Enlarge photo by: Bob Daemmrich

Ted Cruz speaking at the state Republican convention in Fort Worth on June 9, 2012.

Your evening reading: Cruz gets plum speaking slot at CPAC; House may restore some education cuts; Patterson expresses support for statewide property tax

Enlarge photo by: Marjorie Kamys Cotera

Gov. Rick Perry speaks with the press on May 5, 2011.

The drawn-out sparring match between the governors of Texas and California has come to an end — for now.

Enlarge photo by: Marjorie Kamys Cotera

State Rep. Rafael Anchia, D-Dallas, speaks with fellow Rep. Mark Strama, D-Austin, after 2013 committee assignments are announced.

Your evening reading: House Democrats file measure to test GOP support for immigration reform; Paul to make talk radio debut; Norquist says Texas could change national immigration debate

Enlarge photo by: Phil Roeder

The State of the Union may have inspired some real debate in Texas, but a certain musician still managed to steal much of the post-speech spotlight.

Enlarge photo by: Tom Harris

Your evening reading: Nugent, Stockman say they'll remain civil during State of the Union; Florida senator rebukes Cruz at Hagel hearing; Dallas County urges state to expand Medicaid

Enlarge photo by: Marjorie Kamys Cotera

July 17th, 2012: President Obama speaks to crowd at the Austin Music Hall

Heading into President Obama’s fifth State of the Union address on Tuesday evening, we thought it would be worth rehashing his approval numbers here in Texas. 

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For this week's nonscientific survey of insiders in politics and government, we asked about the recent school finance ruling, and whether it will be upheld, whether it will result in tax increases, and who — if anyone — will get the blame for the consequences.

Enlarge photo illustration by: Todd Wiseman

Hey, Texplainer: All anyone is talking about right now is sequestration and the harm it might do to our government. How would Texas fare? 

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A controversial State of the Union invitation has turned the national spotlight toward a Texas congressman whose reputation precedes him.

Enlarge photo by: Reynaldo Leal

Ted Nugent at the State Farm Arena in Hidalgo, Texas.

Your evening reading: Nugent to attend State of the Union with Texas congressman; senators expected to vote on State Board of Education leader; Texas business leader backs comprehensive immigration reform

Enlarge photo by: Marjorie Kamys Cotera

Rep. Trey Martinez-Fischer D-San Antonio, at back mike of house on February 7th, 2013

Hoping to flex what little muscle they have in the Legislature, Democrats this week plan to take aim at Republicans over public education.

Enlarge photo by: WFUV

With the weekend almost upon us, it's time to kick back and relax with the Tribune's latest feature: a musical tribute to the news of the past seven days!

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Your evening reading: Secret Service launches investigation after Bushes' email hacked; Anderson court of inquiry concludes; Moody's issues warning over school finance case

Enlarge photo by: Bob Daemmrich

Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst at TribLive in Austin, TX, Jan 24, 2013

The plot in the David Dewhurst campaign fund scandal continues to thicken.