Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Friday, Sept. 4, 2026.
Who’s funding Ken Paxton and James Talarico’s Senate campaigns?
The race between Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico for U.S. Senate is drawing millions of dollars as Election Day approaches. A closer look at their largest donors reveals the individuals and interests investing heavily in each candidate — and what those contributions can tell voters about the race.
Austin American-Statesman chief politics reporter John Moritz joins the Standard with more.
Dallas convention highlights how the GOP has changed since the Bush era
Republicans are gathering in Dallas for an unusual midterm convention, in a city closely tied to the Bush political dynasty. But many of the policies and priorities associated with George H.W. and George W. Bush have faded from today’s Republican Party.
KERA’s Bill Zeeble reports.
Rio Grande Valley emerges as a major Texas energy hub
The Rio Grande Valley is becoming an increasingly important center for Texas energy production, with major investments reshaping a region better known for agriculture, tourism and cross-border trade. The growth spans multiple forms of energy and could transform the Valley’s economy and landscape.
Energy reporter Andy Uhler explores the shift for the podcast Phases and Stages: The Texas Energy Story.
Texas A&M-San Antonio adds six new sports teams
Texas A&M University-San Antonio is undertaking the largest athletics expansion in its young history, adding men’s and women’s cross country, indoor track and outdoor track. The move is part of a broader effort to build campus life and the university’s identity, supported by a $10 million Bexar County investment.
San Antonio Report higher education reporter Danya Pérez joins the Standard with more.
San Antonio’s 2M Smokehouse wins Food Network’s Pitmasters
Esaul and Grecia Ramos of San Antonio’s acclaimed 2M Smokehouse have won Food Network’s inaugural “Pitmasters” competition. The husband-and-wife team took the title with a finale showcasing their South Texas influences, including chorizo, duck carnitas and even a concha baked in a smoker.
Esaul and Grecia Ramos join the Standard to talk about their championship run.
The gang delivers another custom poem.
The week in Texas politics
The Texas Tribune’s Jasper Scherer joins the Standard with a recap of the week that was in Texas politics.
