Texas Standard for Feb. 10, 2026: Untangling legal questions in the age of AI photo manipulation

A digitally altered image of a woman being arrested at a protest in Minnesota was posted by the White House, drawing scrutiny after reporting revealed changes to the original photo. The episode raises broader legal and ethical questions about image manipulation in political messaging.

By Texas StandardFebruary 10, 2026 8:14 am,

Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.

New poll reshapes Texas Senate outlook

A new University of Houston Hobby School poll offers fresh insight into both Democratic and Republican U.S. Senate primaries in Texas.

Renée Cross, senior executive director of the Hobby School of Public Affairs, joins Texas Standard to break down the key findings and what to watch as early voting approaches. 

Cornyn leads fundraising as GOP primary tightens

New Federal Election Commission reports show U.S. Sen. John Cornyn holding a financial edge over Attorney General Ken Paxton and Congressman Wesley Hunt in the Republican primary. Yet polling suggests the race remains highly competitive.

Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports on how money and momentum are shaping the contest just days before early voting begins. 

Older adults navigate digital life with confidence

Americans over 60 are now one of the fastest-growing groups online. A new book argues that many older adults are not only participating, but thriving in digital spaces.

Eszter Hargittai, professor at the University of Zurich and co-author of “Wired Wisdom: How to Age Better Online,” joins the Standard to discuss what research reveals about internet use, digital literacy, and aging.

Paxton sues Bexar County over immigrant services funding

Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed suit against Bexar County after commissioners approved more than $500,000 for American Gateways, a nonprofit that assists immigrants. The state argues the funding violates constitutional limits on public spending.

Diego Medel, public safety reporter for the San Antonio Report, joins Texas Standard to explain the dispute and how county leaders are responding. 

Historic tall ship Elissa prepares for rare voyage

The 1877 tall ship Elissa, a square-rigged iron barque docked in Galveston, is preparing to sail to New York City for a special anniversary celebration. Though it serves as a floating museum, the vessel remains seaworthy.

Houston Public Media’s Julianna Washburn reports on the ship’s history and the preparations underway for the journey. 

Dallas artist rebuilds after life-changing shooting

Dallas artist Antonio Lechuga was at the height of his career when he was shot while out for a run. More than three years later, he continues to recover physically and creatively.

KERA News’ Marcheta Fornoff reports on Lechuga’s path forward and how art has remained central to his rebuilding process. 

Legal questions mount over manipulated arrest photo

A digitally altered image of a woman being arrested at a protest in Minnesota was posted by the White House, drawing scrutiny after reporting revealed changes to the original photo. The episode raises broader legal and ethical questions about image manipulation in political messaging.

Kevin Frazier, director of the AI Innovation and Law Program at UT Law, joins Texas Standard to discuss defamation standards and emerging challenges for courts. 

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