Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
Paxton faces fundraising squeeze in tight Senate race
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is locked in a tight runoff for the GOP Senate nomination, but he’s struggling to raise the money he says he needs to win.
Lauren McGaughy, Texas politics correspondent for The New York Times, joins the Standard to break down whether donor hesitation is tied to Paxton’s legal and personal controversies and how the money gap with John Cornyn and Democrat James Talarico could shape the race.
Craft brewery closures signal industry slowdown in Houston and beyond
Another Houston brewery has closed its doors, part of a broader trend across the industry. True Anomaly’s shutdown follows several others in the region, and reflects a national shift after years of steady growth.
Houston Public Media’s Anna Monroe reports that for the first time in decades, more breweries closed than opened last year.
Mental health reform efforts look to close gaps in Texas system
As part of an ongoing series called “Minds on Trial,” reporting from KACU Abilene takes a deeper look at how Texas handles mental health crises — and where the system falls short.
Josiah Wonnell reports that many people cycle through jails and hospitals without getting lasting care, and explores the courts, laws and programs attempting to offer a lasting solution.
Shakespeare troupe finds new stage after losing Globe replica
A Texas-based Shakespeare company is adjusting to a new reality after losing its longtime home: A replica of the Globe Theatre. With that venue torn down, the troupe dubbed The Baron’s Men are taking the stage elsewhere this season.
For KUT’s Art Beat, Ella Kopeikin reports on how the troupe is adapting to a new space and what it means for their performances.
Young Spurs face playoff pressure as experience gap shows
The San Antonio Spurs’ playoff run has highlighted both the team’s promise and inexperience. As the Spurs push deeper into the postseason, questions remain about whether a young roster can handle the demands of high-stakes games.
Texas Public Radio’s Brian Kirkpatrick reports that it’s rare for a team this young to make a deep run on its first try.
Texas road trips offer scenic routes — with a side of nostalgia
With summer approaching, Texas Highways has mapped out some of the state’s most scenic road trips.
Texas Highways writer Dina Gachman joins the Standard to share a route starting in Fort Worth, along with memorable stops and the personal nostalgia that comes with revisiting familiar ground.
Houston ISD launches AI-focused schools, shifting classroom approach
Houston ISD is moving ahead with plans to open nine AI-focused schools next year, flipping the usual conversation about artificial intelligence in education. Instead of limiting its use, the district — which remains under state control — is building curriculum around it.
Nusaiba Mizan of the Houston Chronicle joins the Standard to explain what that could look like day-to-day, how families can respond and more.
