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Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband Killed in Targeted Attack; Senator and Wife Injured

Indira Zaldivar
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Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband Killed in Targeted Attack; Senator and Wife Injured

Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were shot and killed early Saturday in what Governor Tim Walz called “an act of targeted political violence.” State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were also shot and wounded in a separate but related attack near Minneapolis.

Gunman Impersonated Police Officer

Authorities say the suspect impersonated a police officer, complete with vest, badge, Taser, and police-style vehicle. He opened fire on responding officers at Hortman’s home in Brooklyn Park after earlier shooting the Hoffmans in Champlin. The suspect escaped on foot and remains at large.

Victims Were Named on Suspect’s Target List

Police recovered a list from the suspect’s vehicle that included Hortman, Hoffman, and dozens of other Minnesota Democrats, such as Gov. Walz, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, and Attorney General Keith Ellison. Sources say the shooter may have been driven by extreme anti-abortion views.

Tributes Pour In for Melissa Hortman

Governor Walz described Hortman as “a formidable public servant” and said, “She is irreplaceable.” Hortman had served as Minnesota House Speaker and most recently as DFL leader. Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin, a longtime friend, called her “the very best Speaker of the House that Minnesota has ever had.”

Sen. Hoffman and Wife Recovering After Surgery

Governor Walz said both Hoffman and his wife are recovering from surgery and that “we’re cautiously optimistic they will survive this assassination attempt.”

Increased Security and Shelter-in-Place Orders

Security has been increased for those named on the suspect’s list. Brooklyn Park remains under a shelter-in-place order, and residents have been urged not to open their doors to a lone officer without verifying through 911. Licensed officers are now patrolling in pairs.

National Reaction and Warnings

President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson condemned the violence. Walz urged the public to avoid political rallies until the suspect is caught, warning, “This threat remains active.”

Family Members Mourn Loss

Hortman’s sister-in-law told ABC News, “We loved them dearly. I hope they catch him and they get justice… It’s devastating.”

This is a developing story. Keep up with more updates with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Israel Strikes Iranian Nuclear Facilities

Que Onda Editorial
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Israel Strikes Iranian Nuclear Facilities

Israel launched a major airstrike Friday targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, reportedly killing several nuclear scientists and top military commanders.

According to Israeli officials, the operation struck key sites in Isfahan, damaging four critical buildings, including the Uranium Conversion Facility. The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed the damage but reported no radiation leaks.

Iran Responds with Missile Barrage

In retaliation, Iran launched dozens of ballistic missiles at Israel. The strikes killed at least three people and injured 41, Israeli authorities confirmed. Air raid sirens were heard across Israeli cities, warning of further incoming attacks.

Netanyahu: ‘There’s More to Be Done’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement vowing continued action. “We paved the way to Tehran… our pilots over the skies of Tehran will deal blows to the Ayatollah regime that they cannot even imagine,” he said. Netanyahu claimed Iranian leaders were “already packing their bags.”

Death Toll Rises in Iran

Iranian officials said at least 78 people were killed and 320 injured in the Israeli strikes, which included the killing of over 20 high-ranking members of Iran’s security apparatus, according to the IDF.

Putin Offers Mediation in Call with Trump

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke separately with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, urging de-escalation. During a call with former U.S. President Donald Trump, Putin expressed Russia’s readiness to mediate.

U.S. Not Involved in Israeli Attack

A U.S. official told ABC News that the United States had no involvement in Israel’s operation and provided no military support.

Oman Confirms Diplomatic Talks Canceled

Oman’s Foreign Minister announced that indirect talks between Iran and the U.S., previously scheduled for Sunday, would not take place. Still, he emphasized that diplomacy remains the only path to lasting peace.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Mexico Demands Answers After Death of Citizen in ICE Custody

Que Onda Editorial
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Mexico Demands Answers After Death of Citizen in ICE Custody

Mexico is seeking legal action and transparency after the death of a Mexican national in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody at the Stewart Detention Center in Georgia.

Unresponsive in Cell, Declared Dead Hours Later

Jesús Molina-Veya, 45, was found unresponsive in his cell on June 7 with a ligature around his neck, according to ICE. Despite CPR efforts, he was transported to Phoebe Sumter Hospital in Americus, where he was pronounced dead later that evening.

Consulate Officials Report Denied Access

Mexico’s Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE) has accused ICE of preventing its consular staff in Atlanta from speaking with detainees following Molina-Veya’s death. “The Consulate is analyzing the existing legal alternatives in this case,” the SRE stated, while also confirming communication with both ICE and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

President Sheinbaum Demands Full Investigation

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed on June 13 that her administration has asked ICE for details on the conditions surrounding Molina-Veya’s death and stressed the importance of a thorough investigation. “We always seek to ensure respect for the human rights of Mexicans abroad,” she said.

ICE Cites Criminal History

In a June 11 statement, ICE noted that Molina-Veya had a long criminal record, including arrests for DUI, drug possession, and child molestation. He had been deported several times since 1999 and was most recently convicted in April following a February arrest.

Pattern of Deaths at Stewart Detention Center

Molina-Veya is the second Mexican national to die this year in connection with the Stewart facility. In May, Abelardo Avellaneda-Delgado died while being transferred to the same center. The facility has faced growing criticism for alleged poor conditions and medical neglect.

Spike in ICE Deaths Raises Alarm

ICE has reported eight deaths in custody so far in 2025. That figure already accounts for 72% of all deaths in ICE custody reported in 2024, sparking renewed concern among immigrant rights advocates.

For more developments on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Texas Data Centers Turn to Natural Gas to Fuel the AI Boom

Edward Saenz
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Texas Data Centers Turn to Natural Gas to Fuel the AI Boom

AUSTIN, Texas — As artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency mining ramp up across Texas, data center operators are increasingly sidestepping the state’s electricity grid by building their own natural gas power plants on site. This trend raises pressing questions about energy reliability, environmental impact, and community balance.

⚡ Why the Shift to On-Site Natural Gas Plants?

Massive Energy Demands

  • Texas’s electricity needs are projected to nearly double by 2030, largely due to new data centers, AI systems, and crypto mining operations mrt.com+12tpr.org+12texasstandard.org+12.
  • Traditional grid upgrades can take years, making private gas plants a faster solution for uninterrupted power webpronews.com.

Speed and Control

  • On-site power ensures reliability and scalability, giving operators full control over their energy supply, free from grid constraints .
  • Companies are forming partnerships—such as CloudBurst and Energy Transfer—to build these dedicated facilities chron.com+15texastribune.org+15webpronews.com+15.

🌍 The Broader Expansion of Gas-Fired Plants

A Statewide Construction Boom

Environmental Concerns

🎯 Community Implications

Local Impact

  • Residents near proposed plants—like in New Braunfels—are voicing concerns over noise, pollution, and a changing landscape expressnews.com+3texastribune.org+3grist.org+3.
  • The scale of these sites—some producing more power than a major city—threatens local air quality and the rural character of nearby areas .

Grid Reliability vs. Sustainability

  • Texas’s grid operator, ERCOT, says the investment in gas plants, batteries, and even nuclear could help prevent outages; however, reliance on fossil fuels could hinder climate goals webpronews.com+11expressnews.com+11expressnews.com+11.
  • Lawmakers have proposed policies to regulate data center demands—such as requiring backup generators and environment-friendly infrastructure—but public sentiment remains mixed houstonchronicle.com+1expressnews.com+1.

🧩 Mixed Future Ahead

  • Data center developers emphasize the need for immediate, reliable power to support AI and crypto operations.
  • Energy planners recognize that gas plants fill a gap as renewable projects and grid connections lag.
  • Environmental advocates argue that Texas should invest more in clean energy—solar, wind, battery storage—to meet demand sustainably en.wikipedia.org+10webpronews.com+10en.wikipedia.org+10mrt.com+15chron.com+15webpronews.com+15.
  • Residents and communities continue to push back against new fossil fuel infrastructure near homes and rural areas.

🔎 Final Takeaway

Texas stands at a crossroads. The growth of AI, data processing, and digital infrastructure is reshaping power generation—from renewables to a major wave of new natural gas plants. The question now is whether the Lone Star State can balance innovation, energy reliability, environmental health, and community well-being—and whether it will turn to sustainable solutions or lean further into fossil fuels.

Dallas County on High Alert After Confirmed Measles Case

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Dallas County on High Alert After Confirmed Measles Case

A woman in her mid-20s has tested positive for measles in Dallas County, Texas, sparking concerns of widespread exposure in one of the most populous counties in the U.S.

Vaccinated But Contagious

Despite being fully vaccinated, the woman was contagious between May 30 and June 7. During that period, she visited Lemma Coffee in Plano on May 31 and attended First Baptist Church on June 1. Health officials are now working to identify and alert anyone who may have been exposed.

First Case in County Amid Ongoing Outbreak

This is the first confirmed case in Dallas County during a broader Texas outbreak, which has already seen 744 infections and two child deaths since January. Across the U.S., more than 1,100 cases have been confirmed this year, with three reported deaths.

CDC Issues Travel Warning

The CDC has warned travelers about potential exposure to measles in airports, public transportation, and crowded events. It strongly recommends full vaccination before any international travel to reduce the risk of infection and community spread.

What to Watch For

Early symptoms of measles include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and white spots inside the mouth, followed by a red rash that spreads from the head down. In severe cases, measles can cause pneumonia or even death.

Vaccination Rates Falling Below Safe Levels

While the measles vaccine offers 97% protection, the country’s overall vaccination rate has dropped to 91%, below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. A study by Johns Hopkins University warned that falling vaccination rates could bring back measles as a common U.S. illness.

Health Officials Urge Action

Dallas officials are urging residents who may have been exposed to contact their healthcare providers and watch for symptoms. The source of the woman’s infection remains unknown, and the case is considered isolated for now.

For more on the measles outbreak, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

The End of the Texas Dream Act: What It Means for Students and the State

Edward Saenz
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The End of the Texas Dream Act: What It Means for Students and the State

AUSTIN, Texas — A law that once made Texas a national leader in supporting undocumented students is no more. This month, the Texas Dream Act—a measure that for over two decades helped thousands of young immigrants afford college—was struck down in federal court. The decision affects not only students and families but also the future of Texas’s workforce and economy.

What Was the Texas Dream Act?

Passed in 2001, the Texas Dream Act (officially House Bill 1403) allowed undocumented students who grew up in Texas to pay the same lower tuition rates as other Texas residents at public colleges and universities. To qualify, students had to:

  • Attend a Texas high school for at least three years
  • Graduate from a Texas high school
  • Sign a promise to apply for legal status as soon as they could

The law helped thousands of students, often called “Dreamers,” pursue careers in fields like nursing, teaching, and engineering.

What Changed in 2025?

In June 2025, a federal judge struck down the Texas Dream Act after a legal challenge. The U.S. Department of Justice and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton argued that the law violated federal rules by offering benefits to undocumented immigrants that some U.S. citizens from other states couldn’t get.

Importantly, this wasn’t a decision made by Texas lawmakers—it happened through the courts. Some critics have called it a “back-door repeal”, because it ended a major policy without a public debate or a new law.

Who Is Affected?

The end of the Dream Act puts tens of thousands of students in a difficult position:

  • Many will now have to pay out-of-state tuition, which can cost three times more than in-state rates.
  • Some students may struggle to stay in school or graduate on time.
  • Families across Texas could face serious financial strain.

Texas universities don’t track students’ immigration status, so it’s unclear how quickly schools will adjust or how the change will be enforced.

What Does It Mean for Texas?

Supporters of the Dream Act warn that ending it could hurt Texas in several ways:

  • The state may lose millions of dollars in economic activity that comes from having more college graduates in the workforce.
  • Businesses could face a shortage of skilled workers.
  • Texas risks falling behind in innovation and job growth.

Immigrant families in Texas contribute billions in taxes each year, and many advocates argue that investing in their education benefits everyone.

What Happens Next?

Legal advocacy groups, including MALDEF (Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund), are trying to challenge the court ruling. They’ve asked to step into the case on behalf of students who would be harmed by the repeal. But for now, the future of in-state tuition for undocumented students in Texas remains uncertain.

BLAST.tv Austin Major: The World of Esports Hits Texas in a Big Way

Edward Saenz
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0
BLAST.tv Austin Major: The World of Esports Hits Texas in a Big Way

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin has taken center stage this June as the city hosts the BLAST.tv Austin Major, one of the world’s biggest events in esports — a fast-growing form of competitive video gaming that draws huge crowds and online audiences.

What Is the BLAST.tv Austin Major?

Think of it as the Super Bowl of gaming. This tournament features the top professional players of Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), a popular team-based video game that combines strategy, quick reflexes, and teamwork. For the first time in over seven years, the United States is hosting a major Counter-Strike tournament, and Austin was chosen for the honor.

Over 32 teams from around the world have gathered to compete for a $1.25 million prize pool, with the winning team earning $500,000.

When and Where Is It Happening?

The tournament began on June 3 and will conclude on June 22, 2025.

The final stage — where the top teams battle for the championship — is happening at the Moody Center, a large arena in downtown Austin that can hold up to 16,000 fans. Earlier matches took place at smaller venues around the city.

Why Does This Matter?

Hosting the BLAST.tv Austin Major is a big deal for Austin:

  • Economic boost: The event is expected to generate about $30 million for the local economy through hotels, restaurants, and tourism.
  • Massive audiences: Around 50,000 people are attending in person over the course of the event, and millions more are watching online from all over the world.
  • Spotlight on esports: This marks Austin’s rise as a major destination for live entertainment, beyond its well-known music and film festivals.

What’s Happening in the Competition?

The tournament is split into stages. Teams play against each other in a series of matches to determine who advances to the next round and who is eliminated. The final stage is a knockout round: lose, and you’re out. The last team standing wins the championship.

What Is Counter-Strike 2?

Counter-Strike 2 is a video game where two teams of five players face off in virtual arenas. One team attacks, and the other defends. The game emphasizes communication, precision, and quick decision-making. It’s been a staple of esports for over 20 years.

Why Are People So Excited?

Fans describe attending the Major as a once-in-a-lifetime experience — like seeing a World Series or NBA Finals game. Tickets to the playoffs sold out in just six hours. The event is being called the most significant esports tournament ever held in Texas.

How Can People Watch?

If you’re in Austin, you can catch the final matches live at the Moody Center from June 19 to June 22. Globally, millions are tuning in through streaming platforms like BLAST.tv, where matches are broadcast free of charge.

Texas Faces Showdown Over THC Ban: Economy, Health, and Politics Collide

Edward Saenz
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Texas Faces Showdown Over THC Ban: Economy, Health, and Politics Collide

AUSTIN, Texas — Texas is at a crossroads as lawmakers, businesses, patients, and the public await Governor Greg Abbott’s decision on Senate Bill 3 (SB 3) — a sweeping measure that would outlaw all hemp-derived THC products across the state. The bill, passed by the Legislature this spring, has sparked intense debate over health risks, economic impact, and the future of cannabis regulation in Texas.

What’s in the Bill?

SB 3, authored by Sen. Charles Perry and strongly supported by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, would ban the production, sale, and possession of all hemp-derived THC products — including popular items like delta-8 and delta-9 gummies, beverages, vapes, and smokable flower. Non-intoxicating cannabinoids such as CBD and CBG would remain legal.

If signed into law, the measure would impose stiff penalties: possession could result in up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine, while manufacturing or selling could lead to felony charges with up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The ban would take effect September 1, with retailers given until January 2026 to comply.

Why the Push Now?

Supporters of the bill argue that Texas’s rapidly growing hemp market — now valued at over $5 billion annually and employing more than 50,000 people — has outpaced regulation. Law enforcement agencies have reported finding products with THC levels far above legal limits, and Patrick has described the market as a threat to public health, especially for children.

“These unregulated products are poisoning our kids,” Patrick said in a statement. “Texas must act before more lives are harmed.”

Critics Warn of Economic Fallout

Industry leaders, small-business owners, and advocates warn that SB 3 would devastate a thriving sector that has become a lifeline for entrepreneurs, farmers, and veterans. Thousands of retailers could be forced to close, wiping out jobs and tax revenue.

Opponents argue that rather than banning products outright, Texas should adopt stricter regulations: limit sales to adults 21 and older, mandate child-resistant packaging, and require independent lab testing to ensure product safety.

“There’s a way to protect kids without destroying an industry that helps so many,” said a spokesperson for the Texas Hemp Coalition.

Patients and Veterans Voice Concerns

Many Texans who rely on hemp-derived THC for conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and chronic pain fear the ban would cut off affordable, accessible relief.

“This bill would hurt veterans like me who use these products to cope,” said John Martinez, a U.S. Army veteran from San Antonio. “Without them, we’re left with fewer options — or we’re forced into the black market.”

Public Opinion and Political Stakes

A recent poll of likely Republican primary voters shows the issue dividing Abbott’s base: 45% oppose the ban, 35% support it, and the rest remain undecided. Nearly two-thirds favor regulating THC rather than banning it, and over half believe prohibition would fuel black-market activity and benefit criminal cartels.

The decision places Abbott in a difficult spot, balancing public safety concerns, economic implications, and political pressure from his party’s leadership. He has until June 22 to either sign the bill, veto it, or allow it to become law without his signature.

What’s Next?

Advocacy groups, business owners, and patients have flooded the governor’s office with letters urging a veto. Meanwhile, supporters of the ban are pressing Abbott to act swiftly in the name of public health.

As the deadline approaches, Texans are watching closely — with the future of the state’s hemp industry, and thousands of jobs, hanging in the balance.

TEA Extends Control of HISD Through 2027 Amid Board Shakeup

Edward Saenz
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TEA Extends Control of HISD Through 2027 Amid Board Shakeup

June 12, 2025 | Houston, TX – The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has extended its state takeover of the Houston Independent School District (HISD) through June 2027, marking a significant development in the ongoing effort to reform the state’s largest public school district.

The extension comes as TEA Commissioner Mike Morath announced the removal of four members from HISD’s appointed Board of Managers: Audrey Momanaee, Cassandra Auzenne Bandy, Rolando Martinez, and Adam Rivon. While no specific reasons were publicly cited for the removals, Morath stated that the decision reflects a need for leadership that “better represents Houston’s diversity.”

Superintendent Mike Miles Responds

In the wake of the shakeup, HISD Superintendent Mike Miles offered praise for the outgoing board members, crediting them with supporting district reforms during a turbulent first year of state oversight. “They played a key role in helping implement changes that have already begun to show results,” Miles said.

Among the improvements cited by Miles were:

  • Rising student test scores
  • Increased teacher compensation
  • Expanded implementation of the New Education System (NES), focused on standardized instruction and curriculum

Despite these gains, HISD continues to face challenges, including declining student enrollment and concerns over teacher turnover.

What the TEA Takeover Means

The state takeover of HISD began in June 2023, originally prompted by years of underperformance at certain campuses, governance concerns, and failures in special education compliance. Under the terms of the extended intervention, the TEA will continue to oversee the district’s operations until it satisfies three key benchmarks:

  1. No campuses receive failing grades for multiple years
  2. The district fully complies with federal and state special education standards
  3. Governance improves to emphasize student achievement and outcomes

Community Reaction and Concerns

The sudden removal of four board members—some of whom were vocal community advocates—has sparked renewed debate over the state’s role in local education. Critics argue the prolonged takeover undermines local control, while supporters say continued oversight is needed to stabilize and improve HISD after years of dysfunction.

The TEA has not yet named replacements for the removed board members, but it has emphasized a commitment to transparency and community representation moving forward.

Related Reading:

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Fort Bend ISD Proposes Bold Budget Plan to Balance Staff Support with Fiscal Reality

Edward Saenz
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Fort Bend ISD Proposes Bold Budget Plan to Balance Staff Support with Fiscal Reality

June 12, 2025 | Fort Bend County, TX – In a bold move to support its staff and maintain district stability, the Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) has unveiled a proposed $1.1 billion budget for the 2025–26 school year, confronting a projected $34 million deficit head-on.

The proposed budget focuses on staff compensation, mental wellness, and operational efficiency—all while navigating the rising costs of running one of the largest school districts in Texas.

Investing in Teachers and Staff

At the heart of the proposal is a $30.7 million compensation package designed to attract and retain talent. Highlights include:

  • A $1,200 one-time stipend for full-time employees ($600 for part-time)
  • Two additional paid wellness days to support staff mental health
  • A base salary increase for teachers, raising the starting salary to $63,000
  • Mandatory raises of $2,500–$5,000 for eligible teachers
  • Raises of $515 for qualifying non-instructional staff
  • Hiring bonuses of up to $5,000 for high-need roles
  • No changes to employee health insurance contributions, maintaining current coverage levels

“This is not just a budget—it’s a commitment to our people,” said a district spokesperson. “Our educators and staff are the backbone of the community, and this plan acknowledges that.”

Temporary Tax Adjustment Using ‘Disaster Pennies’

To help bridge the budget gap, FBISD is proposing a temporary tax rate increase—from $0.99 to $1.06 per $100 of assessed property value. This increase leverages a state provision known as “disaster pennies,” which allows school districts to raise additional revenue without a voter referendum when recovering from a disaster—in this case, Hurricane Beryl.

Importantly, due to statewide tax compression laws recently passed in Austin, most homeowners are still expected to see a net tax break, even with the rate hike.

Warning Signs for 2026–27

While the 2025–26 plan aims to stabilize the district, projections for the following school year are less optimistic. A $26.2 million deficit is already forecast for 2026–27. If unaddressed, the shortfall could force school consolidations, staff cuts, or a voter-approved tax election.

The district is proactively exploring cost-saving measures, including the potential closure of under-enrolled elementary schools, administrative reductions, and reevaluation of non-essential programs.

What’s Next

The proposed budget will be debated and likely finalized by the FBISD Board of Trustees in late June. The district is also planning public engagement opportunities to address taxpayer concerns and solicit community input.

For Fort Bend ISD, the message is clear: balancing financial responsibility with staff support is not easy—but it’s necessary.

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