Experts in the News

A lawsuit filed by Voto Latino contends that the newly drawn maps dilute the voting power of Texas' communities of color. Political fellow Mark Jones explained the legal fight ahead.

With redrawn district lines, parts of the Rio Grande Valley's traditionally Democratic Hidalgo County could shift right, said political science fellow Mark Jones. "We're likely to see a lot of national money, a lot of ads and a lot of work by national Republicans and national Democrats."

Matthew McConaughey has vaguely entertained the idea of a gubernatorial run, so far without any decisive action. Political science fellow Mark Jones thought the actor could get the required media coverage but saw risk in his running afoul of Texas party politics.

This week, the Texas Senate Redistricting Committee approved new U.S. House district maps for the state. Political science fellow Mark Jones discussed what happens next and the state of play in redistricting.

"During the Obama administration, Texas was the antithesis to the administration. And during the Biden administration, Texas is again," said political science fellow Mark Jones.