Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Monday, Dec. 2, 2024.
Trump tariffs on Mexico: The Texas connection
President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Mexican imports could have a significant impact on Texas, a state with deep economic ties to its southern neighbor. What might these tariffs mean for businesses and consumers?
Tony Payan, director of the Center for the U.S. and Mexico at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, joins the Standard with more.
CenterPoint Energy’s storm response criticized
Hurricane Beryl knocked out power for thousands of Texans, with CenterPoint Energy’s response drawing close scrutiny. Gov. Greg Abbott ordered a Public Utility Commission report, released last week, evaluating the utility’s handling of the outages.
Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports.
Economic stats vs. reality: Why voters feel the pinch
Despite rising employment and lower inflation in 2024, many Americans feel weighed down by high prices at the grocery store. How did this economic disconnect influence the presidential election?
Slate writers Nitish Pahwa and Shirin Ali explored this economic paradox and its political consequences. They join the Standard with their insights.
Community college ‘deserts’ in Texas
You’re probably aware of food deserts – areas lacking access to fresh groceries – but the concept applies to community colleges, too. Which parts of Texas face the biggest challenges in education access?
Texas Tribune education reporter Sneha Dey joins the show to examine how these gaps affect different demographics and whether remote learning is bridging the gap.
This Austin yoga instructor teaches locals how to embrace the week ahead
Kennon Goldreyer founded Monday Movement last year to energize those stuck in the 9-5 routine. Discover how Kennon is inspiring others to start their week with purpose and positivity in this Sounds of Texas audio postcard.
LGBTQ military veterans brace for policy changes
Some LGBTQ veterans worry President-elect Trump might roll back rights allowing them to serve openly, with many recalling the fear of being discharged under past policies. The American Homefront Project’s Andrew Dyer reports on their stories and concerns.
What does the 2025 Legislature have in store for LGBTQ Texans?
The Texas Legislature shifted further to the right this election, with far-right Republicans winning key seats. Many campaigned on issues targeting gender identity and transgender rights.
As the 2025 session approaches, The Texas Newsroom’s Blaise Gainey reports on what the political shift means for the LGBTQ community.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
