Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Friday, Oct. 31, 2025:
Texans to vote on constitutional changes that could boost state’s finance industry
Texans are voting on 17 constitutional amendments next week that could reshape both personal finances and the state’s business climate. The measures include changes to property tax exemptions, retirement savings and infrastructure investment — plus one that could help boost a Texas-based stock exchange.
UT San Antonio’s Bulent Temel joins Texas Standard with more.
Government shutdown squeezes National Guard families
As the federal government shutdown drags on, uncertainty grows for military families wondering when their next paycheck will arrive. The effects have been especially hard for National Guard members caught between deployments and budget delays.
Jay Price reports for the American Homefront Project.
SNAP benefits could run out as shutdown continues
More than 3.5 million Texans could lose access to food assistance through SNAP if Congress doesn’t end the government shutdown soon. The program’s funds are set to run out on Nov. 1, leaving food banks bracing for a surge in demand.
The Texas Newsroom’s Lucio Vasquez reports from Houston:
Food banks prepare to fill the gap
As SNAP funding dries up, Texas food banks are scrambling to meet the increased need. Michael Marks of Texas Standard has been speaking with food bank managers about how they’re preparing, and what people can do to help:
Zellweger, McConaughey, and the ‘Chainsaw’ movie they’d rather you forget
All October, Texas Standard has showcased horror movies with Texas ties. For our grand finale, Fangoria’s Jason Kauzlarich discusses the merits of 1994’s “Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation.”
Author Fernando Flores on his dystopian novel ‘Brother Brontë’
Texas author Fernando Flores joins Texas Standard to discuss his new novel, “Brother Brontë,” a dystopian story set in the South Texas town of Three Rivers. Blending industrial dystopia with literary mystery, Flores explores censorship, identity and the borderlands’ future.
He sits down with Texas Standard ahead of the Texas Book Festival.
Typewriter Rodeo: The Ozark Howler
Some Texas cryptids known for their distinctive appearance. Others are known for their unique sounds. That was the inspiration for this Typewriter Rodeo poem.
The week in Texas politics
The Texas Tribune politics editor Jasper Scherer joins the Standard with a recap of the week that was in Texas politics, including a lawsuit filed by Dallas residents against the city alleging that dozens of ordinances violate the 2023 “Death Star” law.
The Talk of Texas: Ofrenda
Dia de los Muertos is a time for remembering loved ones that have passed away. Our Wells Dunbar talks about the memories and losses that shaped him, and shares recollections from several other listeners.
