Federal policy, Washington politics, and global stories — filtered for how they actually affect Texans: energy markets, trade, the border, and the economy.
Texas Braces for Hit as US-Mexico-Canada Trade Deal Stays in Limbo
Stalled USMCA renegotiation and new tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods threaten $350 billion in annual Texas trade — about 12% of the state's economy — leaving manufacturers unable to plan long-term investments.
Rep. Pfluger, Sen. Lummis Push Bill to Shield Small Oil Producers
The Protect Domestic Oil and Gas Small Business Act, led by Midland's August Pfluger, would exempt smaller Permian Basin producers from federal air-pollution rules written for large-scale operators.
Texas Sheriffs Face December Deadline to Sign ICE Cooperation Deals
SB 8 requires every Texas sheriff who runs a jail to enter a 287(g) enforcement agreement with ICE; the law took effect Jan. 1, with full compliance required by Dec. 1, 2026.
Oil Prices Steady as Strait of Hormuz Reopens, Permian Rigs Tick Up
Crude settled near $82 a barrel after the U.S. and Iran signed a deal reopening the Strait of Hormuz; the Permian Basin added rigs as production is forecast to keep climbing modestly through 2026.
Mexico's Trade Edge Grows as Global Tariffs Rise Elsewhere
Mexico's preferential U.S. market access is drawing manufacturers away from other hubs even amid the USMCA standoff — a shift that could reshape supply chains Texas depends on.
U.S. Economy Unexpectedly Shed Jobs in July; Texas Market Holds Steadier
The Labor Department reported a surprise drop in July payrolls amid inflation and Iran-war-related uncertainty, while Texas employment data show a comparatively steadier rebound heading into fall.