Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Friday, Aug. 28, 2026.
Texas-Minnesota extradition fight tests limits of federalism
A legal fight over whether Texas must extradite an ICE agent wanted over a shooting in Minnesota is raising unusual constitutional questions about interstate cooperation. Gov. Greg Abbott has not approved the request, and the agent has now been released from a South Texas jail after 90 days in custody.
University of Missouri law professor Charles “Rocky” Rhodes joins the Standard with more.
Austin takes first step toward regulating large data centers
Austin City Council has begun laying the groundwork for new rules governing large-scale data centers within city limits, with local leaders considering how to address issues like electricity use, water demand and land use.
KUT’s Luz Moreno-Lozano reports.
Federal judge blocks Trump visa ban covering 75 countries
A federal judge has struck down a Trump administration policy that barred visas for immigrants from 75 countries, ruling that eligible applicants were denied the individualized review required by law. The decision could reopen legal pathways for thousands of people while the case continues.
Immigration attorney Kathleen Campbell Walker joins the Standard with the latest.
Focused ultrasound offers new relief for Parkinson’s tremors
Doctors at UT Southwestern are using focused ultrasound to treat severe Parkinson’s tremors without incisions or implanted devices. The procedure targets a tiny area of the brain with sound waves and can produce rapid improvement for some patients whose symptoms no longer respond to medication.
UT Southwestern neuroradiologist Dr. Bhavya Shah joins the Standard with more.
Dolly Parton’s gift to an Austin drag queen takes on new meaning
Fans are remembering Dolly Parton not only as a country music legend, but also as an LGBTQ+ icon. In 2023, Parton presented a guitar to Austin drag performer Brigitte Bandit, creating a personal connection that now carries added significance after Parton’s death.
KUT Art Beat editor Stephanie Federico reports.
Trump beef import plan draws backlash from Texas ranchers
President Trump has ordered a major increase in beef imports in an effort to lower prices at the grocery store. But Texas cattle producers say the plan could hurt domestic ranchers already dealing with high costs and other challenges, including the return of New World screwworm.
Texas Standard reporter-producer Michael Marks joins the Standard with an update.
The gang delivers another custom poem.
The week in Texas politics
The Texas Tribune’s Jasper Scherer joins the Standard with a recap of the week that was in Texas politics.
