Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced a new Senate Select Committee on Religious Liberty, naming Phil King chair and Angela Paxton vice-chair as he continues to chair Trump's federal panel. Critics point to the panel's partisan mix and pending lawsuits.

Old speeches and social posts are back in play as Republicans mine James Talarico’s record on prisons and crime ahead of a tight Texas Senate race.

The Supreme Court declined to take up the case of Laredo citizen‑journalist Priscilla Villarreal, leaving a divided Fifth Circuit ruling that shields the officials who arrested her.

Gov. Abbott launched a Texas Jobs Council to shore up shortages in electricians, welders and other trades; the panel will hand in recommendations by November 2026.

A Houston ICE check‑in ended with the detention of Stephanie Kenny‑Velasquez, the wife of a Black Hawk pilot; her removal hearing is set for April 1. The family is racing to secure military parole in place.

The Railroad Commission of Texas is now issuing Class VI permits to store CO₂ underground. The agency has a staffed review unit, a federal grant, and 18 applications in the queue.

A resurfaced clip of James Talarico saying his campaign "became a non‑meat campaign" drew swift criticism from Ted Cruz, John Cornyn and other GOP leaders.

Abbott hosted Canada’s Conservative leader in Austin to tout trade and energy ties while Democrat Gina Hinojosa ramps up organizing and fundraising ahead of November.

Sweden’s foreign minister toured Houston and Austin to press trade and security ties, mark a Houston consulate activation and urge continued support for Ukraine.

Austin’s municipal courts will run a warrant amnesty March 23–April 17, 2026 so people can clear low‑level warrants and citations without arrest; warrant fees may be waived.

St. Andrew's Presbyterian in north Austin says it has temporarily hired plain‑clothes security after state Rep. James Talarico's Senate run drew increased attention. Leaders say safety is the priority as they consider longer‑term steps.

Ben Cohen used a chainsaw on a mock Pentagon at SXSW to promote his Up In Arms campaign and to show how brand stunts can become political pressure. The moment tied the Free Ben & Jerry’s push to a broader call to reallocate Pentagon funds.

Austin ISD is proposing an SB 1882 partnership with TCIS to run Burnet, Dobie and Webb middle schools as a bid to avoid a state takeover; trustees could vote March 26. An application for TEA benefits is due March 31, 2026.