National
National news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
NationalKick Off Celebration for the Country’s 250th Anniversary: “America is back”
During the kickoff celebration for the United States' 250th anniversary, President Trump proclaimed, "America is back" in a speech delivered at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. He highlighted the nation's resurgence, stating, "A short time ago, we were a dead country... now we’re the hottest country anywhere in the world." Trump underscored America's military strength and the respect it commands globally, contrasting the current situation with two years prior when he claimed the country was not taken seriously. The event marks a significant milestone in American history.
NationalUS Responds to Iran Attack on Ship; Trump Says Ceasefire Violated
The United States launched strikes against Iran on Friday in response to drone attacks on a ship in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week, which President Donald Trump described as a violation of the ceasefire agreement, according to US Central Command. An American aircraft targeted Iranian missile and drone storage facilities, as well as coastal radar sites, Central Command stated in a release. Iran reportedly fired at least four drones at vessels transiting the strait on Thursday, Trump said on Truth Social Friday morning. One of the drones struck the upper deck of a cargo ship, and the US intercepted the other three drones, he added. The affected vessel was the M/V Ever Lovely, a Singapore-flagged cargo ship exiting the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani coast, according to US Central Command.
NationalTrump Declares ‘The Game Is On’ as NYC Approves Historic Rent Freeze for More Than 1 Million Tenants
On June 25, 2026, New York City’s Rent Guidelines Board approved a historic rent freeze for over one million tenants in rent-stabilized apartments. This decision allows tenants renewing leases to avoid rent increases for one or two years, providing financial relief amid rising living costs. President Donald J. Trump responded on Truth Social, framing the rent freeze as part of a broader political battle against communism. He criticized the ideology, asserting that it takes from those who have earned it. Meanwhile, landlords expressed concerns about rising operating costs and the potential negative impact on property maintenance and renovations.
NationalValley Congresswoman Demands ‘Whole-of-Government’ Action to Halt Flesh-Eating Screwworm Outbreak
U.S. Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) is urging President Trump to implement a comprehensive strategy to address the New World Screwworm outbreaks in Texas. The flesh-eating parasite poses a significant threat to livestock, with potential losses estimated at $1.3 billion for the industry. De La Cruz, along with other Texas lawmakers, highlighted the urgency of the situation in a letter to the President, emphasizing the need for coordinated government action. The USDA has confirmed cases of the parasite, and immediate measures are being requested to protect U.S. livestock producers and mitigate the threat.
NationalIt's a First Step Toward Peace: US, Israel, and Lebanon Sign Framework Agreement
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with the ambassadors of Israel and Lebanon, announced on Friday a framework agreement described as a first step toward peace following months of conflict between Israel and the Lebanese political-military group Hezbollah. The officials did not share details of the agreement, which was signed by Yechiel Leiter, Israel's ambassador to the United States, and Nada Hamadeh, Lebanon's ambassador to the United States. Hamadeh explained that the framework agreement 'is a first step on the path to restoring Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity, ensuring a permanent and definitive cessation of hostilities, allowing our people to return to their land, and enabling all Lebanese to live in peace, security, and prosperity.' Leiter stated that the ultimate goal of the framework agreement is peace between the two countries. 'Real peace, where both countries will live in security, where the sovereignty of Israel and Lebanon will be respected, honored, and protected,' Leiter said. 'In this trilateral framework agreement based on performance, Iran is out. Hezbollah is out. And the path to peace between Israel and Lebanon is in.'
NationalTelemundo and the Red Cross Join Forces to Help Earthquake Victims in Venezuela
Telemundo has partnered with the American Red Cross to support humanitarian efforts in Venezuela following the powerful earthquakes that caused devastating damage in the country. Telemundo and the Red Cross have launched a microsite and a donation hotline to assist those affected and contribute to recovery efforts after the disaster. If you would like to support the initiative, you can make a donation at telemundo.com/cruzroja or by calling 1-800-596-6567.
NationalFormer Trump Security Advisor Pleads Guilty to Illegally Retaining Classified Information
John Bolton, the former national security advisor under President Donald Trump, pleaded guilty on Friday to illegally retaining classified information, finalizing a deal with federal prosecutors that could allow him to avoid prison time. Bolton, who became an outspoken critic of Trump after serving in the Republican's first administration, is scheduled to be sentenced on October 28 by U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang in Greenbelt, Maryland. The 77-year-old Bethesda, Maryland resident pleaded guilty to a single count of illegally retaining national defense information, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years. His plea agreement with the Department of Justice could allow him to avoid jail time, but the judge will ultimately decide his punishment. The plea deal recommends a cap of five years for any prison sentence, but the judge is not bound by that part of the agreement. Bolton, who also agreed to pay a $2.25 million fine, can withdraw his guilty plea if the judge imposes a longer prison sentence or a higher fine. He must pay half of the fine within five days of his guilty plea and the remainder within 90 days. He also agreed to forfeit his pension from his federal service. The agreement also requires him to undergo a briefing with federal intelligence officials and complete up to 100 hours of community service.
National“We are without tools”: residents demand heavy machinery to recover bodies in Venezuela
CATIA LA MAR – Residents of the coastal town of Catia La Mar, one of the areas hardest hit by Wednesday's earthquakes in Venezuela, demanded on Friday the dispatch of heavy machinery to recover bodies trapped under the rubble. In their desperation, they even blocked the path of one of these vehicles heading to another area, trying to keep it in place. The residents of Playa Grande angrily called for attention to their community. As of Friday morning, many residents continued to remove debris with their hands, sticks, shovels, picks, and hammers. Nearly 40 hours have passed, and according to reports to EFE, most of the bodies recovered have been found by the residents themselves. "We are without tools, in a very precarious situation. We need help with machinery and trained, professional personnel to please assist us. There are many bodies, and the smell is becoming unbearable," said José Ramírez, who is searching for his sister-in-law, trapped under a building. "We need all the help possible," he insisted. Ramírez added that so far they have only received humanitarian aid, such as food and drinks, from good Samaritans traveling from nearby Caracas, the Venezuelan capital. He expressed hope of finding his sister-in-law's body today, noting that he managed to reach the mattress where she was sleeping when the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes struck. "We need machinery to be able to get them out because how can we do it if we have nothing?" lamented Héctor Galindo, who is searching for his mother and two brothers. The residents of this area are tirelessly working to find their family members trapped in the rubble. Many are exposed to the elements, while others are in a shelter. Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, announced on Friday that the death toll from the two powerful earthquakes that shook the country has risen to 589, with 2,980 injured, while confirming that 214 aftershocks have already occurred.
NationalAuthorities Grant Trademark Registration for 'Pato Merlín' to Its Owner in Mexico
MEXICO CITY – The Ministry of Economy and the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) formally announced on Friday the receipt and granting of the trademark registration for 'Pato Merlín,' along with its three-dimensional design, in the name of its original owner, Mexican citizen Karla Ivette Gómez López. 'Pato Merlín' became a viral phenomenon on social media after being frequently spotted walking the streets and using public transportation in Mexico City, wearing striking yellow sneakers and the Mexican national team's jersey, a scene that garnered millions of views on platforms like TikTok and established it as one of the country's most famous mascots. The surge in popularity of 'Pato Merlín' led to a legal dispute after it was revealed that third parties based in Yucatán and Jalisco attempted to preemptively register the name and image of the bird with the IMPI, seeking to commercially exploit the brand in clothing and advertising campaigns during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
NationalJudge Declares Mistrial in Federal Arson Case Related to Palisades Fire
Jonathan Rinderknecht, 30, faces three counts of arson in connection with the January 2025 wildfires in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles County. The federal charges include destruction of property by fire, arson affecting property used in interstate commerce, and vegetation fire. On Thursday, the jury initially indicated they had reached a unanimous decision but later sent a note to the judge stating they were deadlocked. The judge ordered the panel to return to court on Friday in an effort to resolve the impasse. On Friday, the mistrial was declared after jurors indicated they could not reach a verdict. The judge announced the decision following reports of deep divisions among the jurors. The U.S. Attorney's Office stated that the trial would continue. Legal experts described the situation as highly unusual, with potential instructions from the judge to encourage further deliberation. Prosecutors presented evidence placing Rinderknecht at the scene of the first fire, while the defense argued there was insufficient evidence to prove he intentionally started the fire. Rinderknecht faces federal charges alleging he ignited the Lachman fire and caused subsequent destruction during a historic Santa Ana windstorm. Twelve people died in the Palisades fire, but Rinderknecht was not charged in connection with those deaths.
NationalLawsuit Filed Against Trump Administration Over DACA Renewal Delays
Immigrant advocacy and legal assistance groups have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, citing significant delays in DACA renewals that are causing beneficiaries to lose jobs and legal status. DACA allows over half a million undocumented immigrants who arrived as children to work and study in the U.S. without fear of deportation. However, many have seen their status expire due to prolonged renewal processes, which should occur every two years. The lawsuit, filed in Northern California, seeks answers regarding these delays and their impact on individuals' lives, including job losses and financial instability.
NationalFirefighters, dogs, drones, forensics: how the international community is helping Venezuela
Following the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, the international community has mobilized significant aid, including firefighters, rescue dogs, drones, and forensic medical teams. Sixteen countries, including the U.S., Switzerland, and Spain, have sent over 1,000 rescue personnel to assist in locating survivors. The UN has allocated $15 million for emergency response, while the World Bank and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies have also committed funds. Humanitarian supplies, including food and medical equipment, are being dispatched, with reports of 589 fatalities and nearly 3,000 injuries from the earthquakes.
NationalMore Ways to Help Those Affected by Earthquakes in Venezuela
Two powerful earthquakes struck northern Venezuela on Wednesday night, causing building collapses and resulting in hundreds of deaths and thousands missing. Efforts are underway by governments, NGOs, and the Venezuelan diaspora to assist in rescue operations and provide medical care to the injured and displaced. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies highlights the urgent need for search and rescue assistance, emergency housing, and healthcare. Various organizations, including Global Empowerment Mission and Direct Relief, are mobilizing resources to deliver aid. Charity Navigator advises donors to support verified NGOs experienced in disaster response.
NationalMinute by Minute: Race Against Time for Rescues in Venezuela; 235 Dead and 4,300 Injured
Venezuela is facing a humanitarian crisis following two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 that struck the country on Wednesday. The death toll has risen to 589, with 2,980 reported injuries. The cities of La Guaira and Caracas are among the hardest hit, with many individuals still trapped under debris. Rescue teams from various countries, including the renowned Mexican 'topos', are assisting in the search for survivors. Authorities have announced the militarization of La Guaira as they continue to receive international rescue and humanitarian aid. The situation remains critical as efforts to find survivors intensify.
NationalCensus: Texas leads the U. S. in having more kids, but the state fertility rate is still falling
According to recent Census data, Texas has the highest fertility rate among large U.S. states, with approximately 58 live births per 1,000 women of childbearing age from July 2024 to July 2025, surpassing the national average of 53. However, the state's fertility rate has been declining for nearly 20 years, reflecting a broader trend of decreasing birth rates across the country. Factors such as high living costs, delayed marriages, and increased access to contraception contribute to this decline. Despite these challenges, Texas's younger population and higher Hispanic birth rates help maintain its relatively high fertility figures compared to other states.
NationalSupreme Court ruling blocks thousands of lawsuits against maker of Roundup weedkiller
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Bayer, the maker of Roundup, blocking numerous lawsuits claiming the company failed to warn consumers about cancer risks associated with the weedkiller. The 7-2 decision stated that federal regulations do not require a warning label, as they found a cancer link unlikely. This ruling is seen as a win for American farmers, according to Bayer's CEO, who emphasized the need for regulatory clarity. Despite the ruling, Bayer plans to move forward with a $7.25 billion class-action settlement to address remaining claims. Environmental groups criticized the decision, calling it a setback for public health.
NationalSenate Republicans reject war powers resolution after Trump berates them at Capitol meeting
Senate Republicans voted late Wednesday to reject a war powers resolution aimed at limiting President Trump's military actions in Iran, following a contentious meeting where Trump criticized GOP senators for their opposition. The vote, which failed 47-50-1, came after Trump berated Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, one of four Republicans who supported the measure. Cassidy later received a briefing from the White House and switched his vote against the resolution. This decision highlights ongoing tensions between Trump and Senate Republicans, particularly as they navigate election-year issues and Trump's recent reversal on a housing bill that had bipartisan support.
NationalSupreme Court clears way for Trump administration to revive policy that blocked asylum seekers at border
The Supreme Court has allowed the Trump administration to potentially reinstate a controversial immigration policy that limits the number of asylum seekers processed at the U.S.-Mexico border. In a 6-3 ruling, the Court overturned a lower court's decision that had blocked this practice, which was first implemented during the Obama administration and expanded under Trump. Advocates argue this policy exacerbates humanitarian crises, forcing migrants into unsafe conditions while they wait. The Department of Homeland Security welcomed the ruling, stating it provides necessary tools for border security. The case is part of ongoing immigration litigation the Court is reviewing this term.
NationalThe U. S. last beat screwworm in 1966. Can current leaders learn from the past playbook?
The New World screwworm has re-entered the U.S., raising concerns reminiscent of past outbreaks. Following warnings from Central America and Mexico, funding for monitoring was cut last year, leading to a rise in cases. Historically, the USDA estimates that screwworm eradication saved the livestock industry over $900 million annually. Edward F. Knipling, a key figure in past eradication efforts, emphasized the need for preventive measures rather than reactive ones. Despite successful past strategies, the current outbreak poses significant challenges, highlighting the importance of learning from historical approaches to manage this pest effectively.