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TOP STORY
Cuellar's Pardon Reveals Flaws in Political Deal-Making
President Trump pardoned Texas Democrat Henry Cuellar, who faced federal corruption charges, aiming to gain political favor. However, Cuellar declined to switch parties, highlighting limits to Trump's influence despite the pardon. This episode underscores broader concerns about the use of pardon power and political strategy ahead of crucial elections.
If you're following Texas politics, this story matters because it shows how political maneuvers can shift your local representation and affect party dynamics. Cuellar’s stance as a conservative Democrat resisting pressure to flip parties means your community could see continuity despite legal drama. It also signals that pardons aren’t a guaranteed way to sway politicians, shaping how future legal and political battles might unfold near you.
Source: Head Topics
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Markets
Oil (WTI) | 56.5400 | ▼ 0.04% |
Gas (Nat.) | 4.0200 | ▲ 0.30% |
Cotton | 0.6361 / lb | ▼ 0.17% |
Cattle | 2.3115 / lb | ▲ 0.15% |
S&P 500 | 6834.70 | ▲ 0.02% |
Dow Jones | 48132.23 | ▼ 0.02% |
Nasdaq | 23307.80 | ▲ 0.12% |
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Texas Grid & Weather Snapshot
Statewide Outage Count — today (from start of day to now): None.
City | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
Dallas | 79.2 | 47.8 |
Houston | 80.1 | 51.1 |
Austin | 79.3 | 49.8 |
San Antonio | 79.3 | 50.7 |
Alerts
Dallas: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Houston: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Austin: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
San Antonio: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Politics and Economy
States Set New Laws on Pay, Privacy, AI for 2026
Starting in 2026, multiple states will enact new laws affecting wages, privacy rights, housing, and artificial intelligence. These rules range from minimum wage hikes in California and New York to new consumer data protections in Indiana and Kentucky, highlighting states' growing role amid limited federal action.
If you live or work in states like California, Texas, or Illinois, expect changes that could affect your paycheck, privacy, and interactions with landlords or employers. For example, California's wage increase and insulin cost cap directly impact your budget. Meanwhile, Texas's new AI law aims to prevent discriminatory technology uses, which may influence how government services interact with you. Staying informed can help you understand your rights and business obligations as these laws roll out.
Source: News Week
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What else is happening:
The legal complexities around Cuellar’s pardon reveal unexpected political consequences in Texas from Trump’s controversial decision.
A bipartisan approach to AI regulation struggles as New York’s RAISE Act challenges Trump’s executive order, potentially creating a regulatory patchwork.
Despite loosening federal restrictions on marijuana, Trump’s executive order maintains its illegal recreational status, complicating drug policies nationwide.
Tech and Business
Guide Helps Music Lovers Pick Best Record Player
This guide explores the evolution of record players, helping music enthusiasts choose from vintage phonographs to modern turntables. It highlights key factors like aesthetics, sound quality, connectivity, and features such as Bluetooth and vinyl-to-MP3 conversion.
If you love vinyl or want to start a collection, this guide makes picking a record player easier by explaining what matters most. You’ll learn how modern models mix retro style with features like Bluetooth streaming and digital recording so you can enjoy records your way—whether in a small apartment or with high-end sound systems.
Source: Head Topics
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Southwest Airlines Expands Austin Operations Confidently
Southwest Airlines’ expansion in Austin signals strong confidence in the city's economic and real estate growth. This move supports job creation and boosts sectors from housing to hospitality amid concerns about rising costs and interest rates.
If you live or work in Austin, Southwest’s expansion means more jobs and better air travel options, which can boost local businesses and real estate. It reflects growing trust in Austin’s economy and quality of life, shaping the city’s next phase of resilient and opportunity-rich growth.
Source: Austin American-statesman
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What else is happening:
Astronomers at Mauna Kea uncovered a new planet where NASA’s Roman Space Telescope will test advanced imaging in an important space technology discovery.
The Amarillo EDC plans to accelerate payment to Texas Tech’s vet school, advancing funding for important local educational projects.
Sports
No. 2 Texas Faces South Dakota State on Road
Texas Longhorns basketball travels to South Dakota State after a dominant win. Madison Booker led Texas with 28 points in a 96-38 victory. South Dakota State boasts a strong home record and solid scoring defense, setting up a compelling matchup this Sunday.
If you follow Texas basketball, this game shows how the Longhorns handle pressure away from home. With Booker firing on all cylinders and the team averaging over 90 points, expect a high-energy contest. Whether you’re at the game or watching from Texas, this matchup highlights the Longhorns' road toughness early in the season.
Source: AP News
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Sports Spotlight:
South Alabama prepares to face the Texas State Bobcats following Harris' 38-point performance in their recent overtime win over the UL Monroe Warhawks in the Sun Belt Conference with high excitement for their first meeting this season.
The No. 8 Houston Cougars visit the No. 14 Arkansas Razorbacks at Newark, New Jersey for a major non-Texas venue college basketball game this weekend, details at No. 14 Arkansas Razorbacks.
Texas A&M Aggies prepare to host the East Texas A&M Lions in a notable out-of-conference matchup highlighting local Texas college basketball action, learn more from Texas A&M Aggies take on Harrison.
Texas Infrastructure Insight
Texas operates the only independent power grid in the continental United States. Managed by ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas), most of the state’s electricity runs separately from the Eastern and Western U.S. grids — a system designed to avoid federal regulation and give Texas greater control over its energy market.