Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, June 3, 2026. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Rural Texas counties say data centers are arriving faster than regulations
Texas is experiencing a boom in proposed data centers — many planned for unincorporated rural areas where county governments have limited authority over development. Some local officials say they are struggling to manage concerns about water use, electricity demand and land impacts.
Alejandra Martinez of The Texas Tribune explains why counties say they have little power to intervene.
What Texas primary results reveal about the state’s political direction
The Texas primary season offered another sign of the growing strength of hardline conservative candidates within the Republican Party. But the results also raised questions about turnout, enthusiasm, and what both parties can expect heading into November.
The Texas Newsroom’s Blaise Gainey reports.
A Texas series asks whether the system misunderstands mental illness
The final installment of Minds on Trial examines not only how Texas responds to mental illness in the justice system, but how public attitudes shape those responses in the first place.
Josiah Wonnell of KACU in Abilene explores the deeper assumptions behind mental health policy and treatment.
Why Fort Worth is intentionally setting more land on fire
As wildfire risks continue to grow across Texas, Fort Worth officials are expanding the use of prescribed burns to manage vegetation and improve ecosystem health. The controlled fires are also helping combat invasive species and reduce future fire danger.
Nicole Lopez of the Fort Worth Report explains how the program works and why it continues to grow.
Houston prepares to host DR Congo during the World Cup
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s national soccer team will spend much of the upcoming FIFA World Cup based in Houston. But an Ebola outbreak in the team’s home country may limit how many supporters can travel to Texas for the tournament.
Michael Adkison of Houston Public Media reports on the excitement surrounding the team and the complications facing fans.
A beloved bakery returns to West after years away
For generations, Village Bakery was a staple in the town of West, known for its kolaches and community traditions. After closing in 2019, many residents feared it would never return. Now the bakery has reopened, drawing long lines and emotional reactions from longtime customers.
Molly-Jo Tilton of KWBU reports on the bakery’s comeback.
Why is Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson stepping down?
Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson announced she will resign after serving less than three years overseeing the state’s elections. Nelson previously spent decades in the Texas Senate and played a prominent role in several recent election policy fights.
Natalia Contreras of Votebeat and The Texas Tribune explains Nelson’s tenure, resignation, and what comes next before November’s elections.
