Enlarge photo by: Marjorie Kamys Cotera

Gov. Rick Perry speaks at Williamson County Republican dinner in Round Rock, his first public speech since leaving the presidential race.

Your evening reading: Perry to guest host CNBC's Squawk Box; Texas Democrats optimistic about deal on Medicaid expansion; calls for CPRIT investigation intensify

Enlarge photo by: Matthew C. Wright

A new report has intensified the spotlight on business incentives in Texas.

Enlarge photo by: Ali Durkin, Medill News Service

Your evening reading: Cornyn calls White House proposal to unilaterally raise debt ceiling "crazy"; congressional Republicans clashing over approach to immigration reform; education commissioner to delay 15 percent rule

Enlarge photo by: Michael Stravato

Ted Cruz with daughter Caroline at his election watch party in Houston on Nov. 6, 2012.

Still reflecting on the election, Ted Cruz says he knows why Republicans lost, and what they can do about it.

Enlarge photo by: Todd Wiseman

Your evening reading: Dewhurst proposes taking $1 billion from Rainy Day Fund for water projects; Perry voices support for letting districts decide on 15 percent rule; ethics commission backs off plan to add investigative powers

Enlarge photo by: Michael Stravato

Ted Cruz supporters at his election night watch party in Houston on July 31, 2012.

He hasn't even taken office yet, but one of Ted Cruz's first moves as Texas' senator-elect is already delighting conservatives.

Enlarge photo by: Gage Skidmore

Conservative activist Grover Norquist

Your evening reading: Norquist says Perry could be viable 2016 candidate; Abbott moves to seize polygamist ranch; panel says Reyes may have violated ethics rules

Enlarge photo by: Bob Daemmrich

Congressman Michael McCaul at the Texas Capitol on Feb. 23, 2011.

So much for Texas Republicans losing their clout in Congress next year.

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Your evening reading: McCaul to chair Homeland Security Committee; Hutchison introduces alternative to DREAM Act; new Texas secretary of state named

Enlarge photo by: Bob Daemmrich

Gov. Rick Perry outside the House chamber on May 28, 2011.

Gov. Rick Perry has left his latest mark on a court that already heavily bears his imprint.