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NationalTrump to Nominate His Former Lawyer Todd Blanche as Attorney General to Replace Pam Bondi
President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday his intention to nominate Todd Blanche as the new Attorney General of the United States, replacing Pam Bondi. Blanche, who previously served as Trump's personal attorney and interim Attorney General, has been active in advancing the president's agenda. Trump plans to formally submit the nomination on Thursday, following Bondi's dismissal in April. Blanche has faced criticism for his aggressive investigations against Trump's opponents and for proposing a $1.8 billion fund to compensate allies for alleged political persecution. His nomination will require Senate approval, where bipartisan backlash against his actions has emerged.
BusinessAt risk of closing, Snack Spot and owner make improvements
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — To be a Food 4 Thought, ¡QUE RICO! Top Performer, a business must have a routine inspection report with zero health code violations. Like an inspector, the Food Patrol’s Derick Garcia and Jerry Salinas arrive without warning. This edition of Food 4 Thought spotlights plant-based restaurant Maria Cruz at 314 S. 16th
Public SafetyEdcouch man pleads not guilty after allegedly confessing to fatal shooting
Emanuel Ibarra Flores, a 19-year-old from Edcouch, has pleaded not guilty to murder despite allegedly confessing to fatally shooting 45-year-old Randy Luna Herrera on January 3 in Pharr. According to police, officers found Herrera with multiple gunshot wounds at the scene on Chickadee Street. Flores reportedly admitted to shooting Herrera multiple times with a rifle after being warned by a relative about threats made by Herrera. The victim was unarmed at the time of the incident. A hearing for Flores is scheduled for August 17, and he was released on bond on January 30.
NationalSenate begins voting on funding immigration enforcement after Trump settlement fund is dropped
The Senate, led by Republicans, is advancing a $70 billion bill to fund immigration enforcement agencies after dropping a controversial settlement fund linked to former President Trump. The Senate voted 53-46 to begin debate on the bill, which aims to support U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Border Patrol. Despite some Republican concerns, Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed optimism about securing enough votes. The legislation faced delays due to disputes over funding for White House security and the settlement fund, which Democrats want permanently banned. The Senate is expected to start voting on amendments soon.
NationalHouse approves war powers resolution to halt military action against Iran, in a rebuke of Trump
On June 3, 2026, the House of Representatives passed a war powers resolution aimed at halting U.S. military actions against Iran, marking a significant challenge to President Trump's authority. The vote, which ended with 215 in favor and 208 against, saw support from four Republicans alongside Democrats. Representative Gregory Meeks emphasized the need for the president to prioritize peace, citing public frustration over rising gas prices and inflation linked to the conflict. The resolution will now move to the Senate, where a similar measure has already been advanced. The ongoing military actions and the uncertain ceasefire complicate the situation further.
HealthA tremendous load off our back: Cameron County storm victim turns to SBA for disaster relief loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is providing low-interest disaster loans to residents and small businesses in the Rio Grande Valley affected by severe weather in April and May. Vicky Cantu from San Benito, whose home was damaged on May 9, visited the disaster outreach center to apply for assistance. She described the stress of living in a damaged home and the importance of the loans for recovery. Applications are open for those impacted, requiring a cell phone, ID, and email. The center operates Monday to Friday, with application deadlines for physical damage on July 6, 2026, and economic injury on February 8, 2027.
BusinessConsumer Reports: Save on large appliances, even when you need it now
When a major appliance fails, immediate replacement can be necessary, but there are ways to save money, according to Consumer Reports. Expert Paul Hope advises against rushing into purchases without research, as performance can vary significantly among brands and models. Consumer Reports evaluated 31 national retailers based on price, selection, and customer service, finding that local independent stores often provide better service than large chains. They may match prices and offer perks like in-house repairs. Shoppers are encouraged to check online inventories, compare prices, and negotiate, as those who did saved an average of $123 on purchases.
HealthFirst U. S. screwworm case confirmed in South Texas
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed the first case of New World screwworm in South Texas, specifically in La Pryor, Zavala County. This parasitic fly poses a significant threat to the state's $15 billion cattle industry. The USDA is working with local partners and has activated personnel to manage the situation. The screwworm, which targets warm-blooded mammals, had been eradicated in the U.S. since the 1960s but has re-emerged in Central America and Mexico. Officials are implementing measures to prevent its spread, including shutting down live animal imports from Mexico and establishing sterile fly production facilities in Texas and Mexico.
Public SafetyThousands in repair: RGV cities warn residents over wastewater systems clogged by wipes and debris
Cities in the Rio Grande Valley are alerting residents about the costly issue of clogged wastewater systems due to improper disposal of items like wipes and debris. Alamo city crews discovered various materials, including stuffed animals, in lift stations, leading to significant repair costs. Mayor J.R. Garza emphasized that the buildup can cause equipment failures, resulting in thousands of dollars in expenses for the city. Residents like Belia Rocha and Esperanza Guadalupe de la Fuente have witnessed firsthand the consequences of littering, urging their neighbors to dispose of trash properly. Alamo has 27 lift stations, with daily checks and plans to expand maintenance resources.
Public SafetyRio Grande City man accused of helping move a body in Peñitas double homicide pleads not guilty
Alejandro Lopez, a 43-year-old man from Rio Grande City, pleaded not guilty to capital murder charges related to a double homicide in Peñitas. He is one of six suspects arrested in connection with the deaths of Mario Morales Jr. and Maria Del Socorro Farias. The victims were found in a burned vehicle on February 3, with autopsy results indicating they died from gunshot wounds. Three other men face similar charges, while two women are charged with tampering with evidence. Lopez allegedly assisted in moving one of the bodies. A hearing for him is scheduled for July 29.
Public Safety'Go get a job, don't rob from us': Harlingen RV park residents respond after break-ins
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A series of burglaries at a Harlingen RV park has left residents concerned and prompted neighbors to take extra steps to protect their community. According to the Harlingen Police Department, officers have received about half a dozen reports of break-ins at Encore Paradise Park over the past several weeks. Police say
Public SafetyPlea deal being sought for Edinburg man accused of killing motorcyclist
Kevin Alfredo Gonzalez, a 20-year-old from Edinburg, is facing charges of criminal negligent homicide following a fatal motorcycle accident on January 12, 2024. Prosecutors are offering a plea deal that includes five years of deferred adjudication, a $3,000 fine, and restitution. A hearing is scheduled for July 29 for Gonzalez to decide on the plea. The incident resulted in the death of Isaiah Angelo Torres, who was struck while Gonzalez attempted an unsafe turn on La Homa Road near West Mile 4 Road. Gonzalez was arrested on June 2, 2025, and later released on a $20,000 bond.
HealthUSDA announces possible case of New World screwworm in South Texas
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investigating a suspected case of New World screwworm in South Texas, which could threaten the state's $15 billion cattle industry. A sample from La Pryor in Zavala County tested positive at the USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratories. Officials have activated response teams and are collaborating with local partners to manage the situation. The screwworm, a parasitic fly, has not been seen in the U.S. since the 1960s and poses serious risks to livestock. The USDA is also working with Mexican and Panamanian officials to eradicate the pest using sterile fly techniques.
SportsGame 1: Spurs and Knicks set to open the NBA Finals on Wednesday night in San Antonio
The San Antonio Spurs will face the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday night in San Antonio. This marks the Knicks' ninth appearance in the finals, while the Spurs are making their seventh. The Knicks are on an impressive 11-game winning streak, having outscored opponents by 262 points, the largest margin in NBA history. Conversely, the Spurs have never lost a Game 1 in the finals, boasting a perfect 6-0 record. Both teams feature many players making their finals debuts, with Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox emphasizing the importance of maintaining their successful play style.
WeatherExcessive rain fall in the forecast through Friday
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The Weather Prediction Center has issued a marginal risk for excessive rainfall across the entire Rio Grande Valley through Friday evening. This outlook is driven by a combination of sea-breeze-induced showers and thunderstorms, along with additional storm development over the Sierra Madre in México. Together, these features create the atmospheric conditions that warrant the advisory. An excessive rainfall outlook indicates an isolated potential for
Public SafetyOvernight lane, ramp closures in Mercedes: TxDOT
MERCEDES, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Replacements on overhead signs along Interstate 2 will prompt overnight lane and ramp closures in Mercedes. The Texas Department of Transportation will begin replacing the signs on Wednesday night on the westbound Interstate 2 and Vermont Avenue. Maintenance work will prompt closures on nearby entrance and exit ramps, including a right
CommunityFirst responders gather for Blue Mass at San Juan Basilica
SAN JUAN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A mass was held at the Basilica in San Juan on Wednesday to honor the service of all first responders and pray for the ones who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The annual tradition, widely known as Blue Mass, was led by Bishop Daniel Flores of
EducationHidalgo County Judge's Office launches puppet show to educate children about hurricane preparedness
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The Hidalgo County Judge's Office on Wednesday partnered up with the Hidalgo County Office of Emergency Management and the Fire Marshal to launch "Storm Safe with Sunny", an interactive puppet show educating children about hurricane preparedness. Families gathered at the free community event at the Pharr Memorial Library to learn about hurricane
Public SafetyValley mother, daughter found guilty of attempted smuggling at Sarita checkpoint
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A federal jury on Wednesday found a Weslaco mother and her daughter guilty of attempting to smuggle a man past the Sarita checkpoint last year. Enedelia Garcia, 55, of Weslaco, and Ashley Garcia, 37, of Brownsville, face up to 10 years in prison. Prosecutors say that on July 22, 2025, the
Public SafetyDriver in custody after evading authorities in Harlingen: DPS
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A driver is in custody on Wednesday afternoon after evading authorities in Harlingen, according to a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Public Safety. Several DPS units and EMS were seen at the intersection of the Frontage Road and F. Street at about 4:14 p.m. DPS says a white BMW evaded