Here’s what’s coming up on Texas Standard for Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Listen on your Texas public radio station, or ask your smart speaker to play Texas Standard. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
DOJ adds misdemeanor charges in some border crossing cases
A new investigation finds the federal government is filing additional misdemeanor trespassing charges against some migrants crossing the border.
Agnel Philip, a data reporter at ProPublica, joins the Texas Standard to explain how these cases work, why the charges are often dismissed and what consequences they can still carry.
South Texas congressional race draws national attention
A high-profile race in Texas’ 23rd Congressional District is taking shape after Republican Tony Gonzales exited the primary runoff. Democrat Katy Padilla Stout is now trying to flip the seat in a sprawling border district.
Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports on the candidates and the political dynamics shaping the contest.
More than 600 books removed from New Braunfels ISD libraries
An analysis by an advocacy group finds hundreds of books have been pulled from library shelves in a Central Texas school district. The removals are part of a broader debate over access to reading materials in public schools.
Texas Public Radio education reporter Camille Phillips reports on what’s been taken out and why.
UT department consolidation raises concerns among students and faculty
The University of Texas at Austin is moving forward with consolidating several ethnic and gender studies departments, prompting ongoing questions from the campus community. Students and faculty say they’re still seeking clarity about the changes and their impact.
KUT News’ Greta Díaz González Vázquez reports on the reaction a month after the announcement.
Texas teams head into March Madness with high expectations
Texas will be well represented in this year’s NCAA basketball tournaments, with multiple men’s and women’s teams earning strong seeds.
Matt Young, a trending sports reporter at the Houston Chronicle, joins the Texas Standard to break down the matchups, assess the top contenders and highlight potential surprises.
Bob Odenkirk talks new action role in SXSW film ‘Normal’
Actor Bob Odenkirk is continuing his shift into action roles with his new film “Normal,” which premiered in Austin at South by Southwest.
Odenkirk joins the Texas Standard to discuss his evolving career — from sketch comedy to dramatic roles and now action performances, as well as his connection to Texas audiences.
High demand and hurdles mark rollout of Texas voucher program
Applications for Texas’ new education savings account program have already exceeded available funding ahead of the deadline.
Jaden Edison, who covers education for the Texas Tribune, joins the Texas Standard to explain who is applying, how the program works and why families of students with disabilities are encountering challenges.
