Latest News


Government

Over 100 Texas Sheriffs Back Operation Lone Star

Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Texas National Guard have been actively involved in Operation Lone Star to enhance border security and combat illegal activities. The collaborative effort has yielded significant results, with Governor Abbott emphasizing the importance of securing the border and addressing the challenges posed by open border policies.In a recent development, Governor Abbott met with over 100 Texas sheriffs who expressed their support for Operation Lone Star at the Texas Capitol. The sheriffs signed a letter...


Government

Governor Abbott Commends Texas National Guard's Border Security Efforts

Governor Greg Abbott praised the Texas National Guard for their dedication and service to the state during the 65th annual National Guard Association of Texas (NGAT) Conference in Round Rock. In his address, Governor Abbott highlighted the selflessness of the guardsmen, stating, “To serve your country, to put your life on the line for your fellow man, is to answer a higher calling.”The Governor went on to emphasize the diverse roles the Texas National Guard fulfills, from overseas deployments to responding to natural disasters and securing the state's border. Governor...


Government

McCaul Votes to Restore American Energy Dominance

WASHINGTON – During House Republicans’ “Energy Week” this week, U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) voted to pass six bills to unleash American energy.Rep. McCaul expressed his concerns about President Biden's energy policies, stating, "Since his first day in office, President Biden has faithfully carried out extreme Democrats’ attacks on American energy, which he then tried to mitigate by dangerously draining our strategic petroleum reserve — a critical national security resource."He further emphasized, "American energy is the cleanest energy in the world. By...


Government

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz: Vote for Spending Bill Supports Border Patrol, Border Security

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) has voted for the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, citing support for border security measures. The legislation, aimed at averting a government shutdown, includes provisions to enhance border security by increasing funding for various aspects.The bill increases funds to focus on actual border security measures rather than processing more migrants into the country. It also includes provisions to increase ICE detention beds and provide funding for Border Patrol agents and technology improvements. Speaking about her...


Government

Governor Abbott Reappoints Three To Texas Medical Board District Three Review Committee

Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed Ogechika “Oge” Alozie, M.D., Taylor Gillig, and Gabrielle Rich, D.O. to the Texas Medical Board District Three for terms set to expire on January 15, 2030.Ogechika “Oge” Alozie, M.D., CEO of Sunset West Health in El Paso, expressed his commitment to serving on the board, showcasing his extensive experience in infectious disease care and membership in various medical associations. Alozie's background includes a Master of Public Health from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities and a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from...


Government

Governor Abbott Directs State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Weather Across Texas

Governor Greg Abbott has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of Texans as the state braces for severe weather. In a statement today, Governor Abbott emphasized the readiness of Texas to deploy emergency resources to assist local officials in responding to the impending storm system. "With the potential for dangerous conditions, including flash flooding and tornadoes, Texans in at-risk communities are urged to remain weather-aware and monitor all roadways to keep themselves and their loved ones safe," Governor Abbott stated.The National Weather Service has issued...


Government

Governor Abbott Appoints Buckley, Creighton To Education Commission Of The States

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Representative Brad Buckley, D.V.M., and Senator Brandon Creighton to the Education Commission of the States (ECS) for terms to expire at the pleasure of the Governor. The ECS gathers and analyzes data concerning education needs and resources as well as encourages research in all aspects of education. The Commission was established over 50 years ago as an interstate compact on education policy.Representative Brad Buckley, D.V.M., of Salado is currently serving his third term in the Texas House of Representatives and represents House...


Government

Governor Abbott Appoints Four To Nursing Facility Administrators Advisory Committee

Governor Abbott has appointed Carla Smith, Amanda Burnett, Donna Stauber, Ph.D., and Audrey Ramsbacher to the Nursing Facility Administrators Advisory Committee. Carla Smith's appointment is set to expire on February 1, 2025, while Amanda Burnett, Donna Stauber, Ph.D., and Audrey Ramsbacher's terms will expire on February 1, 2029. The Committee plays a crucial role in providing recommendations for licensure sanctions and rule changes for the Nursing Facility Administrator Licensing Program within the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services.Carla Smith, a...


Government

Luttrell Introduces Legislation to Support Veterans

Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA), has put forth a new bill aimed at assisting veterans. The legislation, known as the Veterans Compensation Cost of Living Adjustment Act of 2024, is designed to enhance the support provided to veterans with service-connected disabilities and the survivors of certain veterans.In a statement, Congressman Luttrell emphasized the importance of aiding those who have served the nation, stating, "We have an obligation to support the veterans who...


Government

Governor Abbott Reappoints Bruce Oakley to Board of Pilot Commissioners

Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed Bruce Oakley to the Board of Pilot Commissioners for Harris County Ports for a term set to expire on February 1, 2026. Oakley, a partner at Hogan Lovells US and former judge of the 234th Judicial District Court in Harris County, has an extensive background in law and public service.Oakley's impressive credentials include membership in various legal associations such as the State Bar of Texas, Houston Bar Association, American Board of Trial Advocates, and Bar of the Supreme Court of the U.S. His dedication to the community is evident...


Government

Babin Introduces the Remain in Canada Act

U.S. Congressman Brian Babin has introduced the Remain in Canada Act (H.R. 7739), a bill that seeks to apply President Trump’s “Remain in Mexico” policy to the U.S.-Canada border. Babin expressed his concerns about the current state of America's borders, stating, “Due to the current administration’s actions – complete negligence at best or, more likely, an intentional mass-replacement effort – America’s borders are being overrun by millions of unvetted immigrants from around the world.”Babin highlighted the increasing number of illegal crossings at both the southern and...


Government

Luttrell Introduces STOP Enemies Act

WASHINGTON – Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX) and a bipartisan group of Representatives have introduced the Safeguarding Tactics and Operational Procedures (STOP) from Enemies Act of 2024 in the House of Representatives. The legislation aims to protect U.S. military training tactics from foreign adversaries by expanding the definition of aiding the enemy.In a statement, Congressman Luttrell emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “Protecting U.S. military training tactics from foreign adversaries is paramount to safeguarding our national security interests and...


Government

Rep. Troy E. Nehls and Rep. Dan Crenshaw Call for Accountability in Wake of United Airlines Safety Incidents

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Troy E. Nehls and Congressman Dan Crenshaw have raised concerns over recent major safety incidents at United Airlines, prompting them to send a letter to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. In the letter, the congressmen emphasized the need for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement accountability measures to safeguard the public's safety and ensure such incidents do not recur.Regarding the safety incidents at United Airlines, Congressman Nehls and Congressman Crenshaw highlighted the importance of...


Government

Venezuela's Refusal to Take Back Criminals Sparks Concerns in the U.S.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In an op-ed for The Hill, Congressman Troy E. Nehls and Greg Sindelar shed light on the tragic case of Laken Hope Riley, a young nursing student whose life was cut short by a Venezuelan national who entered the U.S. unlawfully. The authors criticize the Biden administration's handling of illegal immigration, emphasizing the dangers posed by allowing criminals to remain in the country.The article highlights the challenges posed by Venezuela's refusal to repatriate its citizens who have committed crimes in the United States. Nehls and Sindelar express...


Government

Governor Abbott Reappoints Missy Medary as Presiding Judge of Fifth Administrative Judicial Region

Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed Missy Medary as the presiding judge of the Fifth Administrative Judicial Region, as reported on March 19, 2024. Medary, who hails from Corpus Christi, has held this position since 2015, as stated by Governor Abbott, "Governor Abbott has reappointed Missy Medary as the presiding judge of the Fifth Administrative Judicial Region for a term set to expire four years from the date of qualification."In addition to her role as the presiding judge, Medary also serves as the judge of the 347th District Court. She brings a wealth of experience...


Government

Governor Abbott Announces Appointments To Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium Executive Committee

Governor Greg Abbott has revealed the initial members of the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium Executive Committee (TSIC EC) during an event held at the University of Texas Dallas (UT Dallas). The committee's primary goal is to oversee the operations of the Consortium and collaborate with industry stakeholders to solidify Texas' standing as a national frontrunner in advanced semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing.In his address, Governor Abbott emphasized Texas' historical significance in the semiconductor realm, stating, "Texas is the birthplace of the...


Government

Governor Abbott Reappoints Estevez As Presiding Judge Of Ninth Administrative Judicial Region

Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed Ana Estevez as the presiding judge of the Ninth Administrative Judicial Region for a term set to expire four years from the date of qualification.Estevez, who hails from Amarillo, is currently the judge of the 251st Judicial District Court of Potter and Randall counties. She has been serving as the presiding judge of the Ninth Administrative Judicial Region since 2020.Estevez's dedication to the legal field is evident through her involvement in various committees and associations. She is a member of the State Bar of Texas, Texas...


Government

McCaul Slams Biden Admin’s Crackdown on Gas Cars

WASHINGTON – U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) criticized President Biden's new regulations aimed at gas-powered vehicles, calling it a move that is out of touch with American families. In a statement, Rep. McCaul expressed his concerns, stating, "Just when it seems like President Biden can’t get any more out of touch with the needs of American families, he takes his administration’s radical climate agenda one step further."McCaul further emphasized the potential negative impact of the crackdown on gas cars, suggesting that it could lead to higher prices and make...


Government

Houston Man Sentenced to 90 Years for 2017 Crime Spree That Left Two Dead

A 60-year-old Houston man, Russell Cormier, was sentenced to 90 years in prison for a 2017 crime spree that resulted in the deaths of two individuals. Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg expressed relief that justice was served after a lengthy trial process. Ogg stated, “Our prosecutors work hard to bring cases like this to trial to get justice for victims’ families who should not have to wait this long.”Cormier's violent actions included the fatal shooting of his ex-wife and a former co-worker during a two-day rampage in northeast Houston. The incident was fueled by...


Government

Houston City Council Passes Tax Exemption for Child-Care Facilities

Houston City Council has recently passed an amendment to provide a tax exemption for qualifying child-care facilities effective from the 2024 tax year. This decision comes after the successful passing of Proposition 2 in November 2023, which granted cities and counties the authority to offer property tax exemptions for child-care facilities. The new amendment, known as Section 44-30, enables eligible child-care facilities to claim either a partial or complete exemption from their property taxes.Child-care providers seeking to benefit from this tax exemption must meet...