Texas

One Black geocacher writes about harrowing encounters, such as being called "boy" and finding a cache hidden inside a flagpole flying the Confederate flag.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott says on Twitter that he will veto funding for the state legislature after Democratic lawmakers walked out, blocking passage of new voting restrictions.

The legislation was criticized by Democrats, progressive groups and voting rights advocates as "voter suppression." Republicans view it as "sensible election integrity legislation."

"If we get to a point in any case, no matter who the defendant is ... that we feel there is insufficient probable cause, we have to alert the defense and alert the court," prosecutors said Wednesday.

American Airlines and Dell are directly criticizing Republican-sponsored legislation in the state legislature that would curb expanded voter access.

The massive storm spread ice, snow and freezing temperatures over huge swaths of Texas, but power grid problems left millions weathering conditions in the dark in uninsulated homes.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas CEO Bill Magness was removed from his post Wednesday. He informed the organization he will not accept his $800,000 severance.

"The last thing — the last thing — we need is Neanderthal thinking that in the meantime, everything's fine, take off your masks. Forget it, it still matters," Biden said.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says his order ensures "that all businesses and families in Texas have the freedom to determine their own destiny." Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves tweeted: "It is time!"