Here are the stories on Thursday, May 8, 2025:
Frio County officials indicted in AG’s vote fraud probe
Several current and former Frio County officials have been indicted for alleged vote harvesting, part of a years-long investigation led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Critics say the move is more about voter suppression than justice.
Taylor Goldenstein of the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News joins the Standard with more:
Texas GOP targets bail reform – but avoids bail bond lobby
In the Texas Legislature, Republicans are pushing to overhaul the state’s bail system – an issue Gov. Greg Abbott has seized on, especially in Harris County. But few lawmakers are willing to take on the powerful bail bond industry.
Neena Satija, investigative reporter for the Houston Chronicle, joins us with more on the political dynamics shaping the discussion.
Changes ahead for Army Futures Command
The U.S. Army Futures Command, based in Austin, is undergoing major changes. The Department of Defense is merging the command with another office and shifting its mission focus. KUT’s Andrew Weber reports:
A dangerous livestock pest may be making a comeback in the U.S., and experts say Mexico hasn’t been cooperating to stop it. Texas ranchers recently raised the alarm with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
The Texas Standard’s Michael Marks has more on the threat of the screwworm and what’s being done to stop it.
Prom, quinceañeras and lots of tacos
It’s prom and quinceañera season in Texas. These milestone celebrations often come with big dresses, big parties and of course, big meals.
To talk about the role food plays in these celebrations, we check in with Mando Rayo, host of the Tacos of Texas podcast.
Wizzie Brown is a program specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and our go-to insect expert. Today, she introduces us to the mole cricket.
Dallas fashion collective celebrates Latin culture
Shoppers in North Texas looking for clothing and jewelry that celebrate their Latin American heritage are turning to a local fashion hub.
KERA’s Elizabeth Myong introduces us to Cadena Collective, a Dallas-based brand bringing together Latin culture and commerce under one roof.
Apple faces new class-action suit from app developers
A new class-action lawsuit from app developers is challenging Apple’s 30% cut of in-app purchases, reigniting a long-running feud over digital payments. Critics say Apple blocks alternatives and limits competition. Our tech expert Omar Gallaga joins us to unpack what this case could mean for app makers and consumers alike.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
