Advertise on podcast: Party Politics

A historic blue wave has swept across the country, turning longtime Republican strongho9lds like Texas blue and reshaping the political landscape following the 2026 midterm elections. On this week's episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina break down the stunning Democratic victories, including James Talarico's U.S. Senate win, Gina Hinojosa's gubernatorial victory, and Democrats gaining control of both chambers of congress. The hosts examine whether the election was a referendum on President Donald Trump, with concerns over the economy, immigration, foreign policy and Republican culture-war policies contributing to the Democratic surge.  In Texas, Rottinghaus and Cortina discuss the changing electorate, the return of Latino voters to the Democratic coalition and how the GOP's redistricting strategy failed to deliver its intended results. They also explore what comes next for Texas Republicans, whether Democrats can maintain their newfound political power and what the election could mean for the 2028 presidential race.NATIONAL TOPICS:A historic blue tsunami sweeps across midterm elections nationwide.Are the election results a referendum on President Donald Trump.TEXAS TOPICS:Democrats take Congress and flip Texas.Why did Texas turn blue?The new Democratic coalition.Redistricting in Texas backfires.Are we seeing a political realignment?Could Talarico put his hat in the ring for vice president in 2028?In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

Could Texas be a surprise battleground in the 2026 midterm elections? On this episode of Party Politics Co-hosts  Jeronimo Cortina and Brandon Rottinghaus break down the national political landscape and the races that could reshape Congress. The conversation explores how economic concerns, voter turnout and shifting suburban voting patterns could influence the results. The hosts also examine whether Democrats can make significant gains in Texas and what counties such as Fort Bend, Tarrant, Collin and Williamson could reveal about the state’s political future.From the battle for Congress to questions about the future of both parties, find out what to watch as the 2026 midterms approach.NATIONAL TOPICS:2026 Midterm ElectionCould democrats take republican districts?TEXAS TOPICS:What is the key to winning Texas?How will voter turnout play out?What will be the impact of the rural vote?The libertarian vote factor.Texas counties to watch.Fort Bend County and the midterm election.Races in South Texas.Brandon and Jeronimo’s focuses for election night.In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

In this week’s episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina take a break from the daily political headlines to examine the candidates, races and voting trends that could shape the next chapter of Texas politics. From the high-profile U.S. Senate contest to competitive local races, they break down who is running, what’s at stake and how voters could influence the results. NATIONAL TOPICS:Will democrats take back the United States House of Representatives.TOPICS: Who will win the Texas senate race? What does the Latino vote look like statewide?Texas gubernatorial race.Texas lieutenant governor race.Texas attorney general race. Texas comptroller race. How will the decision to redistrict in Texas impact republican candidates? Can democrats win in Texas district 15? Texas district 9 race.Will the Texas House of Representatives flip?Harris County judge race. In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

In this week’s episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina examine a series of national controversies, including an ICE raid at Representative Ilhan Omar’s home, the scandal surrounding U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle’s reported firing, and President Donald Trump’s executive order on diesel.The conversation turns to Texas, where the hosts discuss the growing voter enthusiasm gap between Democrats and Republicans heading into the midterm elections. They also examine Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s appearance in Dubai with a controversial donor and consider how Paxton’s actions could affect Republican voters and the Texas GOP.NATIONAL TOPICS:Representative Omar's home raided by ICE.United States Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle fired over scandal.President Trump issues an Executive Order on Diesel.TEXAS TOPICS:The growing voter enthusiasm gap between democrats and republicans.Ken Paxton seen in Dubai with problematic donor.The impact of Ken Paxton on the Texas GOP vote.In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

In this week’s episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina examine President Donald Trump’s relationship with the Supreme Court, including his recent comments about the justices he nominated and several major cases before the court this term. They also discuss Trump’s decision to publicly share Senator Tom Cotton’s phone number following a disagreement over daylight saving time. In Texas, the hosts look at Trump’s upcoming visit to the state and his efforts to appeal to Latino voters, as well as the decision by Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick to skip Trump’s San Antonio rally. The episode also examines the race for Texas comptroller, including Democratic candidate Sarah Eckhardt’s accusations that Republican Don Huffines is politicizing the office, along with the latest campaign advertising from Ken Paxton and Greg Abbott.NATIONAL TOPICS:President Trump voices regrets over Supreme Court justice nominations.Supreme Court Cases this cycle.President Trump leaks Senator Tom Cotton's phone number over daylight saving time opinion.TEXAS TOPICS:President Trump makes another visit to Texas with a stop in San Antonio.Declining Latino republican support.Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick plan to miss Trump rally.Don Huffines accused by opponent Sarah Eckhardt of politicizing the Comptroller’s office.More Ken Paxton and Greg Abbott Ads.In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

On this week’s Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina examine President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Texas and the Republican effort to appeal to Latino voters. The hosts also discuss the Trump administration's taxpayer-funded campaign advertising and the role of political messaging heading into the midterms. The U.S. Senate race between Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico gets a closer look, including their debate over the federal gas tax, Paxton’s support of super PACs and the broader dynamics of the race. The discussion also turns to the Texas governor’s race, including Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and Democratic candidate Gina Hinojosa. Rottinghaus and Cortina examine Abbott’s recent diesel disaster declaration and what it could mean politically and economically. Finally, the hosts look at divisions within the Democratic Party and a recently overturned voter fraud case, adding another layer to the ongoing debate over elections and voting in Texas. As the midterms draw closer, Party Politics examines the candidates, campaigns and political battles shaping the final march to Election Day in Texas.NATIONAL TOPIC:Trump administration's taxpayer funded ad campaigns.TEXAS TOPICS:Donald Trump and JD Vance visit TexasJD Vance hoping to win Latino votes with visit to the Valley.Ken Paxton caught on microphone saying midterm convention did not help his campaign.Paxton and Talarico share positions on federal gas tax.Ken Paxton expresses joy over super PAC’s.Texas Governor’s race.Governor Greg Abbott issues disaster declaration over diesel prices.Divide in the Democratic PartyRuling overturned in Texas voter fraud case.In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

In this week's episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rotinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina explore whether Congress is ready to regulate artificial intelligence and what growing concerns over AI could mean for lawmakers. They also discuss the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to block President Trump's mail-in ballots plan and the Texas Supreme Court decided to block Galveston County from using newly drawn precinct boundaries in the upcoming election. Rottinghaus and Cortina turn their attention to a potential end to Senator Ted Cruz's "Cruz Curse" amid the University of Texas' win. The hosts also discuss Senator Cruz's proposed Save College Sports act. They dissect the growing controversary surrounding comments made by Railroad Commissioner candidate Bo French and the effectiveness of the barrage of campaign ads from other Texas candidates. Lastly the hosts look at Ken Paxton's lawsuit win that yielded 7 million eggs for Texas food banks and whether Houston Controller Chris Hollins is gearing up for a mayoral run.NATIONAL TOPICS:Can Congress regulate AI?Supreme Court decision on mail-in ballots.TEXAS TOPICS:New Galveston County blocked by Texas Supreme Court.Is the Ted Cruz curse over?Save College Sports Act proposed.Bo French racial social media comments spark concern within the party.Are political ads working?Ken Paxton wins 7 million eggs for Texas in lawsuit.Is Chris Hollins gearing up for a mayoral run.In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

On this week’s Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina examine whether Texas could be moving toward a political shift—and what it could mean for Republicans heading into the midterms. The hosts discuss Sen. Ted Cruz’s concerns that Republicans could lose ground in Texas, the growing affordability issue and the impact of President Donald Trump on the state’s political landscape. They also examine whether Republican border policies have been successful and whether the GOP can maintain its support among Latino voters. On the Democratic side, Rottinghaus and Cortina consider whether Democrats have enough time to build momentum, including efforts to reach voters in rural communities. They also assess what recent races and changing voter demographics could signal about the future of Texas politics—and whether the state could eventually turn blue. TOPICS: Senator Ted Cruz shares concerns that republicans could lose Texas.The current issue of affordability for voters.The Trump factor.Was the border issue successful?Importance of republicans keeping the Latino vote.Do democrats have enough time to flip the state.Rural area voters and their impact on republican wins.Will Texas turn blue?In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

On this week's episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina examine the continuing resolution and whether Republicans can claim credit for recent political wins. The hosts also look at plans for a televised GOP midterm convention and what the gathering could mean for the Texas Senate race, as well as the growing barrage of campaign ads. In Texas, they examine Gov. Greg Abbott’s decision to block funding for Flock surveillance cameras and discuss former Attorney General Ken Paxton’s appearance in a video game. They also cover Meta’s $1 billion settlement with Texas and what it could mean for the state’s ongoing battles with the tech giant. NATIONAL TOPICS: Another continuing resolution by the House of Representatives. Can republicans claim credit for recent political wins? Televised GOP midterm convention headed to Dallas. TEXAS TOPICS: Potential impact of the midterm GOP convention on the Texas Senate race. Governor Abbott blocks funding for flock cameras. Texas Senate Race advertisement overload. Senate race candidate Ken Paxton appears in a video game. Meta owes Texas $1Billion dollars as result of a lawsuit. In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

On the season five premier of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina break down the latest national and Texas political developments. They examine the Trump administration’s new economic sanctions on Iran, plans to expand beef imports and the Supreme Court’s decision allowing restrictions on mail-in voting to move forward. In Texas, Trump’s upcoming Harris County visit raises questions about its impact on Republican politics—and whether it could create problems for Attorney General Ken Paxton. The episode also looks at Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s push to penalize school districts over books deemed inappropriate under Senate Bill 13 and Gov. Greg Abbott’s call for a financial review of school district spending. Plus, Paxton’s appearance at a WNBA game amid recent discussions about transgender athletes, while Abbott’s Texas-themed playlist draws attention for an unexpected reason. NATIONAL TOPICSTrump administration to begin "economic D-Day" sanctions on Iran.Trump to expand beef imports.Supreme Court decides to allow Trump Administration to pursue an order that imposes restrictions on mail-in voting.TEXAS TOPICSTrump to visit Harris County.Could Trump's Texas visit backfire for Ken Paxton?Lt. Governor Dan Patrick threatens school ratings over books deemed inappropriate under Senate Bill 13.Governor Abbott seeks a financial probe into school district finances to root out administrative spending.Ken Paxton attends WNBA game amid Transgender athlete discussion.Governor Abbott releases a botched Texas playlist .In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

After a season packed with political drama, legal battles, campaign chaos, and some truly surreal headlines, Party Politics wrapped up Season 4 with a look back at the moments viewers talked about most. Hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina revisited some of the year’s biggest conversations — from Texas elections and redistricting fights to immigration debates, economic frustrations, and the increasingly unpredictable political messaging coming out of Washington. The finale highlighted what made this season stand out: connecting political science theory to the everyday realities voters experience. One major discussion focused on Texas politics and whether the state is truly experiencing a long-term political realignment. The hosts break down how campaign organization, fundraising, turnout, and geography continue to shape elections across Texas — especially as both parties battle for suburban and Latino voters. Another standout moment centered on birthright citizenship and the constitutional questions surrounding executive power. The conversation explored not only the legal implications but also the deeper national identity questions tied to immigration and what it means to be American. The episode also revisits one of the season’s most talked-about debates online: redistricting. Brandon and Jeronimo examined how aggressive map-drawing efforts could backfire politically, particularly as economic concerns like inflation and rising gas prices continue to dominate voter priorities heading into the midterms. And, of course, the finale wouldn’t have been complete without revisiting some of the season’s strangest political moments — including viral political messaging, internet-fueled controversies, and the growing challenge political leaders face in staying focused on affordability issues voters care about most. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasized a recurring theme from Season 4: voters may tolerate political chaos, but everyday costs — gas, groceries, housing, and economic stability — remain the issues that cut through the noise. The “Best of Party Politics” special also served as a thank you to viewers and listeners who watched, commented, debated online, and helped make Season 4 one of the show’s biggest yet. Party Politics returns for Season 5 on August 28.

Foreign policy tensions, rising gas prices, redistricting wars, and major Texas political maneuvering all collide in this week’s episode of Party Politics. Co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina break down how escalating conflict with Iran is creating political headaches for the White House — especially as Americans continue to feel economic pressure at the pump. The episode examines the political fallout from stalled negotiations with Tehran, Republican proposals to suspend the federal gas tax, and growing voter frustration over inflation and consumer prices. The hosts discuss whether temporary gas tax relief would actually help Americans or simply become another political talking point ahead of the midterms. They also unpack a controversial Republican reconciliation strategy that includes affordability proposals, Iran-related funding debates, and criticism surrounding billion-dollar White House projects. The conversation explores whether members of the GOP are beginning to distance themselves from some of former President Donald Trump’s priorities as questions emerge about the party’s future after Trump. Another major focus: redistricting. The hosts analyze recent court rulings and the growing legal fight over voting maps across the country. They discuss how Supreme Court decisions could weaken protections previously tied to the Voting Rights Act and potentially reshape congressional representation for years to come. The conversation also explores the long-term political consequences of partisan gerrymandering for both Democrats and Republicans. Texas politics also takes center stage. The episode dives into Barack Obama’s appearance in Texas supporting rising Democratic figure James Talarico and Gina Hinojosa. They examine whether national Democratic figures can energize voters in an increasingly polarized state. Rottinghaus and Cortina debate whether Obama’s popularity helps Democrats expand their coalition — or further nationalizes and polarizes Texas races. Meanwhile, Republican primary politics continue heating up as John Cornyn builds a massive fundraising advantage and Ken Paxton pushes lawsuit culture war battles tied to schools, streaming platforms, and conservative base issues. The episode closes with discussion surrounding the cancellation of a proposed border wall expansion near Big Bend, highlighting rare bipartisan agreement around environmental and conservation concerns. From Iran to Texas campaign strategy, this week’s Party Politics tackles the political fights shaping both Washington and the Lone Star State heading into a critical election season. NATIONAL TOPICS:Iran talks falling apart as tensions escalate.Will suspending the gas tax actually lower prices?Republicans push a massive new spending package.Trump faces backlash over costly White House projects.New court rulings are reshaping political maps nationwide.Is the Supreme Court becoming too partisan?TEXAS TOPICS:President Obama visits Texas to support James Talarico and Gina Hinojosa.The impact of Obama visiting Texas.Conversations have begun regarding the possibility of James Talarico becoming a vice-presidential candidate.Senator John Cornyn raises major funds for campaign.Attorney General Ken Paxton issues several lawsuits.A plans for the Big Bend border wall has been cancelled.In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].

The 2028 presidential election may feel far away, but the race to define it is already underway. On this week’s Party Politics, Co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina break down how Democrats are quietly shaping their next presidential strategy—long before a single vote is cast. At the center of the conversation is the “invisible primary,” the behind-the-scenes competition where candidates build support from donors, party elites, and voters. It’s not just about who runs—it’s about what the Democratic Party stands for moving forward. Potential contenders are already signaling interest. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and California Governor Gavin Newsom appear to lead the early field, while figures like Pete Buttigieg, Gretchen Whitmer, and Josh Shapiro represent a second tier focused on broader voter appeal. A deeper bench of governors and national figures adds even more uncertainty to an already crowded picture. But the bigger question isn’t just the candidates—it’s the strategy. Democrats face a familiar challenge: how to rebuild a winning coalition. That means re-engaging core voters like African Americans, energizing younger voters, and improving outreach to Latino communities—especially in states like Texas, where turnout and margins remain critical. Messaging will be key. The hosts argue that while Democrats have struggled to communicate clearly in recent cycles, there are signs of a shift toward more direct, policy-focused language. Economic concerns—particularly affordability—are expected to dominate, cutting across ideological lines and resonating with a wide range of voters. Another debate is how much to focus on Donald Trump. While he remains a powerful political force, relying too heavily on opposition to him may not be enough to win in 2028. Instead, Democrats must define a forward-looking vision that connects with voters’ everyday concerns. Ultimately, the 2026 midterms will offer the first real clues. They’ll test messages, measure turnout, and reveal whether Democrats are rebuilding momentum—or still searching for direction. One thing is clear: the road to 2028 has already begun.

A fragile ceasefire with Iran. Gas prices climbing past $4. A redistricting gamble backfiring. And a wave of resignations shaking Washington. This week on Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina discuss everything—from foreign policy to Texas politics and how they collide in ways that could shape the midterm elections. At the center of it all is President Donald Trump’s handling of Iran. After initially signaling a hardline stance, the administration is now extending a ceasefire in hopes of negotiating a deal. But the details remain murky—who’s negotiating, what’s on the table, and whether Iran is even interested in talking. Meanwhile, the global stakes are rising. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively disrupted, oil supply concerns are pushing gas prices higher across the U.S., putting pressure on voters and the White House alike. Efforts like tapping the Strategic Petroleum Reserve or suspending gas taxes may offer some relief—but not fast enough to ease economic anxiety ahead of the midterms. That economic strain is already becoming a political liability. Republicans are also facing fallout from an aggressive redistricting strategy. What was intended to strengthen their electoral map is now producing unintended consequences, with Democrats gaining ground in places like Virginia. Add in internal fractures within the MAGA coalition—and even public criticism from prominent conservative voices—and the party’s unity is showing cracks at a critical moment. Back in Washington, instability inside the administration is adding to the turbulence. High-profile departures and controversy surrounding key officials are raising questions about leadership and control. While the White House may hope these issues fade before Election Day, they contribute to a broader narrative of disorder. And Congress isn’t immune either. A growing list of resignations tied to ethics scandals—including allegations of misused COVID relief funds—highlights both the persistence of political misconduct and a renewed willingness, at least in some cases, for institutions to police themselves. Closer to home, Texas is once again at the center of major political debates. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick is challenging the long-standing interpretation of separation between church and state, following a court ruling allowing the Ten Commandments to be displayed in public schools. The issue now appears headed for the Supreme Court, where it could reshape decades of legal precedent—and energize voters on both sides. At the same time, Governor Greg Abbott is threatening to pull funding from cities like Houston over immigration enforcement disputes, raising the stakes for local leaders and putting millions of dollars on the line. Taken together, the picture is one of volatility—globally, nationally, and locally. And with the midterms fast approaching, the biggest question remains: will voters punish instability, or simply absorb it as the new normal? NATIONAL TOPICS:Ceasefire with Iran extended.Redistricting in Virginia.Cabinet member Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigns and FBI Director Kash Patel in hot water.Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigns.Rep. Cory Mills expulsion looming.TEXAS TOPICS:Lt. Governor Dan Patrick's battle over Church and State in Texas.Governor Greg Abbott threatens to pull funding.Party Chairs in crisis.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).

This week on Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina discuss a political fight between Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV quickly became the most unexpected — and politically risky.The tension began after Pope Leo criticized how some political leaders use scripture to justify policies, emphasizing that the teachings of Jesus center on love, compassion, and caring for neighbors. The comments were widely interpreted as a rebuke of Trump-era rhetoric.Trump fired back, claiming the Pope would not have been elected without his presidency — escalating the dispute into a rare public clash between a U.S. president and the head of the Catholic Church.The stakes are significant. There are roughly 53 million Catholics in the United States — about 20% of the electorate. For many, the Pope holds enormous moral authority, making this feud more than just another political disagreement.Political observers say this is particularly risky for Trump, who has relied heavily on religious voters. While Trump has often clashed with political opponents, a fight with a global religious leader introduces new uncertainty.Adding fuel to the fire, an AI-generated image circulated online depicting Trump as a doctor — with imagery many interpreted as portraying him as Jesus. The image sparked backlash across religious communities and overshadowed other White House messaging efforts.Trump later said he did not intend to portray himself as Jesus, but the controversy had already dominated headlines. As the administration attempted to focus on affordability and economic messaging, the Trump-Pope clash took center stage.But the feud was only one part of a chaotic political week.Congress saw sudden shakeups as Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales announced resignations within hours of each other, raising questions about accountability and shifting the balance of power. Republicans now face an even tighter margin in the House, complicating legislative strategy.The week also raised broader questions: Do political scandals still matter? While some lawmakers step down, others remain in office despite investigations, highlighting how partisan dynamics continue to shape accountability.Meanwhile, tensions with Iran escalated, with reports of a naval blockade and the possibility of additional troop deployments. Oil prices climbed above $100 a barrel, pushing gas prices higher and creating potential political headwinds.Other moments also competed for attention, including a DoorDash-themed White House messaging push and an impromptu press conference involving Melania Trump that generated additional headlines.Back in Texas, rising gas prices prompted Sid Miller to call on Greg Abbott to temporarily suspend the motor fuel tax.Texas Democrats also face major fines following the August quorum break, adding another layer of political tension as the election cycle approaches.The outlook for the Texas House remains uncertain, with retirements and competitive districts raising the possibility of shifts in power.Meanwhile, the Texas Senate race continues to gain attention, highlighted by a major fundraising haul from James Talarico, potentially reshaping the political landscape.Despite the wide range of developments, the Trump-Pope feud stood out as the most unexpected story of the week — a clash between politics and religion that could carry lasting political consequences.NATIONAL TOPICS:House Representatives  Eric Swalwell & Tony Gonzales resign.Republicans are now down a vote in Congress.Do scandals still matter?Donald Trump's AI image sparks feud with Pope Leo XIV.Impact of President Trump's feud with the pope.DoorDash PR moment.Melania Trump's impromptu press conference.Iran update.TEXAS TOPICS:AG Commissioner Sid Miller calls for Governor Greg Abbott to temporarily pause the motor fuel tax.Texas Democrats hit with major fines in response to August quorum break.Outlook on the Texas House.Texas Senate race.James Talarico's campaign brings in major funds.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).