State & Local

Screwworm Found in South Texas Calf Raises Beef Price Concerns After Prevention Program Cuts

The flesh-eating parasite, eradicated from U.S. livestock since the 1960s, has been detected for the first time in years in a 3-week-old calf near the border.

By James Callahan · Sunday, June 7, 2026 · 3 min read
State & Local

Florida and Texas Are Battling for New Residents as DeSantis Pushes Property Tax Cuts

The governor is backing a constitutional amendment that would expand Florida's homestead exemption to $250,000 by 2028, potentially reducing local government revenue by more than $8.4 billion annually.

By James Callahan · Sunday, June 7, 2026 · 3 min read
State & Local

Over 160K Sign Petition Opposing Data Center Next to Nashville Zoo; Mayor Weighs In

DC Blox proposes 69,220-square-foot facility steps from the zoo as residents raise concerns about noise, infrastructure and lack of environmental review.

By James Callahan · Saturday, June 6, 2026 · 3 min read
State & Local

Texas AG Opens Investigation Into Celsius Energy Drinks Following Teen Death

The inquiry targets Alani, a brightly marketed energy drink containing 200mg of caffeine per can that critics say targets young consumers without adequate warnings.

By James Callahan · Saturday, June 6, 2026 · 3 min read
State & Local

USDA Confirms Second Screwworm Fly Case in Texas Amid Eradication Push

The parasitic pest, not seen in the state since 1966, has prompted aerial releases of 2 million sterile flies per week and port closures to livestock trade.

By James Callahan · Saturday, June 6, 2026 · 3 min read
State & Local

FBI Director Says Local Officials Delayed Federal Help in Nancy Guthrie Missing Person Case

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos's office waited four days before allowing FBI assistance and chose a private lab over federal DNA testing, according to Patel.

By James Callahan · Friday, June 5, 2026 · 4 min read
State & Local

New York City Council Holds First Pride Ball in Historic Chambers

Drag performers took over the legislative space for a June celebration of LGBTQ+ history, drawing both applause and scrutiny over use of public facilities.

By James Callahan · Thursday, June 4, 2026 · 4 min read
State & Local

California Journalists Gain Access to Teacher Misconduct Records After Lengthy Public Records Fight

A KQED-ProPublica investigation obtained more than 350 complaints from the state's largest school districts, though Los Angeles Unified continues to withhold records.

By James Callahan · Thursday, June 4, 2026 · 4 min read
State & Local

Man Shot Dead by FBI After Taking Hostages at California Bank

The Bakersfield standoff ended with the suspect killed and all hostages released unharmed following an overnight negotiation period.

By James Callahan · Wednesday, June 3, 2026 · 3 min read
State & Local

Nearly 24 Hours After Polls Closed, California Still Counting Votes in Governor, Mayor Races

With only 55% of gubernatorial votes reported and three weeks allowed for final tallies under state law, neither the governor's race nor Los Angeles mayoral contest has been decided.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, June 3, 2026 · 4 min read