National
National news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
NationalTrump Administration Will Not Seek New Bids to Repair Reflecting Pool at National Mall
The Trump administration will not seek new bids for repairs to the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial, as announced by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. He reiterated the belief that vandalism caused damage to the century-old pool, which includes a 350-foot cut in its lining. Repairs will be done by the same contractor, Green Water Solutions, which received a $1.7 million contract. The pool was drained for renovations, but issues arose with algae growth and peeling coatings. Over six arrests have been made related to the vandalism, including former Olympic athlete David Hearn, who faces charges for property destruction exceeding $1,000.
NationalMore than 16,000 people lost their homes in Venezuela; what comes next?
In Venezuela, over 16,000 people have lost their homes following a devastating double earthquake that claimed 2,954 lives. Ten days post-disaster, many remain homeless, camping in public spaces while awaiting assessments of their damaged properties. In La Guaira, where the destruction is most severe, families express frustration over the slow recovery efforts. Authorities report 856 affected buildings, with 190 completely collapsed. Meanwhile, in Caracas, some displaced residents feel safer in parks. A citizen initiative has recorded over 31,000 missing persons. Relief efforts continue, but many families are struggling to find basic necessities after the disaster.
NationalWashington Lights Up with Historic Fireworks Show for 250th Anniversary of the United States
Washington, D.C. celebrated the 250th anniversary of U.S. Independence with a historic fireworks display early Sunday morning, featuring 850,000 pyrotechnics launched from ten locations, including the Reflecting Pool and the Potomac River. The 40-minute show, double the usual length, followed a speech by President Donald Trump and military flyovers. Despite the celebration, a severe heat wave affected 70% of the country, leading to the cancellation of traditional parades in Washington and Philadelphia. The National Park Service warned of dangerous air quality and advised the public to limit exposure to pollution for several hours after the event.
NationalUS Celebrates 250 Years of Independence with Fireworks, Hot Dogs, and a Heat Wave
On July 4, the United States celebrated its 250th Independence Day with fireworks, hot dogs, and a heatwave. President Donald Trump delivered a patriotic speech in Washington, honoring war veterans and discussing political issues like voter ID laws and the Second Amendment. Despite the oppressive heat affecting many celebrations, events continued, including a hot dog eating contest in New York where Joey Chestnut won for the 18th time. The day was marked by a mix of national pride and political division, as Trump emphasized the dangers of communism while other leaders called for unity and reflection on the nation’s ideals.
NationalTen Days After Earthquakes in Venezuela, Death Toll Rises to 2,954
Ten days after the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, the death toll has reached 2,954, with 16,592 injured, according to local authorities. The twin earthquakes on June 24 are deemed the strongest in a century, triggering 942 aftershocks and collapsing 190 structures. Over 16,309 people have lost their homes. The government reported that 6,462 individuals have been rescued, although hopes of finding more survivors are dwindling. More than 3,200 international rescuers, some honored by interim President Delcy Rodríguez, have participated in the efforts. Over 140 nations have provided humanitarian aid or rescue teams, as the nation mourns its losses.
NationalTrump Accounts Now Available: Find Out Who Can Receive the $1,000 Bonus
Starting July 4, the Trump Accounts program is officially available, offering a $1,000 initial bonus from the federal government for children born during Donald Trump's second term. Over 6 million accounts have been opened for minors under 18, with 1.4 million eligible for the bonus. To qualify, the child must be a U.S. citizen with a valid Social Security number and born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028. Parents can open these accounts online and invest in stock market index funds. Contributions can reach up to $5,000 annually, with specific rules for accessing funds once the child turns 18.
NationalPope Urges U.S. to Reaffirm Its Foundational Ideals on Its 250th Anniversary
Pope Leo XIV called on the United States to reaffirm its foundational ideals of protecting human life and dignity during a virtual event marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Speaking from Rome, he received the National Constitution Center's annual Medal of Freedom for his lifelong work promoting religious freedom and conscience. He emphasized the importance of welcoming migrants and highlighted the moral greatness of a nation in its treatment of the vulnerable. The Pope urged that this anniversary be a moment for a renewed commitment to the values of equality and fundamental rights that define the nation.
NationalThey Bought Tickets to the World Cup, but StubHub Canceled Them. Now They Are Suing the Ticket Reseller
StubHub is facing a lawsuit from California residents Julia Reeker Moghal and Reuben Renteria, who claim the ticket reseller failed to deliver World Cup tickets they purchased. The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in New York, alleges that misleading sales practices left them without tickets for group stage matches. Moghal paid $1,905 for three tickets to a match in California but never received them, while Renteria spent $2,294 for two tickets in Mexico. Both are seeking economic compensation and a ban on StubHub selling World Cup tickets. StubHub stated they aim to assist fans and cited issues with FIFA's ticketing infrastructure.
NationalEcuador Captures 'Churrón', Leader for Whom the U.S. Offered $5 Million Reward
Ecuadorian authorities announced the capture of Francisco Manuel Bermúdez Cagua, known as "Churrón," a leader of the criminal organization "Los Choneros". The U.S. had offered a $5 million reward for his capture, linking him to the Sinaloa Cartel. His arrest took place in Guayaquil, 265 kilometers southwest of Quito, following military intelligence operations. Along with him, two associates were also apprehended, and weapons and ammunition were seized. "Churrón" is considered a key figure in drug trafficking decisions for the gang, which has been active since 1990 and was designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. government in 2025.
NationalEgg Producers to Pay Millions to Resolve Price Increase Lawsuits
The U.S. Department of Justice and 17 states have reached settlements with three major egg producers—Cal-Maine Foods, Versova, and Hickman’s Egg Ranch—over allegations of illegal price-fixing. The companies are accused of colluding to artificially inflate egg prices from June 2022 to March 2025. As part of the settlement, they will collectively pay $3.3 million and donate 53 million eggs to food banks. The average price of eggs in the U.S. peaked at $6.23 per dozen in March 2025, driven by avian flu and market manipulation. The settlements require the companies to implement antitrust compliance programs and prohibit price discussions among competitors.
NationalDelcy Rodríguez Hits Back at Criticism of Government Response to Earthquakes in Venezuela
Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president of Venezuela, defended her government's response to last week's devastating earthquakes, countering criticism of a slow reaction and claims of underreported fatalities. In a press conference, she dismissed allegations that poorly constructed social housing exacerbated the disaster, asserting that 80% of collapsed buildings were privately developed. Rodríguez acknowledged that survivors were the first responders but insisted that government efforts were mobilized immediately. As rescue operations continue, over 2,295 deaths have been reported, with many missing. The Venezuelan government has received international aid, including support from the U.S., amid ongoing scrutiny of its transparency and management of the crisis.
NationalIs July 3 a Holiday? What Will Be Open and Closed the Friday Before July 4
This year, July 4 falls on a Saturday, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. As a national holiday, government offices will be closed, but the holiday will be observed on the preceding weekday, July 3. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management confirmed that July 3 will be a federal holiday in 2026. The U.S. Postal Service will operate normally on July 3, with mail delivery occurring as usual. Banks will also remain open, but the stock market will be closed in observance of the holiday. Most retail and grocery stores are expected to be open on that day.
NationalAt least 21 civilians dead after Russian attack on Ukraine's capital
A significant Russian attack on Kyiv resulted in at least 21 civilian deaths and numerous injuries, following an 11-hour barrage of drones and missiles. The assault, described by Moscow as retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil facilities, forced over 50,000 residents to seek refuge in metro stations. Emergency crews worked throughout the day to search for victims amid the rubble of damaged buildings. Ukrainian officials reported that the attacks targeted military-related infrastructure, while also calling for increased air defense support from allies. The conflict has led to over 16,000 civilian deaths in Ukraine since the war began.
NationalIran Issues Strong Warning to Tankers Not Using Approved Routes in Hormuz
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Iran's joint military command warned on Thursday that all tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz must adhere to approved routes or face a 'decisive response,' escalating tensions over this crucial maritime passage for global energy supplies. The narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf has become a key issue in negotiations for a permanent end to the war with Iran. The statement from the Khatam al-Anbiya military command was broadcast by Iranian state television and comes after diplomats from Washington and Tehran met with mediators in Qatar the day before. The reason behind Tehran's threat remains unclear. However, the U.S. Central Command issued a statement regarding a meeting in Bahrain with officials from Middle Eastern countries, emphasizing their shared commitment to the free flow of trade through the Strait of Hormuz. This may have been the phrase that angered Iran, which is preparing for the funeral of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who died early in the war in February. 'Any violation, deviation from the designated route, or neglect of the navigation protocols of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Strait of Hormuz will be met with an immediate and decisive response from the armed forces, jeopardizing the safety of the violating vessels,' the statement read. It also warned that interference by U.S. forces in the strait 'will be met with a swift and decisive reaction.'
NationalNASA's Rescue Mission Against the Clock Faces Last-Minute Problem
CAPE CANAVERAL — An urgent rescue mission to save a NASA space telescope remains grounded, this time due to a last-minute launch issue. Northrop Grumman's rocket-launching aircraft took off from the Marshall Islands in the Pacific on Thursday, after weather-related delays throughout the week. While in flight, the crew noticed a warning in the data stream and decided not to release the Pegasus rocket attached to the belly of the plane, the company reported. It was unclear whether the warning originated from the rocket or the aircraft. The rocket is carrying a three-armed robotic spacecraft built by Katalyst Space Technologies to capture the Swift Observatory, which will crash before October if no help arrives. A new launch date has not been set.
NationalGlobal Leaders Send Congratulatory Messages to Texas for America 250
Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson announced that international consulates in Texas have sent congratulatory messages in honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. These messages highlight Texas' unique role in American history and its strong global partnerships. Countries such as Denmark, the Dominican Republic, France, and Mexico acknowledged shared values like democracy and cooperation. Denmark celebrated its 225 years of diplomatic relations with the U.S., while Mexico emphasized the longstanding friendship between the two nations. As Texas prepares for the America250 celebration, the Secretary's office will continue to engage with international partners to showcase the state's contributions.
NationalSetback for Google: EU Court Rejects Appeal of $4.5 Billion Fine
Judges from the highest court in the European Union dismissed an appeal by Google against a historic antitrust fine of $4.5 billion imposed for stifling competition and reducing consumer choices through its dominance of the Android mobile operating system. The case has been tied up in the courts since the European Commission announced the fine in 2018. However, the dismissal made on Thursday by the Court of Justice of the European Union marks the end of that process. 'The appeal filed by Google and its parent company Alphabet against the ruling of the General Court is dismissed, thus confirming the penalty imposed for the abuse of a dominant position of Google Search in the context of the Android operating system,' the judges, based in Luxembourg, wrote in their ruling. Google had previously argued that Android, a free and open-source operating system, has enabled the offering of low-cost phones and has fostered competition with its main rival, Apple. Android is the most popular mobile operating system, even surpassing Apple's iOS.
NationalSlight Relief in the Labor Market: Unemployment Claims Drop to 215,000
Unemployment claims in the United States decreased slightly last week, while layoffs remain at historically healthy levels. The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits in the week ending June 27 fell by 1,000 to 215,000, the Labor Department reported on Thursday. This figure is lower than the 225,000 new claims predicted by analysts surveyed by data firm FactSet. Weekly unemployment claims are considered indicative of layoffs in the U.S. and serve as a near real-time indicator of labor market health. The government also released its more comprehensive employment report for June on Thursday, one day earlier than usual due to the July 4 holiday.
NationalBabies Born in 2026 Will Receive 'Freedom 250' Social Security Cards, According to Trump Administration
Babies born in the United States this week and until the end of the year will receive a Social Security card featuring the Freedom 250 logo to commemorate the country's 250th anniversary, the Trump administration announced on Wednesday. "The next generation of Americans born during this historic year will receive limited edition Social Security cards with the Freedom 250 logo. Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, we are strengthening Social Security, improving service, and building an SSA to serve Americans today and in the future," said Social Security Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano in a statement. The limited edition Social Security cards will be issued only for babies born from July 2 to December 31. The agency noted that any replacement or duplicate card requested during that period will not be printed with the Freedom 250 logo. The announcement comes as the country prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday this weekend.