Politicians and Rock Stars: What To Expect At This Year’s Texas Tribune Festival

This week in Texas politics with the Texas Tribune.

By Laura RiceSeptember 23, 2016 1:40 pm,

It’s time to look back at the week that was in Texas politics – but this weekend there are sure to be more political headlines popping up thanks to the Sixth Annual Texas Tribune Festival. Politicians, newsmakers, and even a rock star or two will be gathering in Austin to talk about a variety of issues. Evan Smith, CEO and co-founder of the Texas Tribune, spoke with the Standard today about what to expect at this year’s festival.

The future of the Republican party is on the minds of many Texans right now and Smith says that’s definitely a factor in this weekend’s event.

“I think that this is exactly the moment to have that conversion. Not only with Ted Cruz but with John Kasich, the governor of Ohio and former Republican presidential candidate. Both will be in town this weekend. Both have, to this point, declined to support the party’s nominee, Donald Trump.”

Smith says part of the conversation is “whether Humpty Dumpty can be put back together” after this cycle’s race.

What you’ll hear in this segment: 

– The latest on voter identification laws in Texas and voter turnout across the state

– More about what conversations will happen at the Tribune Festival this weekend

– Why Phill Collins will be at at the festival (it’s not to sing!)