Data Center Crackdown: Gov. Greg Abbott ordered audits and paused new Texas data center approvals seeking grid connections, citing ERCOT/PUCT review needs as demand surges and communities raise concerns about power and water use. Politics: In the Texas U.S. Senate race, polls show Democrat James Talarico closing in on or leading AG Ken Paxton, with multiple surveys putting the race within a few points. Houston Sports: The Astros made a deadline move for outfield help, acquiring Daulton Varsho from the Blue Jays to bolster center field and the middle of the lineup. Public Safety: A juvenile was hospitalized after a vehicle struck them in Marlin; authorities urged drivers to slow down in residential areas. Health Watch: Mosquito traps in Buda and San Marcos tested positive for West Nile Virus, with no human cases reported in Hays County so far. Courts & Crime: A federal jury convicted the final “103” gang leaders tied to a deadly Houston drive-by, and a Houston-area appeals court affirmed a $250,000 verdict against former MLB pitcher Clayton Hensley. Back-to-School: TxDOT and AAA Texas pushed safety reminders as school zones fill up, while Texas Comptroller Don Huffines announced the Aug. 7-9 sales tax holiday with an estimated $142.5 million in savings.