Author: Michael Phillips
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Texas Social Studies Rewrite Puts History, Civics, and Chronology Back at the Center
Texas is revising its social studies curriculum, known as TEKS, to emphasize a chronological approach to history and civics education amid declining civic literacy. Backed by the Texas State Board of Education, the changes include a focus on U.S. and Texas history while also addressing a mandate on teaching communist atrocities. Critics express concerns over…
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Homicide of Respected Texas Public Servant Raises Urgent Questions in the Rio Grande Valley
The fatal shooting of Eddy Betancourt, a respected Rio Grande Valley businessman and Texas state appointee, has shaken South Texas. With no suspects, arrests, or motive publicly identified days after the killing, questions about transparency, public safety, and accountability continue to grow.
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More Californians and Floridians Are Moving to Texas — and the Trend Still Favors the Lone Star State
Texas is experiencing a significant net inflow of residents, particularly from California and Florida, as highlighted by recent migration data. Factors such as no state income tax, job opportunities, and housing availability contribute to Texas’s appeal. Despite a cooling housing market, the state remains attractive for those seeking economic opportunities.
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Texas Authorities Bust $14 Million Gift Card Fraud Ring, Highlighting New State Law
Authorities in Texas arrested three Latvian nationals for a $14 million gift card fraud scheme affecting retail stores across the state. The suspects cloned and drained gift card balances, often within minutes. This case highlights a growing trend in organized retail fraud, prompting Texas lawmakers to implement tougher laws on such crimes.
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Top 5 Biggest Scandals and News Stories That Rocked Texas in 2025
In 2025, Texas faced significant challenges, including devastating floods, political turmoil, and controversies surrounding key figures. Despite these issues, conservative victories emerged in election integrity, higher education reforms, and redistricting efforts. The events highlighted Texas’ resilience as a conservative stronghold amid adversity, emphasizing accountability and ideological shifts in governance.
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Texas Father Uses Phone Parental Controls to Rescue Kidnapped Daughter on Christmas Day
A Texas father used phone parental controls to track and rescue his 15-year-old daughter after she was abducted at knifepoint while walking her dog on Christmas Day. The case highlights how preparedness, technology, and decisive parental action can make the difference when seconds matter.
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Federal Judge Blocks Texas App Store Child Safety Law, Raising Free Speech and Government Overreach Questions
A federal judge has temporarily blocked Texas’s App Store Accountability Act, ruling the child-safety law likely violates the First Amendment by sweeping too broadly. The decision highlights a growing tension between protecting kids online and limiting government overreach into speech, privacy, and parental choice.
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Rising Power Bills Test Texas Families as Growth Strains the Grid
Texas, long viewed as a land of opportunity, is grappling with soaring electricity costs that strain family budgets. With residential rates rising significantly, low-income households are disproportionately affected, often forced to choose between essentials. A pivotal challenge lies in balancing growth and affordability, as infrastructure demands escalate amid surging demand.
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Texas Attorney General’s Office: Powerhouse Defender or Overstretched Political Weapon?
The Texas Attorney General’s Office, under Ken Paxton, evolved into a significant national political entity focused on conservative activism. As he departs for the U.S. Senate, Texas faces an open race for his successor. Candidates diverge on maintaining Paxton’s confrontational approach, while Democrats advocate for a return to nonpartisan governance.
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Louisiana’s Underwater Mortgage Crisis Signals Deeper Warning for the South
Louisiana has emerged as a crisis for underwater mortgages, with nearly 12% of homes seriously affected. Contributing factors include severe weather damaging properties and rising insurance costs due to regulatory issues. Although reforms are showing promise, the situation warns that housing stability relies on insurance viability and comprehensive market reforms beyond climate discussions.
Texas Bay News 