“It’s a little bit like fighting a multi-front war,” Dr. Jackson Griggs said. “If you have one challenge ahead of you, you can organize around it and attack it. We’re just seeing policy impacts from every direction that are undermining the safety net, and that’s what’s creating the challenge.”
Waco
Posted inCommunity
Waco Voices: Reflecting on those whose service inspired us in 2025
As this project continues in 2026, our goal remains the same: to listen closely, to honor the stories people trust us with, and to preserve them as part of Waco’s living history.
Posted inGrowth
Updated: Emerson, Holt among four finalists for Waco city manager
The two internal candidates and two external candidates all have extensive experience in midsized Texas cities.
Posted inEducation
School struggles, data centers, downtown visions and more: Six storylines we’re following in ’26
Amid optimism about Waco’s growth and opportunities, some worry about school takeovers and cuts to social safety net services.
Posted inCommunity
ICE partnership with McLennan County questioned ahead of vote
Immigrant advocates say the deal could incite fear and lead to racial profiling. Sheriff’s officials say they chose the least burdensome of the possible partnership options.
Posted inCommunity
Photo essay: Experiencing the wonder and welcome of Waco in 2025
Night swimming, punk rock shows, polka madness and dinnertime with a family are among the indelible memories of the Bridge’s photojournalist in his first year getting to know Waco.
Posted inEducation
Connally ISD is among the latest state takeover targets. What can parents expect?
Connally ISD officials say a state conservator will likely begin work in January, but day-to-day changes aren’t expected until fall.
Posted inCommunity
Waco JP who refused same-sex weddings targets gay marriage rights in federal lawsuit
Judge Dianne Hensley has fought the State Commission on Judicial Ethics since 2018 over her decision to perform only heterosexual weddings. Her new federal lawsuit filed in Waco takes aim at the commission and legalized gay marriage.
Posted inGrowth
McLennan County leadership to turn over in 2027 with Rick Tullis in top post
Tullis, a longtime business and Midway ISD leader, is set to replace County Judge Scott Felton. Felton’s son, Perry, is unopposed in the Precinct 4 commissioner race.
Posted inCommunity
Here’s everyone running for office in McLennan County in 2026
Filing ended Dec. 8 for the March 3 Texas Republican and Democratic party primaries. You must be registered to vote by Feb. 2 but will not be asked to declare party participation until you vote in the primary. The primary winners will face a general election on Nov. 3, 2026. The following are county, state […]
