Texas Standard

The Texas Supreme Court remains firmly in Republican hands after the election. What that means for cases the court will decide.For the first time, Michelin has awarded its coveted stars – along with other designations – to restaurants in the Lone Star State.Texas is in the wake of a solar panel boom. But not everyone who’s had them installed on their roof is happy about the decision.Amid soaring childcare costs, voters approved a tax rate increase to help pay for it in Central Texas.And: A new research project at the International Space Station examines the impact of microgravity on human heart tissue. The post 15 Texas restaurants have received a coveted Michelin star rating appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

With the presidency and a majority now in the U.S. Senate, Republicans are eyeing a trifecta of power by capturing the seats needed for a slim majority in the House. But several races still need to be called. What’s taking so long?Elon Musk spent a great deal of his time and money helping Donald Trump win another term this fall. Will Texas’ wealthiest man have a role to play in the Trump administration?And: More than half a million undocumented immigrants protected from deportation under the DACA program are now worried what the future holds come January. Stella Chávez of The Texas Newsroom has the story. The post Will Elon Musk have a role to play in the Trump administration? appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The head of the Texas Democratic Party has resigned following controversial comments about transgender rights and the issue’s role in elections. Lauren McGaughy of the Texas Newsroom joins us with the latest.He’s Texas’ senior senator for now, but could he soon be known as Senate Majority Leader John Cornyn? We’ll hear more, as well as a who’s who list of some prominent Texans who might be going to Washington as part of the incoming Trump administration.And a new children’s picture book highlights the beauty of West Texas. The post Texas Democratic Party chair resigns after controversial comments appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The words “historic election” have been far overused, but they’re worth considering when examining results out of Starr County. A look at a political shift in South Texas.Texas’ oil and gas regulators requested an emergency influx of $100 million dollars in state money to address oil well blowouts and contamination. What’s happening in the oilfield?Even during election time, you probably don’t give a lot of thought to the office of the Justice of the Peace. Why it matters – especially right now in Harris County.Microsoft Windows users could soon face some consequences if they haven’t updated their software in a while. Our tech expert has tips on what steps to take now.Plus, there was a plan to bring an exiled Napoleon to Texas. And no, it didn’t happen. Our W.F. Strong has been looking into this strange bit of history. The post How Republicans broke a losing streak in South Texas appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A historic election cycle ends with significant gains for the GOP statewide. What do the results add up to for the future of Texas? A closer look at the U.S. Senate race in Texas and a wider re-election victory for incumbent Ted Cruz, compared with 2018. The largest school bond proposal in Texas history was rejected in Houston, seen by many as a referendum on the state’s takeover of Houston ISD over the past year. Plus: We’ll hear about results in some key local races from our reporting partners statewide and how the results could affect the upcoming legislative session. The post Unpacking the results of the 2024 election appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

lection Day 2024 has arrived, and we’re checking in with reporters across the state as Texans cast their ballots. Plus, what to keep a close eye on tonight after the polls close. A new survey predicts Dallas-Fort Worth is poised to become the hottest real estate market in the country in 2025. What it means for the people living there. A new book, “A Natural History of Empty Lots” explores forgotten spaces. Author Christopher Brown discusses what he’s learned. And: An update on plans for a new Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth. The post What to watch on Election Day 2024 appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

We’ll have the latest details the 400-acre Hudson Fire in Bastrop County, which has prompted the voluntary evacuation of about 65 homes.On this day before elections, what we’re hearing about early turnout numbers.Twenty-six states, including California, have citizen-led ballot initiatives – but Texas doesn’t. The Standard’s Sarah Asch brings us the history of a political tug-of-war.Also: What comes next for death row inmate Robert Roberson and how his case may be affecting attitudes in Texas toward the death penalty. The post Why Texans can’t put abortion – or other citizen-led initiatives – on the ballot appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Hanif Abdurraqib, a New York Times best-selling author and MacArthur Fellow, explores themes of mortality through his latest book, which transcends basketball to delve into personal growth. He reflects on growing up during LeBron James' rise, revealing how local narratives shape our understanding of success. The discussion also touches on the 2014 Spurs vs. Heat Finals, highlighting the beauty of strategy in basketball. Additionally, Abdurraqib connects music and writing, showcasing the University of Texas Press’s efforts to promote diverse literary voices.

James Baragon, a politics reporter for the Texas Tribune, and Adam Zuvanich, a reporter for Houston Public Media, delve into the intense Texas Senate race between Ted Cruz and Colin Allred. They analyze the strategies each candidate is using to mobilize voters. The discussion also touches on the potential demolition of the historic Institute of Texan Cultures, highlighting community concerns over cultural preservation versus redevelopment. Additionally, they explore the polarizing impact of school vouchers on local education.

Kaylee Broussard, a reporter focused on LGBTQ+ voters, discusses their concerns heading to the polls amidst Texas's restrictive abortion laws. Wizzy Brown shares unsettling insights about insect infestations, including the bizarre benefits of maggot therapy. Eric Atkinson, CEO of Atkinson Candy Company, delights with tales of Halloween traditions and the candy-making process in East Texas. Tech expert Omar Guyaga analyzes Apple's new product launches and their implications in a shifting market, while Lexi Churchill uncovers voter registration purges affecting eligible Texans.