integrity. Paxton praised Reitz's leadership and expressed confidence in his ability to uphold the law and advance justice in Texas. Reitz, who has a background in private practice and military service, expressed gratitude for Paxton's mentorship and looks forward to collaborating with the Attorney General's office in his new role.
NationalAaron Reitz Sworn In as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas
Aaron Reitz has officially taken the oath as the new U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas, sworn in by U.S. District Judge Nicholas J. Ganjei. Reitz will oversee one of the busiest U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the nation, focusing on combating violent crime, illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and fraud. He has a strong background in law, having previously served as the head of the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Policy and as chief of staff for Senator Ted Cruz. Reitz's district covers 43 counties and over 10 million residents across 44,000 square miles.
NationalTrump's Plan for an Arch in Virginia Moves Forward
President Donald Trump's plans to build an arch that would alter the urban landscape of the nation's capital received initial approval from a key federal commission on Thursday. The National Capital Planning Commission voted in favor of the preliminary plans for the site and construction of the 76-meter (250-foot) arch that the Republican president wants to build at a traffic roundabout at the Virginia end of the Arlington Memorial Bridge, as seen from Washington. Agency staff had recommended preliminary approval along with a series of project revisions to comply with a federal law that limits building heights in Washington, but the commission voted to continue deliberating on the height issue. 'This is a complex project,' said commission chairman Will Scharf before the vote. A final vote could take place in September during the commission's next meeting. Commissioners heard a summary of the staff report and its recommendations, and listened to dozens of people who signed up to testify about the project, one of several initiatives pushed by Trump to reshape the capital to his liking. Some who testified against the project noted their opposition to building a celebratory arch so close to the solemn grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.
NationalNew attacks raise questions about what comes next in the Iran war
President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire with Iran effectively over, expressing uncertainty about pursuing a deal and suggesting the U.S. should 'finish the job.' His mixed messages and approval of military strikes raise concerns about the future of the conflict, especially following recent diplomatic efforts. While Trump warned of new attacks aimed at degrading Iran's capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz, mediators from Pakistan, Qatar, and Egypt are working to salvage the ceasefire. The situation remains tense, with Trump’s rhetoric potentially impacting the upcoming midterm elections as rising gas prices loom over voters.
NationalDHS Proposes Changes to EB-5 Investor Visa Program
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed new regulations to enhance the EB-5 investor visa program, following the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022. Key changes include raising the minimum investment to $1.4 million for projects in designated 'High Employment Areas' and introducing new definitions to improve program integrity. The proposal grants USCIS the authority to deny or revoke EB-5 petitions and take action against fraud or security threats. Public comments on the proposal are accepted until August 31, 2026, via the DHS website.
NationalTrump says he'll ask Supreme Court to rehear birthright citizenship case
On the final day of its term last week, the Supreme Court struck down the president’s day-one order — which would have required a baby born on U.S. soil to have at least one parent with citizenship or permanent legal status to receive automatic citizenship.
NationalDemocrats Are Drafting ‘Project 2029’
Democrats are developing a new initiative called 'Project 2029' to prepare for a potential Democratic presidency in 2028. This agenda aims to address key issues like child care, housing, and health care, with a focus on practical solutions rather than ideological shifts. Executive director Chad Maisel emphasized that the project seeks to anchor the political debate on significant topics while avoiding a solely anti-Trump message. Among the proposals is a child care plan offering either free public care or a $1,000 monthly credit for families opting out. The group plans to introduce more proposals over the next year to shape the Democratic primary debate.
NationalMexico Announces Criminal Complaints Over Migrant Deaths in Custody and ICE Operations
MEXICO CITY — Mexico announced on Thursday that it will file criminal complaints in U.S. courts regarding the deaths of 17 Mexicans in custody and during operations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Foreign Secretary Roberto Velasco stated during the morning presidential conference that the complaints will be filed with both state prosecutors and the U.S. Department of Justice, accompanied by civil actions against the companies operating detention centers to stop human rights violations in those facilities. President Claudia Sheinbaum explained that Mexico decided to 'move beyond diplomatic channels' and raise the tone of its complaints after an ICE agent shot and killed Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston, Texas, earlier this week. 'We will do everything in our power because we cannot be complacent' regarding the deaths of Mexicans 'whose only crime is working honestly in the United States,' Sheinbaum said.
NationalIt's official: Donald Trump now has an airport named after him in Florida
The West Palm Beach airport in Florida has officially been renamed to honor former President Donald Trump, now called the Donald J. Trump International Airport. The name change, which cost approximately $5.5 million for new signage and updates, was announced by the airport on Instagram. The initiative was supported by Florida's Republican legislature and Trump allies, citing his permanent residence in Palm Beach as justification. However, critics, including Democratic House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell, argue that this move reflects misplaced priorities and that the public did not request such a change, labeling it a waste of taxpayer money.
NationalRailroad Conductor Fired After Comment About Non-American Individuals: 'They Can Leave'
A tourist train conductor in Tennessee was fired after making controversial remarks directed at non-American passengers during a July 4th ride on the Incline Railway in Chattanooga. Charles and Nathan Scherer, visiting from Florida, recorded the conductor saying, 'If you don’t agree, you can leave.' The comments, perceived as xenophobic and racist, prompted immediate action from the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), which apologized and terminated the conductor the same day. CARTA's staff chief stated that the conductor’s behavior was unacceptable and emphasized the importance of treating visitors with respect. They are open to discussing potential reemployment with the former employee.
NationalFederal committee to vote on renaming Boca Chica Beach to Cyber Beach
A federal committee is set to vote on renaming Boca Chica Beach to Cyber Beach during its meeting on July 9. This proposal is under review by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names' Domestic Names Committee. State Representative Erin Elizabeth Gámez, who represents part of Cameron County, has expressed her opposition, urging the committee to delay the decision to allow for public input. She highlighted the potential costs for updating signage and documents, emphasizing that many residents were unaware of the proposal. Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. also opposes the change and encourages residents to voice their concerns via email.
NationalUS carries out another round of strikes on Iran after Trump says ceasefire is over
The U.S. launched new strikes on Iran following President Trump's declaration that the ceasefire is over due to recent Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Military officials stated these strikes aim to diminish Iran's capacity to threaten navigation in the strait. This action follows previous U.S. military attacks on Iranian military sites after Iran targeted merchant vessels. Trump warned of further strikes and reiterated threats against Iran's civilian infrastructure. The situation raises concerns about the potential for renewed conflict in the region, with oil prices spiking as tensions escalate.
NationalAt least eight deaths have resulted from the anti-immigration offensive in the U.S.
At least eight deaths have occurred during the U.S. government's intensified immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump. The latest victim, Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a Mexican citizen, was shot by a federal immigration agent in Houston while allegedly trying to evade arrest. His family claims he was on his way to work. This incident has drawn criticism from immigrant rights groups and calls for an independent investigation. Other fatal encounters include the shooting of 23-year-old Ruben Ray Martinez during a traffic stop in Texas and the death of 37-year-old Alex Pretti during a protest in Minneapolis, raising concerns about the use of force by federal agents.
NationalOur goal is to go beyond: Mexico responds to the death of a compatriot during ICE operation
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that her government will take legal action following the death of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a Mexican citizen shot by an ICE agent during a migration operation in Houston. She emphasized the need to go beyond diplomatic notes and mentioned that the Foreign Relations Secretariat will present additional legal measures. The U.S. government claimed Salgado attempted to use his vehicle to harm an agent, prompting the shooting in self-defense. Sheinbaum highlighted the ongoing issue of migrant deaths in detention centers, stating that at least 16 Mexican migrants have died since Donald Trump's return to the presidency.
NationalMexico Requests Accurate Information from the U.S. on the Capture of 'El Mayo' Zambada
Mexico's Attorney General, Ernestina Godoy, announced on Wednesday that she has requested new information requirements from U.S. authorities regarding the 2024 arrest of drug lord Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada on U.S. soil, to investigate whether Washington violated Mexican sovereignty with an undercover operation in the country. 'We have requested (...) a series of information requirements for the government (of the United States) to provide information related to the events mentioned,' Godoy stated at a press conference. This announcement from the head of the Attorney General's Office (FGR) comes after President Claudia Sheinbaum once again questioned the U.S. version of 'El Mayo's' capture, following a news report that revived doubts about the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) involvement in the operation. The controversy intensified after it was revealed that U.S. authorities donated to a museum the plane in which the drug trafficker was forcibly taken and which later landed in the U.S. following a betrayal within the Sinaloa Cartel. To clarify this incident, the FGR sent a new request for international legal assistance to the U.S. Department of Justice to provide data regarding the possibility that FBI personnel participated in the 'planning, organization, capture, transfer, and cover-up.'
National"If You Strike, You Will Be Struck Back": Iranian Chief Negotiator's Warning to the U.S.
TEHRAN – The Speaker of Parliament and chief Iranian negotiator, Mohamad Baqer Qalibaf, warned the United States on Thursday that it will receive a response for every strike it makes and stated that transit through the Strait of Hormuz depends on an agreement with Tehran. "The United States still has to learn that intimidation and bad faith will no longer go unpunished. Let it be clear: if you strike, you will be struck back," the politician said on X following new U.S. attacks on Iranian territory. "Don't thrash about; you'll only sink deeper: the Strait of Hormuz will only open through 'Iranian agreements,' not with U.S. threats," added the former Revolutionary Guard. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that U.S. forces attacked approximately 90 Iranian military targets early in the morning, including air defense systems, coastal surveillance assets, missile and drone depots, naval capabilities, and military logistical infrastructure along the Iranian coastline.