The Source
The Source

The Source is a daily, one-hour call-in talk program that gives listeners in San Antonio the opportunity to call and connect with our in-studio guests and city-wide audience.The Source seeks to give life, context and breadth to the events and issues affecting San Antonio by bringing newsmakers and experts to the public, and highlighting the people being affected by the news of the day.The show is hosted by veteran journalist David Martin Davies.Tune in to The Source for insightful discussion and analysis on topics that matter to residents of the Alamo City.Contribute to the conversation:Call or text during the live show at 833-877-8255.Leave a voicemail at 210 615-8982 anytime. Submissions may be played on-air.Email comments to thesource@tpr.org.

Eugene Robinson is one of America’s most respected voices on politics, race, and democracy. Raised during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, he witnessed the struggle for racial justice firsthand. Robinson brings historical context, clarity, and personal insight to the most important issues facing the country. His latest book is Freedom Lost, Freedom Won: A Personal History of America. Robinson will be speaking at Trinity University in October.
Today the Democratic Party is out of power and generally unpopular. Even so, Democrats are expecting to see a "blue wave" this midterm because of a sagging economy, the war with Iran and affordability issues. Democratic strategist Adam Jentleson argues the Democratic Party can again become the dominant political power if they expand their appeal and build a wider coalition.
For some San Antonio residents, a rent increase or an unexpected expense can turn a fragile housing situation into a crisis. Close to Home’s latest report says housing costs are outpacing incomes, and more people are seeking help, even as the region has fewer emergency shelter beds.
Liver cancer is a serious health problem in San Antonio and South Texas, particularly among Hispanic residents. UT Health San Antonio researchers have reported that South Texas Latinos have exceptionally high rates of the disease.
Texas is seeing anti-Muslim political rhetoric move beyond campaign speeches and social media and into policy decisions affecting public-school curriculum, facilities and access to the state’s new private-school voucher program. Does the rise of anti-Muslim public policy in Texas violate the U.S. Constitution?
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s campaign to eliminate diversity programs is prompting concern among Black service members who say their qualifications and patriotism are being called into question. Writing in The Atlantic, Clint Smith said many of the roughly two dozen Black military personnel he interviewed felt disrespected or pressured to leave.
A controversy surrounding Republican Railroad Commission nominee Bo French is highlighting divisions within the Texas GOP as the November election approaches. Scott Braddock, editor of the Quorum Report, breaks down the politics of Texas and why French's social media post is creating so much controversy.
In "Reboot: AI and the Race to Save Democracy" author Beth Simone Noveck argues if democracy is to survive the AI era, pro-democracy advocates must use the technology to increase government accountability, transparency and outreach.
Former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, U.S. Senator, and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar joins "The Source." He shares his unique perspective on the U.S.-Mexico relationship, the border and immigration — and his belief that America’s diversity is its superpower. Salazar says it’s time to end division in the nation and come together.
Young people who spend much of their day on social media are considerably more likely to experience anxiety and suicidal thoughts, according to a new study from UTHealth Houston.
The recent Nepal catastrophic high-altitude glacier collapse triggered massive flash floods resulting in over a thousand deaths and thousands more missing. Many scientists attribute the tragedy to global warming and warn it could be the "tip of the iceberg" of things to come due to climate change.
The Latino vote could be a wild card in the midterm elections. South Texas Latino voters swung sharply toward Donald Trump in 2024, but polling now shows many are dissatisfied with the president. They’re concerned about the economy and affordability, mass deportations and the war with Iran. Latino vote expert Mike Madrid joins The Source to break it down.
Recently the slavery exhibit was removed at Independence National Historical Park, The Pride flag was removed at Stonewall National Monument and at the Smithsonian references to President Trumps impeachments were taken down. We hear from Jason Stanley, the author of “Erasing History – How Fascists rewrite the Past to Control the Future.”
On his first day of his second term President Donald Trump signed an executive order that brought the USAID to a screeching halt. Elon Musk later bragged that his DOGE effort fed USAID "to the woodchipper." Musk today insists not one person has died from the ending of USAID but the evidence tells a different story. We hear from a whistle blower about the end of USAID and its impact.
San Antonio District 9 Councilmember Misty Spears is calling for deeper spending reductions as the city confronts a projected $158 million budget gap over two years.
San Antonio and Austin are bookends to one of the fastest-growing regions in the nation. Growth and development are happening now. But are plans keeping pace? The Central Texas Alliance is a coalition of civic, business, academic and community leaders working to maximize opportunities and support the Austin-San Antonio corridor.
The war with Iran is in its sixth month. Service members are experiencing extended deployments and limited support. But how are their families dealing with the strain and the stress of the war. Who is supporting the military family during deployment, the bills get higher and the spouse is running the household alone?
The price Americans pay at the pharmacy can bear little resemblance to what a drugmaker ultimately receives. Between those amounts lies a complicated system of rebates, fees and insurance rules that can leave sick patients paying disproportionately high costs.
San Antonio researchers are investigating whether a drug better known as ecstasy can help people recover from post-traumatic stress disorder when combined with established psychotherapy.
How has the United States harnessed the power of Wall Street, Silicon Valley, and Big Oil against America’s enemies and allies?The US government is escalating economic wars against Russia, China, and Iran. But also Canada and Mexico — using tariffs and trade. But could these efforts backfire?
When President Trump launched the war with Iran he said it would be over in four to five weeks. But it’s been dragging on for six months. Trump ran for president with the promise of no more “forever wars,” but has the war with Iran become a quagmire that has no end in sight. What are the consequences of being locked in a war with no clear rational for fighting and no exit.
Persistently high grocery prices are forcing more San Antonio-area families to choose between food and other necessities, contributing to a sharp increase in food insecurity across South Texas.
A massive outbreak of foodborne illness linked to imported lettuce is intensifying questions about whether federal staffing cuts and weakened surveillance have left the United States less prepared to detect and contain contaminated food.
President Trump signed an executive order earlier this month to limit the vaccine schedule to 11 immunizations. Trump directed officials to review the timing and sequencing of vaccinations. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), heavily criticized the decision, warning that it lacks scientific backing, creates unnecessary hurdles for parents, and leaves children vulnerable to preventable diseases.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is criticizing President Donald Trump’s plan to increase beef imports, warning that the effort to reduce grocery prices could come at the expense of Texas cattle producers.
Last week San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones lost the city council vote 5-6 to hold a city vote on funding the proposed downtown Spur arena. Jones joins "The Source" to discuss moving forward as the city is dealing with a budget shortfall.
The bulldozers have stopped in Big Bend for now. But for how long? And what does this mean for other culturally sensitive areas on the border slated for border wall construction? The Trump administration says the wall is needed to prevent illegal immigration, but critics say this pristine land is not a crossing point. The latest on the legal fight to save Big Bend.
Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, the United States continues to grapple with the wars, fear and political upheaval that followed. In "Toward the Turning," psychotherapist Scott Gibbs examines 9/11 as part of a destructive cycle of grievance, violence and retaliation between Islamist movements and Western powers. He argues that humanity must learn to coexist across profound cultural differences to escape this cycle of conflict.
Polling shows President Donald Trump is unpopular with independent voters — and the midterm elections could be a blue wave. But could Trump try to interfere with the election? He's used executive orders to attack voter eligibility, mail voting, voter databases and redistricting. How vulnerable are the midterms? How can we protect democracy?
Governor Greg Abbott is calling for the San Antonio electricity market to be opened up to private for-profit power companies. CPS Energy is the largest municipally owned electricity provider in the nation, and each year contributes about half a billion dollars to the city’s general fund. CPS Energy joins us to explain what Abbott’s proposal could mean for your power bill and for funding city programs.
San Antonio Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito is calling for renewed scrutiny of cybersecurity protections at the city’s municipally owned water and electric utilities following attacks on water systems in Minnesota.
Texas history is more than just history. It’s filled with myth— and amnesia—that provides a permission structure which fuels conservative politics. It also has a powerful influence on the nation as a whole. In his book Texas: An American History, Benjamin Heber Johnson shines new light on Texas history—while seeking to balance the dark chapters of Texas history and not letting them overshadow the achievements of the lone star state.
Over just the last 50 years, humanity as taken more out of the earth than in all the rest of human history combined. The wounds left behind by this extraction — mines, oil wells, quarries, poisoned rivers, hollowed-out industrial towns — now form the true map of our civilization and our age. What can we learn by confronting these ruins?
As record high temperatures continue to rise around the globe this summer, many communities are faced with a common challenge: how to stay safe from extreme heat.In the U.S., extreme heat has claimed more than 21,000 lives since 1999. UT San Antonio researchers are working to better understand extreme heat’s impact and to develop strategies to protect the most vulnerable residents.
San Antonio District 10 Councilmember Marc Whyte is rejecting Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones’ call for a citywide vote on San Antonio’s proposed $489 million contribution toward a new downtown Spurs arena.
Initially President Trump said the war with Iran would last four to five weeks. Now over five months later there is no end in sight. The war is acting like a tax on the U.S. economy: energy costs are rising, inflation has accelerated, and the federal government is spending tens of billions of dollars on military operations.
Should San Antonio have another vote on city funds for Project Marvel? San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones says a second vote is needed. She joins The Source to explain why. Also what's her response to Governor Greg Abbott wanting to open the San Antonio electricity market to private companies? And should San Antonio have a moratorium on data centers?
Three San Antonio City Council members are calling for a temporary moratorium on applications for new data centers, citing concerns about the rapidly growing industry’s demands on water, electricity and impact on air quality in surrounding neighborhoods.
President Donald Trump has spent decades cultivating an image as a master dealmaker. A new book examines the techniques behind that reputation and what others can learn from both his successes and shortcomings.
We might live in a crowded city, but we also share the urban space with lot of animals.Raccoons, skunks, possums and even coyotes roam our streets. And we are part of their ecosystem. These creatures are ambassadors from nature — and reminders that this land isn't ours. How animals are adapting to cities and reshaping the natural World.
Federal cuts are threatening HIV testing, prevention and treatment programs across the country — and San Antonio organizations are being impacted. What could the loss of funding mean for free testing, access to PrEP and the outreach work of local nonprofits like BEAT AIDS? We examine whether decades of progress against HIV are now at risk.
A rapidly expanding Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has killed more than 1,400 people, as armed conflict and reduced international assistance complicate efforts to contain the virus.
Texas retailers stopped selling many popular hemp-derived THC products on Friday. But vendors can still put Delta-9 products on their shelves for now. What's next for the Texas hemp industry?
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has directed state senators to explore expanding religious expression in Texas public life, continuing a broader push by Republican leaders to increase religion’s presence in schools and government.
What's known as "dark money" in U.S. elections reached a record-shattering $1.9 billion in recent federal election cycles, nearly doubling the previous record. This surge traces back to the Supreme Court's 2010 Citizens United decision. Now dark money has grown into a mysterious massive force, as billionaires and organizations exploit loopholes in campaign finance disclosure laws.
Flock cameras and license plate readers are rapidly expanding across Bexar County. They are deployed by local police departments, private businesses, and HOAs. Law enforcement officials say they help keep communities safer but there are concerns regarding mass surveillance, civil liberties, and data sharing.
Two data centers on San Antonio’s West Side will be powered with on-site natural gas-fired and diesel generators. Nonprofit groups are saying these data centers are trying to avoid clean air regulations and laws — and will have a negative impact on San Antonio’s air. The groups say they are preparing to sue over the projects.
World War II concluded with Japan's unconditional surrender after the United States dropped two atomic bombs on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. What led to President Truman's order to deploy this new weapon? Was the first and only wartime use of nuclear bombs justified?
The Democratic Socialists of America are winning elections across the nation, including in San Antonio. There are three San Antonio City Council members who belong to the progressive party. The Republican Party is calling the DSA "communists." DSA supports universal health care, benefits for workers, opposition to billionaires and stopping data centers.
With a Super El Niño brewing in the atmosphere, there's concern about what the weather pattern means for the U.S. and the Southwest. Texas is already experiencing another summer of weather extremes: destructive rainfall and flooding followed by dangerous heat, with Tropical Storm Bertha now moving across the northern Gulf of Mexico.
Rising summer temperatures mean more Texans are spending time outdoors and are more likely to encounter venomous snakes in parks, wooded areas, along waterways and even in backyards.
In June the Republican-controlled State Board of Education approved new statewide reading requirements. Students in every grade are required to read Bible passages. Supporters say students need biblical literacy to understand Western literature. However, opponents say the selections disproportionately favor Christianity, particularly Protestant interpretations.
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is confronting major questions about the city’s finances, growth and relationship with the federal government. Jones joins “The Source” Monday to discuss a projected $158 million city budget shortfall and the difficult choices it could force over services and spending.
Texas is confronting a widening gap between its long-term water supply and the needs of its growing population and economy. The state is projected to be in a water crisis in coming decades unless new conservation measures are installed and new water sources are created,
Texas is again facing severe flooding after heavy rainfall in the Hill Country and the region west of San Antonio. Evacuations are underway along with high water rescues and road closures.
Lone Star Beer has marketed itself as a Texas tradition dating to 1884, but a new book argues the familiar brand grew from two distinct San Antonio breweries operating in different eras.
Why are Texas school children as young as 10 years old ending up in trouble with the law? Data shows how districts across the state are arresting and citing children for common misbehavior. The children are left with lasting trauma as the Legislature rejects bills to raise the age of criminal responsibility and floods schools with even more police.
The New World screwworm is back in Texas. The lone star tick is on a tea. And the air is thick with blood-sucking mosquitoes. These are all parasites, and they are aggressively on the hunt for their next victim. We share the planet with these creatures, and we need to understand them to protect ourselves. Are they the villains of the animal kingdom or are they misunderstood?
The jailhouse informant can have quite an influence on the outcome of a trail. Frequently prosecutors rely on the accounts of prisoners who happen to hear incriminating claims of a defendant on trial. However, sometimes their testimony helps convict an innocent man in an effort to get a sweetheart deal. Investigative reporter Pamela Colloff tells the story of a classic jailhouse snitch and the lives he destroyed in her new book "Catch the Devil."
New generations of Americans are taking to the street in protest, demanding change and accountability. And they are discovering what protestors of the 1960s and '70s found out— protesting is hard, frustrating and requires sacrifice. But protest songs can help. Songs demanding freedom and justice go back generations and are also being composed today. We hear from Stephen Stacks about his new book The Resounding Revolution: Freedom Song After 1968.
From jazz to present-day pop, drum kits make up one of the most transformative musical inventions. In his book "Kick It," musician, professor and author Matt Brennan dives into the history of drums and drummers, and their impact on both creative culture and society as a whole.
Michael Jackson thrilled, Madonna wowed, Prince had doves cry and Lionel Richie couldn’t slow down: it was 1984. This was a year the changed the music industry and American culture. And it was the last great year for American pop music.
'ET,' 'Star Trek,' 'Wrath of Khan,' 'Blade Runner,' 'Poltergeist,' 'The Thing' — these are just some of the now classic science fiction films that came out in the summer of 1982. What was it about that moment in Hollywood that made it open to fresh ideas and high concept films and what would it take to do it again?
When the July 4 flood tore through the upper Guadalupe River, ripping apart neighborhoods and destroying homes, the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country stepped up by helping families find shelter and new homes. How will Kerrville celebrate the Fourth of July on what will be the nation's 250th birthday — while also commemorating the lives lost one year earlier?
On July 4, it will be one year since the flash flood disaster that took the lives of 119 people along the upper Guadalupe River in one of the worst calamities in Texas history. How is the region recovering? What lessons have been learned? And what's being done to prevent this from happening again?
Can the new faultline in American political tribalism be broken down along the masculine question? Republican attacks against Texas Democratic candidate for Senate James Talarcio falsely claim he's vegan as a challenge to his masculinity. While others in the GOP say they want to repeal women's right to vote. What is the overarching strategy here?
Former South Carolina congressman Joe Cunningham says the Democratic Party has lost touch with voters it once counted on and must rebuild trust before it can rebuild a winning coalition.
At the recent Texas Republican Convention delegates approved a platform opposing In vitro fertilization - medical procedure primarily used to treat infertility and help individuals or couples achieve a successful pregnancy.The platform itself doesn't change Texas law but it sets the course for conservatives to do so in the future.
Disease-spreading ticks are posing a widening health and agricultural threat in Texas, where the blood-feeding parasites remain active throughout much of the year and become especially abundant during the warmer months.
Lax laws have left the for-profit adoption industry ripe for abuse. FRONTLINE and Retro Report investigate how so-called "baby brokers" have targeted pregnant women in the United States desperate for cash and families desperate to adopt. And asks if national standards should be put in place to protect women, babies put up for adoption and families.
The world is moving full speed ahead with renewable energy and away from carbon-burning power — except for the United States. Under the Trump administration, the U.S. is actively falling behind in the global clean-energy race. In fact, billions of tax dollars are being spent to scrap domestic renewable projects. How does this policy choice threaten American competitiveness, national security and access to reliable affordable electric power?
A Rio Grande Valley murder case was botched and evidence lost by local police and by Texas Rangers. The Texas Observer investigates the case and raises questions about the state's elite law enforcement agency.
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is confronting a series of politically difficult decisions involving water rates, property taxes and the use of a city-owned entertainment venue for a concert with Kanye West, the rapper whose current legal name is Ye.
Cuba is in a deep crisis. Food and medicine are scarce; power outages are widespread. And the communist government is facing a military threat by the United States.A San Antonio organization, The San-Havana Project, is working to bring humanitarian relief to the people of Cuba.
San Antonio will mark Juneteenth with celebrations and recognitions of renewed reflection on the unfinished struggle for racial equality include the opening of the St. James AME Church Culture Crossing enhancements along San Pedro Creek and other events.
America's bees are dying in record numbers — and the way we grow our food is partly to blame. In 2025 beekeepers lost more than 60% of their colonies, and wild native bees are also in steep decline. If we lost the bees, it would be a massive blow to U.S. crop production. How Big Ag is a threat to the bees?
The New World screwworm has crossed into Texas from Mexico, threatening livestock, wildlife and pets. Human infections are rare, but officials warn the parasite's spread poses a growing challenge for communities across South Texas.
The Trump administration is accelerating plans for new border barriers along hundreds of miles of the Texas-Mexico border, prompting protests, property disputes, and lawsuits from landowners and environmental groups.
We examine the Commonwealth Fund report's findings and what they reveal about health care access, affordability and outcomes across Texas.
School districts across Texas are rapidly closing campuses due to falling public school enrollment, funding shortfalls, and charter school competition. In San Antonio specifically, local districts are pushing forward with recent campus closures and "optimization" plans. What does this trend mean for providing quality public education into the future in Texas?
"America — love it or leave it." That's a bumper sticker slogan that sums up the long-standing tension between patriotism and the exercise of constitutional freedoms. As the nation celebrates America’s 250th birthday we explore where healthy patriotism ends and toxic nationalism begins. We discuss how "America First" could sometimes lead to a slippery slope towards tyranny.
Rising homelessness in San Antonio is prompting health professionals, educators and community advocates to examine how the community can more effectively meet the health and social needs of people experiencing homelessness.
New data underscores the sustained and complex challenges facing college students and young adults today. According to UnitedHealthcare's fourth annual Young Adult and College Student Behavioral Health Report, over 60% of young adults reported experiencing a mental or behavioral health concern in the past year. A Bexar County study found similar results.
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones faces a consequential City Council vote on water rates while also pushing a new voter-engagement initiative and finding time to defend the city from Charles Barkley.
Two cases of New World screwworm were confirmed in the U.S. — in Zavala County. The parasite, carried by flies, targets the live flesh of warm-blooded animals, including cattle, pets, wildlife and humans, causing severe wounds or death. Spread of the New World screwworm could have a major economic impact on the cattle industry.
We are living in a time when extreme wealth is held in the hands of very few. These modern-day robber barons are using their riches to break democracy and create a system that saps income from the general population to add to their own treasure — making the poor poorer and the rich richer. Stanford economist Mordecai Kurz explains "Private Power and Democracy’s Decline."
The fight over Project Marvel could upend how San Antonio votes on bond projects. District 4 Council Member Edward Mungia is proposing breaking out the downtown Spurs and Entertainment area specific to District 1, as opposed to part of a broader infrastructure package.
The U.S. Supreme Court is supposed to be above politics and committed to preserving the Constitution by deciding on complex legal issues. Critics of the High Court, especially on the left, say that is no longer the case. But Sarah Isgur writes in "The Last Branch Standing" SCOTUS is holding to its charge.
In San Antonio oak trees can stand majestic and add to a home's property value. But they are vulnerable to oak wilt, a fast-moving disease that can spread quickly and kill entire clusters of oaks. It can be devastating. Learn how to protect your tress against oak wilt.
As the nation prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, historian Robert G. Parkinson reminds us that the founding document also contains 27 grievances to King George that demand attention.
Under the boot of dictator Vladimir Putin, Russia has declined into a second-rate nation with nukes and a bleak future according to Marc Bennetts, author of "The Descent: Witnessing Russia's Spiral into Madness Under Putin."
As Washington debates how to protect America’s lead in artificial intelligence, some independent inventors are warning that national security begins with the patent system.
Frontline: The War Cabinet premiering May 26, 2026, on PBS, examines the inner circle of advisors shaping President Donald Trump’s military strategy. The documentary explores key decisions, including actions in the Middle East and relations with allies
What is the connection between early childhood education and developing San Antonio's workforce of tomorrow? Research shows that when children are engaged in their most formative years it sets them and the community up for future success. We hear about the work that's being done today and the need for more investment in these efforts, before it's too late.
Ninety-five percent of people who are incarcerated in the United States will eventually be released. How they’re treated while behind bars profoundly affects their chances of success on the outside. Americans across the political spectrum agree that making prisons more humane and more conducive to rehabilitation is important for the health of our society.
The riverwalk is San Antonio's tourism crown jewel. Other cities have tried to copy it — with limited success. But is that jewel losing its luster? The City of San Antonio is developing a strategic plan to update and upgrade the River Walk. They are seeking community input and insights for the River Walk’s next chapter.
Texas Public Radio and the San Antonio Report will combine operations beginning July 1, creating what leaders say will be the largest nonprofit newsroom in San Antonio’s history.
UT San Antonio’s new College of AI, Cyber and Computing is being positioned as a major workforce engine for a city increasingly focused on cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence and advanced computing.
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is entering a difficult stretch of city budgeting, with several expensive decisions arriving at once: possible utility rate hikes, a potential property tax rate increase and a smaller-than-expected 2027 bond package — all while the city continues planning Project Marvel, the proposed downtown sports and entertainment district.
Recent polling shows the race for Texas Governor tightening. Democrat State Representative Gina Hinojosa trails Republican Governor Greg Abbott by single digits. The last time a Democrat was elected governor was in 1990, when Ann Richards won the office.
After the GOP 's mid-decade redistricting, the Texas 35th Congressional District is very different. It's now covering Eastern Bexar County along with Guadalupe, Wilson and Karnes counties. Two candidates are in the runoff for the Democratic nomination for the congressional seat: Bexar County sheriff’s deputy Johnny Garcia and housing reform activist Maureen Galindo.
Texas Democrats will decide May 26 whether former Galveston Mayor Joe Jaworski or Dallas state Sen. Nathan Johnson will carry the party’s banner for Texas attorney general into November, a race for one of the most powerful legal offices in the country.
Former Fourth Court of Appeals Justice Luz Elena Chapa and longtime prosecutor Jane Davis are runoff canddiates for the Democratic nomination for Bexar County district attorney.
We start a week of forums with candidates in the May 26 primary election runoff by hearing from the two Democrats running to represent Texas House District 125.Adrian Reyna is a middle school teacher. Michelle Barrientes Vela is a former Bexar County constable. Join us. We'll take your questions.
The relationship between George Jones and Tammy Wynette, two of country music’s biggest stars, is one of the most tumultuous and legendary in the genre’s history. But it's also been largely misunderstood. Podcaster and author Tyler Mahan Coe sets the record straight in "Cocaine & Rhinestones."
The race is on to get humans to Mars. But what will they find? Not little green men, despite that’s what many believed about the red planet. In the early 1900s it was thought that Mars was inhabited and was home to a utopian society in the grip of a planet-wide drought. How did Mars mania grip the nation, influence pop culture and give us cause to stare into the night sky and wonder?
Poverty is big business in America. The federal government spends about $900 billion a year on programs that impact poor Americans, including antipoverty programs like Medicaid, affordable housing and subsidies. There is a vast web of entrenched companies that profit from regulating the lives of the poor with business models that depend on exploiting low-income Americans. The new book Poverty for Profit explains.
Headlines have made clear that we are in a crisis of loneliness, but the conversation has yet to explore how social isolation impacts the body and mind on a cellular level. We are animals that need community and unity. We hear a neuroscientist’s guide to boosting your brain health by living a more connected life.
Updated for the first time in six years, clinical guidelines for screening and managing cholesterol now recommend earlier screenings for those with a family history of heart disease. Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death, but experts say much of it is preventable.
There has been a catastrophic decline in the population of North American birds. The continent has lost approximately one-third of all birds since 1970. But certain groups like raptors and waterfowl have recovered significantly due to targeted habitat restoration and dedicated conservation funding.
It’s an essential insight about our world: Innovation drives economic growth. For the U.S. to thrive, it must keep innovating. But how, and in what areas? A new book co-authored by MIT faculty members focuses on key areas where technology advances can drive the economy and support national security. Semiconductors, biotechnology, drones, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing — are all built on U.S. know-how, but these are also areas where the country could be falling behind.
Because of the ongoing drought water levels in the Edwards Aquifer have been dipping to some of the lowest in history. Yet development growth continues, and big thirsty industry continues to move into the area. Meanwhile area agriculture is looking down the barrel of dropping wells and few options.
For over a year the Trump administration has been executing its mass deportation agenda. Data shows that the Immigration and Customs Enforcement dragnet has scooped up mainly non-criminal immigrants. Recently the National Council of Jewish Women San Antonio organized the live panel discussion: “Paths, Barriers and Possibilities: Immigration in America” for a conversation about the impact of Trump’s mass deportation policies.
Texas restaurants are facing a new round of financial strain, and industry leaders say immigration enforcement is making a difficult economy even harder to navigate.
PBS Frontline investigates a controversial alliance between President Donald Trump and El Salvador’s leader Nayib Bukele regarding immigration and gang suppression. While both leaders publicly celebrated a crackdown on the MS-13 gang, investigative reporters uncovered evidence of secret government negotiations with criminal organizations to artificially lower murder rates.
Americans are paying more at the pump after the conflict with Iran sent oil markets sharply higher and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Whether by downsizing your grass lawn, planting a handful of native species, or allowing leaves to sit untouched — you can take action to help your yard become a healing space for nature and restoration. By supporting wildlife at home, homeowners have power to lead when it comes to backyard conservation.
Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones joins The Source to discuss the San Antonio City Council’s zoning change aimed at stopping a planned ICE detention center. Meanwhile, ICE says it plans to open the facility on Sept. 30.
Email scams are growing more advanced and harder to spot. Many now appear polished, professional and highly targeted, often posing as messages from a boss, a bank or a government agency. These scams exploit urgency, emotion and personal information. Experts explain how they work and how to protect yourself.
What was it like on the streets of Minnesota as ICE executed its immigration crackdown? A new FRONTLINE PBS documentary explores how the Trump administration said it was protecting U.S. citizens. But ended up killing two people (Renee Good and Alex Pretti), arresting hundreds of U.S. citizens, and rounding up non-criminal migrants for deportation. FRONTLINE examines the tactics, legal cases and impact of Trump’s ICE crackdown.
A recent study reveals the significant and largely unaccounted-for pressure that the rapid expansion of data centers is placing on Texas’ water resources. The number of massive data centers is surging in Texas, placing a strain on the grid. They are also demanding a lot of water that many areas just don't have.
Port San Antonio has become one of the city’s most important economic development hubs. The former military base is now driving growth in aerospace, defense, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. What does that mean for San Antonio’s economy, its workforce, and its future?
Over 2.5 million grandparents in the U.S. are primary caregivers for their grandchildren. This is a growing trend driven by parental addiction, incarceration, mental health issues, neglect, and financial instability. This "grandfamily" phenomenon often leaves seniors managing financial, legal, and health challenges with little to no support.
UT Health San Antonio has launched a new Center for Excellence in Diabetes to advance treatment and work toward a cure for a disease that impacts about one in six people in San Antonio. The center will bring together clinicians, researchers and trainees to better understand the wide range of symptoms and complications of diabetes that can vary from patient to patient.
Solar energy advocates are excited about perovskite-based solar technology, which could produce cheaper, more efficient panels that use less energy to manufacture than traditional silicon solar cells. But hurdles still stand in the way, including durability, large-scale production and environmental concerns.
As NASA’s Artimis ll is orbiting around the moon and will soon head back to Earth, there are lots of questions about what is next for humanity and space exploration. A permanent moon base is planned and then explorations of Mars. But how realistic are these ambitious plans?
As San Antonio enters a new industrial era, four frontier industries are driving opportunity and innovation: cybersecurity, bioscience, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace. How will San Antonio leverage its $44 billion innovation ecosystem, retain local talent and discoveries – to foster breakthrough bioscience research, technologies, and companies?
As the United States’ space program is heading back to the moon — we hear from Eileen Collins — a retired NASA astronaut. Collins was the first woman to pilot the Space Shuttle and the first to command a Space Shuttle mission. A new documentary “Spacewoman” tells the story of this NASA pioneer. She tells us about her time in space and what the future might hold for space exploration.
FRONTLINE's “Strike on Iran: The Nuclear Question,” is an updated report that is produced with The Washington Post, Evident Media and Bellingcat. The documentary investigates Iran’s nuclear program after the June 2025 strikes. Iran's ability to build a nuclear weapon was the primary justification for the ongoing U.S. Israeli war with Iran.
One month into the U.S. Israeli war against Iran, and there remain questions about why President Trump decided to launch the attack and what the objectives are. Under the Constitution only Congress has the authority to declare war — but that didn’t happen. San Antonio Congressman Joaquin Castro (D) joins us to answer your questions about the war with Iran.
The history of the Mayan civilization seemed to be lost forever when Spanish explorers first saw the ruins of the ancient cities in Mexico and Central America. Today with recent decipherment of their writings the story of the Maya can now be told from their perspective.
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is using overseas trade missions to make the case that the city can compete for the industries shaping the next economy. Her latest trip, a March delegation visit to Taiwan, was framed by City Hall as an effort to strengthen bilateral ties, attract investment, and position San Antonio as a landing spot for Taiwanese firms looking to expand in the United States.
The number of data centers in the San Antonio area continues to grow. And District 10 Councilmember Marc Whyte is presenting a nuanced position on the growth as an opportunity for the city’s economy — boosting revenue for CPS Energy and providing a projected $50 million dollars for the city’s general fund. Whyte is calling for managing data center growth to protect the region's water and neighborhoods.
In the new book “Something Between Us: The Everyday Walls of American Life, and How to Take Them Down” a cultural anthropologist examines the social and political divides in the U.S., examining how physical and social barriers like gated communities, massive trucks, and targeted media create separation — and isolation—and looks for how to restore communal caretaking and a more inclusive society.
The last three presidents — Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Donald Trump — have all had to deal with health care in America. And along the way, they've clashed with how politics works in Washington D.C. This created today’s environment where the understanding of science is scorned, medical disinformation thrives and the nation could be unprepared for the next health crisis.
Corpus Christi could face a water emergency in the coming months. So how did this coastal city end up in such a precarious position? Drought is a major part of the story. But there is also a growing question about whether years of local political conflict and delayed decisions helped deepen the crisis.
Invasive species pose a serious threat to Texas landscapes and ecosystems. Ashley Morgan-Olvera of the Texas Invasive Species Institute says homeowners can make a real difference by learning to identify harmful non-native plants and animals and removing them early.
New allegations that César Chávez sexually assaulted women and girls, including minors, have triggered a fast and painful reckoning over one of the most celebrated figures in Mexican American and labor history.
The U.S. Israeli war with Iran has caused a major disruption to the global flow of oil. The price of crude has jumped to over $100 a barrel. But the question has been, is this a short-term problem or will this war cause the destruction of key oil production sites in the Middle East and cause long term higher prices? And can Texas oil producers meet the moment?
When it comes to politics, it used to be bad headlines could torpedo a public figure. But today politicians appear to be armored in Teflon— nothing sticks. So scandals are less likely to end a career. Why is that? That shift is the focus of "Scandal: Why Politicians Survive Controversy in a Partisan Era" by University of Houston political scientist Brandon Rottinghaus.
Three drugs that are already approved for people and are on the market — rapamycin, semaglutide and dapagliflozi — could help pick the lock on living longer and healthier. The San Antonio Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies is, for the first time, looking at these drugs to evaluate their repurposing for delaying aging.
Katy Padilla Stout is the Democratic nominee for the 23rd Congressional District of Texas. This is a district that Republicans have held and has been considered a safe Red seat. But after current congressman Tony Gonzales dropped out of the race due to a scandal, and the GOP nomination moved to gun rights activist Brandon Herrera, Democrats are sensing an opportunity to flip the district.
Texas is slipping deeper into a prolonged drought, with the latest U.S. Drought Monitor showing nearly the entire state abnormally dry and about 81.8% in drought. Roughly half of Texas is now in severe drought or worse, and about one in five acres is in extreme to exceptional drought.
The United States and Israel are now at war with Iran. This direct conflict has grown out of decades of simmering hostility but is now erupting, reshaping the Middle East and rattling the global economy. FRONTLINE has produced and is streaming an updated presentation of Remaking the Middle East. From award-winning FRONTLINE filmmakers James Jacoby and Anya Bourg.
Brandon Herrera is the GOP nominee for the 23rd Congressional District of Texas. He is a pro-gun activist and YouTube conservative influencer. He faces Democrat Katy Padilla Stout in the November General Election.
We are living in a time of extreme self surveillance. We carry with us devices that capture our every location, info about our health, and data about our private lives. This information can be saved, processed and used against us by the police, prosecutors and the political state. Digital technology exposes everyone, everywhere, all at once, and we have few laws to regulate it.
No other phenomenon has shaped human history as decisively as capitalism. It structures how we live and work, how we think about ourselves and others, how we organize our politics. But is capitalism what you think it is? It's rooted in the ideas of private property, self-interest and profit — but it is dependent on the rule of law and state support. We hear the story of capitalism.
Measles in South Carolina’s outbreak grew to nearly a thousand cases last week. The outbreak is part of a wave of measles outbreaks across the country that began last year in Texas. There are other outbreaks now in California, Utah and North Dakota. The vast majority of cases have been among unvaccinated people. The surge in cases is pushing the U.S. dangerously close to losing its measles-free status. Why are we losing the battle against measles?
San Antonio City Council is looking to move forward after a week of internal rifts due to a confrontation between Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones and District 1 Councilwoman Sukh Kaur. The conflict escalated into an 8-1 City Council vote to censure the mayor on Friday.
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is looking to boost voter participation in the city, tighten oversight of area data centers, and push back against new immigration detention facilities.
Former San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg releases a memoir about his time leading City Hall as he seeks to win the Bexar County judge office as the Democratic nominee. “Nirenberg: The Education of a Texas Public Servant,” is published by Trinity University Press.
Texas voters delivered a primary night that mixed sharp surprises with familiar outcomes, underscoring both the volatility and the limits of the state’s political map.
U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran have sharply escalated tensions in the Middle East, raising fears of a wider regional conflict and fresh questions about the legal and strategic case for military action.
There are significant changes to the H-1B visa program. The Trump administration is replacing the random lottery system with a process that will prioritize visas for higher-skilled and higher-paid individuals. There is an intensifying crackdown by the Trump administration on H-1B visas. Critics say the changes could hurt universities, hospitals, startups, and tech employers that rely on foreign talent.
Questions are being asked about possible drone activity on the U.S.-Mexico border after two recent incidents in the El Paso area shut down air space and a military laser was fired to accidentally take down a U.S. Customs and Border Protection drone.
When you take a look around America and see the growing wealth gap, a housing shortage, generational poverty, regional disparities, the end of upward mobility, you realize these problems and others like them are all connected to the U.S. tax code. These problems didn’t happen by accident. They are the result of a fundamentally tilted tax system that favors the wealthy and punishes the middle class.
On The Source, District 6 Councilmember Ric Galvan said the VIA board vote leaves no immediate path forward for free fare. “I don’t see a specific pathway forward in developing a program at this time,” he said.
The price of gold is hitting record highs. This could seem like a glittery situation, but it could foreshadow trouble for the global economy. Drivers of "gold fever" could be causing growing concerns about inflation, debt and geopolitical tensions.
Texas public school students could soon be required to read Bible passages in English language arts classes from kindergarten through 12th grade under a draft proposal before the Texas State Board of Education.
San Antonio mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is calling for transparency and accountability from U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which oversees Immigrations and Customs Enforcement regarding the March 2025 shooting death of San Antonio resident Ruben Ray Martinez, a U.S. citizen.
San Antonio leaders are weighing a major shift in public transportation policy after Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones asked VIA Metropolitan Transit to develop a plan for testing fare-free bus service on the city’s busiest routes.
More than a dozen health and environmental groups are suing the Environmental Protection Agency over its rollback of a rule that fought climate change. The “endangerment finding”, states that the buildup of heat-trapping pollution in the atmosphere endangers public health. The rollback is widely seen as a major setback to efforts to combat the climate crisis.
How did PFAS chemicals, once used in popular stain-resistant carpets, end up in the water and environment in parts of Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina? FRONTLINE, The Associated Press, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Post and Courier and AL.com investigate what happened with these forever chemicals and the ongoing health impacts.
The current right-wing view is that DEI is bad for America. It’s been banned from Texas and national public policy. Diversity, equity and inclusion make up an idea to promote the fair treatment and full participation of all people, particularly those from underrepresented or marginalized groups. So what does the evidence tell us about DEI? And how has it helped business, education, justice and democracy?
Early voting kicks off in Texas for the March 3 political primaries. The big races to watch are in both major parties for U.S. Senator. Who will the Republicans and the Democrats pick for their nominees? And what’s happening down ballot? Is there a blue wave coming in November?
Recently the slavery exhibit was removed at Independence National Historical Park, The Pride flag was removed at Stonewall National Monument and at the Smithsonian references to President Trumps impeachments were taken down. We hear from Jason Stanley, the author of “Erasing History – How Fascists rewrite the Past to Control the Future.”
The race for the Democratic nomination for Bexar County judge is on. Former Mayor Ron Nirenberg joins us for the first half hour. He's followed by incumbent County Judge Peter Sakai. We’ll hear from each candidate separately about his vision for Bexar County, Project Marvel, economic development and more.
The polls look grim for Republicans heading into the midterms — and recent special elections look even worse. President Trump has reacted by calling for the Republican party to take over the elections entirely. Advocates for free and fair elections are calling this a warning sign. What could happen and how can we protect our elections?
Conditions inside the family immigration detention facility in Dilley, Texas are drawing renewed scrutiny as detainees, attorneys and advocates describe shortages in medical attention, inadequate and substandard food and water, and serious mental-health strain — allegations that federal officials and the private operator dispute.
Texas state leaders are threatening sanctions against school districts and disciplinary action against educators after a wave of student walkouts protesting federal immigration enforcement.
A month after the U.S. raid and capture of then-President Nicolas Maduro upended Venezuela, the initial shock has given way to a mix of uncertainty, hope and disappointment. Maduro's government remains in power. Donald Trump said he’s the acting president. There are no signs of new elections. The economic collapse continues. FRONTLINE PBS investigates what life is like now in Venezuela.
After U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement purchased a massive warehouse on the city’s East Side for a migrant detention center, San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones said she is looking into how the city can push back.
Should San Antonio have a diversion center? It could allow people with mental illness or intellectual disabilities to avoid going to jail for low-level misdemeanors and instead get treatment. It would help with overcrowding at the Bexar County Jail and could help direct people away from the cycle of the criminal justice system and into getting the help they need.
As the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under President Donald Trump moves to unwind or delay a range of air- and climate-related rules, public-health and environmental advocates warn the shift could hit Texas especially hard.
Art Reinhardt is the director of the San Antonio Public Works Department. He'll discuss large-scale construction projects that will improve streets, drainage, parks and facilities.
New generations of Americans are taking to the street in protest, demanding change and accountability. And they are discovering what protestors of the 1960s and '70s found out— protesting is hard, frustrating and requires sacrifice. But protest songs can help. Songs demanding freedom and justice go back generations and are also being composed today. We hear from Stephen Stacks about his new book The Resounding Revolution: Freedom Song After 1968.
On Juneteenth we look back at the fight for civil rights in America. Historian Peniel E. Joseph discusses his new book Freedom Season: How 1963 Transformed America’s Civil Rights Revolution." He reflects on the power of protest and community organizing and how segregationists and other bigots in power were pushed out of the way. And what this means today.
There’s growing evidence of a great political shift in America. A record-high 45% of U.S. adults identified as political independents in 2025. Meanwhile an equal share of U.S. adults — 27% each — identified as either Democrats or Republicans. But this means a large share of voters are unrepresented in our two-party political system. As independents rise, how will they have a voice?
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade — and the outlawing of abortion in Texas — Planned Parenthood in San Antonio has continued. Planned Parenthood South Texas continues to provide services — but not abortions. And Planned Parenthood in San Antonio is painting rainbow crosswalks at its health centers.
We’ve all marveled at the transformation of the caterpillar into the butterfly. We think of it as a singular mystery of nature, but nearly three-quarters of all animal species undergo some form of metamorphosis. In Oren Harman’s new book, "Metamorphosis: a Natural and Human History," he explores the scientific, philosophical, and artistic aspects of transformation. How does it fit with the questions about individuality, struggle, and the life cycle?
The 2026 U.S. Dietary Guidelines introduced an up-side down food pyramid that prioritizes meat, fats, and full-fat dairy. How healthy is this new food framework? We’re joined by Dr. Nate Wood, head of culinary medicine at the Yale School of Medicine and a former chef to talk about avoiding processed foods and eating healthy.
In recent months the United States has witnessed a resurgence of protesters taking to the streets calling for change on social, political and environmental issues. These marchers are walking in the footsteps of other protesters who fought for civil rights, labor and peace. What makes a protest successful? How can a mass demonstration lead to substantial and long-lasting change. We discuss "A Protest History of the United States" by Gloria J. Browne-Marshall.
As President Donald Trump renews calls for the United States to “claim” Greenland, international law is emerging as the central constraint. It’s clear under international law and the UN treaty that military force and global intimidation cannot be used to change borders in the modern era.
According to a recent study many Latino communities are dealing with unsafe levels of microscopic airborne pollutants. These pollutants penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream and can contribute to asthma, lung cancer, strokes, and neurological disorders.
What does science tell us about aging and trying to improve our health? We know that exercise is one way to hold off the worst effects of aging, but how much exercise do we need and how much does exercise really help? What other anti-aging interventions are available? There is growing consensus on what reliably works, what is promising but unproven, and what remains hype.
Five years after a pro-Trump mob stormed the U.S. Capitol to halt certification of Joe Biden’s 2020 victory, a political battle has intensified over how January 6, 2021, should be remembered — and what it means going forward.
The future of work is going to be about advanced manufacturing — cyber security and cyber control, A.I. — robotics, and space. Where will San Antonio fit into that world? Alamo Colleges District is preparing the local workforce for these jobs.
As buying a home has become out of reach for so many, some families are having to rent to maintain shelter. But in Texas it's become easier for tenant families to be evicted. A new law, SB 38, empowered property owners to expel “squatters” and also weakened rights of renters.
A new comprehensive history of Mexico argues the republic has been a major player in shaping the globe, from its silver fueling global trade to its progressive social positions. "Mexico: A 500-Year History," casts Mexico in a new light.
What's the future of San Antonio's Rainbow Crosswalk and the proposal for a rainbow sidewalk? Pride San Antonio joins "The Source" to explain the politics of expressions of inclusion.
Kathy Rogers is the former executive director of the Alamo Trust. She resigned in late 2025 under pressure from Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Rogers advocated for a broader historical story of the Alamo. Now she is fighting back with a lawsuit claiming First Amendment violations to reclaim her job.
The rising cost of health care is among Americans’ biggest worries, according to recent year-end polls. Insurance coverage for prescription drugs has been decreasing as their prices have been increasing. Texas is the hardest hit state for the uninsured.
Venezuela’s government and several international voices have denounced the U.S. strike as an unlawful act of aggression and a dangerous precedent for unilateral regime changing operations.
2025 was an action-packed year when it came to local politics — with a new mayor, city council members and the debate on Project Marvel. And 2026 is already shaping up to be even bigger with political primaries for Bexar County judge, district attorney, congressional races and more.
It could be said that conservatism has conquered America — and that is due in no small part to William F. Buckley Jr. The conservative influencer launched a revolution against American liberalism. He was in favor of the war in Vietnam, against civil rights and pro-segregation. Yet Buckley charmed his way through political arguments as he lit the fuse of the conservative revolution.
There’s a belief that after the death of Buddy Holly rock & roll lost its way until the arrival of the Beatles. Early '60s rock was still growing in popularity, but the airwaves were ruled by teen idols, girl groups and novelty songs. However, that’s not the full story. Richard Aquila is the author of Rock & Roll in Kennedy's America: A Cultural History of the Early 1960s.
Born on the dance floor in the 1970s amidst the shadow of post-Nixon America and a bruising recession, Disco offered an escape from American disillusionment and economic hardship. Disco celebrated inclusivity, hedonism, and liberation. When it became a commercial success, it became a cultural force that may have seemed vacant and superficial, but there was a deeper cultural significance. David Hamsley writes about that in his book To Disco, with Love: The Records That Defined an Era.
Glam rock was a musical movement that originated in the United Kingdom in the early 1970s. It was characterized by its flamboyant style, which included glitter, platform shoes, and outrageous clothing and makeup. In a music-packed interview, Simon Reynolds, author of "Shock and Awe: The Legacy of Glam Rock," explains the rise of glam.
Roy Orbison was a West Texas boy with an operatic voice. He was drawn to the guitar at age six. His monumental global career successes were matched by extraordinary personal tragedies. Jeff Slate is the co-author of the book The Authorized Roy Orbison.
Here in Texas you are probably used to seeing and even interacting with white-tailed deer. They stride into gardens and could end up on the side of a road after an unfortunate vehicle collision. We have a long and complicated relationship with deer. They are part of our myths and evolution. In the new book “The Age of Deer” author Erika Howsare hunts for the tales about deer.
E. Jean Carroll, the longtime advice columnist, successfully sued Donald Trump for sexual abuse and defamation. She joined 'The Source' to discuss her memoir, Not My Type: One Woman Against a President.
Earlier this summer Carmen Herrera was detained by ICE outside of San Antonio’s immigration court. She’s a mother of five girls who are all U.S. citizens and she is also married to a U.S. citizen. After she was detained, Herrera’s nightmare began—and it’s a story shared by many in our community. Herrera’s story is told in a new documentary.
The Trump administration is facing growing pushback after the U.S. Department of Education excluded nursing from its internal list of “professional degree” programs—an administrative definition that determines how much federal student loan funding graduate students can access under a new loan-cap framework.
In less than a month, more than 20 million Americans will face surging healthcare costs as tax credits through the Affordable Care Act are set to expire if Congress doesn't act. Premium hikes will top 90% in many rural areas. Even those NOT receiving tax credits will feel it. Americans covered by employer healthcare plans, are expected to see the largest increase in premiums 15 years.
U.S. forces carried out pre-dawn strikes on June 22, 2025, against three major Iranian nuclear facilities marking Washington’s most direct military action on Iranian territory in decades. FRONTLINE investigates how effective the bombing was and the state of Iran's nuclear program.
Childhood trauma is the number one cause of drug addiction, suicide and incarceration. What is the lasting impact of childhood trauma? How do early experiences—even experiences had as infants—shape adults? And how is it possible to recognize that damage—to help people heal? We'll hear from Michael J. Menard author of "Greater Than Gravity: How Childhood Trauma is Pulling Down Humanity."
Higher education is in crisis. American colleges and universities face declining enrollment and rising costs. Campuses have become ground zero for the culture war, sparking debates about diversity, equity, and inclusion and free speech.What is the value of higher education today, and how can college leaders respond to the crises and controversies on their campuses?
Headlines have made clear that we are in a crisis of loneliness, but the conversation has yet to explore how social isolation impacts the body and mind on a cellular level. We are animals that need community and unity. We hear a neuroscientist’s guide to boosting your brain health by living a more connected life.
Joan Crawford was one of the grande dames of Hollywood’s classic era. But before she was an Oscar-winning star, she was Lucille LeSueur—born in a shack in San Antonio. How did Crawford work her way to the top of the studio system and make some of the great films of American cinema?
How is CPS Energy getting ready to respond to the energy needs of the community moving into the future? Massive data centers are moving into the area. Household affordability for energy remains an issue. Tapping into green renewable power is yet another concern. And getting ready for the worst weather of the winter remains a worry. We’re joined by CPS President & CEO, Rudy Garza.
As Texas’ Dec. 8 candidate filing deadlines have now passed, the ballot is set for the March 3 primaries that will shape the 2026 elections. We hear from Quorum Report editor Scott Braddock.
The story of one Venezuelan family trying to stay together — and stay documented — as they navigate the shifting legal immigration landscape under the Trump administration. PBS’s FRONTLINE takes viewers inside the experiences of Venezuelan immigrants in the United States
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is urging City Council to move the city’s municipal elections from their traditional Saturday in May to the November general election date.
It’s frequently been noted that the United States is the lone superpower in the world. But in the age of Trump and 'America First,' what does it mean for the U.S. to exit the world stage as a force for democracy, human rights and economic globalism? This creates a vacuum for China to fill but also increases suffering in many parts of the world. The Case for American Power, defends the necessity of U.S. global leadership.
In this the first comprehensive treatment of Pearl Harbor since the early 1990s, respected Pacific War naval historian Mark E. Stille traces the road to war and the Japanese attack itself. Stille challenges the conventional narrative that Japan's sneak attack was brilliantly planned and well executed.
A young Texan recently committed suicide after allegedly being encouraged to end his own life by an AI chat bot. Public safety advocates are calling for restrictions and common-sense AI safeguards on chatbots as this technology is being embraced by more and more people.
Texas’ massive new abortion law, HB7, is taking effect this week. This law is the most ambitious effort yet from abortion opponents to halt telehealth abortions, which have helped patients get around strict bans in Texas and other states after Roe v. Wade was overturned.
Texas Voters just overwhelmingly approved $20 billion to be spent on improving the state’s water supply, infrastructure and education over the next 20 years. But that funding is just the beginning — and it will only go so far in addressing a crisis that threatens the future of Texas, a state where the powers that be will not acknowledge the effects of climate change.
For many chronic migraines and brutal “cluster” headaches are inescapable. The new book The Headache looks for answers about why so many suffer from the jackhammer pounding attacks on the brain. From cutting-edge clinics to experimental treatments, we hear about the search for relief.
Humanity has never seen anything like artificial intelligence. This new transformation technology is already changing the economy, And as Big Tech pushes for Super AI there are many calling for government oversight, regulation and protections for workers and the environment. But Big Tech is also spending big on politics to lobby so that its growth will remain unchecked.
What can we expect now that Props A and B have passed with voter approval?
As the fall weather begins to cool, this is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors of Texas. The state has an abundance of hiking options to choose from. Regions covered include the Panhandle Plains, prairies and lakes, Piney Woods, Gulf Coast, South Texas Plains, Hill Country, and Big Bend. What makes Texas hiking unique? What dangers and challenges should hikers be prepared for? And which hikes best capture the spirit of Texas?
A new FRONTLINE documentary examines Ecuador’s rapid descent from one of South America’s most peaceful nations into a country gripped by violent conflict driven by the international drug trade.
Stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. The impact of stomach cancer is disproportionate in South Texas, where Hispanic populations face higher incidence and earlier onset. Stomach cancer is difficult to detect early, when it’s most treatable.
After a high-profile multi-agency raid on a food truck court in San Antonio, Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is calling for transparency and accountability for the Homeland Security agencies involved.
U.S. warships are patrolling off the coast of Venezuela. The stated purpose is to target drug-trafficking vessels and so-called “narco-terrorists.” President Trump has authorized the CIA to conduct lethal covert operations there. According to Venezuela’s government, these are acts of aggression — and could be a prelude to war. What would happen if the U.S. invaded Venezuela?
The Republican party’s effort to gerrymander Texas to give them five additional seats in Congress took a blow this week when a federal court threw out their map. A federal judge said there was substantial evidence that the map was drawn to hurt minority voters. Attorney General Ken Paxton said he would appeal.
Elon Musk’s outspoken support for Germany’s far-right Alternative for Deutschland (AfD) has intensified concerns among German officials and democracy advocates, and it features prominently in a new PBS FRONTLINE investigation into the rise of nationalist politics across Europe.
Like many parts of Texas, San Antonio is seeing a surge in the number of data centers being built in the area. These are computer warehouses used for servers, crypto mining and AI. They require a lot of electric power and water to operate. District 6 council member Ric Galvan is calling for checking in on the exponential growth of data centers in the region.
PBS’s Frontline returns this week with a new in-depth documentary examining the evolving course of the war in Ukraine, offering viewers a granular look at a conflict now nearing its fourth year.
The vast political divide in America has largely become a battle between folks who live in the cities and those who don’t. This was not always the case. Somehow rural voters have almost uniformly become Republican voters. How did the divide emerge and why does it pose a threat to democracy?
When the No Kings protests recently took place on streets across the nation, Trump administration officials said these were quote "hate America" rallies. But in fact, these were patriots using their constitutional right to dissent and voice their opposition to government policies — a practice that has been part of America since the founding.
How did the Avocado become the toast of the nation? The humble tropical fruit is now common in supermarkets, but even in the 1980s many Americans had never seen an avocado, much less tasted one. How did this once obscure alligator pear come to occupy a central spot in American culture?
The federal spending bill aimed at ending the ongoing government shutdown could also wipe out the nation’s hemp-derived THC industry, including products that have become popular and widespread across Texas.
Since Donald Trump has returned to the presidency there has been a steady stream of government assisted harms focused on America’s black communities. That’s the finding of "The Blackout Report." According to the new report Black progress is at risk, as is Black history. The report identifies over 15,000 instances or actions that erase, distort or suppress Black history and opportunity.
Around the world many nations are facing a full-blown depopulation crisis. In the U.S. birth rates have steadily declined and the U.S. fertility rate is now well below replacement level. Some parts of the country are already experiencing population loss, aging demographics, and labor shortages. What needs to happen to change the population decline before it’s too late?
SNAP payments are disrupted, the government shutdown continues, air travel is chaos. Congressman Joaquin Castro joins us to give us an update. The San Antonio Democrat explains why this is all happening and he will take your calls and answer your questions.
With the passage of Prop B, San Antonio Mayor Jones pledged to ensure a new Spurs arena and the assurance that, more broadly, Project Marvel will deliver real benefits for San Antonians. Meanwhile Jones is working to address the immediate hunger needs as SNAP continues to be disrupted.
The San Antonio Water System is expected to request a rate increase next year, its first since 2020. What is the SAWS position on a proposed wastewater treatment facility at the Guajolote Ranch development? How expensive and complicated will the relocation of a downtown chilled water plant be to accommodate Project Marvel?
Bexar County voters have had their say on Props A and B. We’ll break down the results and what this means for the future of San Antonio and local politics.
When you think of Mount Rushmore, you picture four presidents carved in stone in the Black Hills of South Dakota. But part of that story began in San Antonio. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum began shaping his vision for the monument while working in San Antonio. As Mount Rushmore celebrates 100 years, we look back on the history and future of the landmark.
A new controversy at the Alamo over history, whose history gets told, and anti-woke politics has been reignited. Republican state leaders cracked down on the telling of the history of the Spanish mission. We hear from the American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, alleging the company failed to warn that Tylenol taken during pregnancy could increase the risk of autism and ADHD. The move comes after President Trump’s remarks on ignited public debate on the cause of autism and the safety of Tylenol.
This year, San Antonio College celebrates 100 years of changing lives. For a century, SAC has opened doors to education and opportunity, helping generations build brighter futures and stronger communities. From workforce training to university pathways, San Antonio College has been a cornerstone of access and innovation in higher education. We look back at a hundred years of progress and ahead to what the next century holds.
Last week we heard from COPS/METRO making their case against Prop B and Project Marvel.We give equal time to the pro-Prop B side as they are explaining why raising the venue tax is a generational investment in San Antonio’s future. Supporters argue that the new arena would bring economic benefits and secure the Spurs' long-term presence in San Antonio.
With the continued federal government shutdown and SNAP not being funded for November, San Antonio and many other communities are confronting a hunger crisis. The San Antonio Food Bank is working to meet the sudden rising need. We are joined by Eric Cooper, president and CEO of the San Antonio Food Bank.
Philosopher John Sanbonmatsu’s The Omnivore’s Deception argues that eating animals—no matter how “humanely” raised—is inherently unethical. Rejecting the idea of sustainable meat, he calls for abolishing animal agriculture altogether.
The anti-hunger program Meals on Wheels San Antonio is facing a growing number of challenges. The need for its services continues to grow with inflation driving up the cost of food and government cuts to SNAP, while federal funding is also being slashed.
Opponents of Proposition B have filed an ethics complaint alleging that several members of the San Antonio City Council used their town hall events to advocate for the measure rather than providing an even-handed forum. We'll get a response on the controversy from San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones.
As Bexar County voters cast their ballots for Props A and B, COPS/Metro is the leading voice against Prop B—the venue tax hike for a new spurs arena. They say the deal prioritizes private profit over community needs. Supporters of Prop B say it’s needed to keep the Spurs in San Antonio. We’ll hear from COPS/Metro about their campaign.
When you take a look around America and see the growing wealth gap, a housing shortage, generational poverty, regional disparities, the end of upward mobility, you realize these problems and others like them are all connected to the U.S. tax code. These problems didn’t happen by accident. They are the result of a fundamentally tilted tax system that favors the wealthy and punishes the middle class.
If approved, Proposition 4 would generate $20 billion dedicated to state water projects over the next twenty years and up to $1B of sales tax revenue going into the Texas Water Fund every year starting in 2027.
Texas rural hospitals are in a struggle to stay open.In the last decade, 14 rural hospitals have closed down. Of the 156 rural hospitals currently in the state, about 70% have lost services, and more than half are at risk of closing. Federal cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Affordable Care Act coverage are expected to significantly increase the uninsured rate in Texas and could cause more rural hospitals to shutter. What’s being done to keep these vital lifelines open?
Opposition continues to mount against Guajolote Ranch, a proposed residential development on approximately 1,100 acres in northwest Bexar County west of the intersection of Scenic Loop Road and Babcock Road.
He’s the most well known Kennedy in America today and the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. How Robert F. Kennedy Jr grew up a scion to a political legacy, became a former heroin addict, then a vaccine sceptic and the leader of the Make America Healthy Again movement. A PBS Frontline documentary tells the story.
As the fall weather begins to cool, this is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors of Texas. The state has an abundance of hiking options to choose from. Regions covered include the Panhandle Plains, prairies and lakes, Piney Woods, Gulf Coast, South Texas Plains, Hill Country, and Big Bend. What makes Texas hiking unique? What dangers and challenges should hikers be prepared for? And which hikes best capture the spirit of Texas?
From drought and extreme heat to floods and freezes, gardening in Texas can be a challenge. However, with some helpful tips some Texas gardeners can cultivate spaces that are productive, resilient, and beautiful.By choosing hardy plants, water-saving native lawns, and other strategies, they’re creating dynamic, thriving gardens. What are the practical practices that tame the Texas climate?
Your right to read is being infringed upon, and librarians have become the first responders in the fight for democracy and First Amendment rights. Texas has become ground zero as sweeping book bans are adopted at an unprecedented rate. As tensions escalate, librarians are being threatened with violence, harassed and accused of crimes. A new documentary, “The Librarians,” shows who is standing up for basic rights.
As Bexar County voters prepare to cast ballots on a possible venue tax increase for a proposed downtown home for The Spurs, SA Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones takes listeners' questions.
On Nov. 4, Texans will decide on 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution, the largest batch since 2003. The measures span a wide range of issues: property tax relief, judicial reforms, funding for education and water, parental rights, and stricter voting eligibility rules. Proposition 16 is labeled “Voting for Citizens Only.”
Christopher Columbus used to be considered a hero for "discovering America" But did he? Columbus has now become a more controversial figure. Five years ago San Antonio took down its Columbus statue. A new biography of Columbus takes a fresh look at the explorer – his life and afterlife – how our understanding of the man has changed.
Proposition A on the November 4th ballot is asking Bexar County Voters to approve an increase to the hotel occupancy tax to generate just under $200 million to revitalize the Bexar County rodeo / coliseum / expo grounds on the East Side. The proposal is to turn the area into a year-round destination for rodeo, livestock, exhibitions, conventions and other uses.
San Antonio and Austin are growing day by day—and growing closer to each other. One day they will form one massive combo loco metro. But can the two cities and the communities in between work with each other now to develop healthy development that will maximize the benefits and minimize the problems of this mega region metropolis? Former HUD secretary Henry Cisneros joins us to discuss this on "The Source."