Redistricting hearings

Texas school closures raise tough questions

Public schools across Texas are being put to the test. From Fort Worth to Grapevine, Austin to San Antonio, we’ll look at how communities are reacting – and in some cases, pushing back – on plans to shutter schools and shuffle the map for many students.
Also, a big fight over redistricting with huge consequences – no longer on the political stage, but instead, a rather small federal courtroom. We’ll hear from Nacar Devine, an El Pasoan keeping tabs on what’s going on amid the hearing over Texas’ new congressional map.
Those stories, the latest on H-1B visas, and so much more.

Amarillo startup wants AI to go nuclear

A Texas congressional redistricting fight enters the courtroom, with both sides taking different positions from those taken earlier. The Texas Newsroom’s Blaise Gainey with more on the start of what’s expected to be a nine-day federal hearing over new congressional maps.
The most polluted air in Texas? We’ll hear why a Houston community may have a tough time getting companies to take speedy action to clear the air.
Also, would you vote for an increase in property taxes if it meant helping people who are homeless find a place to live? A test of that idea on the ballot in Austin.
Plus, the Amarillo startup wanting AI to go nuclear, the week in Texas politics with the Texas Tribune, and much more.

Texas Standard is a listener-supported production of KUT & KUTX Studios in Austin, Texas. You can support our work by becoming a sustaining member at supportthispodcast.org.

KUT Afternoon Newscast for July 29, 2025: The Texas Senate had another hearing on redrawing congressional districts

Central Texas top stories for July 29, 2025. The Texas Senate had another in a series of hearings today on redrawing congressional districts at the behest of President Trump. Hays County is looking to make the most of its water supply. Tesla says it’s struck a deal with Samsung to produce semiconductor chips at the South Korean company’s forthcoming plant in Taylor. East Austin has a new pocket park. Humidity has been so low this afternoon that the heat index has been lower than the air temperature in the Austin area.

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