The commission includes Ben Carson, “Dr. Phil” McGraw and religious figures.
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
Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta confirmed as Trump’s ambassador to Italy
The Texas billionaire has said he will drop his position at Landry’s, but will continue his ownership of the Houston Rockets.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2025
A now-discarded plan to split Keller ISD caused a stir. Lawmakers now want clear rules on how to divide districts.
A House bill would require school districts to hold an election before breaking into smaller entities.
Posted in
LGBTQ+ Texans
Texas students say K-12 DEI ban and other anti-LGBTQ+ bills threaten their safety, voice and mental health
Students are concerned the legislation could silence supportive teachers, dismantle safe spaces, lead to overenforcement and prevent honest conversations about identity.
Posted in
Politics
Mayra Flores to challenge Henry Cuellar in the 28th District
Hours after the announcement, the Flores team said that the new candidate had been hospitalized and is now recovering. There were no details about her condition.
Posted in
Politics
U.S. House passes SAVE Act, led by Rep. Chip Roy, to require proof of citizenship to vote
Democrats argue that the bill places unnecessary hurdles on voting and could cause issues for people who have changed their name — like millions of married women.
Posted inPublic Education
Rafael Cruz, father of Ted Cruz, wants Texas to require school lessons about “evil” of communism
The prominent right-wing pastor told state lawmakers that an anti-communist curriculum is crucial to reaffirming that America is a “Christian country.”
Posted in
Politics
Ratcliffe, the CIA director, defends group chat that inadvertently included a journalist
The former Texas congressman says his communication in the chat was lawful and did not include classified information.
Posted inDemographics
Texas’ DEI debate centers on a disagreement about whether programs perpetuate or prevent discrimination
Supporters say diversity initiatives close educational and income gaps born from a history of prejudice. Republican officials say they prioritize identity over merit.
Posted in
Demographics
Texas’ DEI bans: What to know about the term and the debate
Diversity, equity and inclusion has become highly politicized — and there’s no standard definition for what it is.
