Some convicted felons can actually vote from prison in Texas. Here’s why.
Oct 3, 2024
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Lauren McGaughy, a journalist specializing in voting rights and criminal justice in Texas, sheds light on the surprising fact that some incarcerated individuals, including those on death row, can vote. She discusses the misinformation surrounding this issue and the lack of awareness among eligible felons. The conversation also touches on the ongoing debate around the Marvin Nichols Reservoir and highlights Texas's evolving political landscape as seen in recent electoral strategies. Plus, discover the rich resurgence of regional Mexican music in the state!
Many incarcerated individuals in Texas, including those on death row, are unaware they are eligible to vote during their appeals.
The proposed Marvin Nichols Reservoir project highlights a clash between urban water needs and rural landowner rights in Texas.
Deep dives
Voting Rights for Incarcerated Texans
Some Texas felons currently incarcerated may have a right to vote, surprising many lawyers, advocates, and inmates alike. This right is limited to individuals who are appealing their felony convictions, including those on death row, but many remain unaware of their eligibility. Investigative efforts have revealed significant misinformation surrounding the voting rights of incarcerated individuals, with advocates expressing that this crucial information was never shared during their time in prison. The potential impact could be substantial, as there are approximately 134,000 individuals in Texas state prisons, suggesting thousands could be eligible to vote.
The Marvin Nichols Reservoir Debate
A longstanding proposal for the Marvin Nichols Reservoir seeks to address the water needs of the Dallas-Fort Worth area but has sparked strong opposition from landowners who fear losing their property. Originally proposed in 1968, this project is estimated to cost over $4 billion and emphasizes a conflict between urban interests in water access and the rural landowners' rights. During a recent meeting, discussions focused on collaboration between both sides, yet landowners raised concerns about the generational impacts this project would have on their families. Alternative solutions, such as fixing existing infrastructure and reducing water waste, are being proposed to prevent the need for new reservoirs.
Creating a Texas Stock Exchange
Texas is in the process of establishing its own stock exchange, designed to rival major players like the New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ. With significant figures from finance backing this venture, supporters aim to attract listings from well-known companies to enhance the exchange's credibility. Despite the ambitious plans, challenges remain in garnering initial company commitments and securing necessary registrations, with officials acknowledging the need to address concerns regarding operational viability amid a changing financial landscape. The initiative reflects Texas's pro-business climate and aims to reshape financial trading with a model rooted in technology.
Resurgence of Regional Mexican Music
Regional Mexican music is experiencing a renaissance, with various genres becoming increasingly popular among younger audiences. This revival is driven by a growing interest in cultural connections, with genres like Conjunto, Norteño, and Tejano finding new listeners and performers. Educational programs in South Texas schools are fostering a new generation of musicians eager to connect with their heritage through these traditional sounds. Major contemporary artists are also contributing to the genre’s popularity, successfully blending regional elements with broader musical trends and resonating with both local and global audiences.
A reservoir first proposed in 1968 to provide water to the DFW area has failed to move forward for decades. Why a small group of landowners say all Texans should care. Many state prison inmates in Texas, including people on death row, are eligible to vote and may not know it. The Texas Newsroom’s Lauren McGaughy shares the details. Texas is starting its own Wall Street of sorts, the Texas Stock Exchange, and there are big names and big money involved. But how exactly is that going to work? And: Regional Mexican music is making waves throughout Texas.