President-elect Donald Trump has announced Tilman Fertitta, owner of the Houston Rockets and Landry’s Inc., as his pick for U.S. ambassador to Italy. Fertitta’s extensive business experience and community contributions earned him the nomination.
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President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Tilman Fertitta, the owner of the Houston Rockets and a prominent figure in the hospitality industry, to be the U.S. ambassador to Italy. The announcement, shared on Trump’s Truth Social platform, emphasized Fertitta’s business successes and charitable contributions.
“Tilman is a successful entrepreneur who has established one of our nation’s leading entertainment and real estate firms, providing jobs for around 50,000 Americans,” Trump stated in his post. Fertitta’s company, Landry’s Inc., manages more than 600 properties across 36 states and 15 countries, encompassing restaurants, hotels, and gaming venues.
A seasoned Republican donor, Fertitta has played a significant role in various election cycles. Trump commended Fertitta for his commitment to community service, highlighting his support for children’s charities, law enforcement programs, and the healthcare sector. Fertitta has held the position of Chairman of the Board of Regents for the University of Houston, making him the longest-serving chairman in the institution's history.
Fertitta’s appointment as ambassador to Italy is subject to Senate confirmation. Upon approval, he will advocate for U.S. interests in Italy, utilizing his extensive business and diplomatic background.
This appointment exemplifies Trump's approach to selecting prominent business figures for essential positions. Fertitta, recognized for his entrepreneurial drive and charitable contributions, is anticipated to leverage his knowledge in enhancing U.S.-Italy relations.
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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened a sweeping review of nearly 1,000 cities to determine whether they comply with state audit and financial transparency laws under Senate Bill 1851. Attorney General Ken Paxton has already ordered several cities to halt unlawful tax increases, and he may add more municipalities to the investigation.
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Houston-area employees at Woodlands Specialty Hospital report going weeks without pay, forcing some to sell personal belongings and search for new jobs. The hospital blames the issue on redirected insurance payments.
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Dozens of new Texas laws take effect beginning in December, including the end of the STAAR test, over-the-counter access to ivermectin, and a law allowing private citizens to sue manufacturers who ship abortion pills. January will bring additional rules affecting app stores and immigration enforcement.