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Chicken gains momentum as beef costs bite

Business

Scoop: House Dems issue rare rebuke of their own campaign arm

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Who won the 2026 Pulitzer awards for journalism

OpenAI and Anthropic partner with private equity

Why GameStop's offer for eBay feels weird

Talarico leads Cornyn and Paxton in UT poll

The survey was conducted as the two Republican candidates continue to battle for the GOP nomination.

State Rep. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Talarico" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/04/talarico-crockett-democratic-primary-senate-texas" data-vars-content-id="65bd459c-71ee-4b9a-bdf3-8ed9777233f8" data-vars-headline="Talarico leads Cornyn and Paxton in UT poll" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/04/talarico-crockett-democratic-primary-senate-texas" target="_self">James Talarico</a> (D-Austin) leads his potential Republican opponents in the U.S. Senate race in Texas, per a new poll from the University of Texas. Why it matters: A close race in Texas would expand the battleground for Democrats in their bid to retake the Senate and put a legislative check on <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="65bd459c-71ee-4b9a-bdf3-8ed9777233f8" data-vars-headline="Talarico leads Cornyn and Paxton in UT poll" 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>.

University of Texas kicks KUT Festival off campus

The university stood by its decision, saying the event was poorly planned and lacked a sufficient security plan.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="University of Texas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/04/21/michael-dell-university-texas-donation" data-vars-content-id="87fb53a7-996f-4c46-bb82-da5cf4627ad3" data-vars-headline="University of Texas kicks KUT Festival off campus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/04/21/michael-dell-university-texas-donation" target="_self">University of Texas</a> officials are standing by their decision to order <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="KUT&#x27;s inaugural festival" data-vars-click-url="https://cvent.utexas.edu/event/kutfest2026/home" data-vars-content-id="87fb53a7-996f-4c46-bb82-da5cf4627ad3" data-vars-headline="University of Texas kicks KUT Festival off campus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://cvent.utexas.edu/event/kutfest2026/home" target="_blank">KUT&#x27;s inaugural festival</a> to move off campus, citing security concerns.Why it matters: The last-minute decision threw a major wrench into this weekend&#x27;s long-planned event and highlights the complicated position of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="public media outlets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/29/public-media-tv-radio-federal-funding" data-vars-content-id="87fb53a7-996f-4c46-bb82-da5cf4627ad3" data-vars-headline="University of Texas kicks KUT Festival off campus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/29/public-media-tv-radio-federal-funding" target="_self">public media outlets</a> housed within state universities.

Austin's April full of rain

In Lampasas, 70 miles northwest of Austin, 10.78 inches of rain fell in April.

Austin remains in drought, but a very wet April has replenished waterways crucial for drinking water, recreational activity, farming and manufacturing.Why it matters: Upriver areas, home to one of Central Texas&#x27; major reservoirs, are out of drought, making heavy water restrictions unlikely this summer.

Why Dems would (or wouldn't) pick Talarico for VP in '28

Talarico has carved out a new lane in Texas politics: a Christian Democrat who appeals to Latinos and suburbanites.

Texas legislator <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Talarico" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/05/democrats-texas-talarico-voter-turnout" data-vars-content-id="355d5c5b-dfab-4ce5-9dbe-6b053a2cdcab" data-vars-headline="Why Dems would (or wouldn&#x27;t) pick Talarico for VP in &#x27;28" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/05/democrats-texas-talarico-voter-turnout" target="_self">James Talarico</a> is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="an underdog" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cookpolitical.com/senate/race/488686" data-vars-content-id="355d5c5b-dfab-4ce5-9dbe-6b053a2cdcab" data-vars-headline="Why Dems would (or wouldn&#x27;t) pick Talarico for VP in &#x27;28" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cookpolitical.com/senate/race/488686" target="_blank">an underdog</a> for U.S. Senate, but his name is already being whispered as a potential 2028 vice presidential candidate. Why it matters: The mere suggestion reflects just how stratospheric <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Talarico&#x27;s rise" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/15/how-texas-talarico-is-leveraging-social-media-in-his-bid-for-the-senate" data-vars-content-id="355d5c5b-dfab-4ce5-9dbe-6b053a2cdcab" data-vars-headline="Why Dems would (or wouldn&#x27;t) pick Talarico for VP in &#x27;28" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/15/how-texas-talarico-is-leveraging-social-media-in-his-bid-for-the-senate" target="_self">Talarico&#x27;s rise</a> has been — and how desperate Democrats are to win Texas&#x27; electoral votes.

Icon to sell its 3D-printing robots to builders

Icon has rapidly expanded its footprint in Central Texas in recent years.

Icon, the Austin-based <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="3D-printing construction company," data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/11/icon-unveils-lakefront-3d-printed-homes" data-vars-content-id="92c68e09-5977-4307-8efc-ae1fa26cba54" data-vars-headline="Icon to sell its 3D-printing robots to builders" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/11/icon-unveils-lakefront-3d-printed-homes" target="_self">3D-printing construction company,</a> is selling its technology to other builders for the first time, allowing them to operate the company&#x27;s latest robotic building system.Why it matters: The country is facing a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="housing shortage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/10/real-estate-congress-housing-act" data-vars-content-id="92c68e09-5977-4307-8efc-ae1fa26cba54" data-vars-headline="Icon to sell its 3D-printing robots to builders" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/10/real-estate-congress-housing-act" target="_self">housing shortage</a> coupled with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="high construction costs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/01/trump-tariff-exclusions-construction-housing-affordability" data-vars-content-id="92c68e09-5977-4307-8efc-ae1fa26cba54" data-vars-headline="Icon to sell its 3D-printing robots to builders" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/01/trump-tariff-exclusions-construction-housing-affordability" target="_self">high construction costs</a>, and Icon is betting that automation can dramatically lower the cost of building homes.

Austin homeowners are staying put

Austin is seeing the longest homeowner tenure in at least 20 years.

Real Estate

Austin-area homeowners are staying in their houses for the longest time in at least 20 years, largely thanks to their low <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mortgage rates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2023/07/19/texas-housing-supply-mortgages" data-vars-content-id="5e950bd0-a4e6-4840-838b-b714002c42b2" data-vars-headline="Austin homeowners are staying put" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2023/07/19/texas-housing-supply-mortgages" target="_self">mortgage rates</a>, data shows.Why it matters: That — along with still-high home prices and tight inventory — has kept the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="housing market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/mortgage-rates-home-prices-predictions-2026" data-vars-content-id="5e950bd0-a4e6-4840-838b-b714002c42b2" data-vars-headline="Austin homeowners are staying put" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/mortgage-rates-home-prices-predictions-2026" target="_self">housing market</a> on ice, though it may be thawing.

Dallas

Texas job growth slowed in February

Job losses in February were reported in multiple sectors.

Texas employment growth slowed sharply in February, per a new report from the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2026/04/15/insurance-premiums-dallas-fed" data-vars-content-id="1bc659b4-82d1-43c1-a09e-6ffe51e65cee" data-vars-headline="Texas job growth slowed in February" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2026/04/15/insurance-premiums-dallas-fed" target="_self">Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas</a>. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lower immigration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2026/04/03/growth-slows-across-u-s" data-vars-content-id="1bc659b4-82d1-43c1-a09e-6ffe51e65cee" data-vars-headline="Texas job growth slowed in February" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2026/04/03/growth-slows-across-u-s" target="_self">Lower immigration</a> is constraining the state&#x27;s labor supply, while higher productivity is leading to less demand for labor.

Latino outreach needs to be specially tailored: SXSW panel

"Language is important. Culture is more important," Ignacio Meyer said.

Polititicans must commit to tailored, economically focused messaging to win Latino voters in the 2026 midterms, Univision executive Ignacio Meyer said Saturday at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios House" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/events/axios-house" data-vars-content-id="f18b26ca-d779-4814-9875-ebcd58b52689" data-vars-headline="Latino outreach needs to be specially tailored: SXSW panel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/events/axios-house" target="_self">Axios House</a> at SXSW.Why it matters: Latinos — the up-for-grabs voting force that could decide 2026&#x27;s razor-thin congressional battles — propelled President Trump&#x27;s 2024 victory with record GOP support, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="about 48% nationally" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/26/trump-harris-latino-voters-2024-election-pew?" data-vars-content-id="f18b26ca-d779-4814-9875-ebcd58b52689" data-vars-headline="Latino outreach needs to be specially tailored: SXSW panel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/26/trump-harris-latino-voters-2024-election-pew?" target="_self">about 48% nationally</a>.

1983 Longhorns baseball champs get the documentary treatment

"Summer of '83: Texas vs. Tide" is scheduled to air Wednesday night.

The 1983 University of Texas <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="baseball team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/04/17/texas-longhorns-baseball-auburn" data-vars-content-id="11f75302-e63e-4901-807b-8d7ddd942229" data-vars-headline="1983 Longhorns baseball champs get the documentary treatment" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/04/17/texas-longhorns-baseball-auburn" target="_self">baseball team</a>, a storied squad that included Roger Clemens and a handful of other future big leaguers, is the focus of a new documentary about the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="College World Series" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/06/23/lsu-takes-home-8th-college-world-series-championship-in-tigers-history" data-vars-content-id="11f75302-e63e-4901-807b-8d7ddd942229" data-vars-headline="1983 Longhorns baseball champs get the documentary treatment" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/06/23/lsu-takes-home-8th-college-world-series-championship-in-tigers-history" target="_self">College World Series</a> that year.Driving the news: &quot;Summer of &#x27;83: Texas vs. Tide&quot; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="premieres Wednesday" data-vars-click-url="https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2026/03/sec-storied-summer-of-83-texas-vs-tide-sets-sec-network-premiere-date-april-15/" data-vars-content-id="11f75302-e63e-4901-807b-8d7ddd942229" data-vars-headline="1983 Longhorns baseball champs get the documentary treatment" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2026/03/sec-storied-summer-of-83-texas-vs-tide-sets-sec-network-premiere-date-april-15/" target="_blank">premieres Wednesday</a> on the SEC Network.

Texas women's hoops riding "off the chart" chemistry to Final Four

Led by Madison Booker and Rori Harmon, the Longhorns are looking to win a national championship.

The University of Texas <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="women&#x27;s basketball team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/26/texas-basketball-ncaa-tournament" data-vars-content-id="5ab01d55-8c66-43d1-9ef3-0db4c0e6ea20" data-vars-headline="Texas women&#x27;s hoops riding &quot;off the chart&quot; chemistry to Final Four" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/26/texas-basketball-ncaa-tournament" target="_self">women&#x27;s basketball team</a> is playing in its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="second consecutive Final Four" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/02/12/texas-womens-basketball-madison-booker" data-vars-content-id="5ab01d55-8c66-43d1-9ef3-0db4c0e6ea20" data-vars-headline="Texas women&#x27;s hoops riding &quot;off the chart&quot; chemistry to Final Four" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/02/12/texas-womens-basketball-madison-booker" target="_self">second consecutive Final Four</a> — but this year, they&#x27;ve arrived in dominating fashion.Why it matters: After winning their four tournament games by an average of 35.5 points, the 35-3 Longhorns are two victories away from nabbing their first championship since 1986.

Austin's indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier

Local retailers have to navigate a landscape of higher rents, chain stores, tariffs and competition from online sellers.

Business Brief

We checked in with Brandon Hodge, owner of toy store <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Monkey See, Monkey Do" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/MonkeySeeMonkeyDoAustin/" data-vars-content-id="d1bfbb56-0565-445b-a011-feb0bc392886" data-vars-headline="Austin&#x27;s indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/MonkeySeeMonkeyDoAustin/" target="_blank">Monkey See, Monkey Do</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Big Top" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bigtopcandyshop.com/" data-vars-content-id="d1bfbb56-0565-445b-a011-feb0bc392886" data-vars-headline="Austin&#x27;s indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bigtopcandyshop.com/" target="_blank">Big Top</a>, a candy shop on South Congress Avenue, about the state of retail in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Austin" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/signup/austin" data-vars-content-id="d1bfbb56-0565-445b-a011-feb0bc392886" data-vars-headline="Austin&#x27;s indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier" 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>.Why it matters: In a city that has long promoted <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="local buying" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/12/02/gift-guide-local-items-for-everyone-on-your-list" data-vars-content-id="d1bfbb56-0565-445b-a011-feb0bc392886" data-vars-headline="Austin&#x27;s indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/12/02/gift-guide-local-items-for-everyone-on-your-list" target="_self">local buying</a>, homegrown retailers have to navigate a landscape of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="higher rents" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2021/10/12/austin-skyrocketing-rents-housing" data-vars-content-id="d1bfbb56-0565-445b-a011-feb0bc392886" data-vars-headline="Austin&#x27;s indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2021/10/12/austin-skyrocketing-rents-housing" target="_self">higher rents</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="luxe chain stores" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2024/05/30/south-congress-business-closures-change" data-vars-content-id="d1bfbb56-0565-445b-a011-feb0bc392886" data-vars-headline="Austin&#x27;s indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2024/05/30/south-congress-business-closures-change" target="_self">luxe chain stores</a>, geopolitical issues like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tariffs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/03/04/trump-tariffs-texas-austin-trade-war" data-vars-content-id="d1bfbb56-0565-445b-a011-feb0bc392886" data-vars-headline="Austin&#x27;s indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/03/04/trump-tariffs-texas-austin-trade-war" target="_self">tariffs</a> and ongoing competition from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="online sellers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/03/12/axios-event-technology-retail-personalization" data-vars-content-id="d1bfbb56-0565-445b-a011-feb0bc392886" data-vars-headline="Austin&#x27;s indie retailers adapt as South Congress gets pricier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/03/12/axios-event-technology-retail-personalization" target="_self">online sellers</a>.

Saving for a down payment takes 8 years in Austin

That's compared to nearly 7 years nationwide.

It took the typical Austin household over eight years to save for a median <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="home" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/mortgage-rates-home-prices-predictions-2026" data-vars-content-id="394f3bc6-3a32-4b6a-b848-47728d8087ce" data-vars-headline="Saving for a down payment takes 8 years in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/mortgage-rates-home-prices-predictions-2026" target="_self">home</a> down payment in 2025, compared to around seven years nationwide, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Realtor.com analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.realtor.com/research/downpayment-savings-december-2025/" data-vars-content-id="394f3bc6-3a32-4b6a-b848-47728d8087ce" data-vars-headline="Saving for a down payment takes 8 years in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.realtor.com/research/downpayment-savings-december-2025/" target="_blank">Realtor.com analysis</a>.Why it matters: Coming up with a down payment is one of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biggest barriers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/04/homebuyers-are-struggling-to-make-bigger-down-payments.html" data-vars-content-id="394f3bc6-3a32-4b6a-b848-47728d8087ce" data-vars-headline="Saving for a down payment takes 8 years in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/04/homebuyers-are-struggling-to-make-bigger-down-payments.html" target="_blank">biggest barriers</a> to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homeownership" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/29/stocks-retirement-gen-z" data-vars-content-id="394f3bc6-3a32-4b6a-b848-47728d8087ce" data-vars-headline="Saving for a down payment takes 8 years in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/29/stocks-retirement-gen-z" target="_self">homeownership</a>, especially as incomes struggle to keep pace with housing costs.

Shakey Graves' very best Austin day

The inventive Austin musician has a new album coming out.

Music

Folk-blues musician Shakey Graves is a very busy man.Why it matters: Nearly 40 years old, he leads a new generation of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Austin musicians" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/music" data-vars-content-id="84c9c2de-84cd-4cc0-838d-3474916da2ce" data-vars-headline="Shakey Graves&#x27; very best Austin day" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/music" target="_self">Austin musicians</a> even as he is a father to a young child.

Bot Auto delivers first freight load with no one in the cab

Driverless trucks take off in Texas

The 230-mile run between Houston and Dallas marks another key milestone for the American trucking industry.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Autonomous trucking" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/23/texas-driverless-trucks" data-vars-content-id="30b80bd3-e097-4b77-affd-4f2d9f975284" data-vars-headline="Bot Auto delivers first freight load with no one in the cab" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/23/texas-driverless-trucks" target="_self">Autonomous trucking</a> startup Bot Auto says it has delivered its first &quot;fully humanless&quot; over-the-road commercial truckload in Texas, marking another key milestone for the American trucking industry.Why it matters: The 230-mile run between Houston and Dallas was not a pilot or demonstration. It was a paid commercial delivery made directly to a customer&#x27;s loading dock.

5 questions with Barton Springs Nursery's Amy Hovis

Hovis recently opened the new BSN Design Studio & Showroom on North Lamar.

As Central Texans head into peak gardening season, Barton Springs Nursery owner Amy Hovis is seeing a shift: fewer lawns, more butterflies and a growing appetite for water-wise yards.Driving the news: Hovis recently opened the new BSN Design Studio &amp; Showroom at 910 N. Lamar, where she offers full-service garden design and installation.

How you'd give away $1 billion

After news last week that Michael and Susan Dell&#x27;s donations to the University of Texas <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="had topped $1 billion" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/04/21/michael-dell-university-texas-donation" data-vars-content-id="9d70d34c-5241-405b-a0a5-becafe05ddd7" data-vars-headline="How you&#x27;d give away $1 billion" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/04/21/michael-dell-university-texas-donation" target="_self">had topped $1 billion</a>, we asked how you&#x27;d distribute that kind of cash.Suzee B. says she&#x27;d like to direct money to Anthropos Arts. &quot;They employ Austin musicians to do one-on-one music mentoring with underserved school kids.&quot;

Why AV companies are choosing Texas

Texas has become a hotbed for autonomous vehicle testing.

Einride CEO Roozbeh Charli says Texas&#x27; business-friendly climate, access to talent and regulatory environment made it an easy choice for the company&#x27;s U.S. expansion.Why it matters: Texas has become a hub for autonomous vehicle testing, and a growing number of autonomous trucking companies are part of the trend.

What Waymo's future in Austin may look like

The company is testing on freeways and at the airport.

Just over a year into operating commercially <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="on Austin streets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/03/04/uber-waymo-robotaxi-austin" data-vars-content-id="84fb3dcf-888f-4d97-a876-c6bdd91840eb" data-vars-headline="What Waymo&#x27;s future in Austin may look like" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/03/04/uber-waymo-robotaxi-austin" target="_self">on Austin streets</a> through the Uber app, Waymo says it&#x27;s moved well beyond a pilot phase — rapidly expanding its footprint, logging millions of driverless miles and leaning on its own data to spot and fix safety issues.State of play: The<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" driverless car company" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/03/04/waymo-uber-self-driving-car-austin" data-vars-content-id="84fb3dcf-888f-4d97-a876-c6bdd91840eb" data-vars-headline="What Waymo&#x27;s future in Austin may look like" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/03/04/waymo-uber-self-driving-car-austin" target="_self"> driverless car company</a> started with 40 square miles a year ago and has since expanded to 130 square miles for riders on the Uber app.

Texas Testbed: Safety lags as AVs rapidly expand

Self-driving car safety checks and oversight are still playing catch-up, officials and researchers say.

This report is part of &quot;Texas Testbed,&quot; a series on how the state is becoming a real-world lab for emerging technologies.More <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="self-driving cars" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2026/04/21/houston-tesla-robotaxi-service-launch" data-vars-content-id="852f4934-ff98-4e18-8381-a4e95d676e6d" data-vars-headline="Texas Testbed: Safety lags as AVs rapidly expand" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2026/04/21/houston-tesla-robotaxi-service-launch" target="_self">self-driving cars</a> are headed to Texas as the state has turned into a key testing ground for the vehicles.Why it matters: The speed is raising fresh <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="concerns over safety" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/autonomous-vehicles-remote-av-federal-markey" data-vars-content-id="852f4934-ff98-4e18-8381-a4e95d676e6d" data-vars-headline="Texas Testbed: Safety lags as AVs rapidly expand" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/autonomous-vehicles-remote-av-federal-markey" target="_self">concerns over safety</a>.

The tech trend getting people off their phones

Immersive virtual reality is turning gaming into a shared social experience.

Partners

Americans spend hours every day on their phones, even as demand grows for new, shared experiences that bring people together in real life.The story: A new wave of entertainment concepts is using technology to create shared, in-person experiences rather than individual ones like streaming or scrolling —  reshaping what a night out in Austin looks like.

Restaurants compete with creative lamb dishes

Six restaurants are competing in Lamb Jam, a national showdown that doubles as a real-time menu experiment.

Things to Do

Editor&#x27;s note: This story was written by University of Texas student Trinity Orosco for Axios Austin.Six Austin restaurants have spent the month of April transforming lamb into crispy arancini, laab and tostadas for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lamb Jam&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://americanlamb.com/lamb-jam-2026-austin/" data-vars-content-id="d66bfd10-b5f3-42f5-acc7-e535d5bb4dfc" data-vars-headline="Restaurants compete with creative lamb dishes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://americanlamb.com/lamb-jam-2026-austin/" target="_blank">Lamb Jam&#x27;s</a> restaurant competition.

Roxie’s serves up homestyle comfort food

Chicken, all-you-can-eat sides, dessert and more.

I have a recommendation for your next free afternoon.What&#x27;s happening: I recently took a trip to Buda to try out <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Roxie&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.roxiesbuda.com/" data-vars-content-id="fd6b3884-bc0c-4267-bffe-eef51479e8fa" data-vars-headline="Roxie’s serves up homestyle comfort food" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.roxiesbuda.com/" target="_blank">Roxie&#x27;s</a>, the new restaurant from Salt Lick BBQ owner Scott Roberts, and to check out the town, where a growing number of friends and acquaintances have moved.

Preservation Austin gets ready for its latest homes tour

This year's tour includes a house from the 1970s and one in Montopolis.

Preservation Austin hosts its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2026 Homes Tour" data-vars-click-url="https://www.preservationaustin.org/events/2026-homes-tour" data-vars-content-id="9192e01f-8989-478f-ae61-496350f07519" data-vars-headline="Preservation Austin gets ready for its latest homes tour" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.preservationaustin.org/events/2026-homes-tour" target="_blank">2026 Homes Tour</a> this weekend, with a rich variety of architectural styles in neighborhoods across town on display.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the best chance to peek into Austin&#x27;s most beautiful <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/02/12/austin-homeowners-are-staying-put" data-vars-content-id="9192e01f-8989-478f-ae61-496350f07519" data-vars-headline="Preservation Austin gets ready for its latest homes tour" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/02/12/austin-homeowners-are-staying-put" target="_self">homes</a>.

Needlepoint stitches together a younger crowd

Etsy searches for "beginner needlepoint items" are at a 208% year-over-year increase.

Editor&#x27;s note: This story was written by University of Texas student Darby Tippit for Axios Austin.A nearly 50-year-old Austin needlepoint store is drawing a younger crowd as Gen Z turns toward <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="analogue hobbies" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/23/analog-bag-screen-free-wellness" data-vars-content-id="80e5c91c-8ead-48f4-88d3-00ad502a0c28" data-vars-headline="Needlepoint stitches together a younger crowd" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/23/analog-bag-screen-free-wellness" target="_self">analogue hobbies</a> to beat screen fatigue.Why it matters: Needlepoint, along with hobbies like knitting, sewing and quilting, have seen a rise in popularity as younger generations find crafty, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="offline activities" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/12/07/needlepoint-grandma-hobbies-tiktok" data-vars-content-id="80e5c91c-8ead-48f4-88d3-00ad502a0c28" data-vars-headline="Needlepoint stitches together a younger crowd" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/12/07/needlepoint-grandma-hobbies-tiktok" target="_self">offline activities</a> to ditch their phones.

MotoGP bets on Austin to grow its U.S. audience

The three-day race weekend runs Friday through Sunday at COTA.

MotoGP&#x27;s only U.S. race returns to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Austin" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin" data-vars-content-id="13f9a9c2-6856-41b2-a214-808ccf9b184c" data-vars-headline="MotoGP bets on Austin to grow its U.S. audience" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin" target="_self">Austin</a> this weekend, putting the city at the center of the racing series&#x27; bid to grow in America.Why it matters: Circuit of the Americas serves as MotoGP&#x27;s lone foothold in the U.S., making Austin a test case for whether <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="another European motorsport" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/17/formula-1-austin-women-fans" data-vars-content-id="13f9a9c2-6856-41b2-a214-808ccf9b184c" data-vars-headline="MotoGP bets on Austin to grow its U.S. audience" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/17/formula-1-austin-women-fans" target="_self">another European motorsport</a> can break through with American fans.

Austin's top April events you won't want to miss

Austin's kite fest, comedy, music and more.

Food and Drink

It&#x27;s springtime in Central Texas, and one of our favorite months of the year to get out and explore Austin.Here are some of the events we&#x27;re most looking forward to.

Desert Island Dish with Geraldine's Sergio Ledesma

The chef of Geraldine's shares the dishes that are most important to him.

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="54ffc092-f11b-496f-b70e-20030afbd26b" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Geraldine&#x27;s Sergio Ledesma" 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 chefs&#x27; favorite meals, we recently chatted with Sergio Ledesma, the executive chef at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Geraldine&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hotelvanzandt.com/geraldines/" data-vars-content-id="54ffc092-f11b-496f-b70e-20030afbd26b" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Geraldine&#x27;s Sergio Ledesma" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hotelvanzandt.com/geraldines/" target="_blank">Geraldine&#x27;s</a>, in the Hotel Van Zandt by Rainey Street.<ul><li>At the Southern-inflected Mexican restaurant, shrimp and grits ($38), composed with chintextle, a Oaxacan chili paste, shares menu space with a lamb barbacoa ($44) and sides like smoked carrots ($14), prepared with a guajillo adobo rub.</li></ul>

Austin pop-up fuels matcha craze

The pop-up has quickly become one of the city's buzziest stops.

Editor&#x27;s note: This story was written by University of Texas student Trinity Orosco for Axios Austin.An Austin matcha pop-up is drawing lines that stretch down the sidewalk, tapping into a fast-growing U.S. market for the Japanese green tea.

Find Middle Eastern flavors at South Austin's newest bakery

Try the labneh za'atar bun and pair it with Persian tea.

South Austin pastry fiends who have been missing Moonlight Bakery&#x27;s cinnamon rolls, cookies and whole wheat breads have a new source for flaky dough.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Matok" data-vars-click-url="https://matokbakery.com/" data-vars-content-id="2eb4a55f-6572-4a85-9a7c-e0e44c1e2c38" data-vars-headline="Find Middle Eastern flavors at South Austin&#x27;s newest bakery" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://matokbakery.com/" target="_blank">Matok</a>, Hebrew for &quot;sweet,&quot; opened Tuesday in the old Moonlight spot, in a strip mall off South Lamar Boulevard, a few blocks south of the intersection with Oltorf Street.

David Muñoz's election night enchiladas recipe

After Austin chef David Muñoz <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="told us" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/01/13/desert-island-dish-david-munoz" data-vars-content-id="b63273e8-5cf5-4d63-a5d0-f3e0062f3a73" data-vars-headline="David Muñoz&#x27;s election night enchiladas recipe" 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">told us</a> that the one meal he&#x27;d want with him on a desert island is his mother&#x27;s election night enchiladas, readers asked for the recipe. <ul><li>Muñoz, who grew up in Fort Worth, is the executive chef at Henry&#x27;s at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Inn at Green Pastures" data-vars-click-url="https://www.greenpasturesaustin.com/" data-vars-content-id="b63273e8-5cf5-4d63-a5d0-f3e0062f3a73" data-vars-headline="David Muñoz&#x27;s election night enchiladas recipe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.greenpasturesaustin.com/" target="_blank">Inn at Green Pastures</a>. This recipe originated with his mother, Aurelia Muñoz — they&#x27;d be ready when her husband, an elections judge, came home from the polls.</li></ul>

Your favorite Chinese spots in Austin

Axios Austin readers weigh in about their favorite Chinese restaurants.

To mark the Lunar New Year, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="we asked you" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/29/lunar-new-year-lucky-foods?utm_term=emshare" data-vars-content-id="3529a191-2999-47ef-8aae-27ba84c8107e" data-vars-headline="Your favorite Chinese spots in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/29/lunar-new-year-lucky-foods?utm_term=emshare" target="_self">we asked you</a> last week about your favorite Chinese restaurants and your go-to dishes.Liz P. recommends <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chen&#x27;s Noodle House" data-vars-click-url="https://chensnoodles.com/" data-vars-content-id="3529a191-2999-47ef-8aae-27ba84c8107e" data-vars-headline="Your favorite Chinese spots in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chensnoodles.com/" target="_blank">Chen&#x27;s Noodle House</a> (&quot;the best sesame bun&quot;), in northwest Austin, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Julie&#x27;s Noodles" data-vars-click-url="https://juliesnoodlesaustin.com/" data-vars-content-id="3529a191-2999-47ef-8aae-27ba84c8107e" data-vars-headline="Your favorite Chinese spots in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://juliesnoodlesaustin.com/" target="_blank">Julie&#x27;s Noodles</a> (&quot;amazing soup dumplings&quot;), on Research Boulevard.

San Antonio

U.S. Supreme Court clears Texas' GOP-favored congressional map

The ruling won't change anything for elections in Texas.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday struck down a lower court ruling that blocked Texas from using its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/08/20/texas-democrats-redistricting-gerrymandering-trump" data-vars-content-id="55d0e518-d03f-4f30-9361-be7800e43b7e" data-vars-headline="U.S. Supreme Court clears Texas&#x27; GOP-favored congressional map" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/08/20/texas-democrats-redistricting-gerrymandering-trump" target="_self">new congressional map</a> favoring Republicans, with the high court cementing the new map that was already in use.Why it matters: The ruling ends <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a lawsuit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2025/11/22/supreme-court-texas-congressional-map-redistricting" data-vars-content-id="55d0e518-d03f-4f30-9361-be7800e43b7e" data-vars-headline="U.S. Supreme Court clears Texas&#x27; GOP-favored congressional map" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2025/11/22/supreme-court-texas-congressional-map-redistricting" target="_self">a lawsuit</a> over the new map in Texas, the first state to begin what turned into a nationwide redistricting battle.

Austin weighs ICE policy ahead of state funding deadline

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is threatening to withhold money over Austin police policies.

Austin officials have until Thursday to confirm they will not restrict cooperation between city police and ICE — or they risk losing $2.5 million in grants, per a threat from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gov. Greg Abbott&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/04/22/texas-governor-greg-abbott-longest-serving-power" data-vars-content-id="78ee8ce8-aafc-487d-b76f-ece22286311a" data-vars-headline="Austin weighs ICE policy ahead of state funding deadline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/04/22/texas-governor-greg-abbott-longest-serving-power" target="_self">Gov. Greg Abbott&#x27;s</a> office.Why it matters: Mayor Kirk Watson has called Abbott&#x27;s threat &quot;political theater,&quot; but it <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="revives questions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/05/14/texas-legislature-austin-dallas-houston-san-antonio" data-vars-content-id="78ee8ce8-aafc-487d-b76f-ece22286311a" data-vars-headline="Austin weighs ICE policy ahead of state funding deadline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/05/14/texas-legislature-austin-dallas-houston-san-antonio" target="_self">revives questions</a> about how much power locally elected officials have to steer city policy.

Talarico notches record fundraising haul

The Democratic state lawmaker's campaign took in more than $27 million in the first quarter of 2026.

Texas Democratic Senate candidate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Talarico" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/17/james-talarico-austin-church-security" data-vars-content-id="4280cf01-0ea7-4500-a77f-00565937b52d" data-vars-headline="Talarico notches record fundraising haul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/17/james-talarico-austin-church-security" target="_self">James Talarico</a> hauled in more than $27 million in the first quarter of 2026, his campaign announced Wednesday.Why it matters: The money raised by the state legislator from Austin dwarfs the amount incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. John Cornyn raised during the same period and will play a key role in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="persuading voters" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/15/how-texas-talarico-is-leveraging-social-media-in-his-bid-for-the-senate" data-vars-content-id="4280cf01-0ea7-4500-a77f-00565937b52d" data-vars-headline="Talarico notches record fundraising haul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/15/how-texas-talarico-is-leveraging-social-media-in-his-bid-for-the-senate" target="_self">persuading voters</a> in what is shaping up as a very expensive race.

Austin 3D firm Icon hires Will Hurd

The Austin 3D printing firm is hiring the former Republican congressman as it seeks government contracts.

Will Hurd, the former Republican congressman from San Antonio, has joined Austin-based 3D construction firm <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Icon" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/11/3d-printing-company-icon-expands-austin" data-vars-content-id="7a180b70-2587-492f-83cd-b32d76fdff07" data-vars-headline="Austin 3D firm Icon hires Will Hurd" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/11/3d-printing-company-icon-expands-austin" target="_self">Icon</a> as it makes a push for more government contracts.Why it matters: The firm is looking to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="diversify its revenue streams" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/11/3d-printing-company-icon-expands-austin" data-vars-content-id="7a180b70-2587-492f-83cd-b32d76fdff07" data-vars-headline="Austin 3D firm Icon hires Will Hurd" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/11/3d-printing-company-icon-expands-austin" target="_self">diversify its revenue streams</a> amid a housing market still slowed by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="high interest rates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/27/austin-mortgage-rates-rise-as-iran-war-affects-u-s-housing-market" data-vars-content-id="7a180b70-2587-492f-83cd-b32d76fdff07" data-vars-headline="Austin 3D firm Icon hires Will Hurd" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/27/austin-mortgage-rates-rise-as-iran-war-affects-u-s-housing-market" target="_self">high interest rates</a>.

James Talarico's Austin church beefs up security

Talarico's North Austin church has received an influx of "negative communication."

State Rep. James Talarico&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Senate campaign" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/04/talarico-crockett-democratic-primary-senate-texas" data-vars-content-id="5cfee955-c646-4421-9359-bf1a9e55fc3c" data-vars-headline="James Talarico&#x27;s Austin church beefs up security" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/04/talarico-crockett-democratic-primary-senate-texas" target="_self">Senate campaign</a> has thrust his North Austin church into the spotlight, prompting increased security, St. Andrew&#x27;s Presbyterian Church pastor Jim Rigby told members on Facebook.Why it matters: Religion is emerging as an early flashpoint in Texas&#x27; high-profile Senate race, pitting the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Austin Democrat against" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/04/talarico-crockett-democratic-primary-senate-texas" data-vars-content-id="5cfee955-c646-4421-9359-bf1a9e55fc3c" data-vars-headline="James Talarico&#x27;s Austin church beefs up security" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/04/talarico-crockett-democratic-primary-senate-texas" target="_self">Austin Democrat against</a> the winner of a GOP <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="runoff between" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/04/cornyn-paxton-runoff-texas-republican-senate-primary" data-vars-content-id="5cfee955-c646-4421-9359-bf1a9e55fc3c" data-vars-headline="James Talarico&#x27;s Austin church beefs up security" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/04/cornyn-paxton-runoff-texas-republican-senate-primary" target="_self">runoff between</a> Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Sen. John Cornyn.

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