The Brief: June 13, 2014
Could President Obama be so unpopular in Texas that he's making it difficult for Democratic candidates in the state, such as gubernatorial hopeful Wendy Davis? Full Story
Could President Obama be so unpopular in Texas that he's making it difficult for Democratic candidates in the state, such as gubernatorial hopeful Wendy Davis? Full Story
Bob Cavnar, who describes himself as a gun owner and Second Amendment supporter, says Open Carry Texas has become a "national embarrassment." Full Story
After a state Senate committee hearing Thursday in which veterans and others talked about excessive wait times at VA clinics, lawmakers said a plan expanding the Texas Veterans Commission's "strike force" was moving forward. Full Story
Gov. Rick Perry on Thursday announced agreements with health facilities to provide care for veterans who cannot get timely care from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Now, he’s seeking federal approval. Full Story
Saying the U.S. Border Patrol is overwhelmed by an influx of minors crossing the border illegally, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has asked the Obama administration for $30 million for state-based border security operations. Full Story
In this week's edition of the Trib+Edu newsletter: a new focus on chronically absent teachers, using babies to teach empathy and an interview with Rice University's Linda McSpadden McNeil. Full Story
With state Rep. Ron Reynolds preparing to stand trial in late summer on criminal and civil charges related to an alleged elaborate kickback scheme, Republicans see a chance to take back a district long held by Democrats. Full Story
Attorney General Greg Abbott leads state Sen. Wendy Davis by 12 percentage points in the race for Texas governor, according to the latest University of Texas/Texas Tribune Poll. Full Story
Republican statewide candidates at the top of the ticket hold double-digit leads on their Democratic rivals, paced by Greg Abbott who is up 12 points on Wendy Davis, according to the latest University of Texas/Texas Tribune Poll. Full Story
The defeat of U.S. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor has dashed hopes of Congress passing immigration reform anytime soon. But in Texas, a number of Republicans say they’ll keep pushing Washington on the issue. Full Story
We're excited to report that The Texas Tribune has won two national Edward R. Murrow Awards from the Radio Television Digital News Association. Full Story
Reeve, Ross, Alexa and Aman talk about leadership changes in Wendy Davis' campaign, recent changes to the Republican Party of Texas' platform, and changes currently being considered that might allow services like Uber in more Texas cities. Full Story
As unaccompanied minors from Central American stream across the border, overwhelming federal resources, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, says U.S. aid is needed to help Mexico secure its southern border. Full Story
Veronica "Ronnye" Vargas Stidvent has been named the new chancellor of WGU Texas after WGU's Ray Martinez announced he will head the Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas. Full Story
Reports that put several Texas facilities for veterans on the worst lists for wait times will fuel a state Senate hearing this week, as lawmakers look for ways to reduce wait times and advocate for Texas veterans who need health care. Full Story
Gov. Rick Perry and other Texas leaders say a federal proposal to combat climate change is a direct assault on energy providers. This Tribune analysis examines what Texas would have to do to reach the goals set forth in the proposal — if that proposal stays as is. Full Story
The Texas GOP's hardline stance on immigration in its party platform has drawn criticism from Democrats and some Republicans. And it comes as GOP gubernatorial candidate Greg Abbott tries to court Hispanic voters. Full Story
House Majority Leader Eric Cantor's stunning loss in his GOP primary contest in Virginia on Tuesday has boosted the political fortunes of Texas Republican Jeb Hensarling. Full Story
Inadequate supervision from the state has led to "grossly deficient" English language instruction for Texas public school students, according to a federal lawsuit filed Tuesday. Full Story
The Texas Racing Commission voted Tuesday to take steps toward allowing state racetracks to tap into a controversial technology known as historical racing. Full Story