Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
JD Vance vs. Tim Walz debate highlights: economy, immigration, and more
Ohio Senator JD Vance and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz went head-to-head in a debate that covered key issues from the economy to immigration. Renée D. Cross, Senior Executive Director at the Hobby School of Public Affairs, University of Houston, joins the Standard with a recap and a breakdown of the biggest takeaways.
Religion and Texas politics: the clash over migrant aid
Texas Republicans often invoke their Christian faith when supporting conservative legislation, whether it’s about gun rights or teaching the Bible in schools. Yet, some of these same politicians, like Attorney General Ken Paxton, have targeted Catholic organizations that aid migrants. These faith-based groups say their work is rooted in religious values.
The Texas Newsroom’s Julián Aguilar explores the tension in the fourth installment of our series on religion and politics in Texas.
Meet Austin Tejano legend Roy Montelongo
Austin bills itself as the Live Music Capitol of the World, and Hispanic artists are an enormous part of the reason for that. For Hispanic Heritage Month, our friends at Austin music station KUTX are highlighting just a few of them.
Today, KUT News’ Jerry Quijano shares the story of Tejano artist and radio personality Roy Montelongo.
Is the Texas barbecue bubble bursting?
When most people think of barbecue, Texas-style smoked meats are top of mind – particularly brisket. Over the last few years, Texas barbecue has seen a boom, with new joints popping up across the country and the globe, not to mention top-tier spots in Texas itself. But some are wondering whether the bubble is about to burst.
Texas Monthly barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn joins the Standard with his take.
The latest on Israel, Iran and Lebanon
Iran fired nearly 200 missiles at Israel yesterday, in retaliation for Israel’s attack on Lebanon and its assassination campaign. How likely is a wider regional conflict in the Middle East? Professor Jeremi Suri with UT-Austin’s LBJ School of Public Affairs joins Texas Standard with more.
New book reveals common medical misconceptions and shares patient tips
From hormone replacement therapy to prescribing opioids, a new book by Marty Makary, MD, examines widespread misconceptions in medical care and how patients can advocate for themselves.
In “Blind Spots: When Medicine Gets it Wrong, and What it Means for Our Health,” Dr. Makary explores how medical errors happen and what we can do to protect our health. He joins the Standard to discuss how patients can navigate an often–confusing healthcare system.
Austin’s music grant program faces criticism
Austin’s music scene is world-renowned, and the city is working to support it with millions in grants for artists and venues. While the initiative has been praised, concerns are rising as the latest round of funding feels spread too thin.
KUT News’ Andrew Weber reports on the challenges and limitations of the city’s music grant program.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.