Opinion

The American Southwest is cementing its position as the nation’s most business-friendly region, and a groundbreaking legal development in Texas may soon add another compelling reason for companies to relocate here. As corporate entities and individuals continue their mass migration to states like Texas, Arizona, and Nevada – drawn by low taxes and sensible regulations – an innovative approach to mass tort litigation tested in Texas could make the region more attractive.

It is an unusual living situation, in many ways. My husband, Peter, and I spend almost half the year down in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

As 2024 comes to a close, Texans are turning the page to a new year — and a new chapter of opportunity. Our latest Texas Voter Poll reveals a shared determination to tackle challenges together, fueled by growing optimism about our state’s economy and future Texas has long been a symbol of immense opportunity. Last year, nearly 612,000 people moved to Texas, while about 478,000 moved out, according to the latest Census Bureau numbers. This dynamic growth brings challenges: a booming population, rising demands for energy and water, and the need for an education system that prepares our workforce for tomorrow’s jobs.

Across Texas, innovative programs are transforming high school education by connecting classrooms to career opportunities. Expanding these initiatives is essential for preparing our students for the 63% of Texas jobs that require postsecondary education. For too long, nearly two-thirds of Texas high school graduates have not earned a postsecondary credential within six years of graduation. This gap highlights the pressing need to make the most of the resources available for Texas students.

I will be home in time for Christmas. It’s always a little hard to leave Mexico, and leaving right before the holidays is perhaps the hardest.

“He’s on vigil,” my husband, Peter, said, watching our cat, Felix. Peter, who never had a cat before Felix, has become the resident cat expert. Of course, he has a sample size of one, so all his generalizations about cats are based on Felix.

Texas stands at a crossroads. Once a leader in rural health care innovation, the state now finds itself grappling with a burgeoning maternal health crisis.