Texas Tribune executive editor Ross Ramsey sat down with Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar for a discussion on how the novel coronavirus outbreak in Texas has impacted the state’s economy and workforce.

Here’s a look at some of Hegar’s responses to questions during the interview.

What’s happening to the state’s economy right now?

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How does this economic downturn affect the state budget, and how are state officials responding?

What effects do these larger economic trends have on local communities and local business?

Hegar was elected as the 36th Texas comptroller in 2014, and he serves as Texas’ treasurer, check writer, tax collector, procurement officer and revenue estimator. He previously served as a member of the Texas Senate and House.

The interview was streamed on the Tribune’s website, Facebook page and Twitter, as well as by our media partners at KPRC2, KXAN and Community Impact, to a live audience of more than 4,500 viewers.

This virtual event series is presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas; Beer Alliance of Texas; CAMMACK & STRONG, P. C.; and Raise Your Hand Texas. Media support is provided by KXAN, KPRC2, Univision62 and Community Impact.

Tribune events are also supported through contributions from our founding investors and members. Though donors and corporate sponsors underwrite Texas Tribune events, they play no role in determining the content, panelists or line of questioning.

Disclosure: The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune’s journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

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