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Tuesday, October 16, 2018
Top afternoon stories:
Trump’s upcoming rally in Houston
President Donald Trump will hold a rally at Houston's NRG Arena next Monday, October 22, the first day of early voting in Texas. In addition to Trump, the rally will also feature Senator Ted Cruz and local Republican candidates.
"People like Ted Cruz and many other Republicans need people who are Trump supporters but perhaps not die-hard Republicans to turn out and vote, and Donald Trump's presence here in Houston will help drive them to the polls," says Mark Jones, who teaches political science at Rice University. Cruz is locked in a tight reelection contest against Democratic Congressman Beto O'Rourke.
But Trump's visit may prove a double-edged sword, according to University of Houston political scientist Elizabeth Simas.
"It may energize and mobilize Republicans and conservatives," Simas says, "but it could also have a counter-mobilizing effect among Democrats and liberals as well." That could wind up hurting Republican candidates in close races.
One year probation for Darian Ward
Darian Ward, former press secretary for Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, admitted her guilt Tuesday to a charge of abuse of official capacity for using equipment provided by the City of Houston for private purposes.
The Harris County District Attorney's Office said in a news release that Ward agreed to a one-year pre-trial diversion contract after being charged with the Class A Misdemeanor.
During that time, Ward will be supervised by the Harris County Probation Department. She must not commit any new crimes.
Additionally, Ward will also have to perform 30 hours of community service and pay a $500 fine. If Ward completes the agreement, she could apply to have the matter expunged.
New NPR chief news executive underscores experience in Texas
Houston Chronicle executive editor Nancy Barnes has been named NPR's senior vice president for news and editorial director and says her experience in Texas has prepared her well for the position.
In an interview with Houston Matters host Craig Cohen, Barnes said Texas plays a role in America's major news themes, from abortion rights to states' rights, as well as immigration and business regulations.
"Texas is really, you know, at the forefront of all of those," Barnes said, "and, so, I think my experience in dealing with these national story lines will really hold me in good stead."
Barnes added she will strive to help NPR to keep developing its investigative journalism while continuing its public service mission.