Republican analysts said at today’s Texas Tribune “New Day Rising” forum that as Texas’ Hispanic population continues to surge, its traditionally Democratic electorate is more and more up for grabs.
Immigration
In-depth reporting on border issues, policies, communities, and the impact of immigration across the state, from The Texas Tribune.
Texplainer: Are Illegal Immigrants Importing Illness?
In a recent Tribune article, state Rep. Leo Berman alleged that illegal immigrants are bringing infectious diseases into Texas. Is he right?
For Republicans, the Hazards of Red Meat
The growth of the state’s Hispanic population and the rise of immigration as a political issue put Texas Republicans in a tight spot — especially the ones with statewide aspirations.
Berman Leads Charge From GOP’s Right Flank
In 2009, state Rep. Leo Berman’s bills — like the ones restricting illegal immigrants to certain geographical regions and denying them access to higher education — failed to gain traction. But with a Republican supermajority now in control, this could very well be the session of Leo.
In Dallas, “Big D” May No Longer Fit
Big D may need a new nickname. Despite a surging state population, the city of Dallas grew by a paltry 1 percent in the last decade — a rate lower than any of the 20 largest cities in Texas.
TribWeek: In Case You Missed It
The best of our best content from Feb. 21 to 25, 2011.
The Week in Texas Politics Recap: 2/21 to 2/25
No time to follow every twist and turn of the Texas Legislature? We’ve made it easier for you with our weekly recaps of the action under the dome.
UT/TT Poll: Texans Want Tough Immigration Laws
Texas voters are willing to end automatic citizenship for the U.S.-born children of undocumented immigrants, according to the latest University of Texas/Texas Tribune poll.
Bill: Hire an Illegal Alien, Go to Jail — Unless It’s Your Maid
The bill would broaden the scope of employers subject to scrutiny — and extend penalties for violators to include possible jail time and big fines. Exempt? People who hire undocumented workers as domestic help.
Hundreds Rally Against Immigration Bills
Hundreds of Texans descended on the state Capitol on Tuesday to draw attention to dozens of bills they say would hinder economic development, stymie education and — above all — encourage racial profiling in the Lone Star State.

