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.

Hector Galan, director of "Our Texas, Our Vote," dives into the diverse views of Latino voters in Texas, emphasizing their growing political engagement. Camille Phillips reveals surprising budget issues in San Antonio ISD from a proposed baseball stadium, highlighting a mismatch between county optimism and school concerns. Meanwhile, Marissa Green discusses the dramatic dismissal of Arlington nuns, raising important questions about church authority. David Yow reflects on the Jesus Lizard's comeback after 26 years, blending music resurgence with nuns' challenges.

Why Texas billionaires are spending big on judicial races with flashy political ads.Some religious leaders touch on political issues – but how does this align with U.S. tax rules and the separation of church and state?A new book from political science professor John Domino explores the history of privacy laws in Texas and what they mean today.Texas Monthly’s barbecue editor toured the country searching for the best BBQ – and it turns out he didn’t have to roam far from home.Should livestock in Texas be allowed to roam free, or do they need to be fenced in? Voters in Brazos County will decide. The post Brazos County voters to decide whether livestock should roam free or be fenced in appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The story of the TFWU is one of epic strikes and marches, but also one that occasionally brushes up against controversy. But what this documentary ultimately aims to do is simply share a story few Texans know from history. The full transcript of this episode of Texas Standard is available on the KUT & KUTX Studio website. The transcript is also available as subtitles or captions on some podcast apps.The post Texas Extra: A documentary on the Texas Farm Workers Union appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

With early voting underway, reporters in Ted Cruz’s homebase of Houston and Colin Allred’s congressional seat in Dallas asked voters what they think of the candidates and what issues matter to them the most.More than six months after the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed avian flu cases in dairy cows in Texas, experts are still trying to determine the full scope of the outbreak.Also: The only battleship to have been used in both world wars is looking for a new home. What’s to come of the U.S.S. Texas? The post Battleship Texas still in search of a new home after Galveston deal falls through appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

With less than two weeks until Election Day, presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are both making high-profile stops in Texas today.A nonprofit is helping Black farmers in Texas build a home-grown community.Filmmakers share the story behind “Subtopia,” a new Texas-based mockumentary about HOA drama.And: Remembering Sister Angela Murdaugh, a Franciscan Sister of Mary and certified nurse midwife who was named to the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame. The post Presidential campaigns make high-profile stops in Texas appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Areas around Austin, San Antonio and North Texas set records for the first day of early voting this week. But the story was different in El Paso.A Democrat won a state House seat in Collin County last election cycle – but Republicans think they can flip it back.What it means that decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana possession is on the ballot in more Texas cities.A look at the impact of the ongoing IV fluid shortage on Texas hospitals.And: We’ll ask whether it matters than an elected official in Harris County hasn’t clocked into work in about four years. The post Marijuana is on the ballot in two more Texas cities appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.