Governance

Rice Professor Involved in Presidential Election Recount Effort

"Do I believe there's been hacking?" he says. "Not yet, nor do I believe that any theory of hacking has been roundly disproven."

In Houston, Constant Flooding Will be the New Normal, Expert Says

Why one expert calls Houston's recent growth "death by a thousand cuts."

Most People Don't Expect Much From Local Government. Nigel Jacob is Changing That.

How do you make a city run better? Hire a "new urban mechanic."

Latino Representation Growing in Houston Leadership

New police chief is latest in an ongoing trend.

Cities Shouldn't be Afraid to Look to the Suburbs for Inspiration

Stereotypes about suburbs abound. But they are dynamic parts of any region, and they may offer important lessons.

Voters Nationwide Support Transit, But Will Washington?

More than 30 communities nationwide approved ballot measures designed to support transit efforts.

In Houston, Voters Send a Strong Message About Criminal Justice Reform

Newly-elected sheriff and DA say they'll avoid locking up low-level offenders.

Despite Trump's Win, Texas Election Results Offer a Glimpse at Electorate's Shifting Demographics

Trump won Texas, but the numbers might reveal a shifting electorate.

Trump Victory Underscores the Important Role of Cities as Laboratories of Democracy

The future of America belongs not to Washington but to cities across the country.

Urban Nation: What's at Stake for Cities in the 2016 Elections

While many U.S. mayors have great power, they need the federal government – with its deep pockets, borrowing power and priority-setting capacity – to shape the future.

As Technology Improves, Should We Worry The Machines Will Take Our Jobs?

A pair of economists discuss the role of automation and artificial intelligence on wages.

Americans Aren't Voting in Local Elections

A new report shows just how low voter turnout is in local elections in many cities across the country.

Five K-12 Education Issues to Watch in Texas This Legislative Session

Funding, testing and other big education issues facing the 85th legislature in Austin.

Houston Courts Cuba, But Challenges Remain

Houston is eager to position itself as a gateway for Cuban trade and travel following the resumption of diplomatic relations with the U.S. But experts warn that won't be easy.

Houston’s Pension Reform Package: Our Latest Analysis

Houston’s pension reform plan -- and in particular, its risk-sharing provisions -- should be viewed by other cities as a national model.