Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
Special election results reshape Texas political map
A surprise Democratic victory in a historically red North Texas Senate district is drawing national attention, with Taylor Rehmet’s huge win over a Trump-backed Republican in District 9 stunning party leaders.
Meanwhile, Houston voters filled a long-vacant congressional seat, with Christian Menefee’s runoff victory narrowing the GOP’s margin in the U.S. House.
Scott Braddock, editor of Quorum Report, and Bethany Albertson, professor of government at UT Austin, join Texas Standard to break down the results.
Senior mental health requires proactive support
Mental health struggles among adults 65 and older are often dismissed as part of normal aging. But experts say depression, anxiety, and isolation in later life are treatable – and early support can make a significant difference.
Baylie Simon reports from Abilene on how families and caregivers can recognize warning signs and help older loved ones stay connected and healthy.
Texas declares disaster over advancing screwworm threat
Gov. Greg Abbott has issued a statewide disaster declaration over the northward advance of the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that devastates livestock. While the pest has not yet reached Texas, officials say preparation is critical to prevent economic damage.
The Standard’s Michael Marks says the USDA will start dropping sterilized flies in Texas and northern Mexico to help combat the threat.
He joined the show to explain more about what the screwworm does and how officials plan to stop it.
Massive gas plant projects move forward in Texas
Texas continues to lead the nation in planned natural gas power generation, with dozens of new plants proposed and regulators approving major projects this week. Supporters say the expansion strengthens grid reliability, but critics question the environmental impacts.
Dylan Baddour, who covers energy for Inside Climate News, joins Texas Standard to explain what regulators approved and what communities are saying.
This week in Texas music history
Jason Mellard of the Center for Texas Music History marks the occasion.
Grackles return in force across Texas cities
As winter turns toward spring, large flocks of great-tailed grackles are once again gathering in Texas cities, filling trees and parking lots with noise and motion. The birds can seem overwhelming, but experts say their behavior reflects adaptability and survival in urban environments.
Texas Public Radio’s Jerry Clayton reports on what makes grackles so resilient.
Record funding approved for Texas community parks
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has approved more than $21 million in grants for 50 community parks statewide, the largest allocation in the program’s history. Funds will support playgrounds, sports fields, splash pads, and trail improvements.
Dan Reece, program manager with Texas Parks and Wildlife, joins Texas Standard to discuss how the Outdoor Recreation Plan is funded and what Texans can expect.
