12News is proud to welcome Claydra Rhodes as its new evening news co-anchor. Rhodes will bring a fresh, local perspective to Southeast Texas’ leading news station. Starting Tuesday, February 25, 2025, Rhodes will join veteran anchor Jordan Williams at the desk for the 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. broadcasts.
A Southeast Texas native and West Orange-Stark High School graduate, Rhodes joined 12News in June 2022 through the Tegna Producer in Residence program. She quickly moved from producer to weekend anchor and reporter, demonstrating a natural talent for storytelling and an unwavering dedication to her community. She holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Houston.
“Claydra embodies the future of broadcast journalism in Southeast Texas,” said 12News News Director Ginny Sweeney. “She brings both grace and deep local insight to the anchor desk, making her an ideal voice for our community.”
With Rhodes joining Williams, 12News now boasts the only all-local anchor team for evening news, reinforcing its commitment to community-focused journalism.
“Her natural ability to connect with viewers, combined with her understanding of the region’s unique character, makes her an invaluable addition to our evening news team,” added Sweeney.
Rhodes expressed excitement about her new role: “Serving my community as the evening anchor is a dream turned reality. Storytelling has always been my passion, and now I get to inform, inspire, and uplift the place that shaped me. This is just the beginning!”
Sweeney emphasized the importance of local representation in news: “Southeast Texas viewers deserve news anchors who truly understand their community. With Claydra Rhodes joining Jordan Williams, we’re proud to offer the only evening news team with deep local roots and a genuine connection to the region.”