The Engines of Our Ingenuity 3422: Women Soldiers
Episode: 3422 Women soldiers in the Civil War. How did that work? Today, woman soldiers in the Civil War.
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Hello Houston (October 19, 2026)
Today: We break down this year’s race for Texas Railroad Commissioner, learn about a new program aimed at addressing domestic violence, and discuss the importance of workplace inclusion. Plus, this week’s “Producer Spotlight.”
Meet the 6 candidates vying for Fort Bend County’s top seats
Six candidates are competing for three key county leadership seats in races that could shape the future of the diverse, largely suburban and growing county outside of Houston.
As Texans vote in competitive midterms, could Trump intervene in the election?
The president has left open the possibility of declaring a national security emergency ahead of the midterms. Here's what federal officials can — and can't — legally do.
Italian court will not extradite Lee Gilley to Harris County for capital murder charge, attorney says
While the Italian court said it would not extradite Gilley for capital murder, if would extradite him if his charge was reduced to murder.
Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (October 19, 2026)
For our busy Houston commuters, we have – The Commuter Cut – a special 40-minute version of our show to listen to during your journey home.
200 supporters rally for Hinojosa as Abbott is expected to campaign in Houston-area this week
Democratic candidate for governor Gina Hinojosa rallies with supporters the day before the state of early voting. The race has tightened in recent weeks. Governor Greg Abbott is also expected to spend time in the southeast Texas this week.
Migrant found dead at Laredo ICE facility
The death was confirmed by U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, who said the 56-year-old Mexican national was found unresponsive in his cell. He’s the seventh person in Texas to die while detained by ICE this year.
Airman dies in rappelling accident at Alamodome before UTSA-Navy game
An Air Force service member died after falling while rappelling from the Alamodome rafters during a pregame ceremony ahead of Saturday's UTSA-Navy football game.
Rethinking Data Regulation
Wonder How Much Personal Information Social Media Collects?
ICE incident under scrutiny (Oct. 19, 2026)
On Monday's show: When ICE agents ran into a man with a vehicle in Houston, the man they were targeting had actually been dead for several years, according to the man's family. We discuss that development in this latest incident involving ICE under scrutiny.
Where to vote early in Harris County for 2026 midterm election
Voters in Harris County can cast ballots at any polling location within their jurisdiction, regardless of where they live.
Affordability, immigration and a referendum on Trump: Listeners weigh in on the U.S. Senate race in Texas
Houston Public Media conducted a survey of what issues listeners considered the most significant in helping decide their votes between Republican state Attorney General Ken Paxton and Democratic state Rep. James Talarico.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 3421: Wigwam Burners
Episode: 3421 Wigwam burners and the dying breath of the mighty Douglas Fir tree. Today, wigwam burners.
Talarico holds slight edge over Paxton in U.S. Senate race on cusp of election, poll shows
The latest survey by the UH Hobby School of Public Affairs shows Democratic state Rep. James Talarico leading GOP Attorney General Ken Paxton by two percentage points among likely voters, just within the margin of error.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 1644: Hufeland on Infants
Episode: 1644 An 18th-century doctor helps great-grandmother raise grandpa. Today, we raise a nineteenth-century child.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 1643: Athanasius Kircher
Episode: 1643 In which Athanasius Kircher softens the 17th-C scientific revolution. Today, — after Galileo.
Cold front brings fall temperatures, wind advisory to Houston region
This weekend is expected to bring the area’s coldest temperatures since May.
15,000 Texas voter registrations caught up in backlog after another state software error
Counties must now process affected voter registrations before Monday, when Texans can start voting early in the midterm elections.
Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (October 16, 2026)
For our busy Houston commuters, we have – The Commuter Cut – a special 40-minute version of our show to listen to during your journey home.
Hello Houston (October 16, 2026)
Today: We learn about the Houston Chronicle’s endorsement process, reflect on the MTV era with former VJs Alan Hunter and Mark Goodman, and talk with Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare. Plus, TT On The Mic joins this week’s “Tessa Takes On.”
Barbara Bush donated to super PAC supporting James Talarico for U.S. Senate
The daughter of former President George W. Bush donated $2,500 to Lone Star Rising PAC, according to the political action committee's FEC report for the third quarter of 2026.
Harris County DA says witness to ICE auto-pedestrian incident has been relocated by ICE
A DHS spokesperson said the incident is under an active internal investigation, and the ICE agent has been suspended.
Houston officials tap former Trump aides for homelessness policy consulting
Whitmire, a Democrat, has leaned on Republicans in Austin and D.C. to secure funding for the city.
Execution livestream cancelled: The Good, Bad, and Ugly of the week
The Houston Matters panel of non-experts weighs in on stories from the week’s news and decides if they’re good, bad, or ugly.
Scandal, ICE Raids and Paxton’s Problems
Co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina delve into the latest news in politics
Border wall ‘man camps’ have rapidly spread across the Big Bend with little state oversight.
An investigation by Marfa Public Radio reveals the state's response to those complaints has been hindered by the Trump administration's move to bypass federal laws for the $7 billion project.
Elon Musk is the donor behind Senate Republicans’ massive rescue mission for Ken Paxton
The world’s wealthiest man transformed Texas’ U.S. Senate race with a massive cash infusion to the Senate GOP’s main outside group, which has taken over the airwaves with ads boosting Paxton.
More than $500 million has been spent on advertising in Texas’ U.S. Senate race
With a tight race between Ken Paxton and James Talarico, “the money is just pouring in.”
Flock camera oversight (Oct. 16, 2026)
On Friday's show: A report found gaps in oversight of Flock cameras in Harris County. And we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 1642: Halley’s Comet
Episode: 1642 Reflections upon Halley’s, and other, Comets. Today, a comet approaches.
Environmental activist raises concerns about proposed Galveston LNG facility
The Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees approved a lease and development agreement with Power LNG on Oct. 8.
Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (October 15, 2026)
For our busy Houston commuters, we have – The Commuter Cut – a special 40-minute version of our show to listen to during your journey home.
A North Texas school play was canceled over a girl playing a male role. Then it got complicated
The North Texas district says it’s complying with state law. But which state law?
Hello Houston (October 15, 2026)
Today: We unpack Paramount Skydance’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, discuss the decline in HPD’s cite-and-release program, and break down Texas AG Ken Paxton’s investigation into pediatricians over childhood vaccines.
Harris County commissioners delay action on Flock cameras after report raises questions about use
Commissioners voted to create a working group to discuss amendments to the county's automated license plate reader contracts. The group will produce suggestions by February 2027.
Why hurricanes can make fishing harder in Galveston, even without a direct hit
Hurricanes can affect water quality by stirring up sediment, dumping freshwater into coastal waters and causing large waves that disrupt saltwater fish.
What older Texans need to know about voting by mail
Eligible voters have until Oct. 23 to apply to vote by mail in the upcoming midterms.
Trump, after bipartisan backlash, says Pentagon won’t livestream execution of Fort Hood shooter
The Pentagon has said Hasan’s execution is scheduled for Dec. 3. Trump said the execution can be viewed in person by immediate families of the victims, “if they so choose.”
How to vote in the November 2026 midterm election in the Houston area
Early voting in Texas begins on Oct. 19 and runs until Oct. 30. Election Day is Nov. 3.
Trump says the border is secure. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott keeps declaring an emergency.
Since Abbott first declared a border emergency in 2021, he’s renewed or amended the proclamation at least 69 times. The proclamation has greatly expanded his powers.
How wild cotton on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula could improve crops worldwide
Researchers recently traced the birthplace of the world's dominant cotton species to the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Their sleuthing also uncovered a treasure trove of genetic diversity in wild populations, which could eventually make the crop more resilient.
Talarico says he doesn’t support abolishing ICE but criticizes their work under Trump as “secret police”
The comment is a break with a faction of Democrats, including ones in Texas, who have called for overhauling or abolishing ICE. As recently as February, Talarico had said he wanted to “tear down this secret police force.”
Astros’ next manager (Oct. 15, 2026)
On Thursday's show: We consider who might be a good fit to manage the Astros now that they're parting ways with Joe Espada. And we reflect on the history of Colt Stadium, the first home of Major League Baseball in Houston.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 3420: Dams
Episode: 3420 A look at power-producing dams and their safe use. Today, hydroelectric power.
Family of man struck by ICE vehicle and advocates dispute DHS’ story, demand appropriate medical treatment
A spokesperson for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) claimed Miguel Parra-Hernandez ran in front of an agent’s vehicle while they were trying to arrest a different man, Jose Mendoza-Cervantes.
Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (October 14, 2026)
For our busy Houston commuters, we have – The Commuter Cut – a special 40-minute version of our show to listen to during your journey home.
League City to disable Flock cameras if voters reject them in November
League City voters will have the opportunity to reject Flock cameras in November.
Hello Houston (October 14, 2026)
Today: Houston real estate agent Noel Collier discusses rising mortgage rates, best-selling author Veronica Roth tells us about her new book, “The Sixth Faction,” and we chat with Houston mixed-media artist Romeo Robinson. Plus, this week’s “On the Marquee.”
‘An extremely powerful state agency’: Three candidates vie for Texas railroad commissioner
The race has drawn national attention, after Republican nominee Bo French faced backlash for his social media posts.
Houston Astros do not renew Joe Espada’s contract, part ways with their manager
Espada began his coaching career in the Marlins organization, working in the minors until moving to the big league club as the third base coach in 2010.
FBI raids North Texas homes for alleged role in North Korean laptop farm operation
The investigation remains ongoing. The U.S. Attorney’s Office did not announce any arrests related to the laptop seizure.
Despite tough talk from Abbott and Paxton, Texas penalties for data center violations are light
Texas officials are promising tougher enforcement on data centers, but the existing law may offer limited leverage over the industry that has largely failed to report its water use.
San Antonio takes DHS, ICE to court over planned Eastside detention facility
San Antonio has filed a lawsuit seeking to halt development of a planned ICE detention facility over environmental review requirements.
The week in politics (Oct. 14, 2026)
On Wednesday's show: We discuss the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup. And we reflect on some of the "One-Hit Wonders of Texas High School Football," teams that came out of nowhere to win one unexpected state championship.
Republican Alex Mealer leads Leticia Gutierrez as her campaign scrubs Trump from website
The race has become more competitive — and mentions of President Donald Trump have disappeared from Mealer’s website.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 3419: A Better Spacesuit
Episode: 3419 NASA's 21st Century Space Suit. Today, building a better spacesuit.
Paxton says he won’t cut Social Security benefits, responding to leaked audio
Texas Attorney General and Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton said he would protect Social Security, but that cuts to federal spending are necessary to reduce the budget deficit in the long-term.
Future of historic Houston mansion remains uncertain under new ownership
The mansion’s history dates back to 1894, when then-businessman J.S. Price built the property’s original home. However, Houston Lumber baron John Henry Kirby renovated the property in the 1920s.
Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (October 13, 2026)
For our busy Houston commuters, we have – The Commuter Cut – a special 40-minute version of our show to listen to during your journey home.
Hello Houston (October 13, 2026)
Today: We break down the latest U.S. Supreme Court cases, listen to the newest edition of “Five Simple Questions” with Houston singer Brandon J. Marks, and talk with author Dr. Arelia R. Johnson about equity, language, and leadership.
Polls are a snapshot, and other helpful things to remember during the midterm elections
With Election Day just a few weeks away — and millions of votes already cast — midterm polls are everywhere. While polling can be a helpful tool to understand the electorate, it's not a crystal ball.
What are your rights if unmarked ICE agents target you?
After an unmarked vehicle ran over a man in Houston this past weekend, Houston Matters asks a civil rights attorney about the rights of citizens and non-citizens alike in these situations.
Texas appeals order requiring prison air conditioning, saying it puts operations at risk
TDCJ, which estimates climate control will cost $1.5 billion, said the federal judge’s order imposes “chaos and confusion” on the country’s largest prison system.
ICE, policing, & civil rights (Oct. 13, 2026)
On Tuesday's show: We discuss how federal agents identify themselves and the tactics they use with immigrants and U.S. citizens. And we visit a new robotics program at Galveston College.
Poll: Democratic candidates lead Republicans among likely Harris County voters in top statewide races
The poll shows state Rep. James Talarico leading Attorney General Ken Paxton among likely Harris County voters in the U.S. Senate race by 22 percentage points, while state Rep. Gina Hinojosa leads Gov. Greg Abbott among likely county voters in the Texas gubernatorial contest by 16 percentage points.
Survey: Democratic candidate Letitia Plummer leads Orlando Sanchez by 7 points for Harris County judge seat
The county judge acts as a county executive and the top elected leader of the five-member Harris County Commissioners Court, which oversees the third largest county in the nation.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 3418: King and Mboya
Episode: 3418 Martin Luther King Jr., Tom Mboya, and their joint legacy. Today, two talks.
Harris County prosecutors are investigating ICE auto-pedestrian incident in Houston
Miguel Parra-Hernandez underwent surgery after he was struck by an ICE vehicle on Saturday, allegedly breaking his leg and ankle. His attorney said she was denied a confidential meeting with him.
Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (October 12, 2026)
For our busy Houston commuters, we have – The Commuter Cut – a special 40-minute version of our show to listen to during your journey home.
Liberty County parents charged with murder for death of two children in August fire
On Aug. 11, the Cleveland Fire Department responded to a report of a vehicle fire with occupants trapped inside, according to the fire marshal’s office.
Hello Houston – LIVE at The Hobby Center (October 12, 2026)
Today: We broadcast from the 2026 Greater Houston Arts Forum at the Hobby Center to explore how the arts help shape the city of Houston.
HPD’s use of cite-and-release program decreases by 96%
Former Mayor Sylvester Turner implemented the program in 2020 in an effort to free up officers and reduce the jail population.
Talarico returns to campaign trail, renewing call for debate with Paxton
Democratic state Rep. James Talarico reiterated his time away was spent recovering from the flu.
Galveston residents invited to help shape national Juneteenth center
Two community meetings will take place on the island in October so residents can help curate a national home for Juneteenth history and culture on the island.
What voters in 6 key states could tell us about the 2026 midterms
Morning Edition is heading to Maine, Texas, North Carolina, Georgia, Ohio and Michigan to hear what voters say is shaping their choices ahead of the midterm elections.
NASA is decommissioning the ISS. It’s asking businesses to take its place in space
On Friday, the agency submitted its request for proposals from space industry businesses and organizations to develop new commercial space stations in low Earth orbit.
James Talarico returns to campaign trail at ACL festival after illness spurred GOP calls for “proof of life”
His showing at ACL was his first public appearance since Sept. 30, when he called in virtually to an event with the U.S. Hispanic Business Council.
Bankruptcy judge lifts pause on wrongful death lawsuits against Camp Mystic
The lawsuits were paused after the camp filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy relief in June.
Limiting school takeovers (Oct. 12, 2026)
On Monday's show: We learn what a recent report had to say about state takeovers of school districts like HISD. And we find out why dozens of Flock cameras have been decommissioned in western Harris County.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 3417: Archaeology of the Cinema
Episode: 3417 Archaeology of the Cinema: The long road to a moving picture story. Today, a book about movies.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 1641: Aaron Montgomery Ward
Episode: 1641 Aaron Montgomery Ward and the catalog that didn’t belong in a store. Today, meet Montgomery Ward.
ICE agent strikes, injures man with vehicle during pursuit in Houston, sheriff says
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office said that ICE had a warrant for the driver of the truck and the passenger allegedly does not have legal status in the U.S.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 1640: Learning Electricity
Episode: 1640 Learning electricity and learning about technological revolutions. Today, we become electrified.
‘A blessing in disguise’: How community support helped Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels delay meal cuts
For the first time in its 50-year-history, the local Meals on Wheels program was going to reduce its home delivered meals from seven to five meals per week last year. But the community stepped up to help delay cutting the number of meals it serves—at least until the end of this year.
‘A blessing in disguise’: How community support helped Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels delay meal cuts
For the first time in its 50-year-history, the local Meals on Wheels program was going to reduce its home delivered meals from seven to five meals per week last year. But the community stepped up to help delay cutting the number of meals it serves—at least until the end of this year.
Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (October 9, 2026)
For our busy Houston commuters, we have – The Commuter Cut – a special 40-minute version of our show to listen to during your journey home.
Hello Houston (October 9, 2026)
Today: We talk with Harris County Attorney Abbie Kamin, listen to this week’s “Tessa Takes On” with Bronze medalist Louie Hinchcliffe, and we showcase the “Call Me Mother Experience.” Plus, we share weekend events for “Last Minute Plans.”
‘Where’s Ron?’ Galveston’s ‘Island Hero’ is forced to leave familiar spot after safety concerns
For 30 years, Ron Radler has sold cold water at the same median on Galveston Island. Recently, law enforcement asked him to move away from the median since it violates state traffic laws. Radler says business has since been a lot harder to come by.
Major I-10 HOV connection to close for two years starting Friday evening
TxDOT recommends planning for an additional 15 to 30 minutes of travel time while traffic patterns adjust in the area.
14 Houston-area restaurants added to 2026 Michelin Guide
While no Houston-area restaurants received new Michelin stars this year, all six of last year’s honorees maintained their one-star status.
Trump, the Supreme Court & Texas’ Midterm Power Struggle
Co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina delve into the latest news in politics
Using Waffle House to track hurricane damage: The Good, Bad, and Ugly of the week
The Houston Matters panel of non-experts weighs in on stories from the week’s news and decides if they’re good, bad, or ugly.
Trump admin asks judge to let Big Bend border construction continue
In a court filing Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection asked the judge to suspend the previous order as the administration takes its case to the Supreme Court.
Oil companies evacuate offshore facilities in preparation for Hurricane Isaias
Energy experts say they don't expect the storm to have a long-term impact on gas prices, because the hurricane isn't projected to hit most of the refining facilities off the Gulf coast.
Houston police responded to a man in a mental health crisis. ICE arrested him
Houston Public Media obtained records showing interactions between HPD and ICE during a mental health crisis, suicide attempt and domestic disturbances.
Ken Paxton took nearly 1,000 trips with state-funded security detail costing millions of dollars
The Texas attorney general’s use of a taxpayer-funded travel security detail stands out when compared with his predecessor and other state officials, our analysis found.
Essential Houston movies (Oct. 9, 2026)
On Friday's show: We take a closer look at Hurricane Isaias and how it might affect Houston weather. And we consider the essential films set in Houston or about our city that we all should see.
The Engines of Our Ingenuity 1639: Flying to the Edge of Air
Episode: 1639 Helios, NASA’s high-flying almost-satellite. Today, let us ride Helios’ golden chariot.
Pentagon says the firing squad execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan will be livestreamed
Hegseth, speaking to the conservative TV outlet Real America’s Voice News on Wednesday, said, “We’ll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it’s public.”