At hearing, Democrats say the redistricting process was flawed from the start

On the first day of a two-week trial, the plaintiffs’ lawyers honed in on who drew the new map and whether race was a factor.
Judge orders the immediate release of El Paso DACA recipient

The El Paso federal judge said the Trump administration is violating the constitutional rights of Catalina “Xochitl” Santiago, a DACA recipient who has lived in the U.S. for two decades.
Texas launches task force to target repeat criminal offenders in Houston area

Gov. Greg Abbott said state troopers and local law enforcement will start an effort in Harris County that he hopes to duplicate in other parts of Texas.
Talarico outraises Allred with massive fundraising haul to kick off Senate Democratic primary

The Austin state lawmaker took in $6.2 million in the three weeks since he launched his bid, outpacing the $4.1 million Allred raised over the last three months.
The federal government has shut down. Here’s what it means for Texas
Many federal employees are required to continue working without pay, though furloughs — or the usual uptick in workers calling in sick — could disrupt some services.
Texas halts commercial drivers licenses for many immigrants

DACA recipients, refugees and asylum recipients will no longer be able to receive or renew commercial licenses, the Department of Public Safety announced.
Texans ask for eligibility fixes, stronger accountability in school voucher program

For the first time since Texas authorized the program, the state heard public testimony from people concerned about pre-K funding, special education provisions and data reporting.
Trump administration could process new DACA applications after Texas’ lawsuit paused enrollment

If a judge accepts the plan, the Trump administration will reopen new applications for DACA for the first time in four years — but Texas applicants would no longer receive work permits.
TribCast: Will the Texas renewable energy powerhouse survive?

This week, Matthew and Eleanor speak with Eric Goff, founder of an energy policy advising firm, about the growth of wind and solar power in Texas and whether it will continue after recent federal efforts targeting the industry.
Texas universities launch course reviews amid push to limit gender identity instruction

After a viral video stirred controversy at Texas A&M, Texas Tech ordered course adjustments while UNT and UT launched reviews. It’s unclear what the reviews will look for.