Cruz’s intense interview with Tucker Carlson earlier this week exposed a rift in President Donald Trump’s coalition.
Stories by Texas Tribune fellows
The Texas Tribune welcomes a group of student fellows into our newsroom each spring, summer and fall. Here is a sampling of their work. Learn more about the fellowship program here.
Posted in
Economy
American babies may get $1,000 each to invest because of Ted Cruz
Included in Congress’ major tax and spending bill is Cruz’s proposal to give every American baby $1,000 to invest.
Posted in
Graphics and data reporting
Texas students make gains in reading but struggle with math, STAAR scores show
The mixed-bag results showed early literacy improvements, a key indicator of future academic success, but underline the challenges of preparing children for STEM-related jobs.
Posted inHealth care
Some Texans fear a looming THC ban could return them to opioids, illegal options
Texas hemp users stockpile products and consider moving out of state as ban looms, saying the medical marijuana program is currently an untenable alternative.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2025
Analysis: The 2025 Texas House, from right to left
Here’s a look at House members, ranked from most conservative to most liberal, based on votes cast during the 2025 regular session.
Posted in
Congress
Two Texas congressmembers named on alleged Minnesota assassin’s hit list
Reps. Veronica Escobar and Joaquin Castro were among the 45 elected officials placed on a hit list by a man accused of killing a former Minnesota House speaker and her husband.
Posted in
Politics
As Trump celebrates military, Texans protest president’s aggressive immigration enforcement
Demonstrations in McAllen, Midland, Odessa, Austin and elsewhere in Texas were largely peaceful, as some protests went well into the night.
Posted inPolitics
Texas parents and teachers worry bills to root out liberal sway from public schools pave the way for conservative bias
Advocates say the bills will give parents more power over their children’s schools. Critics say they don’t give parents anything they didn’t already have and will only strain their relationship with teachers.
Posted in
Politics
Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker announces run for Lina Hidalgo’s seat atop Harris County government
If Hidalgo decides to seek another term, she and Parker would face off in the March 2026 Democratic primary.
Posted in
Redistricting Texas 2025
Trump aides want Texas to redraw its congressional maps to boost the GOP. What would that mean?
The plan would shift voters from safely red districts into blue ones. Members of the state’s Republican delegation aren’t sold on the idea.