Texas Take

Is Trump is making Democrats more competitive in South Texas?

Fri, 01 May 2026 15:24:00 -0000

On this episode of Texas Take, host Jeremy Wallace looks at how President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown is affecting Texas politics, Latino voters and families held at the Dilley detention facility. Houston Chronicle immigration reporter Julián Aguilar explains the cases of detained children and families, while Democratic strategist Laura Barberena breaks down how backlash over the crackdown could reshape South Texas congressional races. Plus, they’ll get into why Texas music star Kacey Musgraves is helping shine a bigger spotlight on it all with her new tour. Finally, after seeing Post Malone in a Texas-themed anti-litter ad, Wallace counts down the five best "Don’t Mess with Texas" ads in history. Sure, Willie Nelson is guaranteed to make the cut, but will George Strait, Matthew McConaughey, Warren Moon and Earl Campbell?

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James Talarico's Bid To Win Black Voters

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:56:00 -0000

After a contentious Democratic primary, James Talarico is making a big push to win over Black voters, many of whom had backed his opponent, Jasmine Crockett. In an exclusive interview with Texas Take host Jeremy Wallace at Prairie View A&M University, Talarico explains what he’s doing to win them over and talks about his relationship with Crockett. “There is no way to win Texas without Black voters,” Talarico says. In Dallas and Houston, Talarico lost 9 out of every 10 Black voters to Crockett. Can he win them back? Dallas Morning News Political Writer Gromer Jeffers Jr. joins the show to outline what Talarico has been doing and how much work he still has to do.

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Sex, Guns and Politics

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:35:00 -0000

The mounting pressure finally caught up with now-former U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales. After other members of Congress moved to expel him for his affair with a staffer, the San Antonio Republican formally resigned, leaving people from San Antonio to El Paso with no representative in the House for the foreseeable future. San Antonio Express-News political reporter Bayliss Wagner joins host Jeremy Wallace to outline why Gonzales finally relented and what happens next to replace him. Plus, the NRA’s Justin Davis joins the program to explain how they are trying to win back members and why they opposed increased background checks on 18-year-olds after the Uvalde school shooting. Also, while Democrat James Talarico socks away huge money for his November Senate bid, the Republicans in the race continue to fight among themselves and burn GOP donor cash. Finally, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, who has never been shy about his ambition to run for president again, is starting to show up outside of Texas in places like California and Iowa.

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The Incredible Shrinking NRA?

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Scandal and declining membership have beset the National Rifle Association in recent years, but the group is still expecting 70,000 gun owners to descend on Houston starting Thursday for its annual convention. Justin Davis, Director of Public Affairs for the NRA, sat down with Texas Take Podcast host Jeremy Wallace to discuss how the organization is trying to win back members and what it's done to better watch how money is spent. For just the second time since 2015, President Donald Trump will be a no-show at the event. Davis also defends the NRA’s opposition to red flag laws and the gun safety measures passed in Congress after the Uvalde school shooting in 2022.

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Challenging THC Regulations in Texas

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:49:00 -0000

The THC industry is fighting back against new Texas regulations that threaten to put many of them out of business. Houston Chronicle reporter Isaac Yu joins host Jeremy Wallace to explain key parts of the new regulations, the industry's recent lawsuit and what will happen next. Also, they break down the latest way that Christian nationalism may be seeping into public schools. Later, the Austin American-Statesman’s John Mortiz joins the program to talk about how Texas Democrats are still paying for their attempts to stop the congressional redistricting plan and why U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw is calling out U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz. Finally, Republican National Committee chair Joe Gruters stops in to acknowledge the tough midterm elections ahead, but insists the party has a plan to defy recent electoral history. Why? "We have no other option. We have to win," he says.

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An Exclusive With the National Republican Party Chairman Gruters

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:36:00 -0000

The leader of the Republican National Committee knows he will have to defy history to defend President Donald Trump in Texas and beyond as Democrats vow to retake control of the U.S. House. In an exclusive interview with Texas Take host Jeremy Wallace, RNC chair Joe Gruters said he knows almost every president over the 150 years has lost seats in Congress during midterm elections. But the GOP has to overcome the odds in order to save Trump from an endless stream of investigations and impeachment hearings during his final two years in office. “We have no other option. We have to win,” Gruters said. A big part of that mission is Texas. With the GOP national convention scheduled for Houston in 2028 and a potential midterm convention in Dallas this year, Gruters has been in Texas a lot, preparing to fight Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico and other threats to Trump’s legacy up and down the ballot in the Lone Star State.

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Monster, Snubs and Japanese Anime

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:47:00 -0000

Did Ted Cruz and Greg Abbott just get snubbed by CPAC in their own backyard? Houston Chronicle reporter Benjamin Wermund joins this week's episode to explain why the crowd favored JD Vance and Marco Rubio over either. Plus with gas prices climbing, Trump voters may be paying more at the pump. In Midland and Odessa, people are pay much more for a gallon of gas than those in Houston, Dallas or Austin - all places Kamala Harris carried in 2024. And host Jeremy Wallace has seen far too many Godzilla movies. He explains why a congressional hearing about deep-sea mining operations of the Gulf Coast has him worried about what lurks beneath the waves. Finally State Sen. Nathan Johnson joins the program for an exclusive one-on-one to talk about his campaign for attorney general, his double life writing music for Dragon Ball Z and his concern over the calcification of power in the governor's office that he says would have alarmed the framers of the Texas Constitution.

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Why are would-be presidential candidates making a beeline for Texas

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:33:00 -0000

Vice President JD Vance and U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Arizona, are worlds apart politically, but this week both were in the Lone Star State on a similar mission: win over Texans who could become critical if they both run for the White House in 2028. Gallego sits down with host Jeremy Wallace for an exclusive interview in San Antonio, where he says his message is as simple as can be: “no stupid wars, focus on the homeland.” His target audience in the Alamo City was clear: Latinos and veterans. Plus, University of Houston political science professor Brandon Rottinghaus explains that it’s not just Texas BBQ bringing would-be presidential candidates to Texas. He explains why the state is such a proving ground for candidates of both parties. Also, Austin American-Statesman political reporter John Moritz drops in to relay what Democrat James Talarico said in response to a Tennessee pastor who called for God to kill him. All that, plus Conroe’s Parker McCollum, shows how a Houston rodeo concert is supposed to end.

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The Long Wait for Trump’s Texas Senate Endorsement

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:47:00 -0000

The longer President Donald Trump drags out his endorsement of either Sen. John Cornyn or Ken Paxton, the more it is costing GOP donors as the two Senate combatants continue to throw money at each other instead of turning their attention to Democrat James Talarico. Host Jeremy Wallace breaks down the latest in the drama to court Trump’s political love. Plus, what exactly did James Talarico say about veganism that has Republicans vowing to defend BBQ? Finally, Cornyn and U.S. Rep. Greg Casar force their way onto the show by verbally sparring in the pickup line at the airport – all in front of Wallace. The reason? Who is to blame for long TSA lines at airports around the nation.

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Wild 2026 Texas Primary: What Happened and Why

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:28:00 -0000

Texas shattered voting turnout records in a wild primary season that saw James Talarico defeat Jasmine Crockett, and Sen. John Cornyn pushed into a runoff election with Ken Paxton. Gromer Jeffers of the Dallas Morning News and John Moritz of the Austin American-Statesman join host Jeremy Wallace to break down all the results including hot races for Congress, the Texas Legislature and statewide offices. Plus, Bayliss Wagner of the San Antonio Express-News joins with the latest on U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, whose career in Congress will be coming to an end after he confirmed that he had an affair with a staffer who later died after setting herself on fire. Finally, Wallace looks at how President Donald Trump used a stop in Corpus Christi to tout gas prices being down 10 cents, only to see them shoot up 20 cents days later after he ordered the attack on Iran.

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Closing Arguments

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:49:00 -0000

Months of ads, rallies and campaign travel have brought us to this. On Tuesday, Texas will know whether Jasmine Crockett or James Talarico will be the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate. And on the Republican side, will U.S. Sen. John Cornyn survive the toughest GOP primary of his career against Ken Paxton and Wesley Hunt? John Moritz of the Austin American-Statesman joins host Jeremy Wallace to break down the closing arguments of all the top candidates and look at the record pace of early voting, with shocking turnout numbers in Harris, Bexar and Collin counties, to name a few. Plus, U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales is vowing never to resign despite new evidence related to an affair he had with a congressional aide who killed herself last year. Finally, President Donald Trump heads to Corpus Christi to tout the economy despite continued criticism that he hasn't done enough to address affordability in America.

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Shocker after Shocker in Texas Primaries

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:46:00 -0000

U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico got a sudden boost from Stephen Colbert in his Democratic primary battle against Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett. New evidence has emerged related to an alleged affair U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales had, which has changed his re-election prospects. And did Wesley Hunt vote for President Donald Trump in 2016 or not? John Moritz of the Austin American-Statesman, Bayliss Wagner of the San Antonio Express-News and James Osborne of the Houston Chronicle all join host Jeremy Wallace to break it down. Plus, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and his GOP primary opponent Nate Sheets both drop by to jab at each other, talk about their showdown and explain how they plan to manage the future of THC and hemp.

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Traitor, Backstabbers and Puppets

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:53:00 -0000

With the start of in-person early voting in Texas about to get underway, attack ads are filling up television sets around the Lone Star State. Host Jeremy Wallace breaks down some of the hottest primary races in Texas and plays a ton of attack ads from various races to show just how intense things have gotten. Can Mayes Middleton catch Chip Roy in the race to replace Ken Paxton as Attorney General? Is Don Huffines about to defeat Gov. Greg Abbott's preferred choice for the state's top accountant job? The Houston Chronicle's Isaac Yu joins the program to explain why so much is at stake for Abbott in the that race. Plus, San Antonio Express News reporter Bayliss Wagner stops in to talk about the proxy war in San Antonio that has the most vicious ads in the state filling the airwaves of the Alamo City. And Drew Landry, who teaches government at South Plains College in Lubbock, joins to break down the most wide-open GOP primary for Congress playing out in West Texas. Finally, could the only Latina ever to represent Houston on Capitol Hill be in jeopardy on March 3?

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Warning Bells for Republicans In Texas

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:13:00 -0000

A North Texas shocker has turned Lone Star State politics on its ear. Host Jeremy Wallace and the Austin American-Statesman’s John Moritz explain the wide ramifications of Democrat Taylor Rehmet’s victory from a truly Texas perspective. President Donald Trump quickly distanced himself from the debacle. Plus, the newest member of Congress wasted no time reporting for duty after a dominating win in a Houston runoff battle, and it’s already messing with House Speaker Mike Johnson’s math. In San Antonio, U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro takes us behind the scenes of his late-night drive to a detention facility to personally escort 5-year-old Liam Ramos and his father to freedom in Minnesota. Finally, you’ll hear exclusive audio from U.S. Reps Greg Casar and Jasmine Crockett.

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Time for a Recalibration?

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:51:00 -0000

Texas congressional members are demanding that the Trump administration release a 5-year-old Minnesota boy and his father from a detention camp near San Antonio. Host Jeremy Wallace meets up with U.S. Reps Jasmine Crockett and Joaquin Castro, who talk about visiting the boy and his father this week in Dilley, Texas. Gov. Greg Abbott is among the Republicans suggesting that it may be time for the White House to “recalibrate” its mission as tensions boil over in Minnesota and beyond. Plus, reporter John Moritz of the Austin American-Statesman joins the program to help break down the first debate between Crockett and James Talarico. In addition, Wallace hits Houston's 18th Congressional District, where Amanda Edwards and Christian Menefee are making their final push to win that seat on Jan. 31. Finally, Houston Chronicle columnist Joy Sewing drops by to make sense of why U.S. Rep. Al Green is so upset with what she wrote recently.

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An Exclusive with Beto O'Rourke: "We will live in a fascist country"

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 22:31:00 -0000

Recorded live at Stubb’s in Austin, Texas Take host Jeremy Wallace sits down with Beto O’Rourke for a conversation about why he chose not to run for office this cycle and what he’s doing instead. O’Rourke talks about his work with Powered by People, efforts to register and turn out new voters across Texas, and why down-ballot races matter as much as marquee contests. The discussion also touches on Democratic primary dynamics where O'Rourke weighs in on the race between Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico, voter suppression, the stakes of the 2026 midterms, and the unexpected parallels between grassroots politics and punk rock, drawing on O’Rourke’s time as a musician.

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What is Beto O’Rourke up to now?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 18:15:00 -0000

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Will Donald Trump Ever Endorse John Cornyn?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 23:18:00 -0000

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn joins host Jeremy Wallace to talk about his campaign and what President Donald Trump told him about a potential endorsement for the U.S. Senate. Plus, a week after podcaster Shawn Ryan said he was disinviting Rep. Dan Crenshaw on his show, the Houston Republican drops in to respond to Ryan. Finally, San Antonio Express-News reporter Bayliss Wagner jumps aboard to help break down how the military action in Venezuela affects Texas oil and the border, and how Democrats are struggling to present a coherent response.

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No Boots on the Ground

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:03:00 -0000

U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw sits down for an interview with host Jeremy Wallace to discuss why he supported President Donald Trump’s actions in Venezuela, but why he doesn’t believe U.S. soldiers will be needed on the ground there. The Houston Congressman is a member of the House Intelligence Committee and partly grew up in neighboring Colombia when Venezuela was a prosperous tourist destination. Also, Crenshaw responds to popular conservative podcaster Shawn Ryan, a fellow Navy SEAL, who has gone somewhat viral for accusing Crenshaw of threatening him - a charge Crenshaw calls bogus.

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Who won Texas Politics in 2025

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 21:46:00 -0000

Who made the biggest splash in Texas politics in 2025? And who saw their fortunes take a turn for the worse? In this week’s end-of-year episode, host Jeremy Wallace channels the legendary Casey Kasem to count down the 7 politicians who saw their political stocks climb the most and those who saw theirs tumble. Which lists did Greg Abbott, Ted Cruz, John Cornyn and Jasmine Crockett end up on? Plus, reporters Taylor Goldenstein and John Moritz join the program to break down the biggest stories of the week. Finally, you’ll hear a tribute to some big names in Texas politics that the state lost in 2025.

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Jasmine Crockett on Latino voters and Israel

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:30:00 -0000

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Shaking It All Up

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 18:48:00 -0000

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So Much Uncertainty in Texas Politics

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 20:33:00 -0000

The future of THC in Texas is once again in jeopardy. Reporters Isaac Yu of the Houston Chronicle and John Moritz of the Austin American-Statesman join host Jeremy Wallace to dig into how the industry is bracing for a new effort to destroy their businesses. Plus, what impact will U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett have on the U.S. Senate race if the outspoken Democrat jumps in, as expected. Finally, U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia stops by the program to vent about how nothing has happened a year after President Donald Trump said he wanted to work with Democrats to help ‘dreamers.” The Houston Democrat says the White House has done little to help advance her legislation that would protect tens of thousands of people in Texas brought to the country as children from being deported.

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Disaster for Texas Republicans

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 18:40:00 -0000

What looked like Gov. Greg Abbott’s gift to President Donald Trump may turn out to be a nightmare for the White House. A court this week put Abbott's plan to eke out five new GOP congressional seats in jeopardy, thanks largely to one big misstep by the governor himself. San Antonio Express-News reporter Bayliss Wagner joins host Jeremy Wallace to explain the problem and show how, instead of boosting Republicans' chances in next year's midterms, the redistricting push could wind up making it easier for Democrats to regain the House majority. Plus, U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Houston, joins the program to give her take on what just happened and why the federal judges who stopped the redistricting plan were right.

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Two Governors, One Big Texas City

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 18:43:00 -0000

California Gov. Gavin Newsom took a victory lap in Houston, trolling Gov. Greg Abbott who the very next day kicked off his re-election campaign. But Abbott wasn’t phased in the least. Reporter Benjamin Wermund joins host Jeremy Wallace to break down how Abbott responded and what his next big priority will be if he wins a record-shattering 4th term. Finally, you’ll hear how a Texas Congressional seat could play a big role in the fight over the Jeffrey Epstein files and why it matters to the whole state that a Lubbock Congressman is calling it quits.

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Gavin Newsom Answers Greg Abbott

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 17:10:00 -0000

Nine weeks after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott gave President Donald Trump the redistricting map he wanted in Texas, California Gov. Gavin Newsom roared back with an improbable victory on Election Day that will allow the Golden State to negate everything Abbott and Trump thought they were gaining in Texas. California political reporter Monica Madden and Texas House Democratic Leader Gene Wu both join host Jeremy Wallace to explain how much harder of a lift for Newsom this really was — with a lot of help from Texans, at least financially. It partly explains why Newsom is taking a victory lap in Houston to celebrate his victory. Plus, reporter Taylor Goldenstein joins the program to help make sense of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's somewhat awkward speech to college students, where he focused heavily on his own legal troubles and the attempt by fellow Republicans to oust him from office two years ago.

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A Battle That Never Ends

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 20:54:00 -0000

Even after 189 years, the tale of the Alamo remains one of the most debated pieces of Texas history. And it continues to produce casualties to this day. Just this week, the person at the center of the reconstruction around the Alamo was forced out after Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick objected to something she wrote for her college dissertation. Columnist Chris Tomlinson joins the show to talk about the latest drama around the iconic mission. Plus, reporter Ryan Nickerson digs into who might be the next member of Congress from Texas. And finally, Houston Democrat Andrew White stops by the show to explain why he is running for governor again and what lessons from his father’s winning 1982 campaign have been incorporated into his bid to defeat Greg Abbott next year.

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An Exclusive with Wesley Hunt

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 23:13:00 -0000

One of the rarest things to do in Texas politics is to defeat an incumbent U.S. Senator in a primary. It has only happened once since World War II, yet Houston Republican Wesley Hunt is jumping headfirst into the 2026 GOP primary convinced he can beat U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. In this special episode of the Texas Take, Hunt explains why he’s running, talks about the role President Donald Trump has played in the campaign so far and defends his voting record after having a higher missed vote percentage than most members of Congress from Texas.

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Greg Abbott’s $90 million gamble

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 18:28:00 -0000

Listen to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott pledge to spend “most of” his $90 million campaign warchest in and around Houston to turn the area “dark red.” Given he’s lost Harris County by larger margins every time he’s been on the ballot since 2014, it seems like a fool's errand. But reporter Benjamin Wermund joins host Jeremy Wallace to dig into why the Republican might be so confident even in one of the state’s bluest counties. Plus, they break down who his top donors are by name, detailing where they came from, and what some have received in return for their loyalty. Also State Sen. Paul Bettencourt joins the show to talk about the surprising drop in voter registrations in Texas. Since last year, Texas saw the voter rolls shrink by 130,000 people - the biggest drop since 2012. And finally, the show looks at why a South Texas Republican is calling for Congress to extend Obama Care tax credits.

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Battling the Billionaires

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 17:32:00 -0000

Democrat Gina Hinajosa says she is no sacrificial lamb. In a one-on-one sit-down interview, the Rio Grande Valley native explains how she thinks she can beat Gov. Greg Abbott. In short, she says Abbott has let billionaires have too much influence over Texas while the working class struggles. Plus, the state’s 8th-largest city is so close to running out of water that it’s tearing apart the community to the point that people were getting arrested at a recent city council meeting. We'll play what happened. Reporter Megan Kimble joins host Jeremy Wallace to explain why the city's struggle has broad implications statewide and could be replicated in more Texas cities in the future. Finally, Eric Dexheimer provides details on why and how a small group of mostly out-of-staters is attempting to take over the government in the tiny Loving County.

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Marching on Chicago

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 19:29:00 -0000

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker slammed Gov. Greg Abbott for allowing Texas National Guard soldiers to be deployed in the Windy City without their permission. Reporters Benjamin Wermund and Bayliss Wagner join host Jeremy Wallace to break down the tension and dig into how Abbott is responding. Plus, political reporter John Moritz joins the program to assess the latest in the red-hot U.S. Senate race in Texas. Does Wesley Hunt really has a shot in the GOP Primary and why is Jasmine Crockett doing so well in polls on the Democratic side, despite not being in the race?

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Shutdowns and Showdowns

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:39:00 -0000

Why is the new mayor of Texas’s second-largest city publicly fighting people in her own party and a guy known as Spurs Jesus? Express-News reporter Molly Smith gets behind the scenes of the turmoil of Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones’s tumultuous first 100 days in office. Plus U.S. Reps. Dan Crenshaw, R-Houston, and Joaquin Castro, D-San Antonio, join the program to explain their frustration at the other side over the government shutdown and what's at stake for millions of Texans. Castro also hints at his political future. Will he run for the U.S. Senate? Governor? Finally, tune in for an update from Alamo expert Scott Huddleston on what is happening around the historic battle site that has been heavily debated for years.

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Revenge and Retribution

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 18:07:00 -0000

Texas Republicans and their national brethren were settling a lot of scores this week. While the Texas GOP officially threatened the political future of fellow Republican House Speaker Dustin Burrows, the Trump White House went after comedian Jimmy Kimmel to the objection of notable Texas Republicans like Sen. Ted Cruz. Reporters Benjamin Wermund and Taylor Goldenstein join host Jeremy Wallace to assess how much danger Burrows is in and what Cruz had to say at The Texas Youth Summit amid the Kimmel controversy. Plus, state Sen. Carol Alvarado joins the program to slam Republicans for threatening the political career of the only Latina to ever represent Houston in Congress. Listeners will also hear what Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett said during a speech in Austin and why it was so important. Finally, listen to Cruz break into his favorite characters from his favorite movie -- a flashback to when he was once the president of his high school drama club.

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The Hottest Political Races Budding in Texas

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 18:12:00 -0000

Veteran Texas political reporters Gromer Jeffers of the Dallas Morning News and John Moritz of the Austin American-Statesman join host Jeremy Wallace to break down the suddenly red-hot 2026 primaries, including the clash between Sen. John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton plus the budding rivalry between Colin Allred and James Talarico. They also dive into a major upheaval in the state’s congressional delegation and tell you the latest on what Democrat Jasmine Crockett and Republican Wesley Hunt are planning. Finally, Jeffers, Moritz and Wallace all explain their origin stories and have advice for campaigns, academics and legislative staffers on how to get into stories, TV appearances, podcasts and newsletters.

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Rage Against the Colleges

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 17:42:00 -0000

The political turmoil around Texas A&M University this week has been years in the making as Republican leaders from Vice President JD Vance to Gov. Greg Abbott have made clear that college campuses are the new battlefront in controlling the future of the nation. Reporter Samantha Ketterer joins host Jeremy Wallace to help explain what is happening and why A&M is a prime target. Reporter Benjamin Wermund also explains why there are huge overtime bills being racked up at the Texas border by state troopers and columnist Joy Sewing spells out the real world consequences of Houston still being without a member of Congress for nearly 800,000 people. Retired Houston astronaut Terry Virts also drops by the program to explain why he’s running for the U.S. Senate and we delve into the life of Charlie Kirk and how he rose to such prominence in American politics over the last decade.

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Who won the summer in Texas politics?

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 16:08:00 -0000

Another Texas summer is in the books and it had us wondering who in Texas politics made the most of their opportunity to get ahead. Host Jeremy Wallace, with help from reporters Benjamin Wermund and James Osborne, breaks down 10 names in Texas politics that crushed the summer and are riding high going into the fall. In the process, you’ll hear the latest on congressional redistricting, the battle over THC and a big change to testing in public schools.

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An Exclusive with Texas House Democratic Leader Gene Wu

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 16:19:00 -0000

Houston Democrat Gene Wu has received a burst of national attention for being the leader of the Texas House Democrats as they fled the state to try to stop President Donald Trump's redistricting plan. Ultimately, the maps passed despite Wu's efforts. He sits down with Texas Take host Jeremy Wallace to explain what if anything Democrats accomplished, how he's dealt with racists attacks as his profile has grown and why many in his community warned he about making too many waves in politics.

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Making Blood Boil in Texas Politics

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 16:21:00 -0000

President Trump got the redistricting maps he wanted from Texas, but it may come with a big political price tag. The Democratic Party, so fractured after the 2024 campaigns, suddenly found a rallying issue that washed away many of its own internal divisions - at least temporarily. Brad Johnson of The Texan and Kat Vargas of Howdy Politics join host Jeremy Wallace to break it all down. Plus, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick called out Gov. Greg Abbott again for his stance against banning all THC products in Texas, further muddying what the Legislature will do in the closing days of the special session of the Legislature. And finally, Texas House Democratic Leader Gene Wu joins the show for a deep dive on how his recent national media attention has helped illustrate how he’s had to navigate racism and generational norms in the Asian-American community.

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An Exclusive with John Cornyn

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 22:36:00 -0000

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn joins the Texas Take for a special episode to talk about being a political underdog for the first time in decades and pushes back against attacks that he's going more MAGA just to win his GOP primary next year. The Republican also explains why he called on the Justice Department to investigate Texas Democrats and what he did to make sure the state got reimbursed for all of the border spending it did during the Biden administration.

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On The Run

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 15:03:00 -0000

From California to New England, Texas Democrats have the entire nation focused on the Great State and President Donald Trump’s push to redraw the state's congressional districts. Reporters John Moritz and Taylor Goldenstein explain where things stand and whether Democrats are succeeding in their mission. U.S. Sen. John Cornyn also joins the show, pushing back against critics who say he is becoming more MAGA just to salvage his political career. Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Colin Allred also drops by to talk about where he went wrong in his last campaign and how he’ll be a different candidate this time. Finally, there’s another Bush family member ready to jump on the campaign circuit. Host Jeremy Wallace breaks it all down with a little inspiration from Paul McCartney, George Strait and Randy Rogers.

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Special Edition: Rare 1990 Reagan Recording

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 01:22:00 -0000

In this special edition of The Texas Take, host Jeremy Wallace shares the full audio of a rare 1990 speech by President Ronald Reagan, delivered in Chicago to recent high school graduates. Recorded two years after leaving office and just a few years before he would stop making public remarks, Reagan reflects on topics from repealing the 22nd Amendment to his criticism of gerrymandering. This copy, one of the few remaining, is being donated to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.

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No Prisoners

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 18:53:00 -0000

The Texas Republicans weren’t messing around. Their Trump-directed redistricting map could end the political careers of the three longest-serving Texas Democrats in Congress and shake up who represents Black and Hispanic districts. It all triggered heated exchanges in and around the Texas Capitol. We break it all down, plus give you the latest on the battle over THC products, the future of the STAAR test and another potential way Gov. Greg Abbott wants to stop property tax hikes. As an added bonus, we have a rare recording of Ronald Reagan weighing in on the evils of redistricting 35 years ago in one of his last speeches ever on the topic. Host Jeremy Wallace breaks it all down with Reporters Isaac Yu and Benjamin Wermund.

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Backs Against the Wall

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 09:59:00 -0000

Texas Republicans hold almost all the cards when it comes to redrawing the state's 38 Congressional Districts. But that doesn't mean Democrats don't have some tools they can employ to slow the game down. U.S. Rep. Greg Casar and State Rep. Ron Reynolds join us to talk about their options in fighting President Donald Trump's plan. Plus, Gov. Greg Abbott sits down for an exclusive interview to talk about redistricting and how U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz's school choice legislation will impact what he's already trying to do in Texas on the same front. Host Jeremy Wallace breaks it all down with columnist Chris Tomlinson.

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An Exclusive with Ted Cruz

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:00:00 -0000

In an exclusive interview, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz talks in-depth about how legislation he crafted will expand private school vouchers in Texas, even beyond the separate state program Gov. Greg Abbott has signed into law. Cruz also addresses his reputation as a bomb thrower in the U.S. Senate and how, in this case, it helped him score some key legislative victories in President Donald Trump's big, beautiful bill.

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Responding to Tragedy.

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 14:00:00 -0000

Be careful what you ask Gov. Greg Abbott and President Donald Trump after a tragedy. As the state and federal governments respond to the disaster in the Texas Hill Country, Abbott and Trump both made clear some questions from the media are completely off limits for them. We catch you up to speed on what happens next in the disaster response and get you ready for the special session of the Texas Legislature, where once again Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick will try to ban THC products in Texas. Host Jeremy Wallace breaks it all down with reporters John Moritz, Isaac Yu and Taylor Goldenstein.

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So, What's Different This Time? Anything?

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 14:00:00 -0000

Democrats are trying to get it together ahead of what should be a pretty good election cycle for them here in Texas. But the top of their ticket already includes the very real possibility of a US Senate nominee who lost badly to one of the most hated Republicans in America just 9 months ago. What are they even doing? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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F-Bombs Away!

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 22:27:00 -0000

We have reached a really dangerous point in American history when people aren't so much judged for what they did, they're judged differently based on who did it even if it's the exact same thing. We'll explain plus Little Gov. Patrick looks defeated on THC and Jeremy reports on what might be the last days of a dying industry in Texas. No one can come close to covering this state like we do, right? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Drawin' Those Battle Lines

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 23:32:00 -0000

While Gov. Abbott waits until the last possible minute to let us all know how he's going to handle the proposed THC ban in Texas, candidates are already lining up for races up and down the ballot in next year's elections. We've got the fullest report on that yet. Plus, the rift within President Trump's MAGA base was on full display when Tucker Carlson and Sen. Cruz duked it out during a two-hour argument in Washington. We listened to it so you don't have to. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Crazy and Stupid

Sat, 31 May 2025 22:05:00 -0000

Lt. Gov. Patrick this week called Jeremy "stupid" and "crazy" for asking him if adults should be able to use THC products legally in Texas while protecting children. Jeremy's ready to respond on the show. Plus, Gov. Abbott got his wish of cracking down on crime through "bail reform." But what does it really mean and did Abbott try to go too far? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Master of the House

Fri, 23 May 2025 23:33:00 -0000

Lt. Gov. Patrick brought the Texas House to heel this week in his quest to ban THC completely. How did he do it? We'll fill you in. Plus, single moms in a large swath of Houston have no representation in Congress as their food assistance is threatened. And this weekend marks the third anniversary of the Uvalde massacre. We'll take a look back and tell you about how little has been done to respond in the aftermath. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Acquiescence

Fri, 16 May 2025 22:38:00 -0000

Little Gov. Dan Patrick says this has been a "boring session" for him. Why would that be? Well, maybe it's because the Texas House is doing just about whatever the right-wing Texas Senate wants even though Speaker Dustin Burrows was elected with a majority Democratic coalition. Plus, the fight over Medicaid cuts gets downright nasty in Washington and Sen. Ted Cruz has serious concerns about President Trump accepting a gift of a luxury jet from a foreign government. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Going Way Too Far

Fri, 09 May 2025 22:01:00 -0000

Texas Republicans this week moved to ban some foreigners from owning land in this state, sparking an emotional and lengthy debate about a crackdown on immigrants that still won't help many GOP lawmakers avoid nasty primary challenges. Plus, Gov. Abbott says his signature school voucher initiative is a huge win for families and a "promise kept" from his campaign. We'll spell out the facts on that. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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"Political Poison"

Fri, 02 May 2025 21:45:00 -0000

This week a legendary Texas conservative, former Sen. Phil Gramm, told Jeremy that President Trump's tariffs aren't just hurting Texans and all Americans, but he also called them "political poison." Check out the exclusive interview. Plus, Texas lawmakers got into knockdown dragout fights about "furries," ESG, and more. And the race for US Senate from Texas still doesn't seem to be fully formed. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Excuses, Excuses

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 00:31:00 -0000

With the help of President Trump, Gov. Greg Abbott has successfully bullied Texas Republican lawmakers into passing his signature policy initiative of school vouchers. So, with roughly 6 weeks to go in the legislative session, what will they argue about now at the Texas Capitol? Plenty including abortion, immigration, voting rights, and more. We'll break it down. Plus, Jeremy's got his up and down of the week and Scott institutes a swear jar for the show. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Saying the Quiet Part Out Loud

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 18:34:00 -0000

With last-minute help from President Donald Trump, Gov. Greg Abbott pushed his signature policy goal of school vouchers across the finish line in the Texas House. We've got all the tea on how it really went down. Plus: Why did lawmakers break into a knockdown dragout fight about honoring a dead Texan this week? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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You Can't Win Em All

Sat, 12 Apr 2025 00:45:00 -0000

Democrats and others slammed Sen. Ted Cruz again this week for the "Cruz Curse" after the University of Houston lost the national championship men's basketball game in San Antonio with Cruz in attendance. Cruz keeps showing up to support Texas teams - and it doesn't work out - but he won't show up for Sen. John Cornyn in his primary against Texas AG Ken Paxton. Plus: A marathon debate in the Texas House provides one of the first tests for its new leadership. We were up for that all night so now you have to hear about it. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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It's Not Alright, Alright, Alright

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is on a crusade to ban all THC products while he teams up with a movie star whose career was launched by a film about teenage stoners in Texas. What are Patrick and Matthew McConaughey fighting against conservatives about? Meanwhile, the Texas Senate moved to ban soda and chips from food benefits for poor people. And Jeremy reports that Greg Abbott bragged this week about taking a call from Elon Musk while the governor was supposed to be on a Valentine's date with his wife. What? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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What are the Democrats Doing? No, Seriously.

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 22:13:00 -0000

The Democrats are struggling now - not just to find a message but they're looking for a leader to deliver it. We'll tell you about their starting lineup just as baseball season gets underway. Plus, stunning testimony in the Texas House leads to the swift firing of the CEO of an insurance company that admitted to spying on patients, legislators, and at least one journalist. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Fix It Already

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 23:50:00 -0000

Some top Texas Republicans now acknowledge that women are suffering and dying as a result of the state's strict abortion crackdown. They say it needs to be fixed. But where is Gov. Abbott on this? Plus: We debut a diss track against a school voucher pusher and Texas Democrats are about to choose a new chairman leading into the next election. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Sleep Deprived

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 02:49:00 -0000

A 20-hour Texas House hearing this week on school vouchers showcased some arguments you may have never heard before about this and proved Gov. Greg Abbott's signature initiative is still very controversial even among Republicans. I stayed up all day and night for it. We also have the exclusive audio, captured by reporter Ben Wermund, of Gov. Abbott pointing to "furries" as a reason for parents to have access to your tax dollars to send their kids to private schools. Plus, Jeremy has the lowdown on which Republicans may be gearing up to challenge Sen. John Cornyn next year. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Outbreak!

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 23:33:00 -0000

A measles outbreak in Texas. In 2025? Yup. And somehow RFK Jr. is quicker to respond than Gov. Greg Abbott. We'll get into that plus some Texas House Republicans face anger in their communities over Abbott's school voucher plan. And a Houston political giant passed away this week. We've got a tribute to Sly Turner. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Bonus Edition: Jeremy Reports from San Antonio

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:30:00 -0000

During a recent live event at the San Antonio Express-News headquarters, Jeremy talked with GOP former Rep. Steve Allison and Democratic former House candidate Kristian Carranza about school vouchers, property taxes, and other issues central to the legislative session unfolding at the Texas Capitol. Our regular show with Quorum Report Editor Scott Braddock and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace returns later this week. Enjoy.

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Staging an Intervention

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:49:00 -0000

People on the left and right enjoy Trump impersonations for different reasons. But it can go too far and it's becoming a bit of an issue at the Texas Capitol. Plus Gov. Abbott may be celebrating too soon on school vouchers and Jeremy digs into the similarities between Republicans now and some Democrats nearly 100 years ago. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Being Asked to Leave the Casino

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 22:39:00 -0000

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick declared war on the Texas Lottery this week, launching his own pseudo investigation into what he says are some shady dealings. Plus, Gov. Greg Abbott is getting more unhinged in his approach to campaigning for a school voucher program. And check out Jeremy's "Up and Down of the Week." Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Say it to My Face

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 23:26:00 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott is changing his tone in the debate over school vouchers - but does it mean he's cocky and sure it'll pass or is he on defense because he's nervous? We'll get into that. But first: What are Texas GOP leaders willing to do to clarify abortion restrictions in this state? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Chaos is on Purpose

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 23:34:00 -0000

This week, we saw fear in immigrant communities across Texas as the Trump Administration began arrests in major cities here and around the nation. Jeremy asked Gov. Greg Abbott about that in an exclusive interview for the show. Plus: The Texas Senate moves with lighting speed to establish a new government handout: School vouchers. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Technical Difficulties

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 01:41:00 -0000

The inauguration of President Trump in Washington was marked by some technical difficulties, a very energetic 78 year old whose message sounded like a president from a century ago, an appearance by Gov. Greg Abbott, and some sweeping changes to federal policies that will no doubt be felt in Texas. Plus, the Texas House banned Democratic Chairs and the people who have been asking for exactly that went into meltdown mode. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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They're Off to the Races

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 23:05:00 -0000

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick didn't get his way in the speaker's race and had a fit about it. Speaker Dustin Burrows got elected with a majority of Democrats in his coalition and that's sending the right-wing professional activist class through the roof. And a Texas boy gets his shot on the national stage at the Trump inauguration coming up next week. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Ready Or Not, Here They Come

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 01:09:00 -0000

The race for Texas House Speaker is about to come to a head on Tuesday and we're nowhere near a resolution. We'll break it all down for you. Plus, a full preview of what's on the agenda for the full legislative session including teacher pay raises, school vouchers, casinos and sports betting, border security, and more. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Let's Make a Deal

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0000

Jeremy is off this week. So in the meantime, enjoy the conversation I had with Austin radio legend Jeff Ward, who was curious about whether sports betting and casino gambling might be legalized this year. Well, here's an idea: What if those were both approved on the condition that the tax revenue would fund a school voucher program? It would certainly please some of the wealthiest people putting money into the campaigns of Gov. Greg Abbott and Little Gov. Dan Patrick.

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'Tis the Season...for Screaming

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 01:40:00 -0000

It's a tradition: Congress is in meltdown mode over budget issues during the holiday season. But this time, President-elect Trump is clashing with some Texas conservatives who don't agree with his plans for big spending in the coming year. Plus, the Texas House speaker race has cooled down to a simmer. And a big thanks to y'all for sticking with us throughout what's been a shitshow of a year. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Speaker Showdown or a Setup?

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 22:29:00 -0000

There was a frantic push to elect a speaker of the Texas House over the last few days, but the race is far from over. We've got all the tea, as the kids say. Plus, we've reached a new milestone for how many women are serving in the Texas Legislature. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Trump Says he Loves Texas. But the Proof is In the Puddin'

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:22:00 -0000

President-elect Trump has talked at length about how much he loves Texans. If that's the case, even some Republicans are starting to wonder why he's not appointing almost any Texans to his incoming administration. Plus: Little Gov. Dan Patrick declares all out war on the sale of anything containing THC. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace. Note: This episode does not cover the latest developments in the Texas House speaker race because the situation is changing minute to minute and I expect that to be the case through the weekend. For the latest updates, visit quorumreport.com and sign up for our free emails.

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When Trump Says Jump, Texas Republicans Say "How High?"

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 23:16:00 -0000

As President-Elect Trump prepares for his next term in office, most Texas Republicans seem ready to just do whatever he says. But, maybe not all of them. We'll dig into that. Plus: Little Gov. Dan Patrick loves to do a little sidestep lately when the issue of casino gambling is raised. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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On to the Next Chapter

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 23:37:00 -0000

"The Empire Strikes Back" comes to mind as Republicans asserted their dominance across Texas in Tuesday's election. But even with a 10-point swing toward the GOP statewide, only one incumbent Democrat lost a seat in the Texas Legislature. We'll get into that plus what the election results mean for abortion rights and the fight over school vouchers. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Texas Celebrities Makin' the Closing Arguments in 2024

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 11:30:00 -0000

It's hard to overstate the role that famous people from Texas are playing in this election. Beyoncé, Dr. Phil, Tony Hinchcliffe, Joe Rogan, Mark Cuban, and others are lining up on opposite sides of the political aisle. And you're not wrong if the first thing that came to mind was "hey, some of those people are not even from Texas!" But, welcome to the reality of living in a fast-growing state where all these people want to live. Plus, Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Colin Allred spend some of the final days of the campaign battling over who can tell military leaders how to run their bases. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Joe Rogan vs Beyoncé

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 23:56:00 -0000

The race for the White House comes to Texas this weekend with Vice President Harris, Beyoncé, and Rep. Colin Allred rallying in Houston while former President Trump, Joe Rogan, and Sen. Ted Cruz appear in Austin. Plus: The case of death row inmate Robert Roberson brings stars to the Texas Capitol and a rebuke from Gov. Abbott, who saw his authority threatened by lawmakers who have questions about the state potentially executing an innocent man. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Texas Republicans Help Halt an Execution. Wait, What?

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 23:44:00 -0000

There's never been anything like it in Texas politics: A bipartisan group of lawmakers went to extraordinary lengths as they raced to stop an execution in its tracks because there are serious questions about the case against death row inmate Robert Roberson. Plus, Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Colin Allred faced off in their only debate of the campaign with just days to go before Texans will begin casting their ballots in person. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Well, That's the Ballgame. Or Is It?

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 23:13:00 -0000

After the Houston Astros were eliminated in the playoffs, the Colin Allred campaign is blasting Sen. Ted Cruz for the alleged "Cruz curse." Hey, in a close election, anything that outrages enough people in Houston and San Antonio could help close the gap. Plus, we've got the latest on the race to lead the Texas House in 2025. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Wait, Ted Cruz Could Lose? Maybe.

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 17:16:00 -0000

This week we're featuring a conversation Scott had with Austin radio legend Jeff Ward, who wanted to know if Sen. Cruz could actually lose to Rep. Colin Allred. We'll be back with our regular conversion including Jeremy Wallace next week.

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Well, Look at That: It's the Consequences of our Actions

Sat, 21 Sep 2024 21:44:00 -0000

School districts across Texas have been left to twist in the wind after billions in funding was withheld because of Gov. Greg Abbott's failed attempt at passing a school voucher program. Let's talk about the real world consequences of that, shall we? And the politics of it, too. Plus for you real junkies we'll get into this week's speaker race drama. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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They're Eating What? Oh, Come On

Sat, 14 Sep 2024 00:18:00 -0000

The first and probably only presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris is in the rearview mirror and quite a few issues emanating from Texas were front and center: Immigration, abortion, oil and gas production, and more. Plus, Sen. John Cornyn is making his pitch to lead Senate Republicans. And an obvious attempt to suppress the votes of college students in North Texas fails after a bipartisan vote against it. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Ready, Set, Run!

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 23:33:00 -0000

There's finally a debate breaking out in the US Senate race in Texas featuring Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Colin Allred arguing over who's the bigger champion for the business community and jobs in this state. Jeremy spoke with both candidates. Plus, a Texas Democrat leaves the party for the GOP. It would be a bold move if it didn't seem like nothing but sour grapes after Democratic voters showed her the door in the primary. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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This Ain't Texas

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 03:48:00 -0000

But, it sure seems like it's about Texas. Abortion, gun violence, and immigration: Texans and Texas issues were front and center for much of the DNC in Chicago this week. We break it all down for you in this special edition of the show. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Special Edition: Wargaming 2024 in Texas

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 11:30:00 -0000

President Biden is out and Vice President Kamala Harris has secured the Democratic presidential nomination. What does a Donald Trump vs. Kamala Harris race look like this fall? Does this change anything in Texas? And what does this mean for other key 2024 races including Rep. Colin Allred challenging Sen. Ted Cruz? Houston Chronicle columnist Joy Sewing joined Jeremy Wallace and Scott Braddock for a special live event hosted by Hearst Newspapers across Texas last week. Hundreds tuned in for that but for Texas Take's regular listeners, here's a podcast version. Enjoy and let us know what you think.

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Back to School and Back to War

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 23:09:00 -0000

Many parents and teachers around Texas were angry this week as kids returned to school at the very same time that the future of education in this state was once again up for debate at the Capitol in Austin. Plus, former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner won the "insiders race" to succeed Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee in Congress. Jeremy was in the room for that and has a full report. And there was a meltdown on Harris County Commissioners Court when Judge Lina Hidalgo lashed out at fellow Democrats for "disrespect." Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Race About Race?

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 21:39:00 -0000

For the second week in a row, national Democrats have made Texas the setting for the race for the White House. In Houston, VP Harris fired back at former President Trump after he said she "happened to turn Black" and in Austin President Biden proposed sweeping changes to the Supreme Court. We've sort of got an update on the race for Texas House speaker. Plus, why does Dan Patrick have a new nickname for Speaker Dade Phelan? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Democrats in Array

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 22:58:00 -0000

A reset race for the White House begins in Texas: During her first week as the newly-minted presumptive Democratic standard-bearer, Vice President Kamala Harris hit the ground running in Houston to check on the city in the aftermath of a hurricane and to pump up teachers gathered in H-Town. Jeremy was there and has a full report. Plus, Little Gov. Dan Patrick has some thoughts on "the man behind the curtain" pulling the strings in the Democratic Party. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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So, About That Whole Unity Thing...

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0000

This week, Jeremy reports from the RNC in Milwaukee where Gov. Greg Abbott and Sen. Ted Cruz played their part in the "Unity" convention of Donald Trump, which ended up being more divisive than perhaps any convention in recent American history. Plus, the remembrances were flowing in overnight after Houston Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee passed away Friday night. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Abandonment

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 23:27:00 -0000

As much as President Biden is struggling politically in the weeks after his disastrous debate performance, he was still able to get the best of one Republican: Gov. Greg Abbott, who abandoned Texas in the leadup to a hurricane causing a slower response than usual after Beryl knocked out power to millions amid a heatwave. Plus, Attorney General Ken Paxton claims he's about to be impeached again. What? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Freakout is Real

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 00:19:00 -0000

More than a week after a disastrous debate performance, the White House and the campaign of President Joe Biden have not been able to calm the fears of Democrats who now believe he is not up to the challenge of campaigning against former President Donald Trump. As a public service, Jeremy reviews what other potential Democratic nominees have said about Texas and what they've said in Texas. Plus, Gov. Greg Abbott is leaving the country right as a tropical system is in the Gulf of Mexico and pointed at Texas. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Full Meltdown

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 23:04:00 -0000

Democrats in Texas and around the nation are having a collective freakout after the debate performance of President Joe Biden against former President Donald Trump in Atlanta. Plus, Republicans are pointing to the murder of a Houston 12 year old to advance their case for more border security. But, didn't they just turn down a border security crackdown earlier this year? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Texas Take Meets Texas Talk

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 22:31:00 -0000

This week, something a little different: Scott was in San Antonio to appear on our friend Gilbert Garcia's PBS show on KLRN Television in partnership with the San Antonio Express-News. Scott and Gilbert talked about the US Senate race in Texas, abortion politics, and one thing that has fundamentally changed about Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick during the course of his political career. Our usual show will return next week with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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There's Always a Distraction

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 22:46:00 -0000

As Texas Democrats gathered in El Paso for their state convention, Republicans were quick to seize on the appearance of a drag queen on the same stage where women's reproductive rights were actually front and center. Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Colin Allred are now starting to trade jabs in their race for US Senate. And a lawmaker compares his quest to topple the Texas House speaker to the heroes at D-Day. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Rules? There Are No Rules

Fri, 24 May 2024 20:45:00 -0000

"Bleach blonde bad built butch body!" It's now the phrase heard 'round the world after Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas, smacked Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green around on Capitol Hill this past week. We'll get into it. Plus, we'll update you on the Republican Party of Texas Convention in San Antonio this weekend. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Shoulda Seen it Comin'

Fri, 17 May 2024 21:55:00 -0000

Gov. Abbott made national headlines this week for pardoning a man convicted in the brutal murder of a protester during a Black Lives Matter demonstration. Jeremy has the scoop on why Abbott is setting this precedent. Plus: A Texas Congresswoman gets into a fight with a colleague over "fake eyelashes." Yes, they are being just as productive in Washington as you think. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Let's Play the Blame Game

Fri, 10 May 2024 22:06:00 -0000

Even after he held school funding hostage last year in a failed bid to pass a school voucher program, Gov. Abbott is blaming Texas school districts for their local budget shortfalls. We'll explain. Plus, Congressman Henry Cuellar faces federal charges of bribery, money laundering, and more. What does his reaction so far say about the state of our politics today? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Another Month of This?

Fri, 03 May 2024 22:57:00 -0000

The Texas runoff elections are now getting especially bitter and, frankly, tedious as we now have a little less than a month before election day. Speaker Phelan is fighting for his political life and the Texas House's inner workings are being debated by candidates from DFW to Beaumont-Port Arthur. Plus the GOP challenger to Congressman Tony Gonzales is on defense after telling a joke that he says he didn't tell about suicide among veterans while running for office in Military USA: San Antonio. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Civil Unrest

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 17:06:00 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott is getting praise from the right and condemnation from the left - of course, exactly what he wants - after he appears to have set the stage for a standoff between pro-Palestinian protesters and state police at the University of Texas at Austin. Plus, Sen. Ted Cruz makes quite an about face on billions in aid for Ukraine in its war with Russia. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Awkwardly Bipartisan

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 21:11:00 -0000

The political environment has become so toxic that even when Republicans and Democrats work together to accomplish something, they still don't really want to be seen together. We'll explain. Plus, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick seems to be trying to get ahead of Gov. Greg Abbott's potential property tax proposals for the 2025 session of the Texas Legislature. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Abortion Explodes: Déjà vu in Texas

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 21:21:00 -0000

Abortion policy is front and center as former President Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz argue it's an issue that should be handled differently in different states and Democrats point to Texas as the most extreme example of what happens when it's done that way. Plus, Greg Abbott takes New York City by storm acting as an unofficial surrogate for the Trump campaign. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Nothin' Sticks to This Guy

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 21:32:00 -0000

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton this week was able to avoid a trial in his decade-long felony securities fraud case. How did that possibly happen? Plus, we set the record straight now that pro-school voucher groups are trying to refute our reporting on how Gov. Abbott and allied organizations were able to defeat fellow Republicans in the Texas GOP primary. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Back to Work

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 23:10:00 -0000

Texas' new immigration crackdown is now being enforced as legal challenges to it this week gave legal whiplash to Republicans and Democrats alike. Plus, a speaker's race begins in Austin before the primary runoff elections have even been completed. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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"On to the Playoffs!"

Sat, 09 Mar 2024 00:16:00 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott significantly moved the Texas House in his direction on school vouchers during this week's GOP primary election. But the fight is far from over. "On to the playoffs!" said Abbott's chief political strategist, referring to the runoff elections including Speaker Dade Phelan's fight for political survival. Plus, Texas' abortion restrictions took center stage at President Biden's State of the Union address. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Be Careful What You Ask For

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:00:00 -0000

Sen. Ted Cruz recently dared President Joe Biden to head to the Texas border and what do you know? Mr. Biden was in Brownsville this week to go toe-to-toe with former President Donald Trump, who was in Eagle Pass on the same day. Plus, the Texas primary is nearly here and Republican candidates have taken off the gloves. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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"This is a War"

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 23:20:00 -0000

In his fight for reelection, Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan this past week said "this is a war" and was joined at a Port Arthur rally by one of the biggest names in this state's GOP politics for backup: Gov. Rick Perry, who took a swipe at Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. We were on the scene. Plus, Jeremy's got exclusive one-on-one interviews with the top Democrats running for a chance to take on Sen. Ted Cruz this fall. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Frauds and Liars

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:00:00 -0000

Gov. Abbott is weaponizing his newfound celebrity status on border issues to go after Texas House Republicans who didn't vote with him 100 percent of the time last year. Plus, some Democrats are knifing each other in an increasingly nasty primary in North Texas. The show this week was recorded live before hundreds gathered from around the state at the Texas REALTORS® Winter Meeting. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Rubber Meet Road

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 21:47:00 -0000

What a difference a week makes. After a fairly quiet opening of the campaign season, Gov. Greg Abbott is ramping up his offensive on the ground, targeting Texas House members who voted to kill his priority school voucher proposal. Plus, the Democrats running for US Senate from Texas clash in their first and likely only debate. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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How About a Do-Over?

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 21:45:00 -0000

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton faces new questions and a Republican push to reopen his impeachment proceedings after his latest attempt to avoid answering questions under oath. Plus, Republicans are whipping people into a frenzy over the border while Democrats hope abortion rights can be a winning issue in the 2024 election. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Complete Picture of Total Failure

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 22:56:00 -0000

This week, the Department of Justice released its long awaited report on the shooting in Uvalde. Families of the victims are upset about the lack of police competence, of course, but beyond that they want to know why Texas still allows teenagers to purchase assault rifles. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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PTSD

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 23:41:00 -0000

A winter storm moving through Texas this weekend brings back memories of the deadly cold in February of 2021, though there are key differences this time. Plus, Gov. Greg Abbott is roundly criticized for suggesting the only reason his administration is not shooting migrants along the Rio Grande is the feds would press murder charges. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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New Year, Same Old Fights

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 07:22:00 -0000

A new year begins with immigration and abortion in the spotlight as the campaign season heats up ahead of Texas' March primary leading toward the general election in the fall. Scott and Jeremy are ready to dig into it all as the show approaches what will be its 8th anniversary as the number one politics podcast in the Great State. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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How Far Will They Go?

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 23:06:00 -0000

The newest abortion battle shows just how far Texas is willing to go in enforcing some of the strictest anti-abortion laws in the nation. Plus, there might be new hope for an immigration and border security package in Washington. But we hear that all too often, don't we? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Doin' it the Hard Way

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 00:01:00 -0000

Now that his nonstop push for a school voucher program has crashed at the Legislature, it appears Gov. Abbott is ready to move onto campaign against Republicans who voted against his top priority. Plus, the first Latina to be confirmed for one of the most powerful courts in America grew up as the daughter of migrant workers in West Texas. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Slamming the Door Shut

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 01:35:00 -0000

The Texas Legislature and Gov. Abbott are in a place they've rarely, if ever, been: Lawmakers are telling Abbott "no" to one of his major policy proposals. Now his retribution tour on school vouchers can begin as long as he doesn't call them immediately into another pointless special session. Plus, Jeremy reports from events with Donald Trump in South Texas and VP Kamala Harris in Houston. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Light at the End of the Tunnel?

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 00:29:00 -0000

The border crackdown in Texas is passing the Legislature right as Gov. Greg Abbott prepares to host former President Trump in The Valley this weekend. Plus, a crisis is temporarily averted in Washington while a GOP Congressman from Texas asks what his own party has done in DC this year. Hint: Not much. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Shredding the Constitution

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 00:13:00 -0000

You can't make this stuff up: Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick's longtime conservative point man on border security broke with Texas Senate leadership this week to vote against the way Patrick and Gov. Greg Abbott want to crack down on immigration. You have to hear his compelling argument. Plus, the voucher bill advances at the Texas Capitol while public education supporters push back as hard as ever. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Crashin' and Burnin'

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 05:09:13 -0000

The dysfunction at the Texas Capitol has become so intense that a Republican Legislature might not be able to send a "border security" bill to a Republican Governor. The governor's school voucher legislation is dead for now. Plus, Jeremy reports from Donald Trump's rally in Houston. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Shut Up and Sit Down

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 21:44:44 -0000

Latino Democrats in the Texas House felt like they were told to "sit down and shut up" as they tried to push back on a sweeping state immigration crackdown that will impact people in their communities, whether documented or not. Plus, GOP infighting may lead to the end of a legacy project of former President George W. Bush: The fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A "Serious Blunder"

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 22:21:51 -0000

The running feud between Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan exploded this week with Phelan asking Patrick to give up millions of dollars now tied to an anti-Semitic white nationalist and Patrick saying Phelan should resign. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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If At First You Don't Succeed, Change the Subject

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 15:41:32 -0000

Under pressure from Fox News hosts and GOP activists, Gov. Abbott is making some changes to his plans for an upcoming special session that was going to be exclusively focused on school vouchers. Now he's adding immigration to the mix. Plus, Jeremy has a report on living conditions for our military that should make you sick. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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If at First You Don't Succeed, Threaten Everyone

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 23:02:25 -0000

Now that the smoke is starting to clear from the impeachment trial of Attorney General Ken Paxton, Gov. Greg Abbott is already promising to summon lawmakers to Austin again for another special session. This time, his pet project of school vouchers is the topic. Plus, Paxton's revenge tour has begun. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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All Out War

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 01:23:59 -0000

The end of the impeachment trial of Attorney General Ken Paxton seems to be the beginning of a new chapter in the Texas GOP's civil war. Plus, Gov. Abbott blasts the Castro brothers over the border and DC Republicans fight each other about a possible government shutdown. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The People's Court?

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 22:44:25 -0000

The historic impeachment trial of Texas AG Ken Paxton is, well frankly, putting some senators to sleep. But that doesn't make the allegations against Paxton less serious. We'll get into that plus an update on the floating border wall and a legendary Mexican rock band pays tribute to one of the victims of the Uvalde massacre. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Law And Order

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 22:25:33 -0000

With the impeachment trial of AG Ken Paxton starting next week while court battles play out in Texas over hot issues like the border and LGBTQ rights, Jeremy says we should just call this episode "Law and Order." Done. Plus, has Sen. Ted Cruz gotten any better at just acting like a normal person? We'll check on that for you. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Here Comes MAGA

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 23:32:04 -0000

Steve Bannon is promising to make some Texas GOP State Senators "famous" and go to war with them in primaries if they vote to remove Attorney General Ken Paxton. But does Bannon know Texas GOP voters better than former Gov. Rick Perry, who's now defending the impeachment? Plus: An update on the floating border wall and a tribute to a Texas politics legend who we lost recently. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Burner Phones and a Fake Uber Account

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 22:15:45 -0000

The prosecutors in the impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton are starting to reveal some of what they hope to present in the trial, including evidence of Paxton using burner phones and an Uber account using a fake name as ways to conceal his alleged extramarital affair. Plus, a Texas congressman is wrestled to the ground at a rodeo by police in Amarillo. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Unsettled and Unsettling

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 00:13:22 -0000

With so much unsettled at the Texas Capitol, including the impeachment of AG Paxton and the fight over school funding and school vouchers, the politics of the state are reaching a boiling point. Meanwhile, Jeremy headed down to Eagle Pass, where Democrats confronted state police over "border security" tactics on the Rio Grande. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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"Un-American"

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 20:55:51 -0000

The fight over Texas "border security" operations intensifies this week with Vice President Kamala Harris saying the Abbott Administration is acting in an "un-American" way. Abbott meanwhile is saying he'll happily see the DOJ in court after the feds moved forward with a federal lawsuit. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The White House Strikes Back at Texas Over the Border

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 04:21:28 -0000

Following reporting by the Houston Chronicle on the treatment of migrants at the Texas-Mexico border, the Department of Justice on Friday said they'll sue the Abbott Administration over the state's "security" measures along the Rio Grande. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Perfect Day for the Legislature to Go Away

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 22:28:54 -0000

After a 7 month standoff, Republican leadership in Austin finally settled on their plan to offer property tax relief to Texans. Plus, Jeremy reports from the border on the fact that Texas' security efforts are often actually just getting in the way of Border Patrol. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Forget Iowa. Texas is Becoming the First Stop for the GOP Nomination

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 23:38:29 -0000

Increasingly, GOP candidates for the White House have a crucial first stop on their way to the nomination and it isn't the Iowa State Fair. It's Eagle Pass, Texas. Plus, there could be some light at the end of the tunnel in the property tax stalemate in Austin. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Big Nothingburger

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 21:08:59 -0000

Amid a stalemate on property taxes, Gov. Abbott clashes with Lt. Gov. Patrick in a way that we've never seen before. Plus, Sen. Angela Paxton is not allowed to vote on the impeachment of her husband, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton but she will be there for the trial in the Senate. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Ten Times Worse Than You've Heard

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 21:27:27 -0000

Texas House impeachment managers are turning to legendary Houston defense attorneys to prosecute the case against Attorney General Ken Paxton. But how will the trial in the Senate be handled? Plus, it takes a special level of incompetence for Republicans to have a record budget surplus and fail to come up with a tax cut plan. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Where There's Smoke...

Fri, 26 May 2023 21:53:13 -0000

It's history in the making this week as the GOP-led Texas House moves toward impeaching Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton for multiple alleged crimes and abuse of office over the better part of a decade. Plus, we reflect on the lives lost and the still unanswered questions one year after the massacre in Uvalde. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Top Texas Republican Says Trump's Time Has Passed

Fri, 19 May 2023 23:58:40 -0000

The elder statesman of the Texas GOP, Sen. John Cornyn, this week said former President Donald Trump's "time has passed," and it's time for Republicans to find someone else to run for the White House. Meantime at the Texas Capitol: Fights about transgender athletes, DEI, guns, and more as time runs out in the session. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Mass Shooting Every Week

Sat, 13 May 2023 01:12:31 -0000

With a mass shooting each week in Texas, leaders are largely now skipping right past "thoughts and prayers" and talking about other stuff like the border. Plus, Latino Democrats in the Texas House beat back a proposal to form a "civilian border protection unit." Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Threats Real and Imagined

Sun, 07 May 2023 02:50:00 -0000

While the Texas Legislature takes aim at "gender modification" of children, which Republican officeholders say is "genital mutilation" and "slaughter," lawmakers are largely turning a blind eye toward the actual slaughter of children. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Dissenting Voices

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 01:21:00 -0000

In a week of pushing back on the majority at the Texas Capitol in Austin, there were those who ran into brick walls and others who found some success. From gun legislation to a proposal to ban certain people from legally purchasing Texas real estate, the results of the dissenters were mixed. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Dolla Dolla Bills, Y'all

Sat, 22 Apr 2023 00:38:22 -0000

Lt. Gov. Patrick, waving cash at the TV camera like Mattress Mack in Houston, is promising Texans that his tax plan will save them more money than Speaker Dade Phelan's blueprint. Plus Gov. Greg Abbott is now saying teachers in Texas public schools are teaching kids to hate America. What? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Texas Gov. Tucker Carlson?

Sat, 15 Apr 2023 00:15:52 -0000

With Gov. Greg Abbott once again being jerked around by Fox News Host Tucker Carlson, even some Republicans this week are privately asking "who really runs Texas?" Plus, an immigration debate gets hot at the Capitol and school vouchers hit a brick wall in the Texas House of Representatives. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Darker Than American Carnage

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 22:22:19 -0000

With an indictment looming over his head, former President Donald Trump rallied the faithful in Waco on the anniversary of the 1993 siege that's been an organizing principle for conspiracy theorists for decades. Jeremy was on the scene and gives us a sense of what it was really like. Plus, veteran Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee shakes up the race for Mayor of Houston. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Threat to Friday Night Lights

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 21:31:56 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott is finally acknowledging that rural Texans are concerned that his push for school vouchers threatens a big part of their way of life: High school football. Plus, what's the consequence of trying to ban certain books in school libraries and criminalize librarians? Then Jeremy takes us on a trip back to the 1980s. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Steamrolling the Minority

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 21:13:53 -0000

The controversy over DEI erupted at the Texas Capitol this week as Republicans moved to ban tax dollars from being spent on such programs. Plus, the state is moving to take over the Houston school district and local leaders are outraged. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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"Where Woke Goes to Die." Really?

Sat, 04 Mar 2023 21:08:17 -0000

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis made a swing through Texas this weekend in Houston and Dallas, arguing that his state and this one are where "woke goes to die." Don't roll your eyes too hard. Plus, Gov. Abbott is really pushing his school voucher proposal now but he seems to be missing the mark with the folks he actually needs to convince. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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It's All About Priorities

Sat, 25 Feb 2023 00:21:06 -0000

Now that the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker have shared some of their priorities, the legislative session is finally starting to take shape. But the speaker is the one playing his cards closest to the vest. Plus, Gov. Abbott rails against transgender athletes in collegiate sports and Sen. Cruz keeps his options open when it comes to running for president. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Oh, So Vouchers Will Just Mean Fewer Teachers? Cool, Cool.

Sat, 18 Feb 2023 03:56:41 -0000

Just as Gov. Greg Abbott gave his State of the State Address stressing "school choice," one of his top education officials admitted in a recorded phone call that a school voucher program would mean there would be fewer teachers in Texas public schools. Plus, Texas Republicans are now taking aim at GOP Attorney General Ken Paxton's proposed settlement with former employees who accused him of corruption. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Time to Get to Work

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 21:41:49 -0000

Now that the pomp and circumstance of the Texas Inauguration is concluded, lawmakers will get down to business on everything from keeping kids safe in schools to banning Chinese investment in Texas. Yes, seriously. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Fake Outrage

Sat, 14 Jan 2023 20:52:10 -0000

From proposals to eliminate Democratic chairs in Austin to smoking cigars in Washington, some Texas politicians cranked up the faux outrage machine to new levels this week. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A New Year and New Beginnings

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 19:53:58 -0000

2023 kicked off on Capitol Hill with Texans playing key roles in the epic throwdown over US House leadership. Plus, the Texas Legislature is about to convene in Austin. What will the biggest fights be about? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Immigration Deal Fizzles as 2022 Comes to an End

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 23:52:30 -0000

Lawmakers in DC took one last shot at immigration reform this year but the deal is falling apart. Plus, Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan throws shade at former President Trump. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Why So Nasty?

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 19:16:42 -0000

As the good news broke this week that Houstonian Brittney Griner was released from a Russian prison, some folks couldn't help but criticize her for some past statements and question why the Biden Administration hasn't secured the release of other American prisoners held overseas. Plus, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick lays out his priorities for the legislative session, but it's all pretty vague. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Legalized Gambling in Texas? Don't Bet On It

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 23:18:23 -0000

From casinos to online sports betting, gambling interests are getting ready for perhaps their biggest push yet to change laws to allow Texans to place wagers in their home state. Plus, the debate over whether there should be Democratic Chairmen in the Texas Legislature is really about the next GOP primary election. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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It is Mercifully Over

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 22:38:52 -0000

After one of the most brutal campaigns in recent memory, Gov. Greg Abbott and statewide Republicans ran the board in Texas while no "red wave" for the GOP materialized nationally. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Finish Line is in Sight

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 21:18:19 -0000

The early voting numbers do not bode well for Democrats as candidates across Texas make their final push toward election day. Plus, 911 audio from calls of children in Uvalde has surfaced. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Closing Arguments

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 19:25:19 -0000

Candidates are making their final pitches to voters as Texans head to the polls in one of the most contentious elections the state has ever seen. Plus, families from Uvalde confront the head of the state police, demanding that he resign. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Ready, Set, Vote!

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 22:23:16 -0000

Early voting in person starts Monday across Texas and the candidates up and down the ballot are working hard to get their voters to the polls. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Neck and Neck

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 19:50:45 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott and Beto O'Rourke were neck and neck in fundraising this time around as they head into the homestretch of this election and we now have a $200 million governor's race. Plus, musicians are getting involved in this campaign season in creative and perhaps more aggressive ways than in the past. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Ad Wars

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 17:37:08 -0000

The statewide combatants for Governor of Texas are now blistering each other in television ads about the economy, guns, and more. What's really resonating with voters? Plus: Do Democrats really have a shot at winning the race for Texas Attorney General? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Throwdown in The Valley

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 20:59:32 -0000

This week: A special episode focusing on the one and only scheduled debate between Beto O'Rourke and Greg Abbott. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Didn't They Fix Property Taxes in Texas? Stop Laughing.

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 21:39:01 -0000

Year after year, Texas Republicans have promised to "fix" property taxes. But with those tax bills rising, Democrats are calling them out for it as suburban homeowners seem increasingly up for grabs in the November election. Plus: Democrats are on defense about immigration and the economy. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Helping Hand or Political Theater?

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 23:36:14 -0000

We're back. Gov. Greg Abbott has the attention of national Democrats now with his migrant busing stunt. Plus, he achieved something that's become pretty uncommon: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis followed Abbott's lead instead of the other way around. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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It Should Keep You Up At Night

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 21:15:56 -0000

Parents of victims of the Uvalde massacre traveled to Austin this week to demand that Gov. Abbott take action on new gun laws. But Abbott says raising the legal age for certain firearms purchases would be unconstitutional. Plus Sen. Ted Cruz slams young people as "slacker" baristas who need to put down "the bong." But it sounds like he's actually nervous that those young people will get out to vote after President Biden moved to cancel some student debt. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Having Second Thoughts?

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 20:02:19 -0000

Across Texas, most GOP statewide candidates including Gov. Abbott seem to have gone quiet on the issue of abortion while Democrats have launched an all out air war against Republicans for pushing abortion restrictions with no exceptions. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Women Are Angry

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 20:47:56 -0000

From abortion rights to gun violence, women in Texas who might otherwise vote for Republicans are angry about a host of issues and saying they cannot support Greg Abbott this fall. Of course, it's anecdotal so there's no way to know just yet how much political danger this creates for the Texas GOP. Plus: Rep. Dan Crenshaw says it's time to unfollow the trolls online. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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It's Not About the F-Bomb

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 22:27:42 -0000

Uvalde tops the show once again after Beto O'Rourke dropped the f-bomb responding to a heckler who laughed as the Democrat was talking about the massacre of children at an elementary school. Plus, some Texas Republicans have been slow to defend President Trump after his home was raided by the FBI. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Talkin' Right Past Each Other

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 22:09:16 -0000

It's August and Republicans and Democrats are talking past each other on too many issues to count: Abortion, the electricity grid, immigration, and more. Plus: Why did Ted Cruz and Jon Stewart spend part of the week at each other's throats? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Calls for New Gun Laws Falling on Deaf Ears in Texas

Sat, 30 Jul 2022 00:06:28 -0000

Leaders in Uvalde are getting the brush off from Gov. Greg Abbott as they call for changes to gun laws in this state. Plus, the push for school vouchers heats up in Austin and national Democrats just cannot get it right in the way they're trying to convince Texas Latinos to choose them. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Keri Blakinger: She Was a Prisoner, Now She Reports on Prisons

Sat, 23 Jul 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Howdy Texas Take listeners, please enjoy this bonus episode by Lisa Gray and her team at City Cast Houston. This episode was originally published June 6, 2022. Fear not, Scott and Jeremy will be back next week.

At 17, Keri Blakinger was a top-level ice skater. But after her skating career fell apart, so did she. She ended up living on the streets shooting and selling heroin. In 2010, she was busted carrying a Tupperware full of it. Now, after two and a half years in prison, she lives in Houston and covers prisons herself as a top-level journalist for the Marshall Project.

Her memoir Corrections In Ink was released June 7th.

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Where is Gov. Abbott?

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 23:11:27 -0000

As the campaigns and the summer heat up, Gov. Greg Abbott faces accusations of abandoning the people in Uvalde following the worst school shooting in Texas history. Plus, Beto O'Rourke is on the campaign trail in places not particularly hospitable to Democrats. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace, reporting this week from Muleshoe, Texas.

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A Tight Governor's Race? Well, It's Only July

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 23:41:48 -0000

We now have several polls showing a tightening race for governor between Greg Abbott and Beto O'Rourke. But what the polls say about Texans' attitudes across a host of issues might be more telling than anything. Plus, the mayor of Uvalde insists the state is trying to cover up what really happened during the massacre at Robb Elementary School. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Oh, There's Always More They Can Do

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 17:00:00 -0000

If anyone thought the Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v Wade was the last word in the abortion fight, they were very wrong. Texas lawmakers are already plotting ways to try to keep women from traveling to other states to seek abortions. Meantime, a tragedy in San Antonio reignites the immigration and border security debate in Austin and DC. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Roe Falls as The Texas GOP Turns on Its Elder Statesman

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 00:52:02 -0000

Breaking news on Friday as the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade and Texas abortion clinics halted services. Plus, Sen. John Cornyn is nearly booed off the stage at the Republican Party of Texas Convention as he pushes through the most significant gun safety legislation in a generation. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Indecision and Delay

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 03:15:45 -0000

About a month after the Uvalde massacre, both the cops and politicians are under heavy scrutiny for their indecision and delay in reacting on the day of the shooting as well as a policy response in the halls of power. Join us for another special edition of the show with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Fear It Will Happen Again and That Nothing Will Change

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 22:02:14 -0000

As politicians with the biggest platforms debate gun policy in Texas and America, the smallest voices can be heard now saying they're afraid to even go back to school following the shooting in Uvalde. Join us for a special edition of the show with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Distractions, Investigations, and Accusations of a Coverup

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 23:00:12 -0000

Day after day, new information emerges about the massacre in Uvalde and much of it completely contradicts what had previously been understood about the rampage. How can we sort that out plus address the issues now raised about gun control and school safety? Join us for another special edition of the show with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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How Could Anyone Shoot Those Kids? How Could You Do Nothing About It?

Thu, 26 May 2022 21:57:17 -0000

Grief and agony after 19 children and 2 teachers were gunned down in Uvalde, Texas, sending shockwaves around this nation and the world. Gov. Greg Abbott and his challenger Beto O'Rourke came face to face in the aftermath and the debate seems to have shifted, for the moment, away from the usual talking points from both sides. Join us for a special edition of the show with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Sure, We Can Keep the Lights On. But What About Air Conditioners?

Fri, 20 May 2022 23:14:43 -0000

Another electricity grid scare in Texas as the Abbott Administration plays a potentially deadly game of hide-the-ball with energy conservation requests in May. Plus, have the words of Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Sen. Ted Cruz, and others pushed some young and impressionable people to commit acts of violence against people of color? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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If You Like Your Public School, You Can Keep Your Public School

Fri, 13 May 2022 21:15:57 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott this week went further than any Texas governor ever has in promoting a school voucher program, potentially upending the state's politics. Plus, the fight over abortion rights is playing out in the race for governor as well as a key South Texas race for Congress. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Fall of Roe?

Fri, 06 May 2022 23:32:39 -0000

Abortion rights are front and center once again in Texas as it appears the United States Supreme Court is poised to overturn the landmark Roe v Wade decision. Plus, Sen. Cruz predicts Republicans are going to sweep elections this year in South Texas, when he really means parts of The Valley. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Only Covid Restriction Republicans Support

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 22:13:04 -0000

As Gov. Greg Abbott ramps up "border security" spending even more, there are growing questions about the increasing number of military deaths along the Rio Grande. Plus, Rep. Chip Roy calls Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez a "communist witch" and a Texas death row inmate's life is spared at the last minute. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Cutting Off Our Nose to Spite Our Face

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 19:10:17 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott and Beto O'Rourke traded jabs this week in the race for governor over Abbott's shutdown of the Texas-Mexico border. Plus, a right-wing activist in Houston was indicted over an election fraud conspiracy theory and some in the Texas GOP started to ramp up pressure on state leaders to embrace a school voucher program. At least not yet, anyway. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Abbott’s Border “Stunt”

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 19:19:20 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott this week announced he'd be busing migrants from the Texas border to Washington, DC. But later his office let us all know it would be on a voluntary basis. Liberals and some conservatives alike blasted it as a "bullshit stunt." Meantime, we're sorry to tell you it's not likely that Beto O'Rourke and Abbott are actually tied in the race for governor. At least not yet, anyway. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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"Midland not Moscow" but maybe renewable energy is okay, too

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 20:52:04 -0000

After trashing renewable energy during last year's deadly winter storm, Gov. Greg Abbott this week did something of an about face on the value of renewable energy sources in Texas. Plus, Sen. John Cornyn signals Republicans are not done with their fight in opposition to gay marriage. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

More politics coverage from the Houston Chronicle.

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"Jackassery"

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 21:56:00 -0000

Sen. Ted Cruz sought the spotlight during the confirmation hearings for President Biden's pick for the Supreme Court, Judge Katanji Brown Jackson. Plus, we revisit this question: Is Beto O'Rourke too mean this time around in his campaign against Gov. Greg Abbott or is he being just mean enough? Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

READ: After being mocked by Ted Cruz during SCOTUS hearing, 'Antiracist Baby' book hits bestseller list

More Texas politics from the Houston Chronicle.

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Completely Detached from Reality

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 22:22:38 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott continues to slam President Joe Biden over the deadly flow of fentanyl across the border even though, as Jeremy notes, both the feds and the state are having some success cracking down on it. Plus the State of Texas goes after families with transgender children as alleged "child abusers" while the state acknowledges horrific child abuse in state-funded facilities. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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On To the Runoffs

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 22:29:00 -0000

The Texas primary is in the books and the GOP candidates for Attorney General are already arguing over which one of them should get a show of love from former President Trump. Meantime one of the Democrats running for Lt. Gov. called on the other to drop out of the race. Why? Plus congressional runoffs may test the strength of progressives in South Texas. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

More Texas politics from the Houston Chronicle.

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It's Do or Die Time in the Texas Primary

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 21:14:00 -0000

As the clock ticks down to March 1 and early voting wraps up, top Texas Republicans broke with ex-President Trump this week when he praised Russian President Vladimir Putin after he ordered troops to invade Ukraine. Plus three of the GOP candidates for Texas Attorney General faced off in a televised debate as they looked for a chance at a runoff with AG Ken Paxton, who did not join them on stage. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

More: Election 2022 on HoustonChronicle.com .

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With Voting Underway in Texas, More Confusion About How to Do It

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 22:18:00 -0000

Just two days before a key deadline, Texas Secretary of State John Scott attempted to clear up confusion about how to apply for a mail-in ballot while Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick managed to confuse GOP voters about how to do it. Meanwhile, some listeners wanted to know our thoughts on AOC's comments that Texas will inevitably "turn blue." Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

More Texas politics on HoustonChronicle.com.

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Texans Start Voting Now

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 23:29:00 -0000

Early voting has begun in the election of consequence in Texas: The primary. Gov. Greg Abbott, Attorney General Ken Paxton, and Ag Commissioner Sid Miller all face multiple challengers as they try to win by pushing in all their chips on former President Trump's endorsement. Down ballot races are heating up as well and we've got you covered. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace. Portions of this episode were recorded before a live audience at the Texas REALTORS® Winter Meeting in Austin.

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The Storm Passes

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 21:26:00 -0000

The latest ice storm in Texas, almost nothing like the one that was so devastating last year, has mostly passed but not without causing a panic across the state and potential political fallout on the campaign trail. Plus, Republicans lash out at Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo after the funeral of a fallen officer. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Trump Show Returns to Texas

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 22:04:00 -0000

Former President Trump is slated to return to Houston this weekend as a war rages within the Texas GOP over his endorsement of Gov. Greg Abbott. Plus, Beto O'Rourke sets the tone for in-person campaigning and in-person voting despite lingering concerns about the pandemic. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A School Voucher Fight? Don't Get Scared Now.

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 21:28:00 -0000

As he courts GOP primary voters and makes good on promises to contributors, Gov. Greg Abbott has to carefully maintain that he's pro-public education in Texas while pushing more "school choice" initiatives including a "Parental Bill of Rights." Meanwhile, Beto O'Rourke had an impressive fundraising haul and Rep. Dan Crenshaw gets into an argument with a young girl because it's possible he just talks too much. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Texas Primaries in Full Swing

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 21:22:00 -0000

With the March primary coming up faster than you think, candidates for statewide office are crisscrossing Texas making their pitch to voters. The Republicans and the Democrat trying to oust Gov. Greg Abbott are slamming him on everything from the border to covid. Meantime, the race for Texas Agriculture Commissioner emerges as maybe the nastiest race of the moment. Join the conversation with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Sen. Cruz Stands Against Domestic Terrorists Until He Doesn't

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 22:37:27 -0000

2022 in Texas politics starts with GOP politicians going out of their way not to speak too harshly about the January 6th insurrection. That includes Sen. Ted Cruz, who called the attackers "terrorists" until a Fox News host took him to task for it. Plus, the race for governor is heating up with bipartisan attacks against Gov. Greg Abbott. Join the conversation as we start the year with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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'The Texas Model' Has a Whole New Meaning

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 22:35:07 -0000

Now that the Supreme Court has let stand a six-week abortion ban in Texas enforced by civil lawsuits, Democratic states want to crack down on guns using a similar scheme while some GOP states want to unleash private lawsuits over "critcal race theory." Plus, Texas' highest criminal court puts an end to Attorney General Ken Paxton's prosecutions of what he calls "voter fraud" cases. Join the conversation as we end the year with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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It's Put Up or Shut Up Time

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 22:28:00 -0000

With the filing deadline approaching Monday, this is when the rubber meets the road for anyone who wants to run for office in Texas. Plus, the state is in court with the feds over abortion, redistricting, and more. And Attorney General Ken Paxton is lavished with praise by ex-President Trump. Is that really all it takes to win this GOP primary? Join the conversation featuring Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Abbott Guarantees the Texas Electricity Grid Won't Collapse

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 21:08:11 -0000

As Democratic candidate Beto O'Rourke ramps up his attacks on Gov. Greg Abbott over the failure of the Texas electricity grid earlier this year, the Republican governor says he can "guarantee the lights will stay on." Plus, the vaccine mandate wars continue in Austin and Washington as Abbott tries desperately to avoid another special session of the Legislature. Join the conversation featuring Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Y'all Happy Now? There's Finally a Democrat Running for Texas Governor

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:08:00 -0000

After months of anticipation among Texas Democrats, former Rep. Beto O'Rourke this week announced his candidacy for governor against Gov. Greg Abbott. Plus, retirements are stacking up in the Texas Legislature as new candidates come forward to file for office all across the Great State.

Join the conversation featuring Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Far Right Starts to Turn on Ken Paxton

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 20:26:59 -0000

The Texas Attorney General's race got a jolt this week as archconservative Congressman Louie Gohmert announced he's considering running against Trump-endorsed incumbent Ken Paxton in the GOP primary. Plus, some in the Texas GOP now have a new target for their anger: Big Bird. Yes, you read that right.

Join the conversation featuring Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The United States Vs Texas

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 19:46:20 -0000

From abortion to election laws, Texas and the United States are locking horns in court. Plus, retirements abound in the Texas Legislature just as the campaign season is set to kick off with candidates throwing their hats in the ring starting in about a week.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Politically Lost in Translation

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 20:05:00 -0000

Why are Texas Republicans, including Gov. Abbott, embracing a chant that goes "Let's go Brandon"? Well, the answer actually informs just about everything happening in the state's politics at the moment. Plus the new Texas abortion law will be before the Supreme Court next week.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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It is Mercifully Over. Now What?

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 21:10:00 -0000

Gov. Abbott racked up wins and losses in the finally-concluded special legislative session, including a big loss on vaccine mandates. Plus the new Texas Secretary of State is a Trump loyalist who tried to overturn the election last year.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Consequences of Our Actions

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 20:03:00 -0000

Amid a flurry of issues in Texas politics as another special session careens toward its end, we thought it would be good to slow down a little and talk about potential long term consequences of some of the debates unfolding at the Capitol this year.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Thoughts, Prayers, and Good Luck

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 20:39:00 -0000

Even when a school shooting dominates national headlines after every parent's nightmare unfolded at a high school in North Texas, it only gets a passing mention from this state's leadership as they seek to focus attention on the border. Plus, women take to the streets of Texas to protest the state's new abortion law and Matthew Dowd starts taking some heat in his bid to be the Democratic nominee for Lieutenant Governor.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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It's Never Enough for Trump

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 18:49:19 -0000

Gov. Abbott finds himself between Trump and a hard place as he tries to placate the former president with elections audits and stiffer penalties for illegal voting. Will Trump withdraw his endorsement of the governor? Also, the new Texas abortion law has the attention of lawmakers in DC this week.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Ain't Nobody Happy About the Border

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 18:02:00 -0000

Both President Biden and Gov. Abbott are under fire from members of their own political parties over the crisis at the Texas-Mexico border. Plus, former President Trump now wants Abbott to push for a forensic audit of the Texas 2020 election. Hoo boy.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Outlines of Campaign Season

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 18:20:00 -0000

There's still at least one more special session of the Texas Legislature starting Monday, but we are already seeing the outlines of what campaign season in this state will look like in 2022: Abortion, guns, immigration, and more are on the agenda. Plus two Houston-area members of Congress who usually play nice with each other are now clashing on Capitol Hill.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Roe vs ...Who Knows?

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 20:20:00 -0000

Roe vs ...Who Knows?

Under Texas' new 6 week abortion ban, enforcement will not be up to District Attorneys like it was decades ago when Dallas DA Henry Wade became the Wade in the landmark Supreme Court Case. The new law instead empowers anyone to file civil litigation against abortion providers, creating a more diffiulct patth to legal challenges. We'll explain. Plus, the year's second special session of the Texas Legislature has concluded. What's next?

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Don't Say That

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 21:21:00 -0000

After the Democratic quorum break and months of public fighting over the elections bill, it finally came to a head on the Texas House floor this week. Right out of the gate, Speaker Dade Phelan asked lawmakers to avoid the term "racism," and you can imagine how that played out. Plus, former Gov. Rick Perry made a sales pitch at the Texas Capitol that even rubbed some Republicans the wrong way.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report, and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Gov. Abbott Gets Covid While Fighting School Districts for Fighting Covid

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 21:27:00 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott this week announced he has tested positive for coronavirus just as he ramps up his fight against independent schools districts to prevent them adopting covid restrictions to protect children. Plus, the quorum break ends in the Texas House of representatives.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Open Revolt in Texas

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 21:53:00 -0000

It has been a week of open defiance to Gov. Greg Abbott's orders banning cities, counties, and school districts from mandating masks and taking other precautions to contain the spread of coronavirus. Plus, a dramatic filibuster of the elections bill unfolded in the Texas Senate while Texas House Democrats continue to deny GOP leadership a quorum.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Get Out of the Way

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 20:33:00 -0000

Republicans wish Texas House Democrats would get out of the way and stop blocking an agenda from moving forward in Austin while President Biden wants Gov. Greg Abbott to get out of the way of an effective response to coronavirus.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Masks, Voting Rights, The Border, and More

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 20:36:57 -0000

Even with covid cases on the rise in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott is attempting to keep extra health measures from being implemented while he instead focuses on border security and rounding up immigrants. Meanwhile, Texas Democrats in Washington testified before Congress about the ongoing voting rights fight and their dramatic measures aimed at stopping elections legislation.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Covid Cases Rising, Complicating Things for Texas House Democrats and Gov. Abbott

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 20:11:00 -0000

The Texas House Democrats in Washington breaking quorum to stop elections legislation had their plans complicated by positive covid tests this past week. Meantime, Gov. Greg Abbott says he will absolutely not reinstate mask mandates despite rising cases of coronavirus.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Stalemate

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 20:15:00 -0000

Stalemate

On this special edition of the show, Scott reports from Washington on the latest in the standoff between Texas House Democrats who fled the state to delay an elections bill and GOP leadership demanding they return.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report.

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Miller Lite and Voting Rights

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 00:49:00 -0000

On this special edition of the show, Scott updates you on the developing story of Texas Democrats breaking quorum to try to block elections legislation from moving forward in Austin.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report.

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Bring It. The Special Session Starts Now.

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 18:54:00 -0000

Texas lawmakers will convene in Austin again this week after Gov. Greg Abbott unveiled a lengthy list of mostly red meat topics for them to address in the first of what could be several special sessions. This happens as Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick moves away from some of the more controversial proposals in an elections bill that was killed by Democrats in the regular session.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Build the Wall or Fix the Damn Grid?

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 18:27:00 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott hosted ex-President Trump in Texas this week and that went about like you'd expect. Jeremy traveled to the border to give you the real scoop. Plus, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Abbott don't agree about doing more to address the state's electricity crisis.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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National Democrats Countering Trump in Texas

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 20:13:00 -0000

With ex-President Trump on his way to Texas next week to visit the border with Gov. Greg Abbott, national Democrats including Vice President Kamala Harris and First Lady Jill Biden are here as well. We've got their trips covered plus there's now a crowded field as GOP challengers look to take down Texas AG Ken Paxton in the primary.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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We Will Build a Wall and Texans Will Pay For It

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 21:40:00 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott this week declared Texas will build a wall of it's own between this state and Mexico. But unlike ex-President Trump's original proposal, Texas taxpayers will have to pony up the starter cash. Plus, Texas Democrats traveled to DC to continue the fight for the right to vote. And Juneteenth is now a federal holiday, putting a huge smile on the face of a legendary civil rights activist from Fort Worth. Join the conversation featuring Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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He Likes Me! He Really Likes Me!

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 19:17:00 -0000

With the Texas legislative session coming to a dramatic end, campaigns are already ramping up with Gov. Greg Abbott and others arguing that voters should reelect them based on the fact that ex-President Trump "likes me." Plus, Texas Democrats get an historic if temporary victory in killing a sweeping proposal to restrict voting.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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"Pretty Goofy"

Fri, 28 May 2021 19:46:00 -0000

Frustrated with the Texas House this week, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick demanded that Gov. Greg Abbott call an immediate special session to address "conservative priorities." Abbott immediately dismissed the suggestion as "pretty goofy." And as the legislative session winds down, big issues like elections, electricity, and more are still unsettled.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Legislative Endgame

Fri, 21 May 2021 21:17:00 -0000

As the clock ticks down on the legislative session in Austin, the Texas House and Senate are in a war with each other over the legislative agenda. Plus, Attorney General Ken Paxton lashes out at Land Commissioner George P. Bush as one prepares to possibly challenge the other in the GOP primary.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The 2022 GOP Primary Begins

Thu, 13 May 2021 20:22:00 -0000

As the Texas Legislature takes a hard right turn in the final weeks of its regular session, we examine the way ex-President Donald Trump is influencing legislators months after he lost the election. Plus, country artist Randy Rogers is teaming up with Texas legislators to save dance halls across the state.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Legislative Combat and Betrayal

Fri, 07 May 2021 22:48:00 -0000

The final weeks of the Texas Legislature's regular session are heating up with debates about fundamental voting rights, transgender athletes in schools, permitless carry of handguns, "defunding police," and more.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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A Voting Meltdown Over Voting Rights

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 18:41:13 -0000

Texas House Democrats are asking the Department of Justice to monitor legislative proceedings in Austin after the way a GOP Chairman tried to rush passage of sweeping changes to voting laws in this state. We'll explain. Plus, an allegation of sexual assault rocked the Texas Capitol this week.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Does Gov. Abbott Support Permitless Carry of Firearms or Not?

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 23:32:00 -0000

Stop us if you've heard this one: Gov. Abbott is trying to have it both ways on a controversial proposal supported by many grassroots Republicans. This time, it's the permitless carry of firearms bill that passed the Texas House and seems to be blocked in the Texas Senate. Plus a new poll shows actor Matthew McConaughey would beat Gov. Abbott in a head to head matchup. But, people should slow their roll on that.

Connect with Scott Braddock and Jeremy Wallace.

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From Laser Focused to Scattershot

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 19:57:00 -0000

Why did the Texas Legislature go from narrowly focusing earlier in the year on COVID and the ice storm to now being a political red meat festival? That plus the latest on the voting rights fight at the Capitol.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Read the Damn Bill! Sure, Okay

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 18:21:00 -0000

The fight over voting rights in Texas was on the national stage this week as Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick traded barbs with some corporations and the Texas House started to move in a bit different direction from the Texas Senate on the issue. Plus former US House Speaker John Boehner has some choice words for Sen. Ted Cruz.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Kickin' the Bear

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 20:45:00 -0000

Democrats warned Republicans in Texas this week that the majority party is "kickin' a bear" and "waking up a beast" by trying to make it harder to vote in this state. We've got the latest on the fight over voting rights as well as the faux outrage over the border. Plus a congressional candidate from New Jersey by way of Nevada tries his luck in a Texas special election.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Unscrambling the Eggs

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 20:18:00 -0000

Texas Republicans were at each other's throats this week fighting over whether the government can retroactively change prices in the electricity market during the state's winter storm disaster. Gov. Greg Abbott in the meantime was doing his best to talk about anything other than the fallout from the ice storm, so he tried changing the subject to immigration and "election integrity."

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Neanderthal Thinking

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 20:33:00 -0000

Without consulting with his own top medical professionals, Gov. Greg Abbott this week dropped the mask mandate and said businesses can open 100 percent despite the fact the pandemic is still unfolding all around us. President Joe Biden called it "neanderthal thinking." Meantime, Texas lawmakers are rolling up their sleeves and getting down to work on the state's policy response to the ice storm that left millions without power or water.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Sound and Fury After the Storm

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 20:14:00 -0000

Despite their political differences, Gov. Greg Abbott and President Joe Biden are together in Houston to survey damage and talk about ways to respond to the ice storm that knocked out power and put water supplies at risk for millions of Texans. Meantime, legislative hearings have begun into what went wrong with the state's power grid. And Sen. Ted Cruz cannot stop talking about his trip to Cancun during the big freeze.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Texas Ice Storm Blame Game

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 21:17:00 -0000

Gov. Greg Abbott this week didn't wait for the lights to come back on or for Texans to stop dying in the freezing cold before he lashed out at the proponents of the Green New Deal. But after that went over like a lead balloon, Abbott did move in the direction of substantive policy changes to address the winter weather crisis gripping this state. And yes, it's true: Sen. Ted Cruz did travel to Cancun to escape the blizzard.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Republicans Take Ken Paxton to the Woodshed

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 19:33:25 -0000

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton faced blistering questions this week from some of his fellow Republicans after unilaterally moving $40 million in tax dollars to give out pay raises in his office. Meantime the impeachment trial in Washington drew to a close and Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick poured cold water on proposals to expand gambling in the state.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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"Normalcy" Returning to Texas?

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 19:00:00 -0000

In his State of the State Address this week, Gov. Greg Abbott argues "normalcy" is coming back to Texas. But the COVID-19 statistics suggest otherwise. Plus lawmakers in Washington continue to haggle over a new COVID relief package and Ted Cruz can't help but paint himself into a corner with his pop culture references.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Is Texit a Serious Thing? No. And Beto for Governor? Maybe.

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 19:06:00 -0000

As the anger builds among Republicans against the second impeachment of former President Trump, a small group in the Texas GOP wants to start a conversation about secession. Yes, that again. Plus Beto O'Rourke floats the possibility of running against Gov. Greg Abbott in 2022. Hope springs eternal for Texas Democrats.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Democratic President Already Clashing with Texas Republicans

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 19:12:00 -0000

He's just been sworn in this week and Democratic President Joe Biden is already at odds with Texas Republican leaders on a host of issues from immigration to energy. Plus Sen. Ted Cruz faces the wrath of the Lincoln Project and Gov. Greg Abbott snubs Houston's political leadership when hosting a roundtable on COVID vaccine in Houston.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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President Trump Impeached Again as he Heads to Texas

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 19:21:00 -0000

President Trump was impeached for a second time right as he visited the Texas border for a subdued victory lap for an uncompleted border wall. Meantime, Sen. Ted Cruz faces questions about his role in inciting riots at the Capitol and the Texas Legislature convened under the cloud of the pandemic.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Texans at the Center of an Insurrection

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 22:20:00 -0000

As riots unfolded at the US Capitol in Washington, Sen. Ted Cruz and his former top aide Rep. Chip Roy were on opposite sides of the argument fueling the violence. Meantime, Rep. Dan Crenshaw told Jeremy that some of his GOP colleagues who incited the rioters later behaved like "cowards." Plus, a top Texas health official is caught on tape saying the state government has reached the limits of what it can do in the battle against COVID-19.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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What Kind of Year Has it Been?

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 21:26:00 -0000

Now that the dust has settled from the elections and even Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is admitting President Trump won't be in office come January, it's time to take stock of 2020. We reflect on the year that was. Plus, is there any real shot for casinos in Texas along with legalized pot? Maybe.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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If Ken Paxton Rushes to Trump's Rescue, Will Trump Rush to His?

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 22:18:00 -0000

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, embroiled in his own personal legal troubles, is now rushing to the defense of President Donald Trump in trying to overturn the election results. That's sparked some speculation that Paxton is trying to get a presidential pardon for his alleged crimes. Plus Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick looks to change the rules in the Texas Senate once again so that the number of votes it takes to advance legislation equals the number of GOP senators in the chamber.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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Texas Reloaded, Except in Georgia

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 20:46:00 -0000

Businesses across DFW are now under new restrictions as COVID-19 cases spike, the mayor of Austin is under the gun after traveling to Mexico while telling people to "stay home," and Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Houston, is reloading for a campaign in Georgia. But this time it's his fellow Republicans angry with him for trying to elect GOP senators. Yes, you read that right.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

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The Ninth Inning of Covid?

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 22:02:00 -0000

Despite rising numbers in cases of coronavirus, Gov. Greg Abbott insists we're now in the "ninth inning" of the pandemic because therapeutics will be distributed soon in Texas in addition to vaccines that may be available in the near future. Plus, Sen. Ted Cruz absolutely refuses to mask up depending on the situation and Matthew McConaughey toys with running for governor of Texas.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

Support the show: https://offers.houstonchronicle.com/?offerid=125&origin=newsroom&ipid=podcast

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The Stages of Political Grief

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 20:39:00 -0000

Republicans are very slowly coming to grips with President Trump's loss to President-Elect Joe Biden while Texas Democrats are grieving the fact they weren't able to make much progress at all after a much-hyped campaign season. But the GOP takes some solace in Trump's ongoing legal challenges while Democrats here can take pride in an ever-growing Blue Spine of Texas as first reported by Jeremy.

Connect with Scott Braddock, editor of The Quorum Report and Houston Chronicle political writer Jeremy Wallace.

Support the show: https://offers.houstonchronicle.com/?offerid=125&origin=newsroom&ipid=podcast

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Texas has spoken — what now?

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 18:50:00 -0000

As the vote counting battle rages on in the battleground states, the national election returns leave us with more questions than answers, especially in the presidential contest. But, Texas has spoken and voters have delivered some answers — President Trump took Texas by a big-enough margin and the GOP remains in control of all statewide offices and both houses of the legislature. Scott Braddock of The Quorum Report hosts this morning-after discussion with Houston Chronicle staffers: political writer Jeremy Wallace, Managing Editor for Content Maria Reeve, Editor of Opinion Lisa Falkenberg and editorial writer Luis Carrasco.

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