Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026.
Legal questions swirl after Maduro’s arrest
The arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has raised major legal questions beyond the immediate political fallout. International law experts are now examining whether U.S. actions could carry legal consequences abroad, and how drug charges intersect with long-running human rights concerns.
Ariel Dulitzky, law professor and director of the Human Rights Clinic at UT Austin, joins Texas Standard to analyze the case.
Military fitness overhaul draws health concerns
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is pushing stricter fitness standards across the U.S. military, with tougher consequences for troops who fall short. Supporters say the changes will strengthen readiness, but advocates warn they could worsen eating disorders and unhealthy behaviors.
Carson Frame reports for the American Homefront Project.
Matagorda County revisits its energy ambitions
Long before Houston branded itself the energy capital of the world, leaders in Matagorda County hoped to claim that title themselves. Now, with new energy projects driving up land prices, residents are once again weighing economic opportunity against the region’s agricultural roots.
Andy Uhler reports for Phases and Stages, a podcast from the UT Energy Institute.
Commentator W.F. Strong explores overlooked moments, curious coincidences, and the small details that quietly shape the state’s history. Strong is a professor of culture and communication at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and a regular Texas Standard commentator.
Ten years of Texas Standard through food and drink
It’s a new year, but Texas Standard is still looking back on its 10th birthday. For December, we gathered up some of the food and drink stories that helped define the show and are now sharing that list.
From barbecue joints and border foodways to holiday debates and hometown traditions, these stories reflect how Texans gather, celebrate, and even argue – often over a plate.
Venezuelan Texans react to Maduro’s removal
Texans with ties to Venezuela are processing mixed emotions after the sudden removal of President Nicolás Maduro. Relief, concern, and uncertainty are all part of the conversation – especially around what comes next for the country and its people.
Venezuelan-American writer Alejandro Puyana joins Texas Standard as part of the Talk of Texas project to share his perspective and what he’s hearing within the community.
