A turbulent week in politics delivered both international tension and major shakeups in Texas elections. On this week’s episode of Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina unpack how conflict overseas and surprising primary results at home could shape the political landscape heading into November.The episode begins with the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, a development that could redefine the political stakes for Donald Trump. The administration has framed the strikes as a necessary response to Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism. But the messaging surrounding the operation has been uneven, and public opinion remains divided.Polling shows Americans split over whether the strikes were justified, raising questions about the political risk of entering a new overseas conflict in an election year. Cortina notes that wars can quickly spiral beyond their original objectives — and if oil markets destabilize or the conflict spreads, the global economic consequences could be severe.The conflict is also reigniting debate in Washington over presidential war powers. While Congress traditionally holds the authority to declare war, presidents often act first and notify lawmakers later under national security claims. Even with criticism from some members of Congress, Rottinghaus says it’s unlikely lawmakers will successfully challenge the administration’s authority in the near term.Beyond Washington, the international conflict is already reverberating in Texas politics. Investigators are examining whether a deadly shooting in Austin may have been influenced by tensions related to the war. If confirmed, the incident could further inflame political debates around immigration, religion, and national security in the state.Meanwhile, the Texas primary elections delivered their own political drama.On the Democratic side, James Talarico narrowly claimed victory over Jasmine Crockett in a closely watched race. Confusion over voting locations in Dallas County added controversy to an already tight contest. Cortina suggests Talarico’s strong ground game may have given him the edge, while polling ahead of the election proved wildly inaccurate.Republicans also saw a competitive contest unfold between John Cornyn and Ken Paxton, sending the race into a runoff. With control of the Senate looming in the background, the outcome could hinge on whether Trump ultimately throws his endorsement behind a candidate.Down-ballot races produced even more surprises. Dan Crenshaw became the first Republican incumbent since 2014 to lose a primary, defeated by challenger Steve Toth after tensions with Trump allies and criticism of the Freedom Caucus.And the primary season isn’t over yet. Several races — including contests for attorney general and multiple congressional districts — are heading to runoffs, ensuring Texas voters will soon be back at the polls.With geopolitical uncertainty abroad and political chaos at home, Rottinghaus and Cortina say this year’s election cycle is only getting started.NATIONAL TOPICS:The aftermath of the United States attack on Iran.What is next for the United States of America?TEXAS TOPICS:The political implications of an Austin gunman's actions in last week’s shooting.James Talarico defeats Jasmine Crocket in the Texas Senate Democratic Primary.Ken Paxton and John Cornyn head to a Texas Republican Senate runoff.Dan Crenshaw loses GOP primary against Steve Toth.In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).