SUMMARY: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz has reintroduced a bill to designate Houthi rebels as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO), a label removed by the Biden administration in 2021. Cruz criticized this decision, claiming it enabled Houthi attacks on civilians, Israel, and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. He argues that re-designation would impose stricter sanctions on Houthi suppliers. The Houthis, who overthrew the Yemeni government in 2014, continue to threaten regional stability and have received support from Iran. The bill, co-sponsored by several Republican senators, aims to restore sanctions to counter rising terrorist threats linked to the Houthis under Biden’s policies.

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SUMMARY: Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced a projected $24 billion surplus, surpassing previous estimates. The state expects $194.6 billion in revenue for general-purpose spending in the 2026-2027 biennium, up from earlier forecasts. Despite economic challenges, Texas’ economy has outperformed the national average. Hegar stressed the importance of thoughtful spending decisions, highlighting the ongoing struggles with high living costs. Oil and gas revenues are significant, but no reserves are expected for the Rainy Day Fund due to its record-high balance. Sales taxes remain the state’s largest revenue source, projected to reach $94.2 billion in 2026-2027. Hegar cautioned about potential economic disruptions.

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SUMMARY: Police are investigating two related shootings that occurred in North Houston before 10:00 PM last night. A man was found dead at Enclave Fountain from multiple gunshot wounds, while another man was shot twice near a gas station on Tidwell and is currently in stable condition at a hospital. Witness statements and evidence suggest an exchange of gunfire took place, but police have yet to determine if the involved parties are connected. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact them or Crime Stoppers anonymously. The investigation is ongoing, with updates expected as more details emerge.

Police are investigating two shootings in north Houston, including one that turned deadly. They believe the incidents may be connected.

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