The latest news and top stories on Texas. A prominent US state, Texas operates as a governmental body with executive, legislative, and judicial branches, headquartered in Austin. Its primary mission is to lead and sustain the state, ensuring the continued functioning of critical government services. Key activities include enforcing laws, managing public policy, and providing essential services such as education, public safety, and emergency response, notably for events like flash flooding. Texas is recognised for its system of checks and balances and a plural executive structure, where the Lieutenant Governor holds considerable influence.