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Alexa Ura reported for The Texas Tribune from 2013 to 2023. She covered the complex dynamics of race, ethnicity, wealth, poverty and power and how they are shaping the future of Texas and Texans, in the long and short term. Alexa started at the Tribune as a reporting intern before graduating from the University of Texas at Austin and joining the staff full time. Originally from Laredo on the Texas-Mexico border, she is a native Spanish speaker and is based in Austin.
After several hours of debate in the House and ongoing negotiations with the Senate, lawmakers on Monday night managed to pass a transportation funding measure and adjourn the third special session of the year. Full Story
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The state’s new Expanded Learning Opportunities Council will be charged with developing a statewide action plan to improve and create extended learning opportunities in public schools. This story is part of our monthlong 31 Days, 31 Ways series. Full Story
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The West community will receive additional federal funding to rebuild following the explosion of a fertilizer depot in April that killed 15 people and flattened much of the town, Gov. Rick Perry announced on Friday. Full Story
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Bars and restaurants are going to be paying half of the taxes they pay now on cocktails. But Texas consumers aren't likely to see that savings. Instead, your margaritas and bloody marys could get a little pricier next year. Full Story
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Highlighting his ties to the Hispanic community during his gubernatorial campaign launch, Attorney General Greg Abbott is wooing Hispanic voters who have tended to identify with the Democratic Party. Full Story
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Led by Attorney General Greg Abbott, Texas has fought the federal government for control over various issues, including environmental regulation and oversight of voting laws. Use this interactive to look at the current legal battles. Full Story
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Attorney General Greg Abbott's campaign is reporting it raised $4.78 million in the last two weeks of June, an amount his representatives are calling a record haul. Full Story
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Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst said he is confident abortion restriction legislation will pass during the current special session after an hours-long filibuster killed the bill during the first special session. Full Story
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