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NFIB: Small Business Hiring Shows Mixed Signals

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NFIB: Small Business Hiring Shows Mixed Signals
NFIB’s December jobs report found that 33% (seasonally adjusted) of small business owners reported job openings they could not fill in December, unchanged from November. Unfilled job openings remain above the historical average of 24%. Image for illustration purposes
NFIB’s December jobs report found that 33% (seasonally adjusted) of small business owners reported job openings they could not fill in December, unchanged from November. Unfilled job openings remain above the historical average of 24%. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – NFIB’s December jobs report found that 33% (seasonally adjusted) of small business owners reported job openings they could not fill in December, unchanged from November. Unfilled job openings remain above the historical average of 24%. Twenty-eight percent have openings for skilled workers (up 2 points), and 10% have openings for unskilled labor (down 2 points).

“The economic climate continues to support the small business labor market,” said Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. “Although employment conditions vary, fewer owners report labor as their biggest challenge while compensation pressures are escalating.”

“Unfortunately, Texas small business owners are not immune to the hiring challenges we see across the country. Our members have the positions; they just need qualified applicants,” NFIB State Director Jeff Burdett said.

A seasonally adjusted net 17% of owners plan to create new jobs in the next three months, down 2 points from November.

Overall, 53% of owners reported hiring or trying to hire in December, down 3 points from November. Forty-eight percent of owners (91% of those hiring or trying to hire) reported few or no qualified applicants for the positions they were trying to fill (down 2 points). Twenty-five percent reported few qualified applicants (down 5 points), and 23% reported none (up 3 points).

In December, 19% of small business owners cited labor quality as their single most important problem, down 2 points from November. Labor costs, reported as the single most important problem by small business owners, rose 1 point to 9%.

Seasonally adjusted, a net 31% of small business owners reported raising compensation in December, up 5 points from November. A net 24% (seasonally adjusted) plan to raise compensation in the next three months, unchanged from November.

Click here to view the entire NFIB Jobs Report.

Two Suspects in Aggravated Robbery Case Apprehended

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Two Suspects in Aggravated Robbery Case Apprehended
The Edinburg Police Department, in coordination with the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, has taken two suspects into custody in connection with an Aggravated Robbery investigation. Images courtesy of The City of Edinburg. Bgd for illustration purposes
The Edinburg Police Department, in coordination with the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, has taken two suspects into custody in connection with an Aggravated Robbery investigation. Images courtesy of The City of Edinburg. Bgd for illustration purposes

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Texas Border Business

The Edinburg Police Department, in coordination with the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, has taken two suspects into custody in connection with an Aggravated Robbery investigation.

On January 9, 2026, officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of E. Trenton in San Juan. During the stop, the driver—identified as Francisco Javier Villanueva, 56, of San Juan—fled on foot. After a brief pursuit, Villanueva was apprehended without further incident.

The search for the second suspect remained ongoing until approximately 11:00 p.m. the same evening, when officers responded to the 600 block of Water St. in San Juan. Upon arrival, units located and detained Hugo Enrique Ochoa, 37, also of San Juan.

Both individuals have since been arraigned.

  • Francisco Javier Villanueva
    Charged with three counts of Aggravated Robbery and Evading Arrest.
    Total bond: $310,000.
  • Hugo Enrique Ochoa
    Charged with three counts of Aggravated Robbery.
    Total bond: $300,000.

The Edinburg Police Department thanks the community and partnering agencies for their assistance during this investigation.

See related Story:

Two Suspects Sought in Edinburg Robbery

De La Cruz Secures $1.75 Million for South Texas Water and Public Safety Projects

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De La Cruz Secures $1.75 Million for South Texas Water and Public Safety Projects
“The passage of this legislation delivered wins for South Texas, securing $1.75 million to improve water infrastructure while fueling American energy and protecting public safety.” — Congresswoman De La Cruz. Image for illustration purposes

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WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below following her vote to pass the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act.

“The passage of this legislation delivered wins for South Texas, securing $1.75 million to improve water infrastructure while fueling American energy and protecting public safety. As we continue our work to fund the government responsibly, I am committed to prioritizing the water needs of South Texas, bringing home taxpayer dollars, and continuing to invest in our communities.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz


Background:

The Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act supports law enforcement efforts to combat the spread of illicit drugs through our communities, unleashes American energy resources, and invests in the proper management of America’s public lands.

Additionally, De La Cruz secured the following investments for community project funding for Texas’s 15th Congressional District:

  • $750,000 for the City of Edinburg for the Water Treatment Plant Project
  • $1,000,000 for the City of McAllen for the Remote Groundwater Well

PSJA ISD’s 3rd Annual Young Women’s Leadership Summit – EmpowerHER, Jan. 13th  

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PSJA ISD’s 3rd Annual Young Women’s Leadership Summit – EmpowerHER, Jan. 13th  
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) will host its 3rd Annual Young Women’s Leadership Summit - EmpowerHER on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, starting at 9:00 am at the PSJA Napper Development & Support Center in Pharr, Texas. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) will host its 3rd Annual Young Women’s Leadership Summit – EmpowerHER on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, starting at 9:00 am at the PSJA Napper Development & Support Center in Pharr, Texas. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes

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PHARR, Texas – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) will host its 3rd Annual Young Women’s Leadership Summit – EmpowerHER on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, starting at 9:00 am at the PSJA Napper Development & Support Center in Pharr, Texas. 
 
This powerful event is designed to inspire and empower senior girls who are achieving incredible milestones such as earning an Associate Degree from South Texas College (STC), STC College Certificate, Core Complete, or a PSJA Academies Industry Certification. More than 100 senior girls from across all PSJA high schools will come together for this meaningful conference focused on leadership, confidence, and future opportunities. 

Courtesy image


The conference will provide students with: 

  • Leadership Development Sessions: Led by accomplished women leaders from across the RGV. 
  • Fashion Show: An inspiring student-led fashion show showcasing dresses donated to the PSJA Counseling & Guidance Department’s Prom Closet. 
  • Networking Lunch: A formal lunch where attendees have the chance to network with leaders in our district. 
  • College networking: Opportunities to connect with college representatives, scholarship opportunities, and vendors to explore their next steps. 

Verónica Bernal McCann will serve as the events keynote speaker, sharing her journey and passion for advocacy, leadership, and service. Veronica is a Texas-licensed attorney, public servant, and proud PSJA North High School alum with a deep commitment to justice and community. 

WHAT: PSJA ISD to Host 3rd Annual Young Women’s Leadership Summit – EmpowerHER 
 
WHEN: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, starting at 9:00 am 
  
WHERE: PSJA Napper Development & Support Center 
     903 N. Flag St., Pharr, TX 78577: Sam Houston Room  
    (Building A – Close to Parking Lot 1 on W. Polk Ave.) 

Trump Calls for One-Year 10 Percent Cap on Credit Card Interest Rates

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Trump Calls for One-Year 10 Percent Cap on Credit Card Interest Rates
President Donald J. Trump has publicly called for a one-year cap on credit card interest rates at 10 percent, saying current rates are harming consumers and should no longer be allowed. Image for illustration purposes
President Donald J. Trump has publicly called for a one-year cap on credit card interest rates at 10 percent, saying current rates are harming consumers and should no longer be allowed. Image for illustration purposes

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Texas Border Business

President Donald J. Trump has publicly called for a one-year cap on credit card interest rates at 10 percent, saying current rates are harming consumers and should no longer be allowed. The proposal was first announced by Trump in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, and was later discussed by him in remarks to reporters that were posted by the White House.

In the Truth Social post, Trump wrote, “Please be informed that we will no longer let the American Public be ‘ripped off’ by Credit Card Companies that are charging Interest Rates of 20 to 30%, and even more.” He blamed those rates on what he described as a lack of action under the previous administration, adding that they “festered unimpeded during the Sleepy Joe Biden Administration.”

Screenshot of a Truth Social post by President Donald J. Trump calling for a one-year cap on credit card interest rates at 10 percent, effective January 20, 2026, which he notes coincides with the first anniversary of his presidency.

Trump said the proposal would take effect on January 20, 2026. “Effective January 20, 2026, I, as President of the United States, am calling for a one year cap on Credit Card Interest Rates of 10%,” he wrote. He added that the date would “coincide with the one year anniversary of the historic and very successful Trump Administration.”

The statement framed the proposal as a consumer affordability measure. Trump emphasized the word “AFFORDABILITY!” in capital letters and said the goal was to stop what he described as excessive charges faced by everyday Americans.

After the social media post, Trump reiterated the idea in comments to reporters during a press gaggle aboard Air Force One. Video of those remarks was published on WhiteHouse.gov. In those comments, Trump again criticized credit card interest rates that he said can reach close to 30 percent and repeated his call for a 10 percent cap lasting one year.

The White House has not released a written fact sheet, executive order, memorandum, or proclamation explaining how the proposed cap would be implemented. The WhiteHouse.gov postings related to the issue consist of video pages that show Trump’s remarks, without transcripts or policy documents outlining the legal authority, scope, or enforcement.

Trump’s public statements do not specify how a 10 percent cap would be enforced, which types of credit cards would be covered, or which federal agencies would be responsible for carrying it out. 

As of now, the proposal stands as a call by the president rather than a formal policy action. No legislation, executive order, or regulatory directive has been issued to implement the proposed interest rate cap.

Senate Hearing Targets Alleged Judicial Misconduct

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Senate Hearing Targets Alleged Judicial Misconduct
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights, chaired a hearing titled “Impeachment: Holding Rogue Judges Accountable” to address the rise of judicial lawfare under the Biden administration. Courtesy image
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights, chaired a hearing titled “Impeachment: Holding Rogue Judges Accountable” to address the rise of judicial lawfare under the Biden administration. Courtesy image

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WASHINGTON, D.C.- U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights, chaired a hearing titled “Impeachment: Holding Rogue Judges Accountable” to address the rise of judicial lawfare under the Biden administration. During the hearing, Sen. Cruz called for the impeachment of Judges James Boasberg and Deborah Boardman for explicitly ignoring their constitutional duties. 

Watch the video of the meeting below:

 Please see below excerpts and highlights from Sen. Cruz’s opening remarks:

“The American Republic begins with a simple and radical truth: all power originates with the people. Before there is a Congress, before there is a President, before there are courts, there is the sovereign citizen. The Founders placed that principle on the very first line of our national charter: ‘We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, do ordain and establish this Constitution.’ They did not say we the judges, we the bureaucrats, or we the elites. They said ‘We the People’.

“Judge Boasberg used the authority of his office to authorize—and then conceal—the targeting of members of Congress, spying on the legislative branch, and striking at the very heart of the Constitution’s Speech or Debate Clause. No republic can survive if its judges assist executive officials in surveilling the people’s elected representatives. In his own words, Judge Boasberg claimed that he ‘finds reasonable grounds to believe that such disclosure will result in the destruction of or tampering with evidence, intimidation of potential witnesses, and serious jeopardy to the investigation.’

“Turning to Judge Deborah Boardman: her sentencing decision did not end with one defendant. It reverberated across the entire judiciary. She imposed a sentence 22 years below the sentencing guidelines on Nicholas Roske, a man who armed himself with a gun, knife, duct tape, and zip ties, traveled across the country, and intended to assassinate Justice Brett Kavanaugh and other Supreme Court justices.

“Both judges, in my view, meet the constitutional standard for impeachment, conviction, and removal from office. That is what today’s hearing will address.”

Additionally, Sen. Cruz sent a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.-04) urging the U.S. House of Representatives to immediately advance the pending articles of impeachment against Chief Judge James Boasberg and Judge Deborah Boardman. Read the full letter here.

BACKGROUND

In November, Sen. Cruz sent a letter requesting that U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi unseal the application for a non-disclosure order signed by Obama-appointed Judge James Boasberg, which required phone carriers to keep the Biden DOJ and Jack Smith’s subpoenas secret for one year. 

In October, Sen. Cruz delivered remarks during a Senate Judiciary Committee press conference following Judge Boasberg’s role in the Arctic Frost probe.

Two Suspects Sought in Edinburg Robbery

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Two Suspects Sought in Edinburg Robbery
The armed suspect was described as wearing a black and white jacket and a cap. The lookout was described as wearing a camouflage-style cap, a maroon shirt with white stripes, and blue jeans. The investigation is ongoing. Images courtesy of The City of Edinburg. Bgd for illustration purposes
The armed suspect was described as wearing a black and white jacket and a cap. The lookout was described as wearing a camouflage-style cap, a maroon shirt with white stripes, and blue jeans. The investigation is ongoing. Images courtesy of The City of Edinburg. Bgd for illustration purposes

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EDINBURG, Texas – On January 9, 2025, at approximately 12:48 p.m., Edinburg Police Department officers responded to a robbery at the Xoom Express located at 1402 E. University Drive.
Upon arrival, officers learned that two male suspects had committed an aggravated robbery at the location. One suspect was armed with a handgun and robbed a customer. The suspect then forced an employee to provide access to store funds, including the cash register and an on-site ATM. 

The second suspect remained outside the business acting as a lookout. No injuries were reported. 
The armed suspect was described as wearing a black and white jacket and a cap. The lookout was described as wearing a camouflage-style cap, a maroon shirt with white stripes, and blue jeans. The investigation is ongoing. 

Anyone with information on the robbery is asked to call Edinburg PD at 956-289-7700 or Edinburg Crime Stoppers at 956-383-TIPS. 

See relates story:

Two Suspects in Aggravated Robbery Case Apprehended

South Texas Builders Join De La Cruz for Discussion on Immigration and Housing Challenges

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South Texas Builders Join De La Cruz for Discussion on Immigration and Housing Challenges
This week, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) held a roundtable discussion with members of the South Texas Builders Alliance’s board. The meeting covered De La Cruz’s immigration and housing policy priorities. Courtesy image

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WASHINGTON, DC – This week, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) held a roundtable discussion with members of the South Texas Builders Alliance’s board. The meeting covered De La Cruz’s immigration and housing policy priorities.

“My top priority is to hear from South Texans and deliver solutions to ensure our communities remain prosperous. I will continue to focus on what matters: delivering common-sense policy solutions for the hard-working immigrants who strengthen our communities and making homeownership affordable for all Americans.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

EdwardsAbstractAgentOne Brings Real-Time Clarity to Real Estate Conversations

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EdwardsAbstractAgentOne Brings Real-Time Clarity to Real Estate Conversations
EdwardsAbstractAgentOne is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
EdwardsAbstractAgentOne is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes

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Texas Border Business

A new mobile application called EdwardsAbstractAgentOne has been released for real estate agents seeking faster access to reliable numbers during client conversations. According to its creators, the app is designed for agents who want “faster answers, more confident conversations, and better results.”

The service focuses on providing real-time calculations that agents can use while meeting with buyers and sellers. The goal, as described by the team behind the app, is to help agents “respond quickly, build trust, and help move clients from ‘thinking about it’ to under contract” using their preferred device.

Courtesy image

EdwardsAbstractAgentOne is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app is intended to be used in live discussions, rather than as a back-office tool, allowing agents to answer financial questions as they arise.

One of the core features of the app is the ability to “instantly generate buyer cost estimates and seller net sheets during client conversations.” These calculations are paired with “county-specific closing cost calculations you can rely on,” which reflect local differences that often affect final numbers in a transaction.

The app also allows users to “run multiple scenarios on the spot to overcome objections and answer ‘what if’ questions.” This feature helps clients understand how different prices, terms, or costs could change their outcome, without waiting for follow-up emails or revised spreadsheets.

In addition to calculations, EdwardsAbstractAgentOne lets agents “share professional, client-ready reports that support confident decision-making.” These reports are designed to be clear and presentable, so clients can review the information discussed and feel comfortable moving forward.

The developers say the app is built to support agents who need to remain flexible and available. It is promoted as a way to “stay responsive and efficient – anytime, anywhere,” particularly in fast-moving real estate markets where timing can influence decisions.

Overall, EdwardsAbstractAgentOne is positioned as a productivity and accuracy tool. It is described as helping agents “work smarter, respond faster, and convert interest into action, all while delivering the level of accuracy and professionalism your clients expect.”

The release is framed as part of a service philosophy. The team describes it as “the Experience Edwards in action: thoughtful tools, efficient execution, and support that helps you win.” They summarize that approach with the message, “Experience Ease. Experience Efficiency. Experience Edwards.”

Users who want help getting started are encouraged to ask for assistance. The team says, “If you’d like a quick walkthrough or have questions, our team is always here to help,” adding that agents can simply reply to request support.

Edwards Abstract & Title Co.

http://www.edwardsabstract.com

Celebrating New Home Reconstruction Through Urban County Program

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Celebrating New Home Reconstruction Through Urban County Program
Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Commissioner, joined the Hidalgo County Urban County Program on Friday for a Key Hand Off Ceremony celebrating the completion of a newly reconstructed home for a Precinct 4 resident through the HOME Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program. Courtesy images
Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Commissioner, joined the Hidalgo County Urban County Program on Friday for a Key Hand Off Ceremony celebrating the completion of a newly reconstructed home for a Precinct 4 resident through the HOME Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program. Courtesy images

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EDINBURG, Texas – Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Commissioner, joined the Hidalgo County Urban County Program on Friday for a Key Hand Off Ceremony celebrating the completion of a newly reconstructed home for a Precinct 4 resident through the HOME Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program.

The home, located in Edinburg, was rebuilt following the demolition of a substandard structure, providing safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for the homeowner and the family.

The Edinburg home before the new reconstruction. Courtesy image
Front view of the Edinburg home before reconstruction. Courtesy image
Newly reconstructed home form the Hidalgo County Urban Program. Courtesy image

“This is exactly what public service is about — restoring dignity, safety, and stability for families who have waited patiently for an opportunity like this,” said Commissioner Ellie Torres. “I am proud to see this home completed and to work alongside the Urban County Program and our partners to ensure our residents have a safe place to call home.”

The family, who desires to remain anonymous, submitted an application with Urban County Program in August 2023, and assistance was approved under the HOME Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Loan Program on September 23, 2025.

“This home represents hope and a new beginning for the family,” said Irene Montoya, Program Coordinator II for Hidalgo County Urban County Program. “After waiting two years, they are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this possible. This house means safety, comfort, and a better future for her children.”

The HOME Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program, administered by the Hidalgo County Urban County Program, provides rehabilitation and reconstruction assistance to eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners. The program’s objective is to arrest the deterioration of substandard housing and preserve the county’s housing stock by partnering with qualified homeowners and contractors.

“This project demonstrates the impact of strong partnerships and long-term commitment to our residents,” said Joel Rivera, Director of Hidalgo County Urban County Program. “Our goal is to ensure families have access to decent, safe, and affordable housing, and today’s key handoff is a powerful example of that mission in action.”

The reconstruction was completed by A One Insulation who partnered with the Urban County Program. For more information on the program, call (956) 787-8127.

Hidalgo County Precinct 4 remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve quality of life, strengthen neighborhoods, and provide essential resources to residents in need.

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