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Democrats lack a leader right now

Bernie Sanders looks to be the best-positioned kingmaker.

Politics & Policy

You&#x27;re probably less than 600 days from Democrats having <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a true leader" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/27/2028-democratic-presidential-power-rankings" data-vars-content-id="51adeff6-fdad-48f4-80cc-759e1d095c70" data-vars-headline="Democrats lack a leader right now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/27/2028-democratic-presidential-power-rankings" target="_self">a true leader</a> who can show and shape the party&#x27;s direction.Why it matters: Until Super Tuesday — that&#x27;s March 7, 2028 — or well beyond, Democrats will be leaderless, and likely split between <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rising socialist energy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/28/trump-socialism-stages-of-political-surrender" data-vars-content-id="51adeff6-fdad-48f4-80cc-759e1d095c70" data-vars-headline="Democrats lack a leader right now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/28/trump-socialism-stages-of-political-surrender" target="_self">rising socialist energy</a> and more traditional, establishment liberalism.

Energy Dept. draws fire for slow pace of Venezuelan oil deals

"We have no new concessions. No new deals. It is absolutely a problem," a senior U.S. official said.

Nearly eight months after President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="317628b0-6ee8-43ca-843f-37de44abbcc0" data-vars-headline="Energy Dept. draws fire for slow pace of Venezuelan oil deals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> predicted U.S. companies would &quot;rapidly rebuild Venezuela&#x27;s dilapidated oil industry&quot; to boost production, no new petroleum deals have been finalized there with American firms.<ul><li>The U.S. Department of Energy is largely to blame, a dozen oil industry professionals, senior U.S. officials and Venezuela insiders tell Axios.</li></ul>Why it matters: The price of oil is climbing as the Iran war squeezes global supplies, spotlighting the absence of finalized deals in Venezuela — a nation with the highest estimated petroleum reserves on the planet.

Gen X is losing confidence

Many are at or near their peak earning years, and if they're growing more morose it could drag down spending.

Economy

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Generation X" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/07/gen-x-population-shrinking-taxes-economy" data-vars-content-id="62e43773-6bea-41d1-b841-490901ccac64" data-vars-headline="Gen X is losing confidence" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/07/gen-x-population-shrinking-taxes-economy" target="_self">Generation X</a> is not OK. The oft-forgotten cohort once identified with slacking has the lowest consumer confidence of any generation, per The Conference Board&#x27;s latest numbers.Why it matters: Xers might say nothing matters, but many in this generation are near or at their peak earning years, and if they&#x27;re growing more morose it could drag down spending and the economy, to boot.

Medicaid's work requirement crunch arrives

States are implementing new rules, and patients face the first real risk of losing coverage.

Health

Massive changes to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Medicaid eligibility" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/14/medicaid-work-rules-states-requirements" data-vars-content-id="82e5da69-10a2-4b42-9473-4668332e586e" data-vars-headline="Medicaid&#x27;s work requirement crunch arrives" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/14/medicaid-work-rules-states-requirements" target="_self">Medicaid eligibility</a> are entering a new phase as states begin implementing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new work rules" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/04/new-medicaid-work-rules-states" data-vars-content-id="82e5da69-10a2-4b42-9473-4668332e586e" data-vars-headline="Medicaid&#x27;s work requirement crunch arrives" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/04/new-medicaid-work-rules-states" target="_self">new work rules</a> and patients face the first real risk of losing coverage.The big picture: The crunch period has started for states to get the word out and set up systems for many Medicaid enrollees to report at least 80 hours a month of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="work, school or volunteering" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/05/13/medicaid-work-requirements" data-vars-content-id="82e5da69-10a2-4b42-9473-4668332e586e" data-vars-headline="Medicaid&#x27;s work requirement crunch arrives" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/05/13/medicaid-work-requirements" target="_self">work, school or volunteering</a> or get an exemption.

How America is adapting to climate extremes

Communities are adopting new ways to prepare for floods, wildfires, heat and hurricanes.

Energy & Climate

Climate adaptation is increasingly moving from planning to real-world action as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="heat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate/extreme-weather" data-vars-content-id="9b09ec47-3ccd-4221-9ec6-feb810dba399" data-vars-headline="How America is adapting to climate extremes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate/extreme-weather" target="_self">heat</a> waves, droughts, wildfires, floods and hurricanes test communities across the U.S.Why it matters: Even if greenhouse gas emissions decline, many communities are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="already facing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/01/rainstorms-intense-climate-change" data-vars-content-id="9b09ec47-3ccd-4221-9ec6-feb810dba399" data-vars-headline="How America is adapting to climate extremes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/01/rainstorms-intense-climate-change" target="_self">already facing</a> more frequent or intense <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="climate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate/climate-change" data-vars-content-id="9b09ec47-3ccd-4221-9ec6-feb810dba399" data-vars-headline="How America is adapting to climate extremes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate/climate-change" target="_self">climate</a> extremes, prompting officials to invest in infrastructure designed to reduce future damage.

Antone's joins vinyl take-back program

Music fans can return damaged or unplayable vinyl records to potentially be recycled.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Antone&#x27;s Record Shop" data-vars-click-url="https://antonesrecordshop.com/" data-vars-content-id="776afb5e-35ae-41cb-a4c2-3d0d9458bf63" data-vars-headline="Antone&#x27;s joins vinyl take-back program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://antonesrecordshop.com/" target="_blank">Antone&#x27;s Record Shop</a> in Austin has joined a new nationwide vinyl take-back program that aims to give broken and unwanted records a second life.Why it matters: Vinyl has enjoyed a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="resurgence over the past decade" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/04/21/record-store-day-returns-amid-climbing-vinyl-sales" data-vars-content-id="776afb5e-35ae-41cb-a4c2-3d0d9458bf63" data-vars-headline="Antone&#x27;s joins vinyl take-back program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/04/21/record-store-day-returns-amid-climbing-vinyl-sales" target="_self">resurgence over the past decade</a>, but there&#x27;s been little focus on what happens when records become damaged, beyond repair or owners no longer want them.

Margarita is the best drink in Texas

The frozen margarita machine was invented in Dallas in the 1970s.

The people have spoken.Why it matters: Axios Texas readers have crowned the margarita as the best drink in the Lone Star State.

Austin policing under scrutiny following shooting of unarmed Black teen

Chief says the shooting was "potentially a suicide by police."

Austin policing is again in the spotlight as the shooting of an unarmed Black teenager continues to roil parts of the city.Here&#x27;s what we know: The officer-involved shooting in the pre-dawn hours July 24 on a playground on Baden Lane, in Northeast Austin, was set in motion with a 911 call.

Austin blood bank urges summer donations

Blood donations dip every summer, but Austin's blood supply has remained steady despite the national shortage.

Austin&#x27;s We Are Blood says it&#x27;s weathering this summer&#x27;s donation slump better than many regions, but blood bank officials are still asking residents to roll up their sleeves.Why it matters: The U.S. blood supply has reached crisis levels, prompting the American Red Cross and the Surgeon General to urge Americans to donate before shortages delay surgeries, trauma care and other lifesaving treatments.

Texas Testbed: What's next for 3D-printed homes

3D-printed construction is expanding, but it's unclear whether it will drive down housing costs.

This report is part of &quot;Texas Testbed,&quot; a series on how the state is becoming a real-world lab for emerging technologies.Giant robotic printers are back at Community First! Village, building more than 100 homes as part of the East Austin neighborhood&#x27;s expansion for people coming out of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homelessness" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/21/abbott-homeless-encampments-austin" data-vars-content-id="a0fb0998-8e58-4fbe-87a8-1320c8aac785" data-vars-headline="Texas Testbed: What&#x27;s next for 3D-printed homes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/21/abbott-homeless-encampments-austin" target="_self">homelessness</a>.

San Antonio

Homa brings AI-powered homebuying to Texas

Texas buyers have a new option when shopping for homes.

Real Estate

AI-powered real estate platform <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Homa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tryhoma.com/" data-vars-content-id="bc4bdb51-03f9-493b-b704-c33fb555c5e9" data-vars-headline="Homa brings AI-powered homebuying to Texas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tryhoma.com/" target="_blank">Homa</a> has expanded into Texas, promising <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="buyers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/04/03/san-antonio-homeowners-occupations" data-vars-content-id="bc4bdb51-03f9-493b-b704-c33fb555c5e9" data-vars-headline="Homa brings AI-powered homebuying to Texas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/04/03/san-antonio-homeowners-occupations" target="_self">buyers</a> rebates of up to 2% of a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="home&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/02/11/san-antonio-homeowners-mortgage-rates-years" data-vars-content-id="bc4bdb51-03f9-493b-b704-c33fb555c5e9" data-vars-headline="Homa brings AI-powered homebuying to Texas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/02/11/san-antonio-homeowners-mortgage-rates-years" target="_self">home&#x27;s</a> purchase price.Why it matters: The company promises buyers a chance to offset closing costs by returning much of the buyer&#x27;s agent commission.

Padel is Austin's trendy new racquet sport

Austin is emerging as one of the country's biggest markets for padel.

Austin is emerging as one of the biggest U.S. markets for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="padel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2023/05/24/the-racquet-sport-growing-faster-than-pickleball-worldwide" data-vars-content-id="0d5f6bf6-8f54-41b0-87c6-5168e64d2933" data-vars-headline="Padel is Austin&#x27;s trendy new racquet sport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2023/05/24/the-racquet-sport-growing-faster-than-pickleball-worldwide" target="_self">padel</a>, the racquet sport that&#x27;s rapidly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="spreading" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/04/10/padel-tennis-court-home" data-vars-content-id="0d5f6bf6-8f54-41b0-87c6-5168e64d2933" data-vars-headline="Padel is Austin&#x27;s trendy new racquet sport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/04/10/padel-tennis-court-home" target="_self">spreading</a> beyond its Latin American roots.Why it matters: Club operators are betting the city has the right mix of players to fuel padel&#x27;s next phase of growth.

Drone company Zipline is expanding into Austin

Zipline has flown more than 135 million commercial autonomous miles "without a serious injury," per the company.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Zipline" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/25/state-department-africa-zipline" data-vars-content-id="7456a8ba-6e57-4ad1-b904-6284a3ba429f" data-vars-headline="Drone company Zipline is expanding into Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/25/state-department-africa-zipline" target="_self">Zipline</a>, the world&#x27;s largest autonomous drone delivery company, plans to expand into Austin later this year. Why it matters: Our skies could soon see mini-drones dropping burritos from the skies.

University of Texas baseball heads back to World Series

The Longhorns are making their record 39th trip to Omaha.

The University of Texas <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="men&#x27;s baseball team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/04/15/1983-longhorns-baseball-team-documentary" data-vars-content-id="8177cfa7-009f-407b-9d39-8f1bdc1202e5" data-vars-headline="University of Texas baseball heads back to World Series" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/04/15/1983-longhorns-baseball-team-documentary" target="_self">men&#x27;s baseball team</a>, ranked sixth nationally, will face No. 3 Georgia in its opening game of the 2026 men&#x27;s College World Series on Saturday. Why it matters: UT is arguably the New York Yankees of college baseball — this berth marks its record 39th appearance in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="College World Series" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2022/06/17/texas-longhorns-world-series-omaha" data-vars-content-id="8177cfa7-009f-407b-9d39-8f1bdc1202e5" data-vars-headline="University of Texas baseball heads back to World Series" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2022/06/17/texas-longhorns-world-series-omaha" target="_self">College World Series</a>.

Everything you need to know about the World Cup in Texas

Houston and Dallas are hosting their first World Cup matches on Sunday.

Headed to the World Cup in Houston or Dallas? Our colleagues in those cities rounded up what you need to know. The big picture: Houston is hosting seven World Cup matches starting Sunday with Germany vs. Curaçao. The Netherlands and Japan play Dallas Stadium&#x27;s first match on Sunday.

Where doulas are covered by Medicaid

Many states now reimburse for doula care under Medicaid — but not Texas.

Wellness Brief

More than half of U.S. states now reimburse for doula care under Medicaid — but Texas isn&#x27;t among those states.The latest: The Texas Legislature passed a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="maternal health care bill" data-vars-click-url="https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HB514/2025" data-vars-content-id="8992a949-27ea-4b9a-b30a-71bae44ed065" data-vars-headline="Where doulas are covered by Medicaid" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HB514/2025" target="_blank">maternal health care bill</a> in 2025, but it doesn&#x27;t have a concrete Medicaid coverage plan.

Doulas go mainstream

Research links doula support to lower cesarean rates and fewer preterm births.

Doula care is moving into the mainstream as major insurers expand coverage and more patients incorporate it into pregnancy care.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Research has linked" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(22)00261-9/fulltext" data-vars-content-id="149858e8-641b-4a93-a0a4-f23efdb44670" data-vars-headline="Doulas go mainstream" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(22)00261-9/fulltext" target="_blank">Research has linked</a> doula support to lower cesarean rates and fewer preterm births.

Austin scores World Cup bump

New data suggests the tournament brought more visitors to the city.

Austin didn&#x27;t host a single World Cup match, but the tournament still appears to have brought more visitors and spending to the city.Why it matters: The World Cup offered a test for whether cities outside the host lineup could capitalize on one of the world&#x27;s biggest sporting events.

Dallas

Texas delta-8 ban takes effect

The ban could remove more than half of the THC products from some store shelves.

Texans can no longer buy delta-8 products in the state under new THC rules that went into effect Friday.Why it matters: Texas&#x27; hemp businesses are experiencing one of the &quot;most volatile regulatory stretches the state industry has ever experienced,&quot; the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Texas Cannabis Policy Center" data-vars-click-url="https://texascannabispolicy.org/news-and-updates/f/cannabis-policy-update---may-2026" data-vars-content-id="2f9b6c99-01aa-4bf5-9524-799ab80d24ca" data-vars-headline="Texas delta-8 ban takes effect" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://texascannabispolicy.org/news-and-updates/f/cannabis-policy-update---may-2026" target="_blank">Texas Cannabis Policy Center</a> says.

The grid's climate stress test

Every heat wave is becoming a stress test for tomorrow's electric grid.

A series of dangerous <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="heat waves" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/03/wildfire-weather-firework-bans-july-4-weekend" data-vars-content-id="42106a81-a9b9-4e0f-aff2-f4d91cac0225" data-vars-headline="The grid&#x27;s climate stress test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/03/wildfire-weather-firework-bans-july-4-weekend" target="_self">heat waves</a> this summer — including one that has left 17 states under an emergency federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="order" data-vars-click-url="https://www.energy.gov/documents/doe-order-no-202-26-37" data-vars-content-id="42106a81-a9b9-4e0f-aff2-f4d91cac0225" data-vars-headline="The grid&#x27;s climate stress test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.energy.gov/documents/doe-order-no-202-26-37" target="_blank">order</a> — are putting the electric grid under an intense real-world stress test.Why it matters: Successive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="summer heat waves" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/06/us-heat-wave-death-toll-july-2026" data-vars-content-id="42106a81-a9b9-4e0f-aff2-f4d91cac0225" data-vars-headline="The grid&#x27;s climate stress test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/06/us-heat-wave-death-toll-july-2026" target="_self">summer heat waves</a> are forcing utilities to rethink how they prepare the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="grid" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate" data-vars-content-id="42106a81-a9b9-4e0f-aff2-f4d91cac0225" data-vars-headline="The grid&#x27;s climate stress test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate" target="_self">grid</a> for longer and more frequent periods of extreme stress.

Hot summer in Austin, despite few triple-digit days

The temperatures in some Central Texas waterways are in the mid 80s.

Austin&#x27;s summer has felt very hot, even without many triple-digit days.Why it matters: While this has not been a record-breaking summer, mercury-wise, it&#x27;s been an uncomfortable one.

AI joins Austin exam rooms

Patients are informed that AI will record the conversation and can decline its use.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Artificial intelligence" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/06/ai-doctor-health-information-consumers" data-vars-content-id="0e212e2c-c19b-4cb0-bfbe-6ca37d14306f" data-vars-headline="AI joins Austin exam rooms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/06/ai-doctor-health-information-consumers" target="_self">Artificial intelligence</a> is quietly becoming another participant in some Austin exam rooms.Why it matters: Doctors are increasingly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="turning to AI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/03/ai-doctors-menopause-care" data-vars-content-id="0e212e2c-c19b-4cb0-bfbe-6ca37d14306f" data-vars-headline="AI joins Austin exam rooms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/03/ai-doctors-menopause-care" target="_self">turning to AI</a> to document patient visits, which gives clinicians more time to focus on their patients instead of paperwork, according to Austin Regional Clinic officials.

More boots are coming to South Congress

There are already five boot sellers within blocks of the property.

Another boot maker is preparing to open a storefront on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="South Congress Avenue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/01/30/state-of-austin-retail" data-vars-content-id="a3fa4cbd-8f06-4944-81ba-8522c081c152" data-vars-headline="More boots are coming to South Congress" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/01/30/state-of-austin-retail" target="_self">South Congress Avenue</a>.Why it matters: The bustling commercial strip once known for an eclectic mix of locally owned shops and restaurants is now a destination for cowboy boots and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Western apparel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2024/11/15/kendra-scott-new-store-south-congress" data-vars-content-id="a3fa4cbd-8f06-4944-81ba-8522c081c152" data-vars-headline="More boots are coming to South Congress" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2024/11/15/kendra-scott-new-store-south-congress" target="_self">Western apparel</a>.

Remembering a grandfather

My favorite memory with my grandpa came last September.

Nicole here, with a story about a really great guy.I lost my 95-year-old <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="grandpa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/tucson-az/walter-cobler-12970940" data-vars-content-id="d179746f-73d9-4d09-b7b7-262a72b8e215" data-vars-headline="Remembering a grandfather" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/tucson-az/walter-cobler-12970940" target="_blank">grandpa</a> last week, on the same day as my other grandfather&#x27;s 88th birthday, which I was celebrating in Colorado.

Texas beaches within a 4-hour drive of Austin

Dreaming of sand and saltwater? We've rounded up some of our favorite Texas beaches.

Things to Do

With summer underway, we&#x27;re breaking down our favorite beaches that are roughly four hours or less from Austin.<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Galveston</h2>Pros: Galveston&#x27;s free beaches and the history surrounding the city give you plenty to do during a weekend trip.

Austin performer brings Netflix shows to deaf families

Viewers can watch deaf performers overlaid alongside the original programming.

Austin performer JoAnn Benfield is helping bring Netflix&#x27;s most-beloved children&#x27;s shows and movies to deaf families in American Sign Language.Why it matters: Many deaf children use ASL as their primary language, meaning captions alone don&#x27;t always make programming fully accessible.

How well do you know the connection between Austin and "Friday Night Lights"?

The "Friday Nights Lights" cast is on a 20th anniversary tour. How well do you know the show?

The TV show &quot;Friday Night Lights&quot; is celebrating its 20th anniversary.Why it matters: The series, set in the fictional town of Dillon, was filmed in and around Austin.

Your guide to summer swimming in Austin

Here's where to cool off, from Barton Springs to hotel pools.

Ready for the heat? We&#x27;re staring down highs in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mid- to upper 90s" data-vars-click-url="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=30.4882&amp;lon=-97.7618" data-vars-content-id="25b3ec47-73ac-4ec1-bc7c-6dec4ea57c66" data-vars-headline="Your guide to summer swimming in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=30.4882&amp;lon=-97.7618" target="_blank">mid- to upper 90s</a> through the weekend.Why it matters: Luckily, there are plenty of places to cool down in Central Texas.

How to chaos garden in Austin

Garden experts warn that tossing random seed packets into the yard doesn't always work as advertised.

Chaos gardening — the viral <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="TikTok" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/chaosgardening" data-vars-content-id="d7a5e7c3-ae20-4449-96a1-48f8eb1b440f" data-vars-headline="How to chaos garden in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/chaosgardening" target="_blank">TikTok</a> trend of scattering seeds and &quot;letting nature decide&quot; — is taking root as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="demand for native plants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/04/21/seven-native-plants-for-gardening-in-austin" data-vars-content-id="d7a5e7c3-ae20-4449-96a1-48f8eb1b440f" data-vars-headline="How to chaos garden in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/04/21/seven-native-plants-for-gardening-in-austin" target="_self">demand for native plants</a> is rising in drought-stricken Central Texas.Why it matters: Chaos gardens appeal to homeowners seeking lower-maintenance yards that also help local wildlife thrive.

Desert Island Dish with Abby Love of Abby Jane Bakeshop

The bakery shares a space with Barton Springs Mill and uses the mill's flour in its pastries and bread.

Abby Love spends her day creating some of Central Texas&#x27; best pastries. But if she&#x27;s stranded on a desert island, she&#x27;s skipping the croissants and reaching for a basket of fried Gulf shrimp.Catch up quick: Love is the owner of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Abby Jane Bakeshop" data-vars-click-url="https://abbyjanebakes.com/" data-vars-content-id="9de1d0b6-f540-4045-97cd-6ae508ebe5c6" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Abby Love of Abby Jane Bakeshop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://abbyjanebakes.com/" target="_blank">Abby Jane Bakeshop</a> in Dripping Springs, which she opened in 2021 after working as the head pastry chef at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dai Due" data-vars-click-url="https://www.daidue.com/" data-vars-content-id="9de1d0b6-f540-4045-97cd-6ae508ebe5c6" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Abby Love of Abby Jane Bakeshop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.daidue.com/" target="_blank">Dai Due</a> in Austin.

Where to find a Hugo spritz in Austin

Austin's Aba has brought back its "spritz tower," allowing customers to mix and match.

Food and Drink

The spritz is looking a little less orange these days.The big picture: Although Aperol spritz remains a warm-weather staple, the pale green Hugo spritz — typically made with prosecco, elderflower liqueur and soda water with mint and lime for garnish — is emerging as a major summer cocktail.

How to celebrate Fourth of July weekend in Austin

We've rounded up the top Fourth of July weekend events around Austin.

Austin is gearing up for a lively July Fourth as America celebrates its 250th anniversary.The big picture: From Willie Nelson&#x27;s annual picnic to fireworks over Lady Bird Lake, here are our favorite shows, celebrations and giveaways all weekend long.

Desert Island Dish with Alex Dubey

What the co-owner of a mainstay Austin Italian restaurant would bring to a desert island.

As part of our <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="running feature" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/01/13/desert-island-dish-david-munoz" data-vars-content-id="f2f86d99-355f-44de-add1-70d13c7927f8" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Alex Dubey" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/01/13/desert-island-dish-david-munoz" target="_self">running feature</a> about Austin restaurateurs&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="favorite meals" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/10/desert-island-dish-brian-batch" data-vars-content-id="f2f86d99-355f-44de-add1-70d13c7927f8" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Alex Dubey" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/10/desert-island-dish-brian-batch" target="_self">favorite meals</a>, we recently caught up with Alex Dubey, co-owner (with his wife, Cristina Yoder) of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Quattro Gatti" data-vars-click-url="https://www.quattrogattiaustin.com/" data-vars-content-id="f2f86d99-355f-44de-add1-70d13c7927f8" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Alex Dubey" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.quattrogattiaustin.com/" target="_blank">Quattro Gatti</a>, the beloved little Italian restaurant on Congress Avenue, by the Capitol. Background: Dubey, 40, grew up in Florida, and has worked in the food industry since college, starting as a server at the French restaurant Jean-Georges in New York.

Cool off at Austin's Kyoko Coffee

The cafe operates out of a greenish-baby-blue mini-van.

As part of our running summer series on cold drinks around town, we stopped by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kyoko Coffee" data-vars-click-url="https://kyokocoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="506f8ef9-f7bd-4846-91a9-457e2cc24ece" data-vars-headline="Cool off at Austin&#x27;s Kyoko Coffee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://kyokocoffee.com/" target="_blank">Kyoko Coffee</a>, on Airport Boulevard, just by Austin Community College&#x27;s Highland campus.Why it matters: Life is short and summer is long.

Hoover's Cooking owner: "I ain't done yet"

The founder of Hoover's Cooking reflects on closing the East Austin institution and his plans for the future.

After nearly three decades serving Texas comfort food in East <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Austin" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/signup/austin" data-vars-content-id="457a9166-fa7c-46e7-bad8-f56aa54173bc" data-vars-headline="Hoover&#x27;s Cooking owner: &quot;I ain&#x27;t done yet&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/signup/austin" target="_self">Austin</a>, Hoover Alexander says the decision to close Hoover&#x27;s Cooking came down to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="business realities" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/10/restaurants-we-re-missing" data-vars-content-id="457a9166-fa7c-46e7-bad8-f56aa54173bc" data-vars-headline="Hoover&#x27;s Cooking owner: &quot;I ain&#x27;t done yet&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/10/restaurants-we-re-missing" target="_self">business realities</a>, changing priorities and a desire for more balance in his life.Driving the news: On Monday, customers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gathered for &quot;Hoova&#x27; Palooza,&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/06/11/hoovers-cooking-austin" data-vars-content-id="457a9166-fa7c-46e7-bad8-f56aa54173bc" data-vars-headline="Hoover&#x27;s Cooking owner: &quot;I ain&#x27;t done yet&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/06/11/hoovers-cooking-austin" target="_self">gathered for &quot;Hoova&#x27; Palooza,&quot;</a> a farewell celebration where Mayor Kirk Watson presented Alexander with a key to the city in recognition of the restaurant&#x27;s impact on Austin.

Cornyn donors largely keep distance from Paxton

GOP Senate candidate Ken Paxton likely must win over U.S. Sen John Cornyn's supporters to win in November.

Few major donors to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. Sen. John Cornyn" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/27/texas-primary-paxton-cornyn-takeaways" data-vars-content-id="86129321-01fa-43ee-a0e4-943eef7e95a8" data-vars-headline="Cornyn donors largely keep distance from Paxton" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/27/texas-primary-paxton-cornyn-takeaways" target="_self">U.S. Sen. John Cornyn</a> have thrown their weight behind <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="GOP Senate nominee Ken Paxton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" data-vars-content-id="86129321-01fa-43ee-a0e4-943eef7e95a8" data-vars-headline="Cornyn donors largely keep distance from Paxton" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" target="_self">GOP Senate nominee Ken Paxton</a> since the Texas attorney general defeated Cornyn in a May runoff, per an Axios analysis of newly released federal campaign finance data.Why it matters: Paxton likely must rally Cornyn supporters to his side to defeat Democrat James Talarico, a state legislator from Austin and a formidable fundraiser seeking to appeal to moderate voters.

Gov. Greg Abbott calls for broad data center rules

Data center regulation could be a 2027 legislative focus.

Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday directed state energy officials to take up <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/05/13/texas-coal-gas-power-plants-data-centers-water" data-vars-content-id="5b1cf63d-d887-40f3-b511-1bb1bc48bbcf" data-vars-headline="Gov. Greg Abbott calls for broad data center rules" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/05/13/texas-coal-gas-power-plants-data-centers-water" target="_self">data center</a> regulations aimed at protecting Texans from higher electricity bills.Why it matters: Texas is seen as one of the friendliest states in the nation for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center development" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/18/data-center-growth-map-states" data-vars-content-id="5b1cf63d-d887-40f3-b511-1bb1bc48bbcf" data-vars-headline="Gov. Greg Abbott calls for broad data center rules" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/18/data-center-growth-map-states" target="_self">data center development</a>, with one of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="most generous tax incentives" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/17/ai-data-centers-best-worst" data-vars-content-id="5b1cf63d-d887-40f3-b511-1bb1bc48bbcf" data-vars-headline="Gov. Greg Abbott calls for broad data center rules" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/17/ai-data-centers-best-worst" target="_self">most generous tax incentives</a>. Abbott&#x27;s requests are notable in a state known for lax rules governing businesses.

How the Talarico-Paxton race could play out

Talarico links the affordability crisis with corruption, while Paxton frames the Democrat as out of touch.

With Ken Paxton&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="GOP primary win" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" data-vars-content-id="f1d8eded-ce80-478f-a801-449ff75d69a2" data-vars-headline="How the Talarico-Paxton race could play out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" target="_self">GOP primary win</a> this week, Democrats now have the Republican Senate candidate, tactically speaking, they were hoping for.<ul><li>Now the question is whether their nominee, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Talarico" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" data-vars-content-id="f1d8eded-ce80-478f-a801-449ff75d69a2" data-vars-headline="How the Talarico-Paxton race could play out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" target="_self">James Talarico</a>, a young state lawmaker from Austin, can deliver them out of the wilderness.</li></ul>

Austin City Council to consider rules for e-motos

In Austin, there is no local code governing where e-motos can operate.

The Austin City Council on Thursday will consider taking an initial step toward regulating electric dirt bikes and mini motorcyles, or e-motos.Why it matters: A growing number of children and teens are riding the high-powered bikes on Austin streets, alarming residents and prompting safety concerns from local officials.

Middleton defeats Roy in Texas AG race

Middleton successfully cast himself as the MAGA candidate, even as President Trump didn't endorse in the race.

Politics

State Sen. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mayes Middleton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/18/texas-attorney-general-may-runoff" data-vars-content-id="742ac211-8db8-41c8-b685-203a2d2ed8d7" data-vars-headline="Middleton defeats Roy in Texas AG race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/18/texas-attorney-general-may-runoff" target="_self">Mayes Middleton</a> of Galveston defeated U.S. Rep. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chip Roy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/08/chip-roy-texas-attorney-general-paxton-cornyn" data-vars-content-id="742ac211-8db8-41c8-b685-203a2d2ed8d7" data-vars-headline="Middleton defeats Roy in Texas AG race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/08/chip-roy-texas-attorney-general-paxton-cornyn" target="_self">Chip Roy</a> in the GOP runoff for Texas attorney general Tuesday night.Why it matters: Middleton successfully cast himself as the MAGA candidate, even as President Trump didn&#x27;t endorse in the race.

Texas GOP voters oust Cornyn in Paxton upset

Cornyn's loss marks one of the most significant defeats for a Republican senator in years.

Republican primary voters on Tuesday rejected U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, one of the Senate&#x27;s most senior GOP members, in favor of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump-backed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/trump-endorsement-texas-senate-race-ken-paxton" data-vars-content-id="319ecb20-8e5a-415d-9d5a-b2a8fc1d11fc" data-vars-headline="Texas GOP voters oust Cornyn in Paxton upset" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/trump-endorsement-texas-senate-race-ken-paxton" target="_self">Trump-backed</a> Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.Why it matters: Cornyn&#x27;s loss marks one of the most significant defeats for a Republican senator in years and underscores how loyalty to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="319ecb20-8e5a-415d-9d5a-b2a8fc1d11fc" data-vars-headline="Texas GOP voters oust Cornyn in Paxton upset" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">President Trump</a> continues to reshape GOP primaries nationwide.

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