Agriculture is the state’s second largest industry. Here’s a look at the 2026 midterm candidates to oversee the agriculture department and where they stand on the issues.
María Méndez
María Méndez works on efforts to better connect with Texans and writes explainers and guides. She strives to answer Texans' questions about politics and public policy and to help them find resources. Previously, she reported on public education at the Austin American-Statesman, border and business issues at Texas Public Radio and politics and breaking news at The Dallas Morning News. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, interned at The Texas Tribune as an engagement fellow and worked for The Daily Texan, UT’s student newspaper. She was born in Mexico, grew up in Austin and speaks Spanish. She is based in Austin.
Posted in
Public Education
Is your Texas school district experiencing a state takeover? We want to hear from you.
We’re examining how state takeovers affect Texas students, families and educators. Share your experiences or questions to help guide our reporting.
Posted in
Guides
What to know about Austin ICE shooting and migrant deaths in Texas
Most migrant deaths in Texas have occurred while they were detained since President Donald Trump began his immigration crackdown. Several were from natural causes.
Posted in
2026 Texas Elections
Texas land commissioner 2026: Who is running and what you need to know
The General Land Office oversees investments that earn billions of dollars for public education, manages state lands, operates the Alamo and administers disaster recovery funds and benefits to Texas veterans. Here’s a look at who’s running in the 2026 race and where they stand.
Posted in
2026 Texas Elections
Texas Railroad Commission 2026: What it does and who’s running in the race
The commission doesn’t have anything to do with railroads. It regulates Texas’ oil and gas industry. Here’s where 2026 candidates Bo French, Jon Rosenthal and Arthur DiBianca stand.
Posted in
Data Centers in Texas
Here’s how to find information about data centers in Texas
What information is accessible about a data center project can differ from place to place and depend on whether a project seeks out tax breaks, whether it needs local rezoning or special permits, and how it will get its power and water.
Posted in
Environment
Where to find flooding resources and how to help impacted Texans
From addressing storm damage to mental health needs, here’s how to help or find resources.
Posted in
Data Centers in Texas
Hundreds of data centers are coming to Texas. Here’s what you need to know.
Texas is experiencing an AI-driven data center boom with at least 248 projects planned statewide. Here’s what to know about the industry’s rapid growth and the debate over its impact.
Posted in
Data Centers in Texas
Where are the data centers in Texas? Help us continue our reporting.
Fill out the form below to help us continue our reporting on data centers and let us know more about what you’re interested in knowing about.
Posted in
2026 Texas Elections
Texas Court of Criminal Appeals Republican runoff: Who is running for Place 3 and what to know
The criminal court decides death penalty case appeals and rules on petitions for those who believe they’ve been wrongfully detained. Alison Fox and Thomas Smith are in the runoff for Place 3’s Republican nominee.
