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On February 1, 2026, Democrat Taylor Rehmet won a Texas State Senate special election in a traditionally Republican Fort Worth district by over 14 points, overturning a 17-point Trump margin from 2024. The victory signals shifting Hispanic voter support and growing Democratic momentum ahead of the November midterms. Rehmet must defend the seat in November, while Republicans face challenges in Texas primaries.
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Homeownership tenure reached 8.55 years in 2025, driven by homeowners delaying moves due to low mortgage rates, limited inventory, and high prices. The market is now favoring buyers with more choices and less competition, especially in southern metros. Luxury sales continue to grow, while entry-level homes become scarcer.
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Waymo announced expansion into Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, increasing its reach to ten US markets. The move aims to surpass 1 million weekly trips by end-2026, with over 400,000 trips already in six cities. Rivals like Tesla and Zoox remain in testing phases.
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New York City’s new mayor, Mamdani, faces limited risk to city debt despite socialist rhetoric. Bonds remain stable, protected by legal safeguards, even as he proposes increased taxes and potential default. The dispute over Israel bonds highlights political tensions, but investor confidence endures for now.
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Iraq's World Cup playoff faces postponement amid escalating US-Iran conflict. Logistical issues, airspace closures, and visa problems hinder team preparations. Coach Arnold urges FIFA to delay the match, which is scheduled for March 31 in Mexico, to ensure Iraq can field its best team.
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NASA is preparing to launch Artemis II, the first crewed lunar mission since 1972, targeting April 1, 2026. The mission will send four astronauts—three Americans and one Canadian—on a nearly 10-day flight orbiting the Moon without landing. The launch follows delays caused by hydrogen leaks and helium line clogs. Meanwhile, NASA is overhauling its lunar program, focusing on a surface base and nuclear propulsion demonstrations by 2028.
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Due to the government shutdown, over a third of TSA staff are absent at major airports, prompting the deployment of ICE agents to assist security. The move raises concerns about effectiveness and safety as officials scramble to manage long lines and security risks.
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A large explosion occurred at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, causing smoke and shaking homes. No injuries were reported. Residents were advised to stay indoors as emergency services responded. The incident coincides with rising gas prices linked to global oil supply concerns.
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Travel disruptions continue across US airports due to TSA staffing shortages caused by the government shutdown. Passengers face unpredictable wait times, missed flights, and increased stress, with some airports experiencing delays of up to four hours. The situation remains uncertain as TSA callouts and lack of real-time information persist.
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Recent data shows US cities, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York, are experiencing population declines driven by reduced international migration and domestic outflows. The trend reflects broader national shifts, with many regions losing residents due to high living costs and policy changes. The impact on local economies and growth prospects is significant.
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Two fire department officials died after their utility vehicle was struck by a southbound car on Route 222 while they were searching for a missing woman. The incident occurred northwest of Philadelphia, with the vehicle on the shoulder when hit. The driver and passenger fled but were later arrested. Autopsies are scheduled for Monday.
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NASA's Artemis II mission has successfully returned after sending four astronauts farther into space than any humans have traveled since 1972. The Orion capsule Integrity has splashed down off Southern California on April 11, completing a 10-day journey around the moon. The mission has tested critical systems for future lunar landings planned for 2028 and marked historic firsts for crew diversity.
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Daniel Moreno-Gama, 20, has been charged with attempted murder and arson after throwing a Molotov cocktail at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's San Francisco home and threatening to burn down OpenAI's headquarters. Moreno-Gama traveled from Texas, carried an anti-AI manifesto with threats against Altman, and faces federal and state charges that could lead to life imprisonment. No injuries have been reported.
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Texas Governor Abbott has announced that Houston, Dallas, and Austin face losing over $200 million in public safety funding unless they amend policies related to immigration enforcement. The cities have adopted rules limiting police cooperation with federal immigration authorities, prompting legal and political confrontations. The dispute is ongoing as cities prepare to defend their policies.
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Angelina Han Hicks, 18, has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder at Houston's Congregation Beth Israel. Authorities allege she planned a two-year attack targeting the synagogue, but her parents describe her as mentally unwell. The case highlights ongoing threats to Jewish communities amid rising security concerns.