The 713 Commute Mode — September 3, 2026

In today’s briefing, pro-Paxton groups push China-focused Senate ads, a Harris County immigrant legal-aid program hits a funding snag, and Texas health officials delay a key maternal death report. Sign up for the To Houston, with Joy newsletter: www.houstonchronicle.com/newsletters/to-houston-with-joy/ Stories: Ken Paxton needs to win back Republicans. His allies are hoping ad attacks on China will help. What Harris County’s legal-aid freeze means for attorneys, immigrants facing deportation Texas' first study of maternal deaths since banning abortion won't be ready by the midterms   Houston council approves $50M deal ending possibility of Woodlands annexation   Texas A&M System could cut dozens of core courses, including race, gender and climate classes Magnolia’s new mayor scruntinizes $1B development that could reshape the small Houston-area city Bar Bludorn announces opening date in The Woodlands Credits:  Forecast: Justin Ballard, Meteorologist Editing: Alan Fossler, Assistant Breaking News Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices