TEXAS CALIFORNIA

Apr 17 2026POLITICS

Money Talks: What Senate Filings Show About the 2026 Race

Texas is seeing a big Democratic money wave in 2026. James Talarico, running for Senate, pulled in $27 million in early 2026—that’s more than any other Senate hopeful has ever raised in a single quarter. His primary fight with Jasmine Crockett helped fuel the surge, but it also highlights a tension:

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Apr 16 2026ENVIRONMENT

Dusty air near California's shrinking lake may be slowing kids' lung growth

California's Salton Sea used to be a vacation hotspot in the mid-1900s with its sandy beaches and celebrity visitors. But decades of water mismanagement have turned this 340-square-mile lake into a drying disaster zone. As water disappears, it leaves behind a toxic mix of old pesticides, heavy metal

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Apr 11 2026OPINION

High Taxes, Low Happiness: Why People Leave California

California’s tax bill is one of the biggest burdens on its residents, especially those looking to retire. The state’s high property taxes and other levies make the total cost of living much higher than in many other places. When people compare how much they pay versus the benefits they receive, Cali

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Apr 11 2026EDUCATION

Texas Schools Shift Focus to Local History and Biblical Texts

Texas is making big changes to what students learn in social studies. The state’s education board recently voted to focus more on Texas and U. S. history while cutting back on world history and culture. Some parents and teachers worry this shift leaves out important perspectives. Others argue it’s t

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Apr 09 2026RELIGION

What stories should Texas students read?

Texas education officials are arguing over a new rule that would make Bible stories part of the required reading for public school kids from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Some parents and religious leaders say these stories belong in schools because they shaped America’s history and values. Ot

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Apr 09 2026OPINION

Emergency Vehicles and Green Rules: A Balancing Act for California

California is pushing hard to cut emissions, but the push from the state may have dangerous side effects. New rules want most vehicles to go electric soon, including ones used in emergencies. The problem? Right now, zero-emission alternatives for some key support vehicles simply aren’t dependable en

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Apr 08 2026POLITICS

Should Texas schools teach from the Bible? A curriculum fight heats up

Texas leaders are squaring off over a big idea that could reshape what students read in public schools. A recent state law asked educators to pick one book or passage for every grade, from kindergarten through high school. Out of hundreds of suggestions, several come straight from the Bible. Little

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Apr 04 2026POLITICS

A New Animal Abuse List: California’s Idea to Stop Cruelty

California lawmakers are thinking about a new online list that would name people who have been found guilty of serious animal cruelty. The idea is to give shelters, rescue groups and everyday citizens a way to spot people who might still harm animals. The plan would share details like the offender’s

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Apr 04 2026BUSINESS

Black Businesses Struggle as Texas Changes Rules, While Big Names Push Forward

Texas recently changed how it certifies minority-owned businesses, leaving over 15, 000 companies in limbo overnight. Before the change, these businesses could compete for state contracts worth billions. Now, most have lost their certification, forcing them to start from scratch. The shift came thro

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Apr 04 2026POLITICS

Why California’s Problems Matter More Than You Think

California is often seen as the golden state—a place of innovation and prosperity. But behind the headlines, many residents struggle with failures that don’t fit the dream. Housing costs have soared to levels that make ownership nearly impossible for middle-class families. Homelessness has turned in

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