Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Texans switch to paper ballots ahead of midterms
Three Texas counties (Collin, Williamson and Bastrop) are moving from touchscreen voting machines to paper ballots for the upcoming November elections. The change comes after a presidential executive order called to bar voting equipment that uses barcodes or QR codes on paper ballots. Could other counties follow?
Votebeat Texas reporter Natalia Contreras joins Texas Standard with the latest.
New Texas laws aim to ease housing crunch
More than 830 new laws are now in effect in Texas, including three measures aimed at making housing more affordable and increasing supply. The bills loosen zoning and land-use rules to help developers build more quickly – though some critics question the potential statewide impact.
Texas Public Radio’s Josh Peck reports.
Redistricting shakes up Tarrant County politics
Texas Republicans’ new Congressional maps give the party a shot at five additional seats next year. In Tarrant County, some residents argue the maps dilute urban votes of people of color, while others say stronger Republican leadership is needed.
KERA’s Miranda Suarez reports.
U.S. Navy moves to privatize barracks
The Navy plans to hand over management of barracks for younger sailors to private companies, aiming to solve long-standing maintenance problems like mold. Norfolk, Va., will be a major test site.
The American Homefront Project’s Steve Walsh reports on the initiative and its implications.
North Texas braces for population growth and water challenges
Fort Worth has surpassed 1 million residents, with Tarrant County expected to top 3 million by 2080. A growing concern is ensuring sufficient water supply, including massive projects like the Marvin Nichols Reservoir.
Fort Worth Report environment reporter Nicole Lopez joins the show to explain.
Kerrville football reflects flood recovery
High school football carries a deeper meaning this season in Kerrville, where Friday night games are part of healing after the July 4th flash floods.
Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports on how local traditions and community resilience intersect on the field.
Sneaker enthusiasts turn passion into art
Oak Cliff natives Alejandra Zendejas and Jesse Acosta have curated a sneaker collection exceeding 300 pairs, highlighting how treasured objects can shape identity.
KERA’s Elizabeth Myong reports on the cultural significance of their collection.
ICE expands recruitment amid aggressive deportation push
Immigration and Customs Enforcement is seeking 10,000 new agents in a national hiring effort.
Washington Post reporter Robert Klemko observed recruitment events in Arlington, profiling applicants and the hiring process, as the agency ramps up arrests and deportations under the Trump administration. He joins the show with a recap.
