Latest News in Austin, TX

Your trusted source for local Austin, TX news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.

Texas Democrats circle Senate race

Texas Democrats aim to break a 30-year drought in statewide elections as Republicans face internal strife ahead of a U.S. Senate primary. Former U.S. Rep. Beto O'Rourke is considering a run, while U.S. Rep. Colin Allred has officially entered the race, joining a growing Democratic field. A recent poll indicates a decline in approval for President Trump, fueling Democratic optimism.

Free tunes in the BBQ aisle

H-E-B launched a free concert series called "True Texas Tunes," starting at its Lake Austin location today. The series, which began last month in partnership with a local nonprofit, features performances every Wednesday from 4-6 p.m. due to high demand from previous shows.

Saharan Dust Creates Stunning Sunsets and Health Risks in Central Texas

A thick plume of Saharan dust has settled over Central Texas, creating stunning sunsets while posing health risks to vulnerable individuals. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warns that fine dust particles can trigger respiratory issues, particularly for those with asthma and allergies. The dust cloud is expected to dissipate by the end of the week.

Austin food trucks among nation's best

Nine food trucks from Austin ranked among the top 100 in the U.S., according to Yelp's latest tally. This recognition highlights the city's culinary excellence, outpacing other cities like Portland and Los Angeles. Yelp based its rankings on review volume and ratings, with health scores as a qualification criterion.

Austin things to do June 30-July 3

Techno band Future Blondes will perform at Chess Club on June 30, accompanied by openers Biproduct and Husks of the Dead. The event starts at 9 PM, with tickets priced at $12. This concert is part of a series of activities happening in Austin from June 30 to July 3.

Women nearing menopause drive GLP-1 boom

Women's prescriptions for GLP-1 drugs in Texas surged from 0.6% in 2020 to 4.34% in 2024, outpacing men's use, which rose from 0.66% to 3.39%. This trend underscores a growing focus on weight loss among women, particularly those approaching menopause.

Food Bank Scrambles After Abbott Nixes Summer EBT Aid for Millions of Texas Children

Governor Greg Abbott rejected $60 million in federal funding for the summer EBT program, which would have provided assistance to 3.7 million low-income Texas children. The Central Texas Food Bank criticized the decision, warning it will increase demand for its services despite not facing a direct funding loss.

UT Professor Maggie Rivas-Rodriguez Honored for Championing Latino Voices

Maggie Rivas-Rodriguez, a University of Texas at Austin professor, received the Texas 10 honor for her impactful teaching. After 27 years at her alma mater, she emphasizes the importance of storytelling in journalism and the inclusion of Latino voices through her Voces Oral History Center project.

Marcusen Park Stadium Flooded Austin Resident Battles Repeated Basement Flooding

Floodwaters are receding in Austin following intense storms, but significant damage remains, particularly at Marcusen Park Baseball Stadium. Local homeowner Amy Koppelman faces ongoing flooding issues in her basement, exacerbated by recent storms, leading to costly repairs and the need for community support.

MACC honors cultural contributors

The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center will present its Awards of Excellence this weekend, honoring local leaders in Latino cultural arts. This year's recipients include Claudia Chapa of the Austin Opera and Walter Guzmán of Guzmán Ballet Folklórico. The event will be livestreamed for public viewing.

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