Foreign policy tensions, rising gas prices, redistricting wars, and major Texas political maneuvering all collide in this week’s episode of Party Politics.

Co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina break down how escalating conflict with Iran is creating political headaches for the White House — especially as Americans continue to feel economic pressure at the pump.

The episode examines the political fallout from stalled negotiations with Tehran, Republican proposals to suspend the federal gas tax, and growing voter frustration over inflation and consumer prices. The hosts discuss whether temporary gas tax relief would actually help Americans or simply become another political talking point ahead of the midterms.

They also unpack a controversial Republican reconciliation strategy that includes affordability proposals, Iran-related funding debates, and criticism surrounding billion-dollar White House projects. The conversation explores whether members of the GOP are beginning to distance themselves from some of former President Donald Trump’s priorities as questions emerge about the party’s future after Trump.

Another major focus: redistricting.

The hosts analyze recent court rulings and the growing legal fight over voting maps across the country. They discuss how Supreme Court decisions could weaken protections previously tied to the Voting Rights Act and potentially reshape congressional representation for years to come. The conversation also explores the long-term political consequences of partisan gerrymandering for both Democrats and Republicans.

Texas politics also takes center stage.

The episode dives into Barack Obama’s appearance in Texas supporting rising Democratic figure James Talarico and Gina Hinojosa. They examine whether national Democratic figures can energize voters in an increasingly polarized state. Rottinghaus and Cortina debate whether Obama’s popularity helps Democrats expand their coalition — or further nationalizes and polarizes Texas races.

Meanwhile, Republican primary politics continue heating up as John Cornyn builds a massive fundraising advantage and Ken Paxton pushes lawsuit culture war battles tied to schools, streaming platforms, and conservative base issues.

The episode closes with discussion surrounding the cancellation of a proposed border wall expansion near Big Bend, highlighting rare bipartisan agreement around environmental and conservation concerns.

From Iran to Texas campaign strategy, this week’s Party Politics tackles the political fights shaping both Washington and the Lone Star State heading into a critical election season.

NATIONAL TOPICS:Iran talks falling apart as tensions escalate.Will suspending the gas tax actually lower prices?Republicans push a massive new spending package.Trump faces backlash over costly White House projects.New court rulings are reshaping political maps nationwide.Is the Supreme Court becoming too partisan?TEXAS TOPICS:President Obama visits Texas to support James Talarico and Gina Hinojosa.The impact of Obama visiting Texas.Conversations have begun regarding the possibility of James Talarico becoming a vice-presidential candidate.Senator John Cornyn raises major funds for campaign.Attorney General Ken Paxton issues several lawsuits.A plans for the Big Bend border wall has been cancelled.In addition to the YouTube version, you can also enjoy Party Politics on television every Friday night at 8:00pm on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen to the radio broadcast every Friday at 7:30pm on News 88.7. As always, you can subscribe to the audio podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts). Join the conversation: Tweet us using #PartyPoliticsPod or email [email protected].