Texas Standard for April 3, 2025: Ken Paxton gears up for a Senate run against John Cornyn

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is setting the stage for a 2026 primary challenge against Sen. John Cornyn. Though he hasn’t officially declared, his latest remarks are hard to interpret otherwise.

By Texas StandardApril 3, 2025 9:04 am,

Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, April 3, 2025:

Trump’s new tariffs could hit Texas businesses hard

President Trump has unveiled sweeping tariffs on imports – as high as 54% on goods from China – plus a 10% baseline tariff on all imports. While he argues it will reshape U.S. trade policy, critics warn of rising costs for businesses and consumers.

Economist Ray Perryman joins the Standard with more on the impact in Texas:

Texas Standard Music Madness: The final showdown

It’s down to the championship round: “Miles and Miles of Texas” vs. “London Homesick Blues.” Which song deserves the title of the best Texas tune? You’ve got until the end of today to vote!

AI takes on Hayao Miyazaki – and he’s not happy

The latest AI trend has users generating images in the style of animator Hayao Miyazaki and his Studio Ghibli works, sparking debates over copyright and artistic integrity.

Tech expert Omar Gallaga breaks down the controversy.

The multiple meanings of carne asada

With spring in full swing, it’s time to fire up the grill. Mando Rayo of the Tacos of Texas podcast explores the cultural traditions behind the carne asada – and what it means to bring people together over food.

Meet Austin’s first poet laureate, Zell Miller III

Poet, playwright and performer Zell Miller III has spent decades exploring identity, culture and the human experience through his art. Listen to the work of  the City of Austin’s inaugural poet laureate.

Los Texmaniacs bring Texas roots music to Gruene Hall

Grammy-winning conjunto band Los Texmaniacs, led by San Antonio’s Max Baca, are set to play Gruene Hall this Friday.

Texas Public Radio’s Jack Morgan reports on Baca’s impressive musical career.

Ken Paxton gears up for a Senate run against John Cornyn

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is setting the stage for a 2026 primary challenge against Sen. John Cornyn. Though he hasn’t officially declared, his latest remarks are hard to interpret otherwise.

The New York Times’ J. David Goodman joins the Standard with the details.

All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.

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