The state’s power grid operator had already planned on auditing several data center proposals, but Abbott’s directive reworks the timeline and adds new requirements.
Politics
Stay informed with The Texas Tribune’s in-depth political coverage, including Texas elections, state government, policy debates, and the leaders shaping the future of the state.
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Courts
Limits on certain firearms, silencers lifted for some in Texas after judge’s order takes effect
The Trump administration declined to immediately appeal a ruling by a federal judge in Lubbock that invalidated parts of the 1934 National Firearms Act.
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Courts
Lawsuit seeks to stop Big Bend border wall construction
A tribal nonprofit and an outdoor recreation company filed the federal lawsuit, arguing the work threatens archeological sites and sacred grounds.
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Economy
Data center audit lacks specifics even as Gov. Abbott, industry leaders tout it
Without key details on the audits but the eagerness to support them, policy watchers question how impactful these audits will be in curbing data center growth.
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Demographics
Rio Grande Valley residents are feeling more negative about their lives. That could spill into the voting booth.
Rio Grande Valley residents are unhappy with the economy, salaries, and other factors. That could sway their political views, according to political watchdogs.
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2026 Texas Elections
Who’s leading in Texas’ U.S. Senate race? We’re tracking poll results between Ken Paxton and James Talarico.
The latest survey has Paxton leading by one point, breaking a streak of several polls that showed Talarico with a slight advantage.
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Politics
Paxton, Talarico tap contrary versions of God and Christianity in appeal to Texas voters
Campaigning for the U.S. Senate, Paxton says he was “delivered by God” to protect Texas from leftists. Talarico’s focus: “You can’t love God and hate other people.”
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Courts
Texas’ mail ballot ID requirements restored by federal appeals court
The U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals rebuked the lower court’s 2025 ruling that struck down nine provisions of a sweeping election law related to voter assistance.
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Health care
Baby at center of surrogacy rights case is born in Dallas
The biological parents won a temporary restraining order against the surrogate, who tried to claim parental rights, and are with their baby, their attorneys say.
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2026 Texas Elections
As Big Bend wall outcry builds, Paxton does not say whether construction should proceed
The attorney general’s campaign said he wants strong border security that considers Big Bend’s “unique characteristics” — but did not say whether he supports building a wall there.
