HOUSTON, Texas – Here’s a look at your top stories to help start your day.
CenterPoint Energy mobilizes 3,300 workers ahead of potentially impactful winter weather event
CenterPoint Energy says it has mobilized roughly 3,300 workers, including line crews, local contractors and additional frontline personnel, as freezing temperatures and wintry conditions approach the Houston area this weekend. The utility is setting up staging sites across northern parts of the region and conducting pre-storm checks, tree trimming and readiness actions to respond quickly to any impacts on electric and natural gas service. Officials are urging customers to stay weather-aware and prepare now in case the forecasted winter weather affects infrastructure or services.
Winter weather prompts TxDOT to pre‑treat roads, urges caution for drivers
The Texas Department of Transportation says crews will begin pre-treating roads in parts of the Houston district ahead of cold weather, starting with areas in North and West Harris County and Montgomery County. TxDOT isn’t closing roads but is working with law enforcement on closures if conditions worsen. Officials also reminded drivers to use caution, especially in places prone to freezing, as they focus on keeping roadways clear for first responders and essential travel.
Former Uvalde officer acquitted in trial over police response to Robb Elementary attack
A former Uvalde school police officer was acquitted of charges that he failed in his duties to confront the gunman at Robb Elementary during the critical first minutes of one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. Jurors deliberated for more than seven hours before finding Adrian Gonzales, 52, not guilty in the first trial over the hesitant law enforcement response to the 2022 attack, in which a teenage gunman killed 19 fourth-graders and two teachers. Had he been convicted, he faced up two years in prison on more than two dozen charges of child abandonment and endangerment.
Supreme Court seems inclined to keep Lisa Cook on Fed board despite Trump attempt to fire her
The U.S. Supreme Court appears poised to allow Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook to remain in her position, casting doubt on President Trump’s attempt to remove her over allegations of mortgage fraud — accusations she denies. Justices expressed skepticism about the president’s power to fire a Fed governor, a role historically insulated from political influence, and indicated they might let the legal challenge play out in lower courts first.
House Republicans begin push to hold the Clintons in contempt of Congress over the Epstein probe
House Republicans, along with some Democrats, are advancing resolutions to hold former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in contempt of Congress as part of the ongoing investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s activities. The measures, rare and politically charged, reflect the committee’s efforts to compel testimony and transparency related to the Epstein case, though full House approval is not guaranteed.