Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, Jan. 7, 2026. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Testimony halts Uvalde officer trial amid mistrial questions
The trial of a former Uvalde school district police officer accused of child endangerment in connection with the 2022 mass shooting at Robb Elementary has taken an unexpected turn, after a teacher’s testimony prompted defense objections and paused proceedings for the day. Attorneys argued the account conflicted with earlier statements.
Univision national correspondent Lidia Terrazas joins Texas Standard from the trial in Corpus Christi.
Energy capital Houston weighs what Venezuelan oil could mean for Texas
With Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro now in custody, the Trump administration says Venezuela may open its oil reserves to the U.S. Analysts say Texas could see mixed effects, given its concentration of refineries and energy companies.
Houston Public Media’s Natalie Weber reports.
Houston Grand Opera earns Grammy nod for new label debut
The Houston Grand Opera has landed a Grammy nomination for the first album released on its own record label, marking a milestone for the company’s recording ambitions.
Houston Public Media’s Michael Adkison reports on the recording and what the nomination means for the organization.
Instagram chief warns AI could erode trust in images
Instagram head Adam Mosseri is raising concerns about how artificial intelligence is reshaping photography and how that shift could affect trust on social platforms. In a recent post, Mosseri outlined challenges around authenticity as AI-generated images spread.
Omar Gallaga, who covers tech for CNET, joins Texas Standard with more.
Teachers union sues TEA over investigations tied to Charlie Kirk death
The Texas American Federation of Teachers is suing the Texas Education Agency over investigations into educators accused of making inappropriate remarks following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk; while hundreds of complaints have been dismissed, dozens remain active.
Jaden Edison, public education reporter for the Texas Tribune, joins the Standard with what’s at stake.
Taco do’s and don’ts for 2026, Texas-style
As the new year begins, taco journalist Mando Rayo is offering a different kind of resolution list – one focused on what to embrace and what to avoid come taco time in Texas. His advice? Stay focused on culinary curiosity, respect and supporting local taquerias.
Tacos of Texas podcast host Rayo joins the Standard with more.
Health insurance costs rise as ACA subsidies expire
Millions of Americans entered 2026 facing higher health insurance costs after enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies expired at the end of last year.
Elizabeth Sepper, professor of health law at the University of Texas at Austin, joins the Standard to explain who is affected and what options remain.
