Y'all-itics

Less than four months before the primary, “sheer chaos” has been unleashed in Texas. A federal court struck down the new congressional maps passed by the Texas Legislature over the summer. Republicans who filed to run in the new districts might have to rethink their plans, while Democrats who thought they had been drawn out of office might have now have a path back. Meantime, voters are stuck, yet again, in the middle. In this early release episode of Y’all-itics, our experts unpack the congressional confusion: from the expected response by the U.S. Supreme Court… to the dissenting opinion that’s raised eyebrows all over the country. GUESTS Eric Opiela, Republican Attorney Matt Angle, Democratic Strategist

In the November 23 episode, State Rep. Nicole Collier, who slept inside the House chamber during the redistricting battle, tells us why she’s not ready to break out the champagne glasses quite yet even though a federal court struck down the new congressional map. Joe Jaworski explains why he’ll be on the attack more during his second campaign for Texas Attorney General. And Sid Miller, the incumbent Ag Commissioner, talks about his primary against a former donor and why he disagrees with President Trump for the first time ever.

Mass transit in North Texas faces a mutiny. Four of the 13 cities that make up Dallas Area Rapid Transit want to walk away. In this episode, DART's CEO, Nadine Lee, tells us she’s not optimistic that a solution will be found before the citizens vote next May. Lee joined one of the Jasons (we think you know which one) for a cup of coffee one recent morning at the Manhattan Project Beer Company to explain why leaving DART would ultimately cost those voters more time… and money.

In the November 16 episode, Congresswoman Julie Johnson explains why she disagrees with the Democratic Senators who helped end the longest shutdown in history. Congressman Jake Ellzey tells us why we shouldn’t expect another shutdown when temporary funding ends January 30. And Mike Collier discusses his decision to launch a third campaign for Lieutenant Governor, but this time as an independent.

He’s won a Latin Grammy for album of the year, eight Tejano Music awards and in a couple of days, he might just win another Latin Grammy for best Tejano album of the year. But this time next year, the only contest Bobby Pulido is worried about winning is the race for the 15th Congressional District in south Texas. So, is he independent-minded? Progressive? A centrist? In this episode of Y’all-itics, the music star turned politician explains why the answer is D, all of the above. And there’s a frustration in south Texas he says nobody really talks about, and it’s a big reason why he’s running.

In the November 9 episode, Plano Mayor John Muns discusses that city’s decision to allow its voters to decide whether to leave Dallas Area Rapid Transit and the offer he hopes DART can’t refuse. Council Member Mario Castillo talks about a new homeless supercenter that will soon open in Houston and the promises made to ease the concerns of nearby residents. And Matt Mackowiak explains why he thinks Austin residents loudly rejected a proposed 20% property tax increase and what the city must do to regain the trust of its voters.

Even though a federal judge ordered the government to tap into emergency funds to keep SNAP benefits flowing, 42 million Americans, including 3.5 million Texans, are still in limbo because those funds won’t even cover a full month. And as long as the shutdown continues, so will the fear. In this episode of Y’all-itics, the COO at Metrocrest Services explains how the shutdown revealed a fragile safety net “woven together with barbed wire.” And a couple of lawmakers explain how the shutdown is hurting Texans. WFAA Senior Reporter & Anchor, Teresa Woodard, is the guest host this week for both Jasons. GUESTS Calvin Moore, Metrocrest Services COO Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne, R-24th District State Rep. Gene Wu, D-District 137

In the November 2 episode, Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne discusses the results of a recent survey she sent out gauging the impact of the shutdown on Texans. State Representative Ramon Romero Jr. tells us why he doesn’t think the state should assume control of an entire school district because of one failing campus. And Nate Sheets on why he wants to make the jump from business owner to Texas Agriculture Commissioner.

In the October 26 episode, Senator John Cornyn tells us why he’s “optimistic” about a Trump endorsement and his path to victory in the U.S. Senate race. And Congressman Roger Williams explains why he thinks the government shutdown could last through Thanksgiving.

If you’ve recently bought a plate of barbecue, or a T-bone at the meat market, you already know beef prices are ridiculously high, even breaking records recently. And it does not appear they’ll be coming down anytime soon. But what’s behind the price surge? And what’s being done to put those prices on a diet? The Jasons turn to the Texas Agriculture Commissioner and a Texas A&M Professor who specializes in livestock economics for answers. And naturally, they saddled up and headed to Panther City barbecue in Fort Worth. Guest Sid Miller, Texas Agriculture Commissioner David Anderson, Ph.D., Texas A&M Professor & Extension Economist-Livestock/Food Product Marketing

Texas faces a memory crisis — and a moment of opportunity. Prop 14 on the November ballot could redefine the state’s future in healthcare and research. If approved, Texas will invest $3B on dementia research – a sum no other state has come close to and one that almost matches the federal governments outlay against alzheimer's last year. In this episode, the Jasons found out why Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made it a political priority and now if voters pass it, what the investment will mean to Texans living with dementia.

In the October 19 episode, what Congresswoman Wesley Hunt said about his place in a new poll, where he sees a path to victory and why he’s attacking John Cornyn rather than Ken Paxton. Plus, Republican Party of Texas chairman Abraham George on what role the White House played in keeping veteran lawmakers on the ballot. Also, Kendall Scudder, chairman of the Texas Democratic Party wiped away the party’s debt, but how will he restructure party offices and is he outsourcing responsibilities?

It’s a tax you’ve likely never heard of. But you’re paying for it. For decades, small businesses in Texas have been paying the “business personal property tax” on everything from desks to filing cabinets... even the raw material used to make their product. Only eight other states do this. Next month, voters have a chance to change that with Prop 9 on the November ballot. The Jasons were on the run during this episode of Y’all-itics but still sat down with the Texas Director of the National Federation of Independent Business to learn how this would be good for business.

In the October 12 episode, Congresswoman Julie Johnson tells us how she sees the shutdown ending and why she calls the Texas National Guard deployment to Illinois “outrageous.” State Representative Lacey Hull explains why she’s thankful a court blocked the execution of death row inmate Robert Roberson. And Dallas City Council Member Chad West discusses the future of City Hall and whether he’s had any talks with the Mavericks about the location.

Now a few days old, there’s still no end in sight to the government shutdown. Republicans and Democrats blame each other, with Texans caught in the middle. So, who’s still getting paid? Are Texas veterans still receiving services? And could this all lead to massive layoffs? In this early release episode of Y’all-itics, three members of the Texas Congressional delegation explain the situation, and their view on who’s to blame. GUESTS U.S. Representative Jake Ellzey, R-6th District U.S. Representative Marc Veasey, D-33rd District U.S Representative Beth Van Duyne, R-24th District

On the October 5 episode, three members of the Texas Congressional delegation discuss the government shutdown and who they think is to blame. Congressman Jake Ellzey also talks about the services still available to Texas veterans. Congressman Marc Veasey tells us why this is a fight over healthcare, not the President. And Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne explains why now might be the right time to right size government.

The Jasons took a road trip to Panther City Barbecue in Fort Worth for this episode to have brisket and beer with Congressman Craig Goldman. From tariffs to town halls to the oil patch to political violence, they cover a lot in less than an hour. Will Trump’s style of foreign policy affect Lockheed’s lucrative contracts? And why Fort Worth is known as the Panther City. This is classic Y’all-itics!

In the September 28 episode, Congressman Keith Self discusses an $88 million effort to increase security for all branches of government and why he doesn’t think members of Congress should have the same level of security as a President. Dallas City Council Member Paula Blackmon explains why she’s asked for an investigation into four of her council colleagues. And state Representative Rhetta Bowers tells us why she thinks a bipartisan effort to save death row inmate Robert Roberson has gone quiet.

After months of speculation, the Federal Reserve finally announced a quarter point interest rate cut. To get a better understanding of how 0.25% could put some dollars back into your bank account, the Jasons sat down with the President/CEO of the Consumer Bankers Association. Lindsey Johnson also explains how AI is transforming how we bank...and she tells us why all the big players on Wall Street are abuzz about what's happening here in her home state.

In the September 21 episode, Tarrant County Precinct 2 Commissioner Alisa Simmons explains why she skipped a meeting to prevent Commissioners from adopting a lower tax rate, and whether she plans to do it again. Congressman Michael McCaul tells us why he chose “door number 3.” And Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller discusses the steps being taken to help Texas farmers facing a catch-22 of record yields and low prices. GUESTS Commissioner Alisa Simmons, D-Tarrant County Precinct 2 U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, R-10th District Sid Miller, Texas Agriculture Commissioner

In the September 14 episode, state Representative James Talarico explains why he entered the race for U.S. Senate, shaking everything up. Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones tells us about the savings she found in the budget before asking residents to pay more. And Congressman Roger Williams reveals whether he sees signs of a weakening economy as chair of the House Small Business Committee. GUESTS James Talarico, D-Candidate for U.S. Senate Commissioner Lesley Briones, D-Harris County Precinct 4 U.S. Rep. Roger Williams, R-25th District

Just like Republicans, Texas Democrats are now forced to take sides in their race for U.S. Senate. Seminarian, former middle school teacher and current state Representative James Talarico just announced he will run for the seat held by John Cornyn since 2002. In this early release episode of Y’all-itics, the social media star with several viral clips explains where he sees a path to victory.

It is a rare event in Texas these days: finding a Republican who supports renewables. Y’all-itics did just that. And John Davis tells us the money he makes from the wind turbines on his property saved his west Texas ranch, which has been in the family since 1880. But if you really want to get this Republican worked up, talk about the GOP’s attack on renewables. To Davis, it is a property rights issue, and he says his own party is trampling all over it. The rancher and former state lawmaker also tells the Jasons why he thinks energy has become so political in Texas… and the beer his 89-year-old aunt recommended for his Y’all-itics debut!

In the September 7 episode, Corpus Christi councilmember Mark Scott explains how the city council defeat of a proposed desalination plant will harm residents, industry and perhaps cripple the city. State Senator Paul Bettencourt tells us why he was surprised and disappointed that so many House Republicans joined an effort to defeat his property tax reduction bill. And State Representative Donna Howard reacts to the passage of what’s been referred to as the “bounty hunter” abortion pill ban. GUESTS Mark Scott, Corpus Christi City Councilmember State Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-District 7 State Rep. Donna Howard, D-District 48

Kimberly Bizor Tolbert was selected in January as the first Black woman to serve as Dallas City Manager after beginning her career more than 30 years ago as an intern at City Hall. And it’s been non-stop work since, from trying to figure out what happens to the Dallas Mavericks, to the $5 billion budget. WFAA anchor Dia Wall scored an exclusive sit down with Tolbert and she joins the Jasons to discuss the interview. Despite what you may have heard, Dia learned the number one concern for Dallas residents isn’t public safety. Dia’s interview: https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-county/dallas-city-manager-kimberly-bizor-tolbert-budget-hero-amendments-mavericks-new-arena/287-25040793-dcf3-40f3-be48-1b19eee27856

In the August 31 episode, state Representative Richard Hayes explains why he wants voters to change the definition of a quorum. State Representative Sheryl Cole responds to the punishment Republicans are debating for the quorum breakers. And state Representative Cody Harris discusses his legislation that puts a temporary stop to moving water out of east Texas.

In the August 24 episode, Congresswoman Julie Johnson reveals how some lawmakers may divvy up offices now that Republicans have passed the redistricting map in Texas. State Rep. John McQueeney tells us what punishment Republicans are considering for the Democrats who left the state. And Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert discusses their $5 billion budget and possible layoffs.

If you’re like us, you love podcasts that come with a language warning. For this episode of Y’all-itics, you’ve been warned. Congresswoman Julie Johnson joins the Jasons for a cold one at her favorite Dallas watering hole. And the Democrat got candid on everything from how lawmakers might divvy up offices now that the Republican redistricting map has passed, to why you should expect to hear a lot more about the Epstein files in September. And then there’s the “cocktail caucus” she helped form to bring the left and right together over a couple of cold ones.

There’s another billionaire who is getting active in American politics. But this is different. Daniel Lubetzky, the son of a holocaust survivor and founder of the company behind KIND Bars, started the Builders Movement with a goal to help voters learn how to think in politics, not what to think. And the key to it all is technology that counteracts algorithms and extremism in American politics. They’ve already found success in other states and it’s coming to Texas next. In this episode of Y’all-itics, Lubetzky shares a deeply personal story to explain why he's trying to get voters to adopt a “builder’s mindset.” GUESTS Daniel Lubetzky, Builders Movement Founder Tori Larned, Builders Movement Senior Communications Manager

In the August 17 episode, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett reveals the one thing that would get her to consider a U.S. Senate campaign. Abraham George, chairman of the Republican Party of Texas, lays out why the party wants to also redistrict the Texas House. And state Representative John H. Bucy III explains the two reasons why Texas Democrats believe they won big in the redistricting battle. GUESTS U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, D-30th District Abraham George, Republican Party of Texas Chairman State Representative John H. Bucy III, D-District 136

In the August 10 episode, leading Texas Democrats explain why they’re risking arrest and their livelihoods. State Rep. Shelley Luther tells us why she thinks lawmakers who leave the state to stall legislative action should face even stiffer penalties. And U.S. Representative Kevin Kiley, a Republican from California’s 3rd District, spells out why he’s trying to ban mid-decade redistricting. GUESTS State Representative Rafael Anchia, D-District 103 State Representative Ann Johnson, D-District 134 State Representative Chris Turner, D-District 101 State Representative Gene Wu, D-District 137 State Representative Shelley Luther, R-District 62 U.S. Representative Kevin Kiley, R-California’s 3rd District

It’s been five days since Democrats left Texas to deny quorum in the Texas House and stall redistricting legislation. There has been a non-stop whirlwind of activity and developments since they left. In this early release episode of Y’all-itics, leading Democrats explain why they’re risking arrest and their livelihoods. Puck political reporter Abby Livingston will tell you where the battle is headed next. And a California Republican spells out why he’s trying to ban mid-decade redistricting. Guests Abby Livingston, Puck Political Reporter U.S. Rep. Kevin Kiley, R-California’s 3rd District

A plan to drill wells into an east Texas aquifer has led to angry public hearings, lawsuits, even new legislation lawmakers are trying to add to the special session agenda. East Texas residents say the wealthy businessman’s project would drain their water for his profit, while leaving their communities high and dry. In this episode of Y’all-itics, WFAA Senior Crime and Justice reporter Rebecca Lopez explains how an old law known as the “rule of capture” is at the heart of this dispute and why so many folks fear the outcome of this case could impact drinking water across Texas. Rebecca’s latest story: https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-investor-kyle-bass-faces-opposition-over-plan-to-pump-15b-gallons-of-water-a-year/287-d8515481-f6c9-49e8-8911-33a1b56d05cd GUEST Rebecca Lopez, WFAA Senior Crime and Justice Reporter

In the August 3 episode, the chair of the Texas House Democratic Caucus, State Rep. Gene Wu, says the new GOP congressional map calls for “extraordinary action.” State Rep. Salman Bhojani explains why he and other Democrats were looking for allies in New Mexico. And Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne tells us why she doesn’t think any district is safe and how Texans can soon find jobs. GUESTS State Representative Gene Wu, D-District 137 State Representative Salman Bhojani, D-District 92 U.S. Representative Beth Van Duyne, R-24th District

One of the nation’s largest homebuilders is suing the smallest county in Texas over a planned development, even though Texas desperately needs new homes. The issue is who pays for the water, the roads, the damage from heavy trucks, and all the infrastructure associated with a huge, new development: the builder or the residents who already live in the county? In this episode of Y’all-itics, WFAA reporter Cole Sullivan discusses his extensive reporting on the issue and explains why if the county wins, homebuilders could be scared away, but if the developer wins, Texas residents could once again be stuck paying for something they don’t own and aren’t even using. (Cole’s “Boomtown” story: https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/special-reports/boomtown-dfw/lawsuit-rockwall-county-dr-horton-statewide-growth-implications/287-1579262b-138a-4692-927a-bb92982bff52) Guest Cole Sullivan, WFAA Reporter

In the July 27 episode, U.S. Representative Julie Johnson discusses whether she’ll even have a seat to run for next year. State Representative Chris Turner tells us why he thinks Republicans have yet to release the new political map. And Congressman Nathaniel Moran on how he’s trying to improve weather radar coverage in certain areas. GUESTS U.S. Representative Julie Johnson, D-32nd District State Representative Chris Turner, D-District 101 U.S. Representative Nathaniel Moran, R-1st District

President Donald Trump wants Republicans to gain five additional Congressional seats in Texas. And it appears the GOP will stop at nothing to carve out those seats for him, a battle that will rage during the special legislative session that begins July 21. In this episode of Y’all-itics, our insiders discuss the risk associated with a mid-decade redraw and which lawmakers might be left without a seat once the music stops in this game of political musical chairs. Guests Abby Livingston, Puck Reporter Alfredo Rodriguez III, Founder/President Dyce Communications

On this episode, state Sen. Paul Bettencourt lays out one idea to keep Texans safe during flash floods, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher takes questions on Democratic options in the upcoming redistricting, and state Sen. Nathan Johnson on his campaign for Texas Attorney General.

In the July 13 episode, State Rep. Mihaela Plesa explains why she’s concerned about the expanded special session. Renowned Texas meteorologist Troy Kimmel has a candid conversation about forecasters’ role leading up to the deadly Texas flooding. And Congressman Keith Self on why he voted for the tax and spending bill despite criticizing it up until the very end. Guests State Rep. Mihaela Plesa, D-District 70 Troy Kimmel, Texas Meteorologist U.S. Rep. Keith Self, R-3rd District

Still reeling from the catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country, state and local leaders are scrambling to come with a plan to prevent it from ever happening again. That starts with an examination of what went wrong. In this early release episode of Y’all-itics, we discuss the next steps. Renowned meteorologist Troy Kimmel has a candid conversation about the forecast preceding the deadly flooding, and the warnings that followed. And WFAA anchor Chris Lawrence explains what he saw firsthand on the ground, and the spirit of Texans helping Texans. Guests Troy Kimmel, Texas Meteorologist Chris Lawrence, WFAA Anchor

Estimates show Texas needs an extra 300,000+ housing units. To spur construction, the state just took away significant regulatory power from Texas cities. The passage of SB 840 will make it much easier for developers to bypass local restrictions and neighborhood objections when they create new housing out of empty office buildings, dying malls, or land that had been off-limits for residential construction. How will cities respond? And what's about to happen in your neighborhood? An apartment developer and an expert in urban economics & growth predict what comes next. Guests Barrett Linburg, Co-Founder/Savoy Equity Partners Cullum Clark, Ph.D., Director/Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth Initiative

In the June 29 episode, state Rep. Gene Wu questions why Texas would treat marijuana different than any other controlled substance. U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales explains how a south Texas facility producing sterile flies will help protect Texas livestock. And Fort Bend County Judge KP George tells us why he thinks he has a path to victory after his controversial switch from Democrat to Republican. Guests State Rep. Gene Wu, D-District 137 U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-23rd District KP George, R- Fort Bend County Judge

In the July 6 episode, Attorney Aaron Reitz explains why he’s running for Attorney General. Former state Senator Don Huffines tells us why he wants to be Texas Comptroller. And former Houston Mayor Annise Parker on why she wants to return to office after nearly a decade. Guests Aaron Reitz, (R) Candidate for Attorney General Don Huffines, (R) Candidate for Texas Comptroller Annise Parker, (D) Candidate for Harris County Judge

After six months of tumultuous change inside Dallas-based Southwest Airlines, from eliminating bag fees and open seating to talk of European flights and partnerships with other international carriers, CEO Bob Jordan promised the airline would keep evolving. “We won't stop here,” Jordan told the Jasons on this episode, “we're gonna keep changing." GUEST: Bob Jordan, Southwest Airlines CEO

In the June 22 episode, Kelly Hancock explains the political calculation behind leaving the Texas Senate for the Comptroller’s office. State Rep. Mitch Little, R-District 65, tells us why he supports a major redistricting effort and whether he’s running for Attorney General. And Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne, R-24th District, on where she stands on Iran and how she’s helping Texans find jobs.

EARLY RELEASE: You might not know his name and likely have trouble pronouncing it, but you’d better get to know Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti. He has led some landmark legal cases from college sports to concert tickets. Today, the U.S. Supreme Court just ruled in his favor with a precedent setting decision that bans gender affirming care for minors. In a recent trip to Texas, Skrmetti stopped by the Y’all-itics studio to see the Jasons, defend his work and make a ruling on Texas or Tennessee BBQ. Guest: Jonathan Skrmetti / Tennessee Attorney General

On the June 15 episode, former Congressman Colin Allred, a Dallas Democrat, tells ITP that he is close to making a decision on whether to run for U.S. Senate. But what would be different about a 2026 campaign than the one he ran last year against Ted Cruz? Plus, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick defends the legislature's THC ban as Gov. Abbott faces political pressure to veto it this week. Patrick also reveals two more issues he wants lawmakers to tackle - to make Texas more affordable. And colleagues called her relentless in the legislature. State Rep. Aicha Davis - a freshman and a Democrat - got 15 bills passed – 11 going to the governor. Guests Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick / R-Texas Former U.S. Congressman Colin Allred / D-Dallas State Rep. Aicha Davis / D-DeSoto

There’s a lot in play politically as we go into the summer. Will the legislature’s THC ban become law or get vetoed this month? Will Texas lawmakers come back for a special session next month at the request of President Trump? Every Texas legislature has gotten more conservative than the past. In this episode, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick discusses his priorities that passed, pushback and what he’s coming back for next session. GUEST: Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, R-Texas

Now that the 89th Texas Legislative Session is over in Texas, the Y’all-itics team decided to revisit a report that ranked the Lone Star State DEAD LAST in personal freedom. In this rewind episode of Y’all-itics, the Jasons were joined by Dr. William Ruger, a Texas native himself, who prepares the “Freedom in the 50 States” report for the Cato Institute. This episode originally aired on January 7, 2024. “Freedom in the 50 States” 2023 report| Cato Institute: https://www.freedominthe50states.org/ Guest William Ruger, CATO Institute

Keeping the lights on in Texas already ain’t cheap. Now, you can expect another surcharge on your electric bill. Four years after a severe winter storm nearly led to the total collapse of the Texas grid, the state is now allowing transmission utilities to produce plans to “harden” their equipment against a hodgepodge of threats like tree limbs, stronger storms, wildfires, and even hackers and substation saboteurs. The Jasons go to the headquarters of the largest utility in Texas to get details on the first resilience plan to be filed with the state… a $3 billion blueprint. How will it keep your lights on? And how will it be paid for? Guest Brian Lloyd, VP of Regulatory Policy for Oncor