# legislative session (audio feeds) — RSS Amplifier Recent posts from the 3 feeds in the RSS Amplifier directory that cover legislative session. Page: Feed: --- ## [Breaking down primary night's winners and losers, and Hillsborough schools get an A](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_36a8ee01-39a3-4aef-bca7-514113025ae8&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-19 · Florida Matters_ Primary night 2026 is in the past. Florida voters picked the major party’s candidates for governor, U.S. Senate and state Agriculture Commissioner. There's also St. Petersburg’s mayoral runoff that's already getting a bit contentious. Anyway, it’s time to follow up with a panel of reporters who've been closely watching the campaigns and campaigners. We also talk about the state's grade for school… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/36a8ee01-39a3-4aef-bca7-514113025ae8/FMLL_8-19.mp3) ## [Class acts: Rethinking school success for teens under stress, and a head start in hospitality](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_9c2ee4b3-178d-4ddb-bd39-511192e529c1&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-18 · Florida Matters_ Teens have a lot on their plates these days: studying for tests, navigating social media, after-school jobs, juggling schoolwork with sports practices. With all this pressure, how can they balance grades and self-confidence? Award-winning teacher Daniel J. Evans has written a book packed with tips. And class is not dismissed yet. Later in the show, a local high school has launched a magnet… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/9c2ee4b3-178d-4ddb-bd39-511192e529c1/FMLL_8-18_.mp3) ## [Vindman challenges political headwinds, and USF nursing school's major expansion](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_fd0b6d9f-3963-4e0f-8713-8f292ccfda23&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-17 · Florida Matters_ Midterm elections can be tough for the party in power. In Florida, however, Democrats running for statewide office face uphill battles in a GOP-dominated state. Alexander Vindman believes he can buck the trend. He’s running to be the Democratic Party’s nominee for U.S. Senate. He tells us why he’s running. Also, the USF College of Nursing just opened a $33 million modern building expansion. The… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/fd0b6d9f-3963-4e0f-8713-8f292ccfda23/8-17_FLM_LL_podcast_audio.mp3) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 145: Primary Election Recap](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-145-primary-election-recap) _2026-08-17 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ It's been a busy several months! So busy that the Chillin' in the Statehouse team struggled to find time to podcast. But we're back and ready to recap the primary election, which featured a constitutional amendment on judicial selection, contested Republican and Democratic primaries for Kansas governor, and Democrats chose their candidate to face Roger Marshall for U.S. Senate. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/4ed8fe37-95a6-402f-9184-b4a90118a917/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Spotting Big Tech and AI in local politics. Also, a college turns trash into treasure](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_061f4fb1-9ecb-49f2-8432-fac3f9dec324&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-13 · Florida Matters_ Attack ads have always been part of politics. But with artificial intelligence, a new front has opened in the battle for votes. On top of that, Silicon Valley is pouring megabucks into Florida campaigns. Plus, what makes someone dive into a swamp in pursuit of big snakes? And, discarded dorm fridges, microwaves and other left-behinds are getting recycled at Eckerd College. Follow us on social… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/061f4fb1-9ecb-49f2-8432-fac3f9dec324/FMLL_8-13.mp3) ## [Why the 'Flock Blocker' opposes these cameras, and an iconic game room pulls the plug](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_e78e7e09-86d0-4204-ac09-e616f8bb07b9&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-12 · Florida Matters_ What in the heck is a Flock camera? Depending on whom you ask, it’s a crime-fighting tool or a symbol of creepy surveillance. Meet “Flock Blocker,” who believes the latter and is staging a one-man protest against them. Also on the show, the importance of voting in primary elections, and an iconic Tampa arcade has played its final level. Follow us on social media: Facebook:… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/e78e7e09-86d0-4204-ac09-e616f8bb07b9/FLM_8-12_podcast_audio.mp3) ## [A new identity for a longtime Tampa shopping mecca, and get ready for 813 Day](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_23a8a865-3599-4093-be82-4e4a14d25485&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-11 · Florida Matters_ Big changes are finally coming to Tampa’s WestShore Plaza. A new owner has bought the mall with plans to redevelop it into a mixed-use space. Then, early voting is underway in the primary elections. What do you want to know about voting for judges? And, Thursday is 813 Day — but what is that? Finally, why do shorebirds like black skimmers need our protection? Follow us on social media: Facebook:… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/23a8a865-3599-4093-be82-4e4a14d25485/FMLL_8-11.mp3) ## [Building a ballpark while solving an infrastructure dilemma, and Florida oranges show some juice](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_72291125-e0a9-4197-9b93-b15f82cf43c7&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-10 · Florida Matters_ It’s difficult to escape talk about public dollars going toward a proposed Tampa Bay Rays stadium in Tampa. City councilman Bill Carlson says he has a “win-win-win” plan that can benefit the city and baseball fans that won’t use sales taxes or increase property taxes. Then, for the first time in years, orange growers are getting good news from their groves, and learn how to steer clear of… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/72291125-e0a9-4197-9b93-b15f82cf43c7/FLM_8-10_podcast_audio.mp3) ## [Breaking down what’s new for the school year, and improv takes center stage in Ybor](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_985f6c03-869b-4176-90bb-eb855cd430f6&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-06 · Florida Matters_ The school year starts next week. And with it come changes related to school lunches, screen time, teacher shortages and more. Plus, the moon got a new beauty mark from SpaceX this morning, and have you ever tried to do improv comedy? Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSF Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/ YouTube:… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/985f6c03-869b-4176-90bb-eb855cd430f6/FMLL_8-6_Podcast.mp3) ## [Challenges facing Florida’s corrections system: At the top and inside the walls](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_30391176-0db7-45bb-a1e2-a4dd0edde5e1&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-05 · Florida Matters_ We spend the hour talking about Florida’s Department of Corrections, beginning with Ricky Dixon, who recently retired as secretary after a 30-year prison career. He talks about the fight to get better pay for corrections officers and other hurdles facing the system. Also, two women who were incarcerated reflect on their experiences and what they believe needs to change inside the walls. And, a UCF… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/30391176-0db7-45bb-a1e2-a4dd0edde5e1/FLM_LL_8-5_podcast_audio.mp3) ## [Reach prospects with real signals (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/bIY3pFJiUP9P) _2026-08-05 · **Sponsored**_ Find prospects talking about your problem and get context-backed moments to engage ## [New guidance on kids and psychotropics, and a red flag over FWC surveillance](https://play.prx.org/listen?ge=prx_9564_a12be4ae-3f6b-49d0-a434-b903f9abf804&uf=https%3A%2F%2Fpublicfeeds.net%2Ff%2F9564%2Ffeed-rss.xml) _2026-08-04 · Florida Matters_ Florida health officials are urging doctors to reconsider prescribing psychotropic meds for kids. Could this affect how they're treated for mental health issues. Some red flags went up when the FWC tracked critics through the state’s official records. Also, conservation advocates say the state’s wildlife commissioner used the Florida driver’s license database to track them, raising First Amendment… [Listen](https://chrt.fm/track/DDG65B/dovetail.prxu.org/9564/a12be4ae-3f6b-49d0-a434-b903f9abf804/FMLL_8-4.mp3) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 144: Phone Ban and Republican Rebellion](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-144-phone-ban-and-republican-rebellion) _2026-03-20 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ March Madness is upon us, and not just the basketball kind. A Republican rebellion against House leadership brought the chamber to a halt at a busy time of the legislative session. Meanwhile, the bipartisan ban on student cell phones in schools was signed into law. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/9e83b11b-ccf1-4fce-a700-b413015e1938/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 143: Property Taxes and Budget Deficits](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-143-property-taxes-and-budget-deficits) _2026-03-16 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ With two weeks left in the regular legislative session, Kansas lawmakers have little time to fulfill their campaign promises of property tax relief. Meanwhile, they're also facing significant deficits and are struggling to cut spending enough to balance the budget. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/a28f5312-9e37-402e-82de-b40f0178871d/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 142: Bathrooms and Gender Markers](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-142-bathrooms-and-gender-markers) _2026-02-23 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ It's been a busy first half of the Kansas legislative session, and even more busy when the Chillin' team also has to cover some happenings outside the Legislature. Then add in some technical difficulties that we hope have been straightened out. Regardless, we're back and ready to talk about the biggest legislative accomplishment so far this year: an anti-transgender bathroom bill that also bans… [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/34f69e0c-0c7b-4594-99ec-b3fa0184338d/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 141: A Farewell to Jack](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-141-a-farewell-to-jack) _2026-01-26 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Has it been two weeks or two months? The Kansas 2026 legislative session is off to a fast and busy start. The Chillin' team brings you an update on the first two weeks and says a farewell to Jack, who is leaving to cover Missouri government and politics. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/790e1842-7448-48f6-b6fe-b3de01013f0b/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 140: A Busy First Week](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-140-a-busy-first-week) _2026-01-18 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ With lawmakers returning to the capital city, it was a busy week at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka. The Chillin' team recaps the first week of the 2026 legislative session, including Gov. Laura Kelly's last State of the State address, Kansas Supreme Court oral arguments and more. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/bcd10ae4-9191-4a44-acf8-b3d60154dc0e/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 139: Chiefs Recap and Kansas Session Preview](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-139-chiefs-recap-and-kansas-session-preview) _2026-01-09 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ The Chillin' team is back, just in time for lawmakers to return to the capital city. The Kansas Legislature's 2026 session starts Jan. 12, and we've got a preview of the biggest items to watch. Also, we've got a recap of the state's subsidy deal for the Kansas City Chiefs to move from Missouri to Kansas. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/1c996714-ad2e-493d-94cc-b3cd0156b941/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 138: All Kansas Wants for Christmas is the Chiefs?](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-138-all-kansas-wants-for-christmas-is-the-chiefs) _2025-12-19 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ The Kansas City Chiefs won't make the NFL playoffs this year, but the football team could make a big decision about the future of its stadium. The Chiefs are expected to propose a deal to a group of top Kansas lawmakers for taxpayer subsidies to help build a new stadium on the Kansas side of the metro. The Royals are not expected to have a proposal. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/1d1154c8-02a3-42a3-88f8-b3b801757da0/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 137: Talking Turkey](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-137-talking-turkey) _2025-11-21 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Just in time for your Thanksgiving road trip, the Chillin' in the Statehouse team has another episode. We talk about about Gov. Laura Kelly's lawsuit against Attorney General Kris Kobach, Kobach's charges alleging noncitizen illegal voting, a child care grant by the Kelly administration, and Kansas turkey hunting records. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/98115973-51d0-4237-8151-b39c018285d5/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Legacy Education Fund: A Proposed, New Public Education Endowment in Texas](https://testing-5690ab43.simplecast.com/episodes/legacy-education-fund-tjmCsGRq) _2025-11-18 · reply@ryht.org (Anne Lasseigne Tiedt, Brian Diggs, Morgan Smith, Derek Castillo, Amanda Kay Phillips, Jay Moreno, Amelia Taurel Folkes, Joel Goudeau) · Intersect Ed_ This episode of Intersect Ed was taped on the morning of Friday, November 14, 2025, just a few blocks from the Capitol, during the 2025 Texas Tribune Festival. Our panelists discussed the “Legacy Education Fund,” a new, proposed idea about a public education endowment that could move Texas beyond two-year budget cycles and establish a lasting investment in our public schools. Host Morgan Smith was… [Listen](https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/0c3e1fcf-ec5f-45a3-8a3f-ed7f9d0f8f6d/episodes/d355c701-44e1-4154-8434-10d0164e64c3/audio/e857c1d5-5250-4ae2-9df5-7ccafdfc90e1/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=uyuY9_qm) ## [Refer a Friend, Earn Rewards (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/4WdZVpN79eH5) _2025-11-18 · **Sponsored**_ Earn rewards when a friend signs up for the Graphite Business Card ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 136: Waiting Until January](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-136-waiting-until-january) _2025-11-14 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Republicans in the Kansas Legislature failed to get enough petitions to call a redistricting special session in November. That means the debate over gerrymandering the congressional maps will have to wait until January - as will potentially amending Senate Bill 180 to make it explicitly ban gender marker changes on driver's licenses. When lawmakers do return to Topeka, they won't be staring down a… [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/cbecbfbe-4984-44aa-99bd-b395017a33aa/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 135: The Latest on Redistricting and SNAP](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-135-the-latest-on-redistricting-and-snap) _2025-10-31 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ The Chillin' in the Statehouse crew is back with another episode on gerrymandering and food stamps. While Senate Republicans have the signatures to call a redistricting special session, House Republicans are not yet there. Meanwhile, it's looking like the federal government shutdown will mean no November SNAP benefits, or at least delayed or partial payments. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/4ae50679-b0eb-42ed-97d9-b387015a0da1/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 134: Snap, SNAP and Redistricting](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-134-snap-snap-and-redistricting) _2025-10-01 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ The Chillin' in the Statehouse team is back with another episode featuring one Snap lawsuit, another SNAP lawsuit, and the latest developments in gerrymandered redistricting efforts in Kansas. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/75379b3b-5958-4d92-9b6a-b369016a9d65/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 133: Kobach v. Kelly on SNAP Data](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-133-kobach-v-kelly-on-snap-data) _2025-09-12 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Attorney General Kris Kobach is suing Gov. Laura Kelly, setting up another legal battle featuring Kobach versus Kelly. This time, it's over SNAP data demanded by the USDA. The Chillin' team breaks it down ahead of a likely court hearing this coming week. We also have news on the Republican rebrand for the One Big Beautiful Bill. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/13f3c323-ba0f-41dd-b0bd-b35601753307/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 132: Kicking Off Political Football Season](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-132-kicking-off-political-football-season) _2025-08-22 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ With K-State and KU playing on Saturday, it's the start to football season. It's also political football season. The Chillin' team has several issues teed up, from gerrymandered redistricting and education cut scores to SNAP data plus candy definitions and DOGE cuts - and even a little Taylor Swift. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/3f412582-9749-457e-972e-b3410167a3b3/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Eliminating STAAR: What it Means for Texas Schools](https://testing-5690ab43.simplecast.com/episodes/eliminating-staar-what-it-means-for-texas-schools-ue6yBDWJ) _2025-08-08 · reply@ryht.org (Amy Dodson, Morgan Smith, Anne Lasseigne Tiedt, Brian Diggs) · Intersect Ed_ This episode of Intersect Ed discusses the sticking points regarding HB 4 in Texas’ 89th Regular Session, as well as what the special session item – “eliminating the STAAR test” – could mean for accountability in our state. Our Intersect Ed host, Morgan Smith, is joined by Amy Dodson, Dean of Advocacy for Raise Your Hand Texas, in a question-and-answer session focused on the differences between… [Listen](https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/0c3e1fcf-ec5f-45a3-8a3f-ed7f9d0f8f6d/episodes/270bf335-2575-4841-a2b8-bb98f416d2f1/audio/fe466b96-4e35-4ba4-bf77-779957481699/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=uyuY9_qm) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 131: One Year Until Primary Election Day](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-131-one-year-until-primary-election-day) _2025-08-05 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ The Aug. 4, 2026, primary election is still a year away, but several candidates have already announced campaigns for statewide office in Kansas. Some races have a large field of candidates, especially in the Republican primary for governor. Others have yet to see a candidate filing, like Democratic primaries for treasurer and insurance commissioner. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/5e87ebef-30ec-4047-bbd0-b33001400c58/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 130: A New Fiscal Year](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-130-a-new-fiscal-year) _2025-07-01 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ After a short hiatus due to scheduling conflicts and technical difficulties, the Chillin' in the Statehouse team is back together to start the new fiscal year - just in time for your Fourth of July road trip. While we focus on the animal stories we've been itching to share and some recent green energy political ads, we also acknowledge new Kansas laws going into effect, the One Big Beautiful Bill… [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/ab2576ed-6d7d-4e81-a79a-b30d016e30bd/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Recap of the 89th Texas Legislative Session: A Historic Session for Public Education](https://testing-5690ab43.simplecast.com/episodes/recap-of-the-89th-texas-legislative-session-IeI6KOAz) _2025-06-04 · reply@ryht.org (Edward McKinley, Scott Braddock, Bob Popinski, Jaden Edison, Morgan Smith) · Intersect Ed_ This episode of Intersect Ed was taped on the morning of Tuesday, June 3, just a few blocks from the Capitol, the day after the 89th Texas Legislative Session ended. Public education and Texas legislative policy experts, who regularly meet with staffers, legislators, and advocates throughout the state, shared their top insights with a live audience. They discuss what has been hailed as Historic… [Listen](https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/0c3e1fcf-ec5f-45a3-8a3f-ed7f9d0f8f6d/episodes/fb3e34ec-3ce5-41ca-9392-6452c7b62de7/audio/02638c5d-c1ac-4726-9ffd-0a7369ec6048/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=uyuY9_qm) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 129: Screwworms and Legal Updates](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-129-screwworms-and-legal-updates) _2025-05-28 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Even with the Legislature adjourned, it's been a busy month of May in the Statehouse - and especially in courthouses. The Chillin' team has an update on legal affairs from a multitude of cases, as well as a story we've been itching to share about screwworms. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/fc8b5c9b-8f8f-4617-b8ed-b2eb0145d853/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Point once, get highlights (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/wNRXBUvehFs7) _2025-05-28 · **Sponsored**_ Get minutes worth watching from a whole game — point once ## [The Future of School Measurement: Examining HB 4 and Texas Education Reform](https://testing-5690ab43.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-school-measurement-examining-hb-4-and-texas-education-reform-1zEPMDeM) _2025-05-12 · reply@ryht.org (Max Rombado, Harry Feder, Brad Owen) · Intersect Ed_ This episode of Intersect Ed discusses how we measure the performance of Texas public schools, the value of local accountability systems, and the ways HB 4 could provide meaningful assessment reform for our schools and better support student learning for the sake of learning instead of assessment. Additionally, if HB 4 passed, it would put public schools on more of an equal playing field with… [Listen](https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/0c3e1fcf-ec5f-45a3-8a3f-ed7f9d0f8f6d/episodes/980b9d1c-b549-4eb4-bbaa-80ae511d6626/audio/9df40aff-7a18-4d4a-a4a6-e248901e0518/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=uyuY9_qm) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 128: Money Problems](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-128-money-problems) _2025-04-29 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Chillin' in the Statehouse is back to talk about revenue estimates, government spending, a looming budget hole, and what lawmakers did about tax cut promises. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/52b17a74-7194-4775-8559-b2ce0179ed45/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 127: Judicial Selection and Wisconsin Election](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-127-judicial-selection-and-wisconsin-election) _2025-04-11 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ In August 2026, Kansas voters will decide whether to amend the state Constitution on how Supreme Court justices are selected. If the Republican-backed amendment is approved, justices will be directly elected, like in Wisconsin where a high-profile election brought big spending with contributions from billionaires like Elon Musk and George Soros. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/942f9882-ac01-474f-a666-b2bc00ede65b/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [A $2 Billion Gap: The Financial Reality of Special Education in Texas Public Schools](https://testing-5690ab43.simplecast.com/episodes/a-2-billion-gap-the-financial-reality-of-special-education-in-texas-public-schools-uc36EKDg) _2025-04-09 · reply@ryht.org (Steven Aleman, Amanda Fuentes, Paige Meloni) · Intersect Ed_ Our Intersect Ed host Morgan Smith is joined by Steven Aleman, Senior Policy Specialist at Disability Rights Texas; Amanda Fuentes, Special Education Team Lead at Cibolo Valley Elementary School in Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District; and, Paige Meloni, Superintendent at Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District. [Listen](https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/0c3e1fcf-ec5f-45a3-8a3f-ed7f9d0f8f6d/episodes/36da43d1-74ca-4916-9195-8805fcf4a5c3/audio/62ea4e7a-5738-4482-aad0-cf574036ae53/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=uyuY9_qm) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 126: Christians v. Satanists](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-126-christians-v-satanists) _2025-04-08 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ March was a busy month at the Kansas Statehouse, and while a lot happened, what ate up much of the attention was a planned black mass by Satanists and a counter-rally by Christians. Here's what went down. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/6809b49c-c42c-4077-80d6-b2b900eac392/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Pre-K vs. Child Care? Why Texas Families Need Both](https://testing-5690ab43.simplecast.com/episodes/pre-k-vs-child-care-why-texas-families-need-both-V0LjNRF2) _2025-03-13 · reply@ryht.org (Sarah Baray, David Feigen, Michelle Rinehart, Brian Diggs, Anne Lasseigne Tiedt, Amanda Kay Phillips) · Intersect Ed_ This episode of Intersect Ed explores Texas’ early education, focusing in on the challenges faced by public pre-schools and child care providers. Current half-day pre-K funding forces public school districts in Texas to cover costs for their state-mandated full-day programs. At the same time, many Texans can’t afford traditional child care. Learn about successful initiatives and how Texas… [Listen](https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/0c3e1fcf-ec5f-45a3-8a3f-ed7f9d0f8f6d/episodes/95af9a95-c7e9-42b8-8064-1366ba6c210f/audio/8719ffeb-02a0-4951-bc81-c3eeac911ae1/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=uyuY9_qm) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 125: On Outbursts and Abrupt Endings](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-125-on-outbursts) _2025-03-04 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Chillin' in the Statehouse takes a break from our regularly scheduled chill to bring you the stories of three not-so-chill moments in Kansas politics. From an outburst on the House floor that shut down the chamber, to a Senate committee abruptly ending when a speaker tried to go past the time limit, to a U.S. senator being booed as he walked out of a contentious town hall, we break down the events… [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/311b7133-5e34-421c-80c2-b296003eff3a/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 124: Turnaround and the First New Law of 2025](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-124-turnaround-a) _2025-02-25 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Despite another snowstorm, the Kansas Legislature has reached turnaround, the midpoint of the legislative session. The House and Senate passed dozens of bills to send to the other chamber, and we've got a sampling of them for you. Meanwhile, the Legislature also enacted the first new law of 2025 by overriding the governor's veto. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/0e7c4b3f-ec89-4df9-98fd-b28e0183e399/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 123: Grammys, Chiefs & Politics, Oh My!](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-123-grammys-chie) _2025-02-07 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ It's been a busy past two weeks for the Chillin' in the Statehouse team. There was the tragic plane crash of a flight out of Wichita, the passage of a bill on gender-affirming care, multiple rallies - including for school choice and the march for life, a new mural, tax policy proposals, USAID impacts on Kansas, and more. And don't forget about the Grammys and the Chiefs! [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/93247f12-d95d-4e0d-b16a-b27d01836821/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [The 89th Texas Legislative Session: Issues & Insights](https://testing-5690ab43.simplecast.com/episodes/the-89th-texas-legislative-session-issues-insights-MAqoGpnz) _2025-01-31 · reply@ryht.org (Jaden Edison, Scott Braddock, Edward McKinley, Bob Popinski, Morgan Smith, Amanda Kay Phillips, Jay Moreno, Karen Wang, Joel Goudeau, Anne Lasseigne Tiedt, Brian Diggs, Amelia Taurel Folkes) · Intersect Ed_ This episode of Intersect Ed was taped on the morning of Thursday, Jan 30, just a few blocks from the Capitol, where the 89th Texas Legislative Session is already underway. Experts who meet with staffers, legislators, and advocates throughout the state and regularly report on the issues that matter most to public education shared their top insights with a live audience. Together, they discussed… [Listen](https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/0c3e1fcf-ec5f-45a3-8a3f-ed7f9d0f8f6d/episodes/251fd3a8-7b98-4a0a-bd47-f4023cfee2cb/audio/9591e228-a41e-4a34-8705-7b47fa5ece3c/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=uyuY9_qm) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 122: Trump's First Week, Kansas Legislature's Second](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-122-trumps-first) _2025-01-24 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ It was the first week of President Donald Trump's administration, the second week of the Kansas legislative session and the third week of snow covering the ground in Topeka. The Chillin' in the Statehouse team recaps a mix of news this week, including lawmakers responding to Trump's executive orders, the Kansas House getting rid of the midnight rule, and a history lesson on chaos in state… [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/8b0def47-d6f9-4b1d-96de-b26f01849865/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 121: The First Week of Session](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-121-the-first-we) _2025-01-17 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ The Chillin' in the Statehouse team is back to recap the first week of the 2025 legislative session and what was said during the governor's State of the State address, by Republican leadership afterward, and by Democratic leadership at a press conference. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/f0cc27de-d198-449d-ab9c-b2680153a22b/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 120: First Day of Session 2025](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-120-first-day-of) _2025-01-13 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Here at the Kansas Statehouse it's the first day of the 2025 legislative session, and we've got a legislative preview for our listeners. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/f7756006-ea2f-4f2c-9694-b2640184a5ff/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Teacher Trouble: How Texas' Teacher Shortage is Hurting Our Kids](https://testing-5690ab43.simplecast.com/episodes/teacher-trouble-texas-teacher-shortage-MwgiMkhp) _2025-01-09 · reply@ryht.org (Myrna Blanchard, J. Jacob Kirksey, Lori Powell, Morgan Smith, Anne Lasseigne Tiedt, Brian Diggs, Bob Popinski, JoLisa Hoover) · Intersect Ed_ MORGAN SMITH: Welcome to the Intersect Ed Podcast, where the stories of public education policy and practice meet. I’m your host, Morgan Smith, and I am back with you just in time for the 89th Legislative Session. And heading in, it’s fair to say lawmakers have a lot of unfinished business when it comes to education policy. Let’s do a brief review of how we got here. If one word defined the… [Listen](https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/0c3e1fcf-ec5f-45a3-8a3f-ed7f9d0f8f6d/episodes/45c594cf-0785-4fbf-a501-ede158640a50/audio/df4d39ee-d509-473c-9e39-61842a44fa5e/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=uyuY9_qm) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 119: Christmastime Interviews](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-119-christmastim) _2024-12-20 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ With the holidays coming up, the Chillin' in the Statehouse team brings you one last episode of 2024. We're fresh off interviews for 2025 session preview stories, and so for our Christmas present to our loyal listeners, we have a few sneak peeks into what we're working on. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/4b0a939e-022a-4642-8b7b-b24b0176c8ba/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 118: Kansas Legislature Wrapped](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-118-kansas-legis) _2024-12-05 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Spotify Wrapped is out with our top music listens of the year, and Chillin' in the Statehouse is bringing you #ksleg wrapped, recapping the top narratives from Kansas government and politics in 2024. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/784b949d-f41a-4915-b15f-b23d01737f04/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 117: Post-Election Thanksgiving](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-117-post-electio) _2024-11-26 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ Kansas Republicans won big in the 2024 elections, growing their supermajorities in the Legislature and winning a conservative majority on the State Board of Education. Just in time for Thanksgiving travels, the podcast team of Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel with The Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press break down the election results. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/4bae41d6-3881-4c03-a7f2-b2340164cf58/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 116: In Our Election Era](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-116-in-our-elect) _2024-10-31 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ We're only a handful of days away from Election Day 2024, and the Chillin' in the Statehouse team has an election preview. Two of the biggest Kansas politics narratives going in are whether Democrats can break the Republican supermajorities in the Kansas Legislature, and whether conservatives can win a majority on the Kansas State Board of Education. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/fb937641-9f26-4574-a23a-b21a01739dac/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 115: On That Viral KU Video](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-115-on-that-vira) _2024-10-11 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ It was supposed to be a busy week of covering meetings of multiple legislative committees and the state board of education, but things got less chill for Chillin' in the Statehouse on Wednesday when a video of a University of Kansas instructor went viral. The instructor's classroom comments suggesting political violence were quickly condemned by top Kansas politicians, and while recording this… [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/28f361cf-f837-498a-8e84-b2060147c581/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13) ## [Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 114: Why The Budget May End Fridays Off](https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-the-topeka-capital-journal/chillin-in-the-statehouse-episode-114-why-the-budg) _2024-10-04 · From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal_ As the executive branch works through budget requests before the Democratic governor puts together her budget proposal, the Republican-led legislative branch is planning to take more ownership of the budget process. The Chillin' in the Statehouse team dives into the motivations, politics and potential impacts of the move — including a possible end to lawmakers taking Fridays off. [Listen](https://traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/a858b0a5-e5e6-4a14-9717-a70b010facc1/e8991637-9eaf-4848-8023-a89100d2df5d/00953ece-e5bd-4cf3-a4a9-b1ff0134f889/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=71c0e19d-6d4d-45d6-b4fe-a89100d3db13)