Party Politics

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Overwhelmed by the political news cycle every week? We get it — that’s why we’re ‘keeping the fun but losing all the drama’ of politics! Party Politics podcast is hosted by Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina, two smart and sassy University of Houston political science professors, who deliver a friendly, funny, and casually informative recap of the week's biggest political news stories. Join the conversation on Twitter @HPMPolitics; use #PartyPoliticsPod to ask Brandon and Jeronimo questions; or email us at Party Politics.

  1. HACE 1 DÍA

    Texas Primary Overdrive: Runoffs, Realignments, and Record Turnout

    On this episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Jeronimo Cortina and Brandon Rottinghaus go into overtime after one of the most active Texas primaries in recent memory.What was expected to be a sleepy election instead delivered record-breaking turnout, historic numbers of runoffs, and warning signs for both parties heading into November. Democratic turnout surged by roughly 200 percent, while Republicans saw gains of more than 120 percent—an unmistakable signal of voter engagement driven by polarization, national politics, and high-profile statewide races.The conversation dives deep into the marquee Senate showdown, where John Cornyn narrowly edged Ken Paxton, setting up a Republican runoff. The hosts unpack what this bare-knuckle contest means for party unity, fundraising, and the growing power of insurgent candidates in low-turnout runoff elections.Down the ballot, the surprises kept coming. From the attorney general’s race to the powerful comptroller’s office, candidates aligned with—or running against—Greg Abbott reshaped the Republican landscape. The episode also explores the fallout of incumbents losing to challengers from their right, a trend that could shift the Texas Legislature even further ideologically.For Democrats, the primary offered cautious optimism. Independent voters and Latino voters broke decisively toward Democratic candidates in several regions, especially South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley. Cortina and Rottinghaus stress that this is not a full political realignment—but it is a signal that messaging, policy follow-through, and candidate quality will matter more than ever in November.With redistricting consequences looming, election fatigue setting in ahead of May runoffs, and national politics hovering over every contest, this episode breaks down what the Texas primary results really tell us—and what they don’t.TOPICS:Record breaking March Primary voter turnout.Takeaways from the top of the ticket races in Texas.John Cornyn and Ken Paxton move to runoff.Mayes Middleton pull ahead of Chip Roy.Don Huffines wins the comptroller’s race.Nathan Sheets defeats Sid Miller in Agriculture Commissioner race.Bo French and Jim Wright head to runoff for Texas Railroad Commissioner.Vikki Goodwin and Marcos Vélez head to a lieutenant governor runoff.House race runoffs.Incumbent Dan Crenshaw defeated by Steve Toth.Redistricting favors the democrats in March primary.Latino votes surge in the valley.In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).

    27 min

  2. 6 MAR

    March Primary Madness: War Abroad and Wild Results in Texas

    A turbulent week in politics delivered both international tension and major shakeups in Texas elections. On this week’s episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina unpack how conflict overseas and surprising primary results at home could shape the political landscape heading into November.The episode begins with the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, a development that could redefine the political stakes for Donald Trump. The administration has framed the strikes as a necessary response to Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism. But the messaging surrounding the operation has been uneven, and public opinion remains divided.Polling shows Americans split over whether the strikes were justified, raising questions about the political risk of entering a new overseas conflict in an election year. Cortina notes that wars can quickly spiral beyond their original objectives — and if oil markets destabilize or the conflict spreads, the global economic consequences could be severe.The conflict is also reigniting debate in Washington over presidential war powers. While Congress traditionally holds the authority to declare war, presidents often act first and notify lawmakers later under national security claims. Even with criticism from some members of Congress, Rottinghaus says it’s unlikely lawmakers will successfully challenge the administration’s authority in the near term.Beyond Washington, the international conflict is already reverberating in Texas politics. Investigators are examining whether a deadly shooting in Austin may have been influenced by tensions related to the war. If confirmed, the incident could further inflame political debates around immigration, religion, and national security in the state.Meanwhile, the Texas primary elections delivered their own political drama.On the Democratic side, James Talarico narrowly claimed victory over Jasmine Crockett in a closely watched race. Confusion over voting locations in Dallas County added controversy to an already tight contest. Cortina suggests Talarico’s strong ground game may have given him the edge, while polling ahead of the election proved wildly inaccurate.Republicans also saw a competitive contest unfold between John Cornyn and Ken Paxton, sending the race into a runoff. With control of the Senate looming in the background, the outcome could hinge on whether Trump ultimately throws his endorsement behind a candidate.Down-ballot races produced even more surprises. Dan Crenshaw became the first Republican incumbent since 2014 to lose a primary, defeated by challenger Steve Toth after tensions with Trump allies and criticism of the Freedom Caucus.And the primary season isn’t over yet. Several races — including contests for attorney general and multiple congressional districts — are heading to runoffs, ensuring Texas voters will soon be back at the polls.With geopolitical uncertainty abroad and political chaos at home, Rottinghaus and Cortina say this year’s election cycle is only getting started.NATIONAL TOPICS:The aftermath of the United States attack on Iran.What is next for the United States of America?TEXAS TOPICS:The political implications of an Austin gunman's actions in last week’s shooting.James Talarico defeats Jasmine Crocket in the Texas Senate Democratic Primary.Ken Paxton and John Cornyn head to a Texas Republican Senate runoff.Dan Crenshaw loses GOP primary against Steve Toth.In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).

    27 min

  3. 27 FEB

    Cartel Violence, Supreme Court Tariffs, and Trump’s State of the Union

    This week on Party Politics, hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina unpack a fast-moving political landscape that spans international security, presidential power, and the high-stakes road to the midterms.The episode opens with escalating cartel violence in Mexico, tied to recent unrest in Puerto Vallarta following the capture—and death—of a major cartel leader from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The discussion explores why the arrest initially appeared to be a win for the Mexican government and President Donald Trump, but how cartel fragmentation could fuel even more violence. The hosts also examine the role of U.S. intelligence, the capacity of the Mexican state to restore order, and whether instability could spill over into Texas and the United States.From there, attention shifts to Washington, where the Supreme Court of the United States strikes down President Trump’s use of emergency powers to impose sweeping tariffs. The ruling raises major questions about executive authority, refunds for businesses that paid the tariffs, and the political fallout as most Americans oppose the policy. Brandon and Jeronimo discuss how the administration may pivot to other legal tools—and how tariffs could shape inflation narratives heading into the midterms.The conversation then turns to President Trump’s State of the Union address. While the speech featured moments of rare bipartisanship it was light on actionable policy and heavy on rhetoric that may energize the base while alienating independents. They also debate whether the State of the Union, increasingly resembling a campaign rally, has outlived its usefulness in its current form.Back in Texas, Trump’s upcoming visit signals growing Republican concern about turnout and competitiveness in what has become a nationally watched battleground state. That concern is amplified by the ongoing scandal surrounding Rep. Tony Gonzales, where internal GOP divisions, razor-thin House margins, and the possibility of an extreme primary challenger could put the seat—and Republican control—at risk.The episode closes with a lighter but revealing political moment: President Trump’s pardon of former Dallas Cowboys lineman Nate Newton. The move could be part of a broader pattern of celebrity clemency, raising questions about justice, politics, and the message such pardons send to the public.NATIONAL TOPICS:Cartel violence in Mexico. United States Supreme Court rules against Trump Tariffs. State of the Union. Should the State of the Union format be revamped? TEXAS TOPICS:President Donald Trump to visit Texas ahead of the midterm election. Tony Gonzalez scandal continues. Voter turnout spikes in Democratic midterm primary election. President Donald Trump pardons former Dallas Cowboy football player Nate Newton. In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).

    27 min

  4. 20 FEB

    Texas Primary Election Turmoil: Jesse Jackson’s Legacy, GOP Divisions, and Media Controversies

    If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, contact the 988 National & Suicide Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.  This week on Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina examined how a turbulent election season is colliding with moments of national reflection and intensifying political drama in Texas. The episode opened with the death of civil rights leader Jesse Jackson at 84, whose legacy continues to shape modern debates over voting rights, political organizing, and coalition-building. Texas politics also marked the passing of actor Robert Duvall at 95, while attention quickly turned back to the March primary election. With early voting approaching, the co-hosts discussed what voters should be watching for — from turnout patterns and messaging shifts to how endorsements and campaign spending may sway close races. Several controversies are already shaping the political landscape. U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales is facing scrutiny over reports of an extramarital affair, while political figure Nathan Sheets revealed past struggles with addiction, prompting discussion about transparency, accountability, and voter forgiveness. Questions have also emerged around comptroller candidate Don Huffines after reports that his family owns a former New York ranch tied to Jeffrey Epstein. The role of media in the campaign spotlighted another flashpoint after CBS pulled an interview with Texas Rep. James Talarico from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, citing FCC concerns — fueling debate over political speech and broadcast caution during election season. Finally, the episode explored the soaring cost of Texas’ U.S. Senate primary and growing fractures within the Republican Party, as endorsements from Gov. Greg Abbott increasingly diverge from those backed by President Donald Trump. Together, these developments highlight a high-stakes moment for Texas voters, with implications reaching far beyond the state’s borders. NATIONAL TOPICS:Jesse Jackson dies at 84TEXAS TOPICS:Actor Robert Duvall dies at 95.What should voters watch for leading up to the March primary election?Austin Representative Tony Gonzales extramarital affair scandal.Nathan Sheets reveals previous addictions and complicated past.Comptroller candidate Don Huffines' family own former New York Epstein ranch.CBS pulls James Talarico's interview on the Colbert show due to FCC concerns.Expensive Texas Senate primary election race.Endorsements: Governor Greg Abbott vs. President Donald Trump.In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).

    27 min

  5. 13 FEB

    From DHS Shutdown Threats to Texas Political Warfare

    In this week’s episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina break down how Washington brinkmanship and Texas political warfare converged, underscoring how national chaos and state-level power struggles increasingly mirror one another.At the federal level, the threat of a government shutdown resurfaced—this time over funding for the Department of Homeland Security. While shutdown politics are nothing new, DHS occupies a critical role in border enforcement, disaster response, and national security, making the standoff especially consequential for Texas, where immigration remains a defining political issue.The U.S. House also pushed back on former President Donald Trump’s tariff agenda, signaling renewed concern about the economic costs of trade wars. Lawmakers from both parties are increasingly wary of tariffs as inflationary tools that hit consumers and manufacturers alike.Trump, undeterred, floated the idea of sanctions on Switzerland—a proposal that startled foreign policy watchers given the country’s central role in global finance and diplomacy. Whether serious or rhetorical, the suggestion fit a familiar campaign posture: confrontation over cooperation.In Texas, political conflict played out through costly ad wars. Democratic lawmakers Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico exchanged high-profile messaging, a reminder that even policy-aligned figures now battle for narrative dominance in an attention-driven media landscape.Attorney General Ken Paxton raised the stakes further, spending more than $3 million on ads targeting Congressman Wesley Hunt. The move signals Paxton’s continued effort to shape Republican primaries and enforce ideological discipline within the party.Labor weighed in on the governor’s race, with unions splitting endorsements between Governor Greg Abbott and Democratic challenger Gina Hinojosa. The divide reflects both Abbott’s appeal to some working-class voters and Democrats’ ongoing struggle to consolidate labor support statewide.The courts also made waves. A federal judge shut down Texas Senate Bill 13, halting enforcement of the controversial law and reopening debates over state power and constitutional limits.And as politics collided with pop culture, a resurfaced clip of State Representative Gene Wu during Super Bowl weekend reignited online debate.From shutdown threats to sanction talk and Texas ad blitzes, the throughline is escalation. The volume is rising, the spending is climbing, and the next election cycle is already taking shape.

    27 min

  6. 6 FEB

    Runoffs, Rifts, and the Fight for Texas Power

    Texas politics delivered no shortage of drama this week, and the latest episode of Party Politics breaks down a fast-moving landscape shaped by runoff elections, national power struggles, and the growing influence of digital media. This week on Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina discuss Democrats notched key victories in pivotal runoff races. Taylor Rehmet secured a win in Texas Senate District 9, signaling momentum for Democrats in a district long watched for signs of shifting voter coalitions. In Houston, Christian Menefee prevailed in the Congressional District 18 runoff, setting the stage for a high-profile general election contest. Adding another layer to that race, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo endorsed longtime Congressman Al Green ahead of the district’s upcoming midterm election, underscoring divisions and alliances within the party. On the Republican side, attention turned to former President Donald Trump, who may soon weigh in with an endorsement in the Texas U.S. Senate race—an intervention that could significantly reshape an already crowded field. Meanwhile, audio of Senator Ted Cruz criticizing both Trump and Vice President JD Vance surfaced, offering a rare glimpse into internal GOP tensions. Despite that criticism, Cruz is also drawing scrutiny for a Republican Party fundraising email, with fine-print language raising questions about how donor money is ultimately being allocated. The episode also explores how political narratives are increasingly shaped outside traditional media. James Talarico’s comments about potentially running against Senator Colin Allred were brought to wider attention not by a campaign or news outlet, but by a TikTok creator, highlighting how social media platforms are now breaking—and reframing—political stories in real time. At the state level, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s interim charges signal the policy priorities lawmakers will confront next session, even as Washington grapples with a lack of funding for the Department of Homeland Security, raising broader concerns about governance and national security. And, because modern politics rarely exist without spectacle, the episode closes with a discussion of the much-talked-about Melania movie, examining how political figures continue to shape their public image beyond the campaign trail. From Texas runoffs to TikTok exposés, this episode of Party Politics captures a moment when elections, endorsements, and online influence are colliding—reshaping how power is contested and communicated across the state and the nation. TEXAS TOPICS: Texas democrat Taylor Rhmet wins Senate district 9 runnoff. Donald Trump may endorse a Texas Republican Senate candidate. James Talarico's comments about running against Colin Allred exposed by Tik Toker. Christian Menefee wins Texas Congressional District 18 runoff. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo endorses Al Green in Congressional District 18 Mid Term election. Audio of Senator Ted Cruz criticizing Donald President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance released. Senator Ted Cruz sending out a fundraising email for the Republican Party, with a  fine print description of where the money is going. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick brings interim charges to session. NATIONAL TOPICS: No funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Melania Movie. In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).

    27 min

  7. 26 ENE

    Chaos, Candidates, and the Fight for Texas Republicans

    On this week’s episode of Party Politics and part two of a conversation about upcoming primaries, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina examine growing turbulence inside the Texas Republican Party as the state heads toward another high-stakes election season. With multiple open races, crowded fields, and deep ideological divisions, the primaries may do more than choose nominees — they could shape the party’s future. Republicans remain dominant statewide, but shifting demographics, softer support among independents, and internal conflict pose new challenges. Former President Donald Trump’s standing in Texas has weakened, and GOP candidates now face primaries driven by debates over loyalty, ideology, and electability. At the top of the ballot, Senator John Cornyn faces challenges from Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt. Paxton retains strong MAGA support despite legal controversies, while Hunt pitches himself as a new-generation conservative. Analysts expect a runoff. Paxton’s Senate bid also opens the attorney general’s race, with Joan Huffman, Mayes Middleton, Aaron Reitz, and Chip Roy competing to define the office’s future. Other key contests include the open race for comptroller, with Kelly Hancock, Christi Craddick, and Don Huffines vying for the GOP nomination, while Democrat Sarah Eckhardt runs statewide. Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller faces challenger Nate Sheets, highlighting broader debates over rural policy. Houston-area congressional races are also in focus. In District 9, a crowded Republican primary includes Briscoe Cain, Alexandra del Moral Mealer, and Steve Stockman. In District 2, incumbent Dan Crenshaw faces a conservative challenge from Steve Toth. Together, the races reflect a party still strong — but increasingly divided — heading into 2026. TEXAS TOPICS:Chaos in the Republican Party.Candidates in the Texas Senate Race.Texas Attorney General candidates.Comptroller candidates.Agriculture Commissioner candidates.Congressional District 9 candidates.Congressional District 2 candidates.In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).

    27 min

  8. 18 ENE

    AI Scandal, Trump’s Texas Cold Shoulder, and a Battle Over the Ballot

    On this week’s episode of Party Politics, Co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina unpack a crowded political landscape—from Texas primaries and election oversight to national power struggles and unrest abroad.We begin in Texas, where former President Donald Trump has yet to endorse in a key U.S. Senate race, leaving Republican candidates to jockey for attention in a high-stakes contest. Next, attention turns to U.S. Senator John Cornyn, who is facing scrutiny over a complaint filed with the Federal Election Commission. Rottinghaus and Cortina examines what the investigation involves, why it matters in the current political climate, and how campaign finance rules continue to shape modern elections in Texas. Meanwhile, Texas Democrats are calling for a federal investigation into the use of the AI tool Grok, after concerns that the technology has been used to create explicit, non-consensual images of individuals.Election administration also takes center stage. The show examines the state’s controversial move to provide voter roll data to the U.S. Department of Justice, along with renewed debate over Governor Greg Abbott's proposed state takeover of Harris County’s elections—moves supporters frame as oversight and critics see as federal and state overreach.Nationally, tensions between Donald Trump and the Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell signal deeper disagreements over the economy, inflation, and the future of monetary policy. Also a look at the political theater surrounding Steve Bannon as he brings his media operation to Texas, and what that says about the state’s growing influence in conservative politics.On foreign policy and global unrest, demonstrations across Iran have escalated into widespread anti-government protests amid a deadly crackdown by Iranian security forces. President Trump publicly urged Iranian protesters to keep demonstrating and said “help is on its way,” although he did not specify what form that assistance might take, sparking debate about U.S. intentions and potential implications for international relations. And finally, a lighter but telling moment in political symbolism: the White House’s decision to add gold lettering to the West Wing exterior, adding a new label for the Rose Garden—what it reflects about image, power, and modern presidential branding.TEXAS TOPICS: No Trump endorsement in the Texas Senate Race. Senator John Cornyn to be investigated by the FEC. Texas House Democrat urge Attorney General Ken Paxton to initiate an investigation into Grok AI. Governor Greg Abbott wants to takeover Harris County elections. Texas Officials hand over voter rolls to the Department of Justice. Steve Bannon to bring show to Texas ahead of primaries. NATIONAL TOPICS: President Donald Trump and Fed Chair Jerome Powell are at odds. Iran protest and potential aid mentioned by Donald Trump. New gold lettering on the outside of the West Wing near Rose Garden at the White House. In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).

    27 min
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Overwhelmed by the political news cycle every week? We get it — that’s why we’re ‘keeping the fun but losing all the drama’ of politics! Party Politics podcast is hosted by Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina, two smart and sassy University of Houston political science professors, who deliver a friendly, funny, and casually informative recap of the week's biggest political news stories. Join the conversation on Twitter @HPMPolitics; use #PartyPoliticsPod to ask Brandon and Jeronimo questions; or email us at Party Politics.

Información

  • Creador
    Houston Public Media
  • Años de actividad
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodios
    356
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Copyright
    ℗ & © 2026 Houston Public Media
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    Party Politics

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