Representatives Eric Swalwell (D-CA) and Tony Gonzales (R-TX) announced their resignations from Congress on Monday, marking a significant political upheaval. Both lawmakers faced mounting pressure and House ethics investigations following allegations of sexual misconduct involving former staff members. Gonzales admitted to an affair with a former aide who later died by suicide, while Swalwell denied allegations of sexual assault but acknowledged "mistakes in judgment." Their resignations come amid a broader reckoning over workplace conduct in Congress. Gonzales's departure leaves a vacancy in Texas's 23rd congressional district, a competitive seat that could influence the balance of power in the House. [The Guardian US], [San Antonio Express-News], [CNN Lite]
The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has named Susan Ballabina, a longtime insider and current executive vice chancellor, as the sole finalist for the presidency of the state's largest public university. Ballabina, who has held various leadership roles within the A&M System, will face a mandatory 21-day waiting period before the board can officially appoint her. Her selection follows a national search and positions her to lead the flagship College Station campus. [Texas Tribune], [Houston Chronicle]
Houston Mayor John Whitmire warned that the city could lose over $110 million in state public safety funding due to a new city ordinance that Governor Greg Abbott's office claims violates grant agreements. The dispute centers on the city's immigration policies, with the Abbott administration asserting that Houston's actions conflict with state laws, including the controversial "sanctuary cities" ban (Senate Bill 4). Harris County is also considering creating its own ICE guidelines, potentially modeled after Houston's policy, which could lead to similar funding conflicts. [KHOU Houston], [Houston Chronicle], [KXAN Austin]
Tesla's water consumption at its Gigafactory in Austin has increased by approximately 60%, or over 200 million gallons, in the past two years. This surge in usage has raised concerns about the city's strained water supply, particularly as a massive new chip plant proposal looms, potentially placing even greater demands on Austin's resources. The increased consumption highlights the growing tension between industrial development and sustainable water management in the rapidly expanding region. [Texas Tribune]
A 20-year-old man from Spring, Texas, Daniel Moreno-Gama, has been charged with attempted murder and attempted arson for allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at the San Francisco home of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. FBI agents later raided a home in The Woodlands, Texas, believed to be connected to Moreno-Gama. Authorities allege the attack was premeditated and motivated by opposition to artificial intelligence, citing documents found on the suspect that discussed AI's "purported risk to humanity" and "our impending extinction." [KHOU Houston], [Houston Chronicle], [NPR Text]
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into the apparel company Lululemon, alleging that its activewear may contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals." The probe focuses on whether Lululemon's products contain these potentially harmful chemicals and if the company has misled consumers about their presence. Lululemon has denied using PFAS in its products and stated it is cooperating with the investigation. [Austin American-Statesman], [KHOU Houston], [Houston Chronicle]
Central Texas continued its recent run of success in girls' high school soccer as Round Rock and Wimberley captured state championships. The victories highlight the growing strength of the region's athletic programs and add to a series of recent state titles for Central Texas teams. [Austin American-Statesman]
A 23-year-old pregnant woman in Houston is missing after sending a troubling text message to her family. Texas EquuSearch has offered a cash reward for information leading to her whereabouts. The disappearance has prompted a significant search effort and community concern. [KHOU Houston]
Cy-Fair Independent School District is projecting a $74 million budget shortfall for the 2026-27 school year. While the district has stated it will not make cuts at this time, the significant financial gap presents a major challenge for its leadership and could impact future operations and staffing. [Houston Chronicle]
The Dallas Wings selected UConn star Azzi Fudd with the first overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. Fudd's selection comes with a record-setting rookie salary of $500,000, a massive increase from previous years due to the league's new collective bargaining agreement. The draft also saw a historic night for UCLA, which had a record six players selected, including five in the first round. [KXAN Austin], [Dallas Morning News], [CNN Lite]
Despite rain, thousands turned out for Houston's 19th annual Tour de Houston, a cycling event benefiting city parks. Later in the weekend, the city's iconic Art Car Parade also drew large crowds, showcasing its unique blend of art and automotive culture. The events highlight Houston's vibrant community life and resilience. [KHOU Houston], [Houston Chronicle]
Texas Tech football has secured a major recruiting win with the commitment of five-star edge rusher Anthony Sweeney. The addition of Sweeney is a significant boost for the Red Raiders' program as they look to build a competitive team in the Big 12. [Dallas Morning News]
Feral hog populations are increasing across North Texas, leading to more frequent sightings and concerns about property damage and safety. Wildlife officials are urging residents to report sightings and take precautions, as these animals can be dangerous and destructive. [Dallas Morning News]
The University of Texas baseball team lost its weekend series to rival Texas A&M, including a dramatic 11-6 defeat in the final game. The loss was a setback for the Longhorns, who were ranked No. 2 in the nation at the time. The series finale was ultimately canceled due to weather. [Austin American-Statesman], [KXAN Austin], [Houston Chronicle]
A Houston-based company, Hive ASMBLD, is using 3D printing technology to build more affordable homes in the city. This innovative approach aims to reduce construction costs and time, addressing the ongoing housing shortage and potentially signaling a shift in the local construction industry. [KHOU Houston]
A new taqueria, Taqueria De Diez, is set to open in a redeveloped building on Austin's Sixth Street. This development is part of a larger effort by Stream Realty to revitalize the downtown entertainment district, which has faced challenges in recent years. [KXAN Austin]