Western states
Coverage of Western states in the Nexus archive.
- As Democrats Struggle in Some Western States, Independents See an Opening
Democrats are struggling in some Western States, creating an opening for independents. Todd Achilles is noted as being among a wave of independent challengers.
- Primaries on the West Coast are complete. Here are November races to watch
Primaries on the West Coast have been completed, with four toss-up races in Western states as identified by the Cook Political Report. The report lists these races among 18 nationwide toss-up contests.
- Western states face water cuts as Colorado River shrinks
Western states relying on the Colorado River face further water cutbacks due to a long-running drought and disputes over its use. The federal government has introduced a new blueprint to manage the shrinking river after years of gridlock among the states.
- In-N-Out Burger’s reach is expanding — but one US region won’t see a Double Double anytime soon
In-N-Out Burger is expanding to four Western states, offering menu items like the Double Double, Animal Style Fries, and Flying Dutchman. However, one US region will not receive the chain's offerings anytime soon.
- Relief from energy bills unlikely as utilities request billions in rate hikes
Utilities have proposed over $18 billion in rate hikes across the U.S. in the first half of 2026, with Southern states accounting for the largest increases. PowerLines reported that these hikes could affect 56 million customers, as regulators rarely reject utility rate requests despite public concerns over affordability.
- Relief from energy bills unlikely as utilities request billions in rate hikes
Utilities across the U.S. have requested over $18 billion in rate hikes for 2026, with Southern states leading the increase. These proposed hikes could affect 56 million customers, as regulators face pressure to balance utility spending and grid modernization needs.
- Relief from energy bills unlikely as utilities request billions in rate hikes
Utilities across the U.S. have proposed over $18 billion in rate hikes for 2026, with Southern states leading the increases. PowerLines reported $9.2 billion in requested rate increases in Q2 2026, affecting 56 million customers, driven by companies like Oncor and Dominion Energy. Regulators rarely reject rate requests, though they often approve lower amounts than requested.
- First Hawaiian Bank to acquire Tri Counties Bank for $2 billion
First Hawaiian Bank is acquiring Tri Counties Bank in a $2 billion all-stock transaction, making it the sixth-largest bank headquartered in the western states. The acquisition was unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both banks.
- When the War Disappears From the Front Page, so Does Our Seriousness
The article argues that news organizations shape public attention through selection and repetition. It suggests Western states' delayed action in supporting Ukraine may have desensitized the public, increasing societal vulnerability.
- 3 firefighters killed in Colorado remembered for their bravery as wildfires churn in the West
Three firefighters were killed in Colorado after being trapped by wildfires. Wildland firefighters gathered to honor their bravery as wildfires continue to burn across Western states.
- Forecasters warn of record-breaking US summer heat amid intense El Niño
Forecasters warn of record-breaking US summer heat linked to El Niño, with over 100 million people potentially affected by July 4. Risks include droughts and wildfires, as the first six months of 2024 were the hottest on record in parts of eight western states.
- What to know about Western wildfires
Thousands of acres in Utah and other Western states have burned in wildfires. The article highlights firefighter deaths, ongoing destruction, and spreading smoke as key concerns.
- Red flag wildfire warnings issued across 8 Western states
Red flag wildfire warnings were issued in eight Western states from the Pacific Northwest to the Desert Southwest due to dry air gusts creating blowtorch-like conditions. The warnings were posted on Friday, as reported by Carter Evans.
- Want to predict wildfires? The key may be underneath Colorado, Western states
Recent studies indicate a strong link between soil moisture levels and the occurrence and spread of wildfires in Western states, including Colorado. The findings suggest that understanding underground soil conditions could improve wildfire prediction efforts.
- ‘Never leaving my house’: Western states invaded by biblical plague of cannibalistic Mormon crickets
Western states are being invaded by a biblical plague of cannibalistic Mormon crickets, prompting residents to wish the insects would leave. The infestation has caused significant disruption, with people expressing frustration over the situation.
- U.S. street drug deaths keep dropping, but some Western states see deadly overdose surge
U.S. street drug deaths are declining overall, but some Western states are experiencing a surge in overdose deaths. Researchers attribute the national decline to structural changes in addiction treatment and increased access to overdose-reversing medication.
- Trump administration readying a plan to impose Colorado River water cuts on Western states
The Trump administration is developing a 10-year plan to impose water cuts on Western states due to the over-tapped Colorado River, with reassessments every two years. The plan aims to address the river's water shortage. Western states will be affected by the new plan.
- A destructive 'jumping worm' is invading Colorado and Western states, officials warn
A destructive Asian jumping worm is invading Colorado and Western states, causing concern among officials. The worm, known for its vigorous movement and jumping ability, is highlighted by the California Department of Food and Agriculture.