Votes Vs. Vibes
What to know: According to Newsweek, the Democrats’ “pipe dream of turning Texas blue” has taken another “step forward” with state Rep. James Talarico’s primary win in the U.S. Senate race.
The TPPF take: That’s truly a pipe dream, according to history and math.
“In both 2008 and 2020, Democratic primary turnout exceeded Republican turnout,” says TPPF’s Brian Phillips. “In those same elections, Democratic presidential nominees Barack Obama and Joe Biden still lost Texas by 12 points and 5.5 points, respectively. Primary turnout did not translate into statewide victory. A more important question remains unanswered, how many of these ‘new’ primary voters are actually new to the electorate? If they were already voting in general elections, their participation Tuesday does not expand the progressive coalition.”
For more on voting patterns, click here.
Telling the Truth
What to know: A CBS Austin reporter was told to not cover a rally of Iranians in Austin who turned out to be pro-Trump. He refused, and covered the rally accurately.
The TPPF take: That reporter should be commended for his integrity.
“After the Americans and Israelis attacked Iran on Sunday, a spontaneous rally erupted outside the Texas Capitol with demonstrators—including some Iranian Americans—and immigrants waving flags and shouting, ‘Thank you, Trump!” says TPPF’s Sherry Sylvester. “A CBS Austin reporter, Vinny Martorano, who was covering the event, was recorded on camera receiving a text directing him not to include the pro-Trump supporters in his news report. Martorano said no. He’s a winner. CBS Austin says it didn’t happen, but there is the tape.”
For more on accuracy in the news, click here.
Civics in Action
What to know: Civics education is more important that ever, as “Young people today are experiencing civic apathy,” according to experts.
The TPPF take: A new Texas program aims to improve civic literacy in the Lone Star State.
“At a time when we Americans routinely worry about the health of our civic culture, the U.S. Department of Education has made a notable investment,” says TPPF’s Richard Johnson. “Earlier this month, the department approved a $1.9-million grant for ‘The American Civic Tradition at 250,’ a joint initiative of Texas Southern University and West Texas A&M University aimed at improving civic literacy in underserved communities.”
For more on civics, click here.