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TribCast: Layers of scandal in the Texas foster care system

In this week’s episode, Matthew speaks with Reese and Mitchell about the fallout from sexual abuse allegations at a state-contracted children’s shelter and Russian threats against Texas’ energy infrastructure.

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A caseworker's badge hangs off her neck as she prepares to assist on a case for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) in June 2018.
A caseworker's badge hangs off her neck as she prepares to assist on a case for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services in June 2018. Credit: Pu Ying Huang for The Texas Tribune

TribCast

The TribCast is a weekly political podcast, hosted by Matthew Watkins, James Barragán and Eleanor Klibanoff, and featuring a rotating cast of editors, reporters and other guests. The TribCast is returning as a limited-run series during the 2025 legislative session.

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In this week's episode, Matthew speaks with Reese and Mitchell about the fallout from sexual abuse allegations at a state-contracted children's shelter and Russian threats against Texas' energy infrastructure.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can receive confidential help by calling the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network’s 24/7 toll-free support line at 800-656-4673 or visiting its online hotline.

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Matthew Watkins’s staff photo
Todd Wiseman’s staff photo

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Politics Department of Family and Protective Services Department of Public Safety Greg Abbott Texas Legislature