The Observer’s Best Longform Stories of 2020
We rounded up some of our hardest hitting longform stories from this unprecedented year.
2020
Who Is John Cornyn Serving?
The senior senator from Texas has mastered the art of political subservience, making him very powerful—and perhaps vulnerable.
Texas’ Presidential Candidates Break Out Briefly During the Democratic Debate
But it’s probably not enough to challenge the frontrunners.
Julián Castro’s Climate Plan Addresses Environmental Racism
Other candidates focus on broad policies that affect everyone. That’s undeniably good, but it elides that fact that environmental injustices have historically hurt poor, minority communities the most.
Senator Lucio Draws Serious Primary Challenge
The Texas Senate’s most conservative Democrat faces two opponents. Is the Valley ready for change?
As Texodus Continues, Tom DeLay’s Tall Political Shadow Fades
Some of the biggest beneficiaries of the Hammer’s infamous gerrymandering in 2003 are bowing out of office—or facing huge reelection fights in 2020.
They Persisted
These candidates are back in the ring to prove that 2018 wasn’t a singular “year of the woman.”
Beto’s Last Chance at a 2020 Revival
The confines of a traditional presidential primary campaign weren’t working for O’Rourke. In the wake of El Paso, he is embracing a new strategy.
Could Trump’s Reelection Campaign Turn the Texas House Blue?
A number of high-profile GOP electeds are throwing in the towel in advance of the 2020 election cycle—with more expected in the coming year.
Cristina Tzintzún Ramirez Enters the U.S. Senate Race
In taking on Senator John Cornyn, Tzintzún Ramirez, a progressive organizer, hopes to build on Beto O’Rourke’s 2018 campaign, mobilize Latinx voters, and finally prove that Texas progressives can win a statewide election.