TribCast: How long can Texas Democrats hold out?

In this week’s episode, Matthew and Eleanor speak with state Rep. Gina Hinojosa, D-Austin, about her and her colleagues’ decision to flee the state, the potential financial and criminal penalties and her opposition to the state’s proposed new congressional map.
Texas House committee discusses flood bills despite standstill

Only one Democrat taking part in the quorum break was absent from the panel as the group discussed five bills and the chair vowed their work would go on.
Wesley Hunt tests waters of a Senate bid, setting up possible heavyweight primary with Cornyn and Paxton
The Houston Republican’s case rests on the notion that Sen. John Cornyn cannot win the primary and his challenger, Attorney General Ken Paxton, could jeopardize the seat in November.
Texas House issues arrest warrants for Democrats who left state to block congressional redistricting

The warrants apply only within state lines, making them largely symbolic as most of the legislators in question decamped to Illinois, New York and Massachusetts.
Live updates: Texas Dems’ absence hampers special session, triggers warrants, garners national attention

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says her state may try to add Democratic U.S. House seats as Texas House Democrats face threats that they’ll be removed from office.
Flood relief, THC regulation and more in limbo after House Democrats leave Texas

Democrats fled the state to stop Republicans’ attempt to redraw congressional districts, but bills aimed at everything from a THC product ban to bolstering flood response are now in doubt.
Senate panel OKs latest bill restricting use of government and school bathrooms by transgender people

Over 100 people provided at times emotional testimony Monday for and against Senate Bill 7, which would require people to use restrooms that match their birth gender.
The Texas redistricting fight spurring a legislative standoff: What you need to know

Texas Republicans are trying to redraw congressional districts to pick up five additional U.S. House seats. Democrats face financial and political risk in their bid to block the GOP plan.
The IRS says churches can now endorse candidates. That could give Texas pastors more power than ever.

One expert said Texas — with more than 200 megachurches — will be the epicenter for pastors and congregations to test out their new influence.
Harris County leader wants voters to extend child care efforts as pandemic funding runs out

The debate over whether to ask voters to cover the program comes as the nation’s third-largest county faces a projected $270M budget shortfall.