In Texas Cities, Let a Hundred Mamdanis Bloom
Our state has long-term lessons to learn from the New York socialist’s rise.
politics
70 Years of Skewering
The “magic dust” of adding funny drawings to words has been an important part of the Texas Observer.
Top 20 Stories From the Year We Nearly Went Under
After roaring back with an issue on women’s health, we exposed heat deaths at Tesla and USPS, went after Angela Paxton, and broke news on queer rights.
Texas Transportation Advocacy Revs Up at the Lege
After the passage of a road safety bill in 2021, proponents see another opportunity.
Disaster Dollars: Abbott’s Big New Donor Got Half-Billion in COVID, Border Contracts
One of the biggest beneficiaries of the governor's pandemic and Operation Lone Star disaster declarations has now kicked Abbott a cool $250,000.
Abbott’s Attack Dog
For 20 years, New Hampshire political consultant Dave Carney has been winning races for Republican governors in Texas and shellacking hapless Democrats.
The Woman Behind Ann Richards
In her memoir "Hope and Hard Truth," Mary Beth Rogers reveals the political grit and big heart that helped elect a legendary governor.
Michelle Vallejo Keeps the Progressive Flame Alive in the RGV
The 30-year-old congressional candidate could be the first Latina Democrat to represent the Valley in the U.S. House, if she can defeat a well-funded Republican.
Ann Richards’ Legacy Is a Light for Dark Times
The "One Ann Only," a new collection of photographs and quotes, captures the unforgettable singularity of Texas’ last Democratic governor.