Admissions at the University of Texas at Austin are doled out according to qualifications almost all of the time. But that “almost” hides a problem originally pointed out by a nettlesome regent: Sometimes, the bigwigs tilt the scales.
Austin
Video: Powers Addresses Admissions Report Findings
At a press conference on Thursday, University of Texas at Austin President Bill Powers responded to an external review that shows he helped secure college admittance for some students over the objections of the admissions office.
Analysis: It’s a Mess, but It’s Someone Else’s Mess
Government misadventures, like the current contracting scandals in Texas, don’t make voters happy. But they don’t necessarily hurt the people in office โ especially when it’s easy to hang the blame on the officeholders they replaced.
The Playlist: Thursday
There was no shortage of news coming out of the Capitol this week, but last Thursday was so singular that we built our entire playlist around the events of that day. Kicking things off: Wes Montgomeryโs cover of โA Day In The Lifeโ by The Beatles.
Roundup: Perry, Guns and Protests at Muslim Event
In the Roundup: Rick Perry comments on the rejection of his bid to dismiss criminal charges, there was a moment of uncertainty surrounding open carry legislation in the Senate, and Texas Muslim Capitol Day draws loud protests.
Video: Inauguration Celebration a Daylong Party
Texans celebrated the inauguration of Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick with plenty of fanfare Tuesday in Austin. Here’s a look at some of the festivities and what the new officials said about how theyโll lead.
Slideshow: Inauguration Day
This slideshow features the work of our photographers, who covered Tuesday’s parade, speeches and inauguration of Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, along with the inaugural ball at the Austin Convention Center.
Inside Texas Politics: A New Lieutenant Governor
This week’s edition of WFAA-TV’s Inside Texas Politics with host Jason Whitely, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s Bud Kennedy and Tribune Executive Editor Ross Ramsey leads off with an interview with Lt. Gov.-elect Dan Patrick.
Slideshow: Day One of the 84th Legislature
On the first day of the 84th Legislature, state lawmakers were sworn into office amidst family and friends. Afterwards, the House re-elected Joe Straus speaker, while the Senate made Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa president pro tempore.
Storify: The 1st Day of the 84th Legislative Session
From the first day of the new legislative session, here’s a selection of tweets that journalists, lawmakers and others have shared, along with the Tribune’s on-the-ground reporting from the Texas Capitol.

