As I sit here reflecting on the devastating statistics regarding the rise in pregnancy deaths by 56% in Texas following the 2021 abortion ban, I am filled with a sense of profound sadness and disbelief. As an ER physician, I have witnessed firsthand the heartbreaking consequences of policies that limit access to essential healthcare services. This should not be happening in a country that prides itself on its resources and advancements in healthcare. It is a national embarrassment that we have allowed our maternal mortality rates to reach such abysmal levels, and this latest increase only serves to highlight the urgent need for change.… Continue reading
In the latest poll results, Florida and Texas are shown to be within the margin of error in the Harris-Trump race, causing quite a stir among many hopeful Democrats. The possibility of these historically red states potentially flipping blue is an exciting prospect, to say the least. As a resident of a more blue area, the sight of more Harris for president signs than Trump 2024 signs has injected a sense of hope in me. Could this be the year that Texas and Florida finally turn blue? Despite the excitement, it’s crucial to remember that the swing state polls are still too close for comfort, with states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin potentially holding the key to victory.… Continue reading
Texas has once again made headlines for all the wrong reasons. The state, known for its conservative policies, has taken another step in its crusade against women’s rights by suing to block a Biden rule that protects the privacy of women who seek abortions. It’s troubling to see the government meddling in such personal and sensitive matters, especially when it comes to a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body.
The hypocrisy of the situation is glaring. Those who claim to champion small government and personal freedom seem awfully eager to infringe upon the privacy of women seeking healthcare services.… Continue reading
As a Texan, seeing the recent poll results from the University of Houston showing Kamala Harris cutting Trump’s lead in half in Texas has ignited a spark of hope within me. The fact that Texas, a historically red state, is showing signs of potentially turning blue is both fascinating and exciting. The idea that the gap is closing between Harris and Trump is a testament to the shifting political landscape in the state.
The state of Texas going blue is not an easy feat, and many have argued that it would take a true wave election for this to happen. However, the recent poll results hint at the possibility of a shift towards a more progressive political stance in the state.… Continue reading
I cannot begin to express the deep sense of anger and sadness that fills me when reading about the tragic death of Miranda Sipps, a 12-year-old Texas girl who passed away after her parents failed to seek medical attention for four days following life-threatening injuries. The fact that her parents attempted to treat her injuries with smoothies rather than take her to the hospital is beyond comprehension. It is a clear case of neglect, abuse, and utter disregard for the well-being of their own child.
The reports that the police had been called to their home multiple times prior to her death only adds fuel to the fire.… Continue reading
SpaceX repeatedly polluted waters in Texas this year, regulators found. As the news spreads, one has to wonder, is anyone surprised? Corporations, especially those with significant power and influence like SpaceX, often prioritize profit over environmental protection. It seems that once again, the environment has become a casualty in the pursuit of financial gain. The violations found by regulators could potentially hinder SpaceX’s plans to increase Starship launches from its Starbase facility in South Texas. However, one cannot help but wonder if this will truly put a stop to their ambitions.
The idea of corporations deflecting external costs onto the environment is not a new concept.… Continue reading
As I sat down to read the news today, I came across an article that left me utterly bewildered. Apparently, a Texas school has decided to ban all-black clothing, citing concerns about mental health. At first, I thought this was a joke, but as I delved deeper into the story, I realized that this was indeed a reality.
The idea that simply forbidding students from wearing all-black clothing will somehow address mental health concerns is not only laughable but downright dangerous. As someone who went through a goth phase in high school, I can attest to the fact that my choice of dark clothing had nothing to do with my mental well-being.… Continue reading
The news of a newborn baby being found near a dumpster in Houston is nothing short of heartbreaking. The fact that a helpless infant was abandoned in such a cruel and inhumane way is truly disturbing. It is a stark reminder of the harsh realities that exist when abortion access is restricted and women are forced into situations where they feel like they have no other choice.
The consequences of limiting access to safe and legal abortion are far-reaching and devastating. When women are denied the right to make decisions about their own bodies and reproductive health, we see the grim outcomes play out in real life.… Continue reading
Texas suing the Biden administration to limit teenage access to birth control is a blatant attack on women’s rights and autonomy. The fact that a Texas mother, Carmen Robles Frost, has joined the suit claiming that birth control will “facilitate sexual promiscuity and weaken her ability to raise her children in accordance with Christian teachings” is nothing short of absurd. The idea that parents should have control over their children’s reproductive choices is archaic and dangerous.
It is crucial to understand that birth control serves various purposes beyond preventing pregnancy. Women and girls may require it for medical reasons such as regulating periods or managing conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.… Continue reading
Living in Houston for a short period gave me a taste of the oftentimes unbearable humidity that blankets the city. The idea of enduring that humidity without electricity and air conditioning is truly daunting. As more than 1 million people in Houston find themselves without power due to the wrath of Tropical Storm Beryl, I can’t help but empathize with the struggles they must be facing. The comments about “Texas and Florida sucking up that sweet FEMA blue state cash” while claiming budget surpluses make me question the political ramifications of this disaster response. It’s disheartening to see how disaster relief becomes intertwined with political divisions, especially when the immediate concern should be the well-being of those affected.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker