Gov. Greg Abbott was endorsed by Texas Teamsters, a labor union that has historically supported Democrats. Other large unions still back his Democratic opponent.
Paul Cobler
Paul Cobler is the Tribune's economy and industry reporter, covering the socioeconomic and political forces that impact Texans’ pocketbooks and upward mobility. Before joining the Tribune, he was a politics reporter for the Houston Landing and covered Baton Rouge City Hall for The Advocate in Louisiana. Paul grew up in Victoria, Texas, and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin. His reporting has appeared in news publications across the state, including the Dallas Morning News, Austin American-Statesman and the Houston Chronicle. He is based in Austin.
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Energy
Texas’ power grid weathered another winter storm. Is it ready for the future?
Five years after Winter Storm Uri caused catastrophic blackouts that killed hundreds, the electric grid has changed significantly, but increasing demand means it will have to adapt even more.
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State Government
Alcohol commission finalizes rules for hemp industry in Texas, but debate likely to continue
The new rules apply to 60,000 TABC license holders, like convenience stores and restaurants. The Department of State Health Services is also working to finalize its own rules for smoke shops.
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Energy
Texas forecast to be top market for data centers in two years, increasing grid demand
As artificial intelligence pushes demand for more data centers, companies are drawn to the state’s relatively inexpensive land and natural gas that can run on-site power plants.
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Energy
Trump says the U.S. will fix Venezuela’s oil industry. Texas experts say the idea faces hurdles.
Texas-based oil companies have largely been silent on Trump’s assertion that they would help to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure.
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State Government
From school vouchers to flood warning systems, these are the Texas developments to watch in 2026
Several court hearings and policies affecting education, health and more will roll out in the new year.
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State Government
Texas lawmakers from both parties oppose Trump’s order targeting state AI laws
Texas’ new law regulating AI is set to take effect Jan. 1, two months after Trump’s executive order threatening to cut off some federal money if states pass “onerous” AI laws.
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Energy
Residents protest high-voltage power lines that could skirt Dinosaur Valley State Park
One of three possible routes would border the North Texas park. The project is part of a statewide effort to keep pace with Texas’ rapidly growing energy needs.
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Transportation
Southwest Airlines will bring 2,000 new jobs to Austin as city works to expand crowded airport
Austin and the state offered the Dallas-based airline a package of economic incentives totaling $19.5 million to locate a new crew base at Austin’s airport.
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Texas Legislature 2025
Texas launches cryptocurrency reserve with $5 million investment
Lawmakers created a state Strategic Bitcoin Reserve earlier this year and dedicated $10 million to investing in cryptocurrency.