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National

Tested: Wall Street's appetite for sandwiches

Business

Luxury car buyers are trading down to mainstream brands

Inside the Senate's great escape plan

Politics & Policy

Exclusive: Trump Media unwinds crypto deals

Trump says he'll ask SCOTUS to reverse ballroom project ban

UT's power line sensor could better detect grid trouble

The sensors could help utility workers identify issues with power lines in real time.

News

University of Texas researchers say they&#x27;ve developed a new tool that could help spot problems on power lines before they <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="lead to outages" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/31/us-electric-grid-extreme-weather" data-vars-content-id="006173f0-d798-4909-a6a7-48462f515cce" data-vars-headline="UT&#x27;s power line sensor could better detect grid trouble" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/31/us-electric-grid-extreme-weather" target="_self">lead to outages</a>.Why it matters: As Texas adds <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data centers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2025/12/02/the-data-center-boom-upwardly-revised" data-vars-content-id="006173f0-d798-4909-a6a7-48462f515cce" data-vars-headline="UT&#x27;s power line sensor could better detect grid trouble" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2025/12/02/the-data-center-boom-upwardly-revised" target="_self">data centers</a>, renewable energy and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="more people" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/31/texas-population-surge-latinos-2026-senate-race" data-vars-content-id="006173f0-d798-4909-a6a7-48462f515cce" data-vars-headline="UT&#x27;s power line sensor could better detect grid trouble" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/31/texas-population-surge-latinos-2026-senate-race" target="_self">more people</a>, utilities are looking for better ways to monitor an aging <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="electric grid" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2026/06/12/texas-power-grid-summer-demand-ercot-forecast" data-vars-content-id="006173f0-d798-4909-a6a7-48462f515cce" data-vars-headline="UT&#x27;s power line sensor could better detect grid trouble" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2026/06/12/texas-power-grid-summer-demand-ercot-forecast" target="_self">electric grid</a> in real time.

Test your knowledge of Texas U.S. Senate history

As James Talarico and Ken Paxton battle it out, we ask questions about Texas' U.S. senators.

Three recent polls have shown state Rep. James Talarico, D-Austin, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="narrowly leading" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/04/poll-talarico-has-slim-lead-over-paxton-in-texas-senate-race" data-vars-content-id="82789aa2-a444-4d28-9a1b-b7e26c84946e" data-vars-headline="Test your knowledge of Texas U.S. Senate history" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/04/poll-talarico-has-slim-lead-over-paxton-in-texas-senate-race" target="_self">narrowly leading</a> state Attorney General Ken Paxton in the U.S. Senate race.<ul><li>For this week&#x27;s quiz, show us just how much of a Texas political junkie you are.</li></ul>

The cost of removing Austin's street art

The final total may increase, city officials tell Axios, as more costs roll in.

We can now put a dollars-and-cents figure on a state directive to get rid of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="roadway artwork" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/06/23/austin-painted-crosswalks-removal-abbott" data-vars-content-id="f4ef181f-e518-4c06-a5b1-5e51aaf150f4" data-vars-headline="The cost of removing Austin&#x27;s street art" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/06/23/austin-painted-crosswalks-removal-abbott" target="_self">roadway artwork</a> in Austin.Why it matters: Critics have argued the state order is politically motivated and targets artwork celebrating <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="LGBTQ+" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/20/lgbtq-americans-housing" data-vars-content-id="f4ef181f-e518-4c06-a5b1-5e51aaf150f4" data-vars-headline="The cost of removing Austin&#x27;s street art" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/20/lgbtq-americans-housing" target="_self">LGBTQ+</a> and minority communities.

The rise of mood drinks

Sales of functional beverages generated $31.3 billion in U.S. sales over the past year, per data from NIQ.

As <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Americans rethink alcohol" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/13/alcohol-drinking-rate-low-health" data-vars-content-id="cba336d5-167d-4189-85ea-a67669b648f1" data-vars-headline="The rise of mood drinks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/13/alcohol-drinking-rate-low-health" target="_self">Americans rethink alcohol</a>, beverage startups are racing to fill the gap with drinks that promise social connection without the hangover.Why it matters: Consumers are increasingly choosing beverages based on what they want the drink to do — energize them, improve <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gut health" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/04/13/gut-health-immune-system-anxiety-digestion" data-vars-content-id="cba336d5-167d-4189-85ea-a67669b648f1" data-vars-headline="The rise of mood drinks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/04/13/gut-health-immune-system-anxiety-digestion" target="_self">gut health</a> or help unwind — fueling a boom in products <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="marketed around function" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/pro/retail-deals/2024/03/15/functional-beverage-recess-25-million" data-vars-content-id="cba336d5-167d-4189-85ea-a67669b648f1" data-vars-headline="The rise of mood drinks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/pro/retail-deals/2024/03/15/functional-beverage-recess-25-million" target="_self">marketed around function</a> rather than flavor.

Texas Testbed: What's next for 3D-printed homes

3D-printed construction is expanding, but it's unclear whether it will drive down housing costs.

This report is part of &quot;Texas Testbed,&quot; a series on how the state is becoming a real-world lab for emerging technologies.Giant robotic printers are back at Community First! Village, building more than 100 homes as part of the East Austin neighborhood&#x27;s expansion for people coming out of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homelessness" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/21/abbott-homeless-encampments-austin" data-vars-content-id="a0fb0998-8e58-4fbe-87a8-1320c8aac785" data-vars-headline="Texas Testbed: What&#x27;s next for 3D-printed homes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/10/21/abbott-homeless-encampments-austin" target="_self">homelessness</a>.

San Antonio

Homa brings AI-powered homebuying to Texas

Texas buyers have a new option when shopping for homes.

Real Estate

AI-powered real estate platform <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Homa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tryhoma.com/" data-vars-content-id="bc4bdb51-03f9-493b-b704-c33fb555c5e9" data-vars-headline="Homa brings AI-powered homebuying to Texas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tryhoma.com/" target="_blank">Homa</a> has expanded into Texas, promising <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="buyers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/04/03/san-antonio-homeowners-occupations" data-vars-content-id="bc4bdb51-03f9-493b-b704-c33fb555c5e9" data-vars-headline="Homa brings AI-powered homebuying to Texas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/04/03/san-antonio-homeowners-occupations" target="_self">buyers</a> rebates of up to 2% of a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="home&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/02/11/san-antonio-homeowners-mortgage-rates-years" data-vars-content-id="bc4bdb51-03f9-493b-b704-c33fb555c5e9" data-vars-headline="Homa brings AI-powered homebuying to Texas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/02/11/san-antonio-homeowners-mortgage-rates-years" target="_self">home&#x27;s</a> purchase price.Why it matters: The company promises buyers a chance to offset closing costs by returning much of the buyer&#x27;s agent commission.

The grid's climate stress test

Every heat wave is becoming a stress test for tomorrow's electric grid.

Energy & Climate

A series of dangerous <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="heat waves" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/03/wildfire-weather-firework-bans-july-4-weekend" data-vars-content-id="42106a81-a9b9-4e0f-aff2-f4d91cac0225" data-vars-headline="The grid&#x27;s climate stress test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/03/wildfire-weather-firework-bans-july-4-weekend" target="_self">heat waves</a> this summer — including one that has left 17 states under an emergency federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="order" data-vars-click-url="https://www.energy.gov/documents/doe-order-no-202-26-37" data-vars-content-id="42106a81-a9b9-4e0f-aff2-f4d91cac0225" data-vars-headline="The grid&#x27;s climate stress test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.energy.gov/documents/doe-order-no-202-26-37" target="_blank">order</a> — are putting the electric grid under an intense real-world stress test.Why it matters: Successive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="summer heat waves" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/06/us-heat-wave-death-toll-july-2026" data-vars-content-id="42106a81-a9b9-4e0f-aff2-f4d91cac0225" data-vars-headline="The grid&#x27;s climate stress test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/06/us-heat-wave-death-toll-july-2026" target="_self">summer heat waves</a> are forcing utilities to rethink how they prepare the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="grid" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate" data-vars-content-id="42106a81-a9b9-4e0f-aff2-f4d91cac0225" data-vars-headline="The grid&#x27;s climate stress test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate" target="_self">grid</a> for longer and more frequent periods of extreme stress.

More boots are coming to South Congress

There are already five boot sellers within blocks of the property.

Another boot maker is preparing to open a storefront on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="South Congress Avenue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/01/30/state-of-austin-retail" data-vars-content-id="a3fa4cbd-8f06-4944-81ba-8522c081c152" data-vars-headline="More boots are coming to South Congress" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/01/30/state-of-austin-retail" target="_self">South Congress Avenue</a>.Why it matters: The bustling commercial strip once known for an eclectic mix of locally owned shops and restaurants is now a destination for cowboy boots and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Western apparel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2024/11/15/kendra-scott-new-store-south-congress" data-vars-content-id="a3fa4cbd-8f06-4944-81ba-8522c081c152" data-vars-headline="More boots are coming to South Congress" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2024/11/15/kendra-scott-new-store-south-congress" target="_self">Western apparel</a>.

University of Texas baseball heads back to World Series

The Longhorns are making their record 39th trip to Omaha.

The University of Texas <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="men&#x27;s baseball team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/04/15/1983-longhorns-baseball-team-documentary" data-vars-content-id="8177cfa7-009f-407b-9d39-8f1bdc1202e5" data-vars-headline="University of Texas baseball heads back to World Series" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/04/15/1983-longhorns-baseball-team-documentary" target="_self">men&#x27;s baseball team</a>, ranked sixth nationally, will face No. 3 Georgia in its opening game of the 2026 men&#x27;s College World Series on Saturday. Why it matters: UT is arguably the New York Yankees of college baseball — this berth marks its record 39th appearance in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="College World Series" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2022/06/17/texas-longhorns-world-series-omaha" data-vars-content-id="8177cfa7-009f-407b-9d39-8f1bdc1202e5" data-vars-headline="University of Texas baseball heads back to World Series" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2022/06/17/texas-longhorns-world-series-omaha" target="_self">College World Series</a>.

Everything you need to know about the World Cup in Texas

Houston and Dallas are hosting their first World Cup matches on Sunday.

Headed to the World Cup in Houston or Dallas? Our colleagues in those cities rounded up what you need to know. The big picture: Houston is hosting seven World Cup matches starting Sunday with Germany vs. Curaçao. The Netherlands and Japan play Dallas Stadium&#x27;s first match on Sunday.

Where doulas are covered by Medicaid

Many states now reimburse for doula care under Medicaid — but not Texas.

Wellness Brief

More than half of U.S. states now reimburse for doula care under Medicaid — but Texas isn&#x27;t among those states.The latest: The Texas Legislature passed a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="maternal health care bill" data-vars-click-url="https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HB514/2025" data-vars-content-id="8992a949-27ea-4b9a-b30a-71bae44ed065" data-vars-headline="Where doulas are covered by Medicaid" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HB514/2025" target="_blank">maternal health care bill</a> in 2025, but it doesn&#x27;t have a concrete Medicaid coverage plan.

Doulas go mainstream

Research links doula support to lower cesarean rates and fewer preterm births.

Doula care is moving into the mainstream as major insurers expand coverage and more patients incorporate it into pregnancy care.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Research has linked" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(22)00261-9/fulltext" data-vars-content-id="149858e8-641b-4a93-a0a4-f23efdb44670" data-vars-headline="Doulas go mainstream" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(22)00261-9/fulltext" target="_blank">Research has linked</a> doula support to lower cesarean rates and fewer preterm births.

Exclusive: GOP plans socialism telethon at midterm convention

They're essentially planning a "Yes, but they're worse" campaign centered on the Democratic left.

Republicans plan to use their first-ever <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterm convention" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/30/trump-republican-midterm-convention-dallas-texas" data-vars-content-id="f74d7066-f5ae-4aa9-92c8-378fe988bc02" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: GOP plans socialism telethon at midterm convention" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/30/trump-republican-midterm-convention-dallas-texas" target="_self">midterm convention</a> in Dallas next month to mount a sweeping, made-for-prime-time case that Democrats have become captive to their activist left, Axios has learned.Why it matters: With President Trump&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="approval rating" data-vars-click-url="https://www.natesilver.net/p/trump-approval-ratings-nate-silver-bulletin" data-vars-content-id="f74d7066-f5ae-4aa9-92c8-378fe988bc02" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: GOP plans socialism telethon at midterm convention" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.natesilver.net/p/trump-approval-ratings-nate-silver-bulletin" target="_blank">approval rating</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in the 30s" data-vars-click-url="https://poll.qu.edu/poll-release?releaseid=3964" data-vars-content-id="f74d7066-f5ae-4aa9-92c8-378fe988bc02" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: GOP plans socialism telethon at midterm convention" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://poll.qu.edu/poll-release?releaseid=3964" target="_blank">in the 30s</a> and his war in Iran weighing on the economy, Republicans don&#x27;t want the Nov. 3 midterms to be just a referendum on his presidency.

Austin scores World Cup bump

New data suggests the tournament brought more visitors to the city.

Austin didn&#x27;t host a single World Cup match, but the tournament still appears to have brought more visitors and spending to the city.Why it matters: The World Cup offered a test for whether cities outside the host lineup could capitalize on one of the world&#x27;s biggest sporting events.

Dallas

Texas delta-8 ban takes effect

The ban could remove more than half of the THC products from some store shelves.

Texans can no longer buy delta-8 products in the state under new THC rules that went into effect Friday.Why it matters: Texas&#x27; hemp businesses are experiencing one of the &quot;most volatile regulatory stretches the state industry has ever experienced,&quot; the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Texas Cannabis Policy Center" data-vars-click-url="https://texascannabispolicy.org/news-and-updates/f/cannabis-policy-update---may-2026" data-vars-content-id="2f9b6c99-01aa-4bf5-9524-799ab80d24ca" data-vars-headline="Texas delta-8 ban takes effect" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://texascannabispolicy.org/news-and-updates/f/cannabis-policy-update---may-2026" target="_blank">Texas Cannabis Policy Center</a> says.

Margarita is the best drink in Texas

The frozen margarita machine was invented in Dallas in the 1970s.

The people have spoken.Why it matters: Axios Texas readers have crowned the margarita as the best drink in the Lone Star State.

Hot summer in Austin, despite few triple-digit days

The temperatures in some Central Texas waterways are in the mid 80s.

Austin&#x27;s summer has felt very hot, even without many triple-digit days.Why it matters: While this has not been a record-breaking summer, mercury-wise, it&#x27;s been an uncomfortable one.

Austin blood bank urges summer donations

Blood donations dip every summer, but Austin's blood supply has remained steady despite the national shortage.

Austin&#x27;s We Are Blood says it&#x27;s weathering this summer&#x27;s donation slump better than many regions, but blood bank officials are still asking residents to roll up their sleeves.Why it matters: The U.S. blood supply has reached crisis levels, prompting the American Red Cross and the Surgeon General to urge Americans to donate before shortages delay surgeries, trauma care and other lifesaving treatments.

Antone's joins vinyl take-back program

Music fans can return damaged or unplayable vinyl records to potentially be recycled.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Antone&#x27;s Record Shop" data-vars-click-url="https://antonesrecordshop.com/" data-vars-content-id="776afb5e-35ae-41cb-a4c2-3d0d9458bf63" data-vars-headline="Antone&#x27;s joins vinyl take-back program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://antonesrecordshop.com/" target="_blank">Antone&#x27;s Record Shop</a> in Austin has joined a new nationwide vinyl take-back program that aims to give broken and unwanted records a second life.Why it matters: Vinyl has enjoyed a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="resurgence over the past decade" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/04/21/record-store-day-returns-amid-climbing-vinyl-sales" data-vars-content-id="776afb5e-35ae-41cb-a4c2-3d0d9458bf63" data-vars-headline="Antone&#x27;s joins vinyl take-back program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/04/21/record-store-day-returns-amid-climbing-vinyl-sales" target="_self">resurgence over the past decade</a>, but there&#x27;s been little focus on what happens when records become damaged, beyond repair or owners no longer want them.

Texas beaches within a 4-hour drive of Austin

Dreaming of sand and saltwater? We've rounded up some of our favorite Texas beaches.

Things to Do

With summer underway, we&#x27;re breaking down our favorite beaches that are roughly four hours or less from Austin.<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Galveston</h2>Pros: Galveston&#x27;s free beaches and the history surrounding the city give you plenty to do during a weekend trip.

Austin performer brings Netflix shows to deaf families

Viewers can watch deaf performers overlaid alongside the original programming.

Austin performer JoAnn Benfield is helping bring Netflix&#x27;s most-beloved children&#x27;s shows and movies to deaf families in American Sign Language.Why it matters: Many deaf children use ASL as their primary language, meaning captions alone don&#x27;t always make programming fully accessible.

How well do you know the connection between Austin and "Friday Night Lights"?

The "Friday Nights Lights" cast is on a 20th anniversary tour. How well do you know the show?

The TV show &quot;Friday Night Lights&quot; is celebrating its 20th anniversary.Why it matters: The series, set in the fictional town of Dillon, was filmed in and around Austin.

Your guide to summer swimming in Austin

Here's where to cool off, from Barton Springs to hotel pools.

Ready for the heat? We&#x27;re staring down highs in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mid- to upper 90s" data-vars-click-url="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=30.4882&amp;lon=-97.7618" data-vars-content-id="25b3ec47-73ac-4ec1-bc7c-6dec4ea57c66" data-vars-headline="Your guide to summer swimming in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=30.4882&amp;lon=-97.7618" target="_blank">mid- to upper 90s</a> through the weekend.Why it matters: Luckily, there are plenty of places to cool down in Central Texas.

How to chaos garden in Austin

Garden experts warn that tossing random seed packets into the yard doesn't always work as advertised.

Chaos gardening — the viral <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="TikTok" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/chaosgardening" data-vars-content-id="d7a5e7c3-ae20-4449-96a1-48f8eb1b440f" data-vars-headline="How to chaos garden in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/chaosgardening" target="_blank">TikTok</a> trend of scattering seeds and &quot;letting nature decide&quot; — is taking root as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="demand for native plants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/04/21/seven-native-plants-for-gardening-in-austin" data-vars-content-id="d7a5e7c3-ae20-4449-96a1-48f8eb1b440f" data-vars-headline="How to chaos garden in Austin" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2023/04/21/seven-native-plants-for-gardening-in-austin" target="_self">demand for native plants</a> is rising in drought-stricken Central Texas.Why it matters: Chaos gardens appeal to homeowners seeking lower-maintenance yards that also help local wildlife thrive.

Desert Island Dish with Abby Love of Abby Jane Bakeshop

The bakery shares a space with Barton Springs Mill and uses the mill's flour in its pastries and bread.

Abby Love spends her day creating some of Central Texas&#x27; best pastries. But if she&#x27;s stranded on a desert island, she&#x27;s skipping the croissants and reaching for a basket of fried Gulf shrimp.Catch up quick: Love is the owner of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Abby Jane Bakeshop" data-vars-click-url="https://abbyjanebakes.com/" data-vars-content-id="9de1d0b6-f540-4045-97cd-6ae508ebe5c6" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Abby Love of Abby Jane Bakeshop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://abbyjanebakes.com/" target="_blank">Abby Jane Bakeshop</a> in Dripping Springs, which she opened in 2021 after working as the head pastry chef at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dai Due" data-vars-click-url="https://www.daidue.com/" data-vars-content-id="9de1d0b6-f540-4045-97cd-6ae508ebe5c6" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Abby Love of Abby Jane Bakeshop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.daidue.com/" target="_blank">Dai Due</a> in Austin.

Where to find a Hugo spritz in Austin

Austin's Aba has brought back its "spritz tower," allowing customers to mix and match.

Food and Drink

The spritz is looking a little less orange these days.The big picture: Although Aperol spritz remains a warm-weather staple, the pale green Hugo spritz — typically made with prosecco, elderflower liqueur and soda water with mint and lime for garnish — is emerging as a major summer cocktail.

How to celebrate Fourth of July weekend in Austin

We've rounded up the top Fourth of July weekend events around Austin.

Austin is gearing up for a lively July Fourth as America celebrates its 250th anniversary.The big picture: From Willie Nelson&#x27;s annual picnic to fireworks over Lady Bird Lake, here are our favorite shows, celebrations and giveaways all weekend long.

Desert Island Dish with Alex Dubey

What the co-owner of a mainstay Austin Italian restaurant would bring to a desert island.

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="f2f86d99-355f-44de-add1-70d13c7927f8" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Alex Dubey" 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 restaurateurs&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="favorite meals" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/10/desert-island-dish-brian-batch" data-vars-content-id="f2f86d99-355f-44de-add1-70d13c7927f8" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Alex Dubey" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/10/desert-island-dish-brian-batch" target="_self">favorite meals</a>, we recently caught up with Alex Dubey, co-owner (with his wife, Cristina Yoder) of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Quattro Gatti" data-vars-click-url="https://www.quattrogattiaustin.com/" data-vars-content-id="f2f86d99-355f-44de-add1-70d13c7927f8" data-vars-headline="Desert Island Dish with Alex Dubey" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.quattrogattiaustin.com/" target="_blank">Quattro Gatti</a>, the beloved little Italian restaurant on Congress Avenue, by the Capitol. Background: Dubey, 40, grew up in Florida, and has worked in the food industry since college, starting as a server at the French restaurant Jean-Georges in New York.

Cool off at Austin's Kyoko Coffee

The cafe operates out of a greenish-baby-blue mini-van.

As part of our running summer series on cold drinks around town, we stopped by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kyoko Coffee" data-vars-click-url="https://kyokocoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="506f8ef9-f7bd-4846-91a9-457e2cc24ece" data-vars-headline="Cool off at Austin&#x27;s Kyoko Coffee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://kyokocoffee.com/" target="_blank">Kyoko Coffee</a>, on Airport Boulevard, just by Austin Community College&#x27;s Highland campus.Why it matters: Life is short and summer is long.

Hoover's Cooking owner: "I ain't done yet"

The founder of Hoover's Cooking reflects on closing the East Austin institution and his plans for the future.

After nearly three decades serving Texas comfort food in East <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Austin" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/signup/austin" data-vars-content-id="457a9166-fa7c-46e7-bad8-f56aa54173bc" data-vars-headline="Hoover&#x27;s Cooking owner: &quot;I ain&#x27;t done yet&quot;" 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>, Hoover Alexander says the decision to close Hoover&#x27;s Cooking came down to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="business realities" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/10/restaurants-we-re-missing" data-vars-content-id="457a9166-fa7c-46e7-bad8-f56aa54173bc" data-vars-headline="Hoover&#x27;s Cooking owner: &quot;I ain&#x27;t done yet&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/12/10/restaurants-we-re-missing" target="_self">business realities</a>, changing priorities and a desire for more balance in his life.Driving the news: On Monday, customers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gathered for &quot;Hoova&#x27; Palooza,&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/06/11/hoovers-cooking-austin" data-vars-content-id="457a9166-fa7c-46e7-bad8-f56aa54173bc" data-vars-headline="Hoover&#x27;s Cooking owner: &quot;I ain&#x27;t done yet&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/06/11/hoovers-cooking-austin" target="_self">gathered for &quot;Hoova&#x27; Palooza,&quot;</a> a farewell celebration where Mayor Kirk Watson presented Alexander with a key to the city in recognition of the restaurant&#x27;s impact on Austin.

Cornyn donors largely keep distance from Paxton

GOP Senate candidate Ken Paxton likely must win over U.S. Sen John Cornyn's supporters to win in November.

Few major donors to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. Sen. John Cornyn" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/27/texas-primary-paxton-cornyn-takeaways" data-vars-content-id="86129321-01fa-43ee-a0e4-943eef7e95a8" data-vars-headline="Cornyn donors largely keep distance from Paxton" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/27/texas-primary-paxton-cornyn-takeaways" target="_self">U.S. Sen. John Cornyn</a> have thrown their weight behind <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="GOP Senate nominee Ken Paxton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" data-vars-content-id="86129321-01fa-43ee-a0e4-943eef7e95a8" data-vars-headline="Cornyn donors largely keep distance from Paxton" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" target="_self">GOP Senate nominee Ken Paxton</a> since the Texas attorney general defeated Cornyn in a May runoff, per an Axios analysis of newly released federal campaign finance data.Why it matters: Paxton likely must rally Cornyn supporters to his side to defeat Democrat James Talarico, a state legislator from Austin and a formidable fundraiser seeking to appeal to moderate voters.

Gov. Greg Abbott calls for broad data center rules

Data center regulation could be a 2027 legislative focus.

Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday directed state energy officials to take up <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/05/13/texas-coal-gas-power-plants-data-centers-water" data-vars-content-id="5b1cf63d-d887-40f3-b511-1bb1bc48bbcf" data-vars-headline="Gov. Greg Abbott calls for broad data center rules" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/05/13/texas-coal-gas-power-plants-data-centers-water" target="_self">data center</a> regulations aimed at protecting Texans from higher electricity bills.Why it matters: Texas is seen as one of the friendliest states in the nation for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center development" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/18/data-center-growth-map-states" data-vars-content-id="5b1cf63d-d887-40f3-b511-1bb1bc48bbcf" data-vars-headline="Gov. Greg Abbott calls for broad data center rules" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/18/data-center-growth-map-states" target="_self">data center development</a>, with one of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="most generous tax incentives" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/17/ai-data-centers-best-worst" data-vars-content-id="5b1cf63d-d887-40f3-b511-1bb1bc48bbcf" data-vars-headline="Gov. Greg Abbott calls for broad data center rules" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/17/ai-data-centers-best-worst" target="_self">most generous tax incentives</a>. Abbott&#x27;s requests are notable in a state known for lax rules governing businesses.

How the Talarico-Paxton race could play out

Talarico links the affordability crisis with corruption, while Paxton frames the Democrat as out of touch.

With Ken Paxton&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="GOP primary win" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" data-vars-content-id="f1d8eded-ce80-478f-a801-449ff75d69a2" data-vars-headline="How the Talarico-Paxton race could play out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" target="_self">GOP primary win</a> this week, Democrats now have the Republican Senate candidate, tactically speaking, they were hoping for.<ul><li>Now the question is whether their nominee, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Talarico" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" data-vars-content-id="f1d8eded-ce80-478f-a801-449ff75d69a2" data-vars-headline="How the Talarico-Paxton race could play out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/27/texas-senate-gop-cornyn-paxton" target="_self">James Talarico</a>, a young state lawmaker from Austin, can deliver them out of the wilderness.</li></ul>

Austin City Council to consider rules for e-motos

In Austin, there is no local code governing where e-motos can operate.

The Austin City Council on Thursday will consider taking an initial step toward regulating electric dirt bikes and mini motorcyles, or e-motos.Why it matters: A growing number of children and teens are riding the high-powered bikes on Austin streets, alarming residents and prompting safety concerns from local officials.

Middleton defeats Roy in Texas AG race

Middleton successfully cast himself as the MAGA candidate, even as President Trump didn't endorse in the race.

Politics

State Sen. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mayes Middleton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/18/texas-attorney-general-may-runoff" data-vars-content-id="742ac211-8db8-41c8-b685-203a2d2ed8d7" data-vars-headline="Middleton defeats Roy in Texas AG race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/18/texas-attorney-general-may-runoff" target="_self">Mayes Middleton</a> of Galveston defeated U.S. Rep. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chip Roy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/08/chip-roy-texas-attorney-general-paxton-cornyn" data-vars-content-id="742ac211-8db8-41c8-b685-203a2d2ed8d7" data-vars-headline="Middleton defeats Roy in Texas AG race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/08/chip-roy-texas-attorney-general-paxton-cornyn" target="_self">Chip Roy</a> in the GOP runoff for Texas attorney general Tuesday night.Why it matters: Middleton successfully cast himself as the MAGA candidate, even as President Trump didn&#x27;t endorse in the race.

Texas GOP voters oust Cornyn in Paxton upset

Cornyn's loss marks one of the most significant defeats for a Republican senator in years.

Republican primary voters on Tuesday rejected U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, one of the Senate&#x27;s most senior GOP members, in favor of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump-backed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/trump-endorsement-texas-senate-race-ken-paxton" data-vars-content-id="319ecb20-8e5a-415d-9d5a-b2a8fc1d11fc" data-vars-headline="Texas GOP voters oust Cornyn in Paxton upset" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/trump-endorsement-texas-senate-race-ken-paxton" target="_self">Trump-backed</a> Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.Why it matters: Cornyn&#x27;s loss marks one of the most significant defeats for a Republican senator in years and underscores how loyalty to <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="319ecb20-8e5a-415d-9d5a-b2a8fc1d11fc" data-vars-headline="Texas GOP voters oust Cornyn in Paxton upset" 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> continues to reshape GOP primaries nationwide.

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