Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026.
FCC rule controversy regarding Talarico shakes up Texas Senate race
A long‑standing FCC rule is suddenly at the center of a political storm after candidate James Talarico accused the Trump administration of weaponizing it to influence media coverage. The dispute over airing his appearance on a late-night talk show has boosted his profile – just as early voting begins.
Blaise Gainey of the Texas Newsroom joins the Standard with more.
When immigration agents wear military-style gear, it may be more about looks than function
Democrats say ending the partial federal shutdown should include changes to the way immigration agents present themselves, citing public confusion and safety concerns. ICE teams increasingly resemble unidentified tactical units, raising questions about public trust and transparency.
Jay Price of the American Homefront reports.
Black History Month in Austin: Remembering Charlie’s Playhouse
During segregation, Charlie’s Playhouse became a central gathering place for Austin’s Black community, offering live music, dancing, and nightlife in a city that limited where Black residents could socialize.
Miles Bloxson has this recap of the club’s history.
Ring drops surveillance partnership after backlash
Ring is abandoning a planned partnership with networked public safety camera system Flock after a Super Bowl ad about finding a lost puppy sparked alarm over data‑sharing with law enforcement. Critics say the deal blurred lines between consumer tech and policing, especially as concerns rise over surveillance and immigration crackdowns.
Tech journalist Omar Gallaga joins the Standard with more.
High costs push Texas barbecue joints to the brink
Rising beef prices, higher overhead, and shrinking foot traffic are forcing more Texas barbecue shops to close, signaling what some call the end of the “BBQ bubble.” Even celebrated spots have shut down, citing unsustainable costs.
Daniel Vaughn, barbecue editor at Texas Monthly, joins the Standard with the story.
New GLO map history traces how Texans see their state
A new book from the General Land Office explores how maps have shaped Texans’ understanding of geography, culture, and identity over centuries. Featuring Spanish, French, Indigenous, and frontier‑era cartography, the collection reveals surprising misconceptions and evolving boundaries.
Co‑author James Harkins joins the Standard with more.
Exoneration hearing likely for men long tied to yogurt shop murders
A major development in the 1991 Austin yogurt shop case is expected as a state judge prepares to formally exonerate four men falsely accused decades ago. A recent breakthrough identified a now‑deceased serial killer as the likely perpetrator.
Reporter Tony Plohetski of the Austin American‑Statesman joins the Standard with the story.
Update: The four men were formally exonerated after our initial broadcast of this interview.
