Houston

Amanda Edwards, a former Houston City Council member, has announced her candidacy for Texas’ 18th Congressional District. This marks her third attempt to secure the seat in less than two years. Edwards aims to address key issues such as healthcare, education, and economic growth, emphasizing her understanding of the community’s needs. With a focus on building a diverse coalition, Edwards seeks to offer new leadership for a district with a significant history of representation. Her campaign strategy includes community engagement and outreach to both established leaders and grassroots organizations.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated a lawsuit against a North Texas school district, alleging the district’s teaching methods violate state law by incorporating critical race theory. The lawsuit puts Texas at the center of a national debate over educational content, sparking diverse opinions among educators, parents, and policymakers. As the case unfolds, it could have consequences for how race-related topics are approached in classrooms across the country.

Houston faces a new measles case involving an infant, highlighting global transmission and risks associated with international travel. Current cases in the city stem from travelers, not local spread. The CDC outlines high-risk countries, with many linking directly or indirectly to Houston. Across the U.S., measles incidents exceed previous totals due to rising cases in West Texas. Vaccination remains key, as health officials stress its importance, especially for international travelers. Local officials urge residents to maintain immunization to prevent further outbreaks.

Christian Menefee resigns from his position as Harris County Attorney to pursue a congressional seat, impacting Texas’s political scene. His decision marks a critical juncture in his career, with Menefee remaining as acting attorney until the Harris County Commissioners Court names a successor. His resignation and subsequent congressional bid highlight significant shifts in Texas politics, as his campaign is poised to address pressing issues like healthcare and climate change. The community awaits the appointment of a new county attorney and the evolution of Menefee’s campaign.

Prominent Houston attorney Tony Buzbee faces a lawsuit from former client Jose Bermudez, who alleges being overcharged in interest from a settlement fund. This marks the fourth such claim against Buzbee, drawing further scrutiny into the law firm’s handling of client settlements.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire offers a voluntary retirement incentive to 2,700 city workers to address a projected $330 million budget deficit. The program aims to reduce payroll expenses amid financial strain, following a hiring freeze. The city’s leadership is focused on balancing fiscal responsibility with maintaining essential public services, considering additional cost-saving measures. Efforts include reassessing departmental budgets and exploring revenue opportunities while prioritizing transparency and public welfare. This initiative represents a significant move towards achieving financial stability and sustainable resource management for Houston.