In a surprising turn of events, the records in Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s divorce case have been unsealed after a request from eight media organizations. Judge Robert Brotherton signed the order following an agreement between Paxton and his wife, state Sen. Angela Paxton. The released documents reveal the couple has entered mediation and that their blind trust provided funds for attorney fees. While the initial filings did not provide detailed financial information, the unsealing is considered a victory for transparency in light of Paxton’s run for U.S. Senate and past misconduct allegations.
Read More
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte believes former US President Donald Trump is the only individual capable of compelling Vladimir Putin to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. According to Rutte, Trump’s focus is on ending the conflict and he has the potential to bring Putin to the negotiating table. Rutte also emphasized that achieving peace requires compromises, but did not specify which parties should make concessions. Furthermore, Rutte expressed confidence that the US would remain committed to NATO, regardless of Trump’s presidency.
Read More
Following a temporary ceasefire brokered by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), critical repairs have commenced on a power transmission line near the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). The IAEA team is actively monitoring these repairs, which are anticipated to take several days to complete. This initiative aims to prevent a potential nuclear accident during the ongoing military conflict. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed gratitude to both sides for agreeing to the ceasefire, which facilitates the restoration of electricity transmission between the NPP and the Zaporizhzhia Thermal Power Plant.
Read More
Taiwan has expressed its support for Israel’s recent decision to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign nation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the move, citing shared democratic values and anticipating enhanced trilateral cooperation. Taiwan’s stance reflects its strengthening relationship with Somaliland, marked by the establishment of reciprocal representative offices in 2020 and collaborations in various sectors, including security. This recognition by Israel, which has faced opposition from countries like Egypt and Turkey, contrasts with the positions of the United States and the European Union, who continue to support Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Read More
The Trump administration has announced the creation of a militarized zone along the California-Mexico border. This initiative involves transferring approximately 760 acres of public land to the Department of the Navy for enhanced border security operations, a move that has sparked controversy. While border crossings have decreased, local officials and civil rights groups have expressed concerns regarding potential threats to civil liberties and the blurring of lines between military and immigration enforcement. This move aligns with the administration’s broader efforts to tighten border security, including similar actions in other border states and the deployment of troops and military gear.
Read More
Hurricane Helene devastated a homeowner’s property, leaving the house uninhabitable and causing significant financial strain. After a year-long payment pause granted by the mortgage company, the homeowner still owed a substantial sum despite the home’s condition. The mortgage company’s patience appeared to be wearing thin. The destruction of the home and its value left the homeowner in a difficult situation.
Read More
Despite a faculty appeals panel’s finding of unjustified dismissal, Texas A&M University will not reinstate Melissa McCoul, a lecturer fired after a video of her teaching about gender identity went viral. The university system’s vice chancellor for academic affairs supported the termination, citing “good cause,” though the reasoning was not explained. McCoul’s lawyer plans to pursue First Amendment and breach of contract claims. McCoul was fired after a student recorded a classroom exchange and met with then-university president Mark Welsh III, who initially refused to fire McCoul. After the firing, the university system implemented new policies restricting how race, gender, and sexuality are taught.
Read More
Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan emphasized the importance of maintaining the Federal Reserve’s independence amidst President Trump’s search for a new chair. He stated that the market would negatively react if the Fed’s independence was compromised. The current chairman’s term expires in May 2026, and although Mr. Trump has the power to nominate the new chair, Moynihan believes there is currently “too much fascination with the Fed.” Moynihan suggests the focus should remain on the private sector and the individuals that drive the economy.
Read More
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticized current Republican lawmakers for lacking an independent agenda, claiming they are merely following President Trump’s lead. In an interview, Pelosi stated that Republicans have abandoned their role in checking the executive branch. Looking ahead, Pelosi expressed confidence in Democrats regaining control of the House after the 2026 midterms, endorsing Hakeem Jeffries for the speakership. Reflecting on her career, Pelosi highlighted the Affordable Care Act as her most significant accomplishment.
Read More
In an interview with Tass news agency, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia would support China in a Taiwan contingency, citing a treaty with China that promotes mutual support in defending national unity and territorial integrity. He also expressed concern over Japan’s increasing militarization, referencing rising defense spending under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Lavrov’s comments followed Takaichi’s remarks that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could be a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan. He urged Japan to carefully consider the potential consequences of its actions as it pursues militarization.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker