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Houston

The ‘Houston Miracle’ Shell Game

How Houston ISD’s takeover regime inflated school accountability ratings by systematically holding back certain students

by Daniel Dawer and Ruth Kravetz

Keep Reading

In Congress, Christian Menefee Says He’s Fighting for ‘the Least, the Last, and the Lost’

by Josephine Lee

A Birth Plan for the Dying

by Sophie Schott

Christian Menefee’s Win Foreshadows Fights to Come Across the South

by Sam Russek

Jul 12, 2024

Hurricane Beryl Was a Warning Shot for Houston

The category 1 storm dealt the city disastrous damage. Houston’s first direct hit from a hurricane in decades showed how vulnerable the nation’s energy capital remains.

by Dylan Baddour

May 29, 2024

Houston Underdogs Beat Established Democrats in House, Senate Runoffs

Two community organizers-turned-candidates see their wins as a progressive blueprint for taking on the establishment and mobilizing the Democratic base. 

by Josephine Lee

Apr 05, 2024

Nine Years, Nine Lives: Paxton’s Latest Legal Escape

For all the emphasis placed on his alleged fraud, the attorney general was never headed for prison—at least not on these charges.

by Justin Miller

Apr 04, 2024

‘TxDOT’s Still Bulldozing Over Our Communities’

Community members say the state transportation agency is violating its agreement with the feds to reduce the discriminatory impact of its plans to expand I-45.

by Josephine Lee

Mar 06, 2024

Houstonians Force Anti-LGBTQ Democrat into Runoff with Progressive Challenger

Meanwhile, a long-term incumbent who backed a controversial state school takeover easily secures renomination.

by Josephine Lee

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg Feb 20, 2024

Kim Ogg: DA Under Fire

Harris County had big plans to reform its criminal justice system. What went wrong?

by Jolie McCullough

The Houston skyline, with its numerous recognizable skyscrapers, seen from a greenbelt to the south, under a parly cloudy blue sky. Jan 25, 2024

Texas Counties Try to Fight Poverty with Cash

A program intended to put money in the pockets of the poor faces a challenge from a state senator.

by Lise Olsen

Thousands march with Pro-Palestine signs and Palestinian flags in a protest demanding a ceasefire in Gaza. The Texas Capitol, State Theatre and other landmarks of downtown Austin are visible. Jan 24, 2024

Will Texas Cities Stay Silent on Gaza?

From Austin to San Antonio and Dallas to Houston, pro-Palestine advocates are pleading with recalcitrant local officials to take a stand for Gazans.

by Gus Bova

A photo of Kelly Siegler, a blonde woman, in a dark suit jacket, in a courtroom. An amethyst color filter was added to the photo to give it a colder feeling. Dec 27, 2023

Kelly Siegler: Trading Favors

Two men convicted by Kelly Siegler uncovered the dark secret to her success.

by Jordan Smith and Liliana Segura

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