Taxpayer Empowerment Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/taxpayer-empowerment TPPF's Jose Melendez interviews elected officials and activists about efforts to reduce Texans' tax burden. © 2026 Texas Public Policy Foundation 94e135f9-4ac3-57f2-b176-50faf70e3060 yes Jose Melendez en Wed, 19 Aug 2026 12:00:18 -0600 Wed, 19 Aug 2026 12:01:24 -0600 https://img.transistorcdn.com/dAD3i4_a0FvnroIugUafCNWl_GnIFOG7hH-eTF8Gl7U/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS83ZTU2/ZDgyNjE0ZjUxNWY0/ZjY2MzQ0ZTM1ODBh/OWJlNC5wbmc.jpg Taxpayer Empowerment episodic Texas Public Policy Foundation TPPF's Jose Melendez interviews elected officials and activists about efforts to reduce Texans' tax burden. TPPF's Jose Melendez interviews elected officials and activists about efforts to reduce Texans' tax burden.. taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government TPPF Comms No No Taxpayer Empowerment | Episode 38: Election Integrity with Chuck DeVore 33 33 Taxpayer Empowerment | Episode 38: Election Integrity with Chuck DeVore full 522f4c82-1cd8-4e3e-bd2e-a4b484d3eea2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/531be18b Texas election integrity is about more than counting votes. It’s about ensuring Texans can trust that elections are secure, transparent, accurate, and fair.

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Chuck DeVore, TPPF’s Chief National Initiatives Officer, to discuss key election integrity reforms Texas lawmakers could consider in the next legislative session. Their conversation covers election consolidation, foreign funding of ballot propositions, proof of citizenship, noncitizen voting, voting technology, and ways to strengthen public confidence in Texas elections.

They also examine how holding local elections on low-turnout dates can affect voter participation and taxpayer-funded bond elections and why consolidating elections with higher-turnout primary or November elections could dramatically increase participation.

In this episode:

What election integrity means for Texas voters
Why public confidence and transparency matter
The case for consolidating local Texas elections
How low-turnout elections can affect bond propositions and local government
Potential taxpayer savings from election consolidation
Foreign money in state and local ballot propositions
Closing loopholes involving foreign political spending
Proof-of-citizenship requirements for state and local elections
Arizona’s two-tier voter registration model
State-issued identification for noncitizens
Standardizing paper ballots and optical-scanning technology
How Texas could produce faster, more trusted election results
TPPF’s election integrity priorities heading into the next legislative session

What would successful election reform look like? Chuck DeVore argues that the ultimate goal is an election system Texans trust enough that they can spend less time worrying about election mechanics and more time debating candidates, policies, and the future of the state.

Subscribe for more conversations about Texas government, taxes, elections, and the issues shaping the Lone Star State.

]]> Texas election integrity is about more than counting votes. It’s about ensuring Texans can trust that elections are secure, transparent, accurate, and fair.

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Chuck DeVore, TPPF’s Chief National Initiatives Officer, to discuss key election integrity reforms Texas lawmakers could consider in the next legislative session. Their conversation covers election consolidation, foreign funding of ballot propositions, proof of citizenship, noncitizen voting, voting technology, and ways to strengthen public confidence in Texas elections.

They also examine how holding local elections on low-turnout dates can affect voter participation and taxpayer-funded bond elections and why consolidating elections with higher-turnout primary or November elections could dramatically increase participation.

In this episode:

What election integrity means for Texas voters
Why public confidence and transparency matter
The case for consolidating local Texas elections
How low-turnout elections can affect bond propositions and local government
Potential taxpayer savings from election consolidation
Foreign money in state and local ballot propositions
Closing loopholes involving foreign political spending
Proof-of-citizenship requirements for state and local elections
Arizona’s two-tier voter registration model
State-issued identification for noncitizens
Standardizing paper ballots and optical-scanning technology
How Texas could produce faster, more trusted election results
TPPF’s election integrity priorities heading into the next legislative session

What would successful election reform look like? Chuck DeVore argues that the ultimate goal is an election system Texans trust enough that they can spend less time worrying about election mechanics and more time debating candidates, policies, and the future of the state.

Subscribe for more conversations about Texas government, taxes, elections, and the issues shaping the Lone Star State.

]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 12:00:00 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1488 Texas election integrity is about more than counting votes. It’s about ensuring Texans can trust that elections are secure, transparent, accurate, and fair.

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Chuck DeVore, TPPF’s Chief National Initiatives Officer, to discuss key election integrity reforms Texas lawmakers could consider in the next legislative session. Their conversation covers election consolidation, foreign funding of ballot propositions, proof of citizenship, noncitizen voting, voting technology, and ways to strengthen public confidence in Texas elections.

They also examine how holding local elections on low-turnout dates can affect voter participation and taxpayer-funded bond elections and why consolidating elections with higher-turnout primary or November elections could dramatically increase participation.

In this episode:

What election integrity means for Texas voters
Why public confidence and transparency matter
The case for consolidating local Texas elections
How low-turnout elections can affect bond propositions and local government
Potential taxpayer savings from election consolidation
Foreign money in state and local ballot propositions
Closing loopholes involving foreign political spending
Proof-of-citizenship requirements for state and local elections
Arizona’s two-tier voter registration model
State-issued identification for noncitizens
Standardizing paper ballots and optical-scanning technology
How Texas could produce faster, more trusted election results
TPPF’s election integrity priorities heading into the next legislative session

What would successful election reform look like? Chuck DeVore argues that the ultimate goal is an election system Texans trust enough that they can spend less time worrying about election mechanics and more time debating candidates, policies, and the future of the state.

Subscribe for more conversations about Texas government, taxes, elections, and the issues shaping the Lone Star State.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Taxpayer Empowerment | Ep. 37: Excessive Local Government Spending with Councilman Marc Whyte 32 32 Taxpayer Empowerment | Ep. 37: Excessive Local Government Spending with Councilman Marc Whyte full 10c383a7-ca8a-4c11-838d-0313fbd97a4d https://share.transistor.fm/s/58fbc8e4 In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte to discuss property taxes, government spending, zero-based budgeting, local government transparency, and what Texas cities can do to improve affordability and fiscal responsibility.

Why do property tax bills keep rising even after the Texas Legislature delivers tax relief? Councilman Whyte explains the role that cities, counties, school districts, and other local governments play in property taxes and why he believes controlling local spending is essential to keeping Texas affordable.

The conversation examines San Antonio’s budget challenges, including the city’s $100+ million budget deficit, and Whyte’s push for zero-based budgeting (ZBB). He explains how reviewing programs from the ground up can uncover wasteful or redundant spending and help city government prioritize core services such as public safety and infrastructure.

Jose and Councilman Whyte also discuss:

Property tax relief and local homestead exemptions
San Antonio’s budget and spending priorities
Zero-based budgeting and government efficiency
Wasteful spending and taxpayer accountability
Transparency for city budgets, taxes, and fees
Local government contracts with nonprofits and outside organizations
The Texas Regulatory Consistency Act (HB 2127)
The proper role of state versus local government
Managing San Antonio’s continued population and economic growth
How taxpayers can engage with city council and local government
Why local elections matter for fiscal policy

As Texas cities continue to grow, can local governments meet the demands of growth without allowing spending and property taxes to grow unchecked? This conversation explores how fiscal discipline, transparency, and citizen involvement can help keep local government accountable to taxpayers.

]]> In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte to discuss property taxes, government spending, zero-based budgeting, local government transparency, and what Texas cities can do to improve affordability and fiscal responsibility.

Why do property tax bills keep rising even after the Texas Legislature delivers tax relief? Councilman Whyte explains the role that cities, counties, school districts, and other local governments play in property taxes and why he believes controlling local spending is essential to keeping Texas affordable.

The conversation examines San Antonio’s budget challenges, including the city’s $100+ million budget deficit, and Whyte’s push for zero-based budgeting (ZBB). He explains how reviewing programs from the ground up can uncover wasteful or redundant spending and help city government prioritize core services such as public safety and infrastructure.

Jose and Councilman Whyte also discuss:

Property tax relief and local homestead exemptions
San Antonio’s budget and spending priorities
Zero-based budgeting and government efficiency
Wasteful spending and taxpayer accountability
Transparency for city budgets, taxes, and fees
Local government contracts with nonprofits and outside organizations
The Texas Regulatory Consistency Act (HB 2127)
The proper role of state versus local government
Managing San Antonio’s continued population and economic growth
How taxpayers can engage with city council and local government
Why local elections matter for fiscal policy

As Texas cities continue to grow, can local governments meet the demands of growth without allowing spending and property taxes to grow unchecked? This conversation explores how fiscal discipline, transparency, and citizen involvement can help keep local government accountable to taxpayers.

]]> Thu, 13 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1263 In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte to discuss property taxes, government spending, zero-based budgeting, local government transparency, and what Texas cities can do to improve affordability and fiscal responsibility.

Why do property tax bills keep rising even after the Texas Legislature delivers tax relief? Councilman Whyte explains the role that cities, counties, school districts, and other local governments play in property taxes and why he believes controlling local spending is essential to keeping Texas affordable.

The conversation examines San Antonio’s budget challenges, including the city’s $100+ million budget deficit, and Whyte’s push for zero-based budgeting (ZBB). He explains how reviewing programs from the ground up can uncover wasteful or redundant spending and help city government prioritize core services such as public safety and infrastructure.

Jose and Councilman Whyte also discuss:

Property tax relief and local homestead exemptions
San Antonio’s budget and spending priorities
Zero-based budgeting and government efficiency
Wasteful spending and taxpayer accountability
Transparency for city budgets, taxes, and fees
Local government contracts with nonprofits and outside organizations
The Texas Regulatory Consistency Act (HB 2127)
The proper role of state versus local government
Managing San Antonio’s continued population and economic growth
How taxpayers can engage with city council and local government
Why local elections matter for fiscal policy

As Texas cities continue to grow, can local governments meet the demands of growth without allowing spending and property taxes to grow unchecked? This conversation explores how fiscal discipline, transparency, and citizen involvement can help keep local government accountable to taxpayers.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Fixing Homelessness in Texas with Texas Senator Tan Parker | Taxpayer Empowerment 31 31 Fixing Homelessness in Texas with Texas Senator Tan Parker | Taxpayer Empowerment full a1868e53-8ccc-4960-b579-4fcc53908118 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bdc512ba In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez  sits down with Texas Senator Tan Parker to discuss how Texas can move beyond failed homelessness policies and deliver real, measurable results for taxpayers and those experiencing homelessness.

Senator Parker shares his vision for reforming homelessness policy by focusing on mental health treatment, workforce development, accountability, and permanent housing outcomes rather than simply measuring dollars spent or the number of people served.

The conversation explores why the traditional Housing First model has fallen short, how new leadership at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Secretary Scott Turner could reshape federal policy, and why Texas should adopt data-driven solutions that prioritize long-term self-sufficiency.

Senator Parker also discusses:

The importance of measuring homelessness programs by permanent housing outcomes
Why mental health treatment is essential to reducing homelessness
How taxpayer dollars should be evaluated using clear performance metrics (KPIs)
The need for statewide dashboards to track homelessness and program effectiveness
Public safety, compassion, and accountability in addressing homeless encampments
Why Haven for Hope in San Antonio serves as a model for Texas
Legislative efforts to improve homelessness services across Texas

If you're interested in Texas public policy, homelessness solutions, taxpayer accountability, mental health policy, conservative policy ideas, or state government, this episode provides an in-depth discussion on one of the state's most pressing challenges.

👉 Subscribe for more conversations on Texas policy, government accountability, and taxpayer empowerment.

]]> In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez  sits down with Texas Senator Tan Parker to discuss how Texas can move beyond failed homelessness policies and deliver real, measurable results for taxpayers and those experiencing homelessness.

Senator Parker shares his vision for reforming homelessness policy by focusing on mental health treatment, workforce development, accountability, and permanent housing outcomes rather than simply measuring dollars spent or the number of people served.

The conversation explores why the traditional Housing First model has fallen short, how new leadership at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Secretary Scott Turner could reshape federal policy, and why Texas should adopt data-driven solutions that prioritize long-term self-sufficiency.

Senator Parker also discusses:

The importance of measuring homelessness programs by permanent housing outcomes
Why mental health treatment is essential to reducing homelessness
How taxpayer dollars should be evaluated using clear performance metrics (KPIs)
The need for statewide dashboards to track homelessness and program effectiveness
Public safety, compassion, and accountability in addressing homeless encampments
Why Haven for Hope in San Antonio serves as a model for Texas
Legislative efforts to improve homelessness services across Texas

If you're interested in Texas public policy, homelessness solutions, taxpayer accountability, mental health policy, conservative policy ideas, or state government, this episode provides an in-depth discussion on one of the state's most pressing challenges.

👉 Subscribe for more conversations on Texas policy, government accountability, and taxpayer empowerment.

]]> Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:04:35 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 717 In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez  sits down with Texas Senator Tan Parker to discuss how Texas can move beyond failed homelessness policies and deliver real, measurable results for taxpayers and those experiencing homelessness.

Senator Parker shares his vision for reforming homelessness policy by focusing on mental health treatment, workforce development, accountability, and permanent housing outcomes rather than simply measuring dollars spent or the number of people served.

The conversation explores why the traditional Housing First model has fallen short, how new leadership at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Secretary Scott Turner could reshape federal policy, and why Texas should adopt data-driven solutions that prioritize long-term self-sufficiency.

Senator Parker also discusses:

The importance of measuring homelessness programs by permanent housing outcomes
Why mental health treatment is essential to reducing homelessness
How taxpayer dollars should be evaluated using clear performance metrics (KPIs)
The need for statewide dashboards to track homelessness and program effectiveness
Public safety, compassion, and accountability in addressing homeless encampments
Why Haven for Hope in San Antonio serves as a model for Texas
Legislative efforts to improve homelessness services across Texas

If you're interested in Texas public policy, homelessness solutions, taxpayer accountability, mental health policy, conservative policy ideas, or state government, this episode provides an in-depth discussion on one of the state's most pressing challenges.

👉 Subscribe for more conversations on Texas policy, government accountability, and taxpayer empowerment.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Taxpayer Empowerment | Episode 35: Fighting Local Government Waste w/ Texas House Rep. Mitch Little 30 30 Taxpayer Empowerment | Episode 35: Fighting Local Government Waste w/ Texas House Rep. Mitch Little full 2d0c6f97-5dd0-469e-9c10-3c4dc155054e https://share.transistor.fm/s/4ccc9ab6 Are Texas cities using your tax dollars the way they were intended? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas State Representative Mitch Little joins TPPF's Jose Melendez to discuss how local governments spend taxpayer money, why greater transparency is needed, and what reforms could help protect taxpayers.

From nonprofit funding and government transparency to property taxes, local debt, and public records reform, Rep. Little explains why Texans should pay closer attention to how local governments manage billions of taxpayer dollars—and what lawmakers may do during the next legislative session.

Topics Covered:
Texas local government spending and accountability
Waste, fraud, and abuse in city budgets
NGO funding and taxpayer transparency
Property tax reform in Texas
Public Information Act and open records
Austin homelessness spending
Local government debt and bond reform
School district deficit budgets
Government oversight and taxpayer protections
Texas Legislature interim charges

If you care about lower property taxes, transparent government, fiscal responsibility, and protecting taxpayer dollars, this episode is for you.

]]> Are Texas cities using your tax dollars the way they were intended? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas State Representative Mitch Little joins TPPF's Jose Melendez to discuss how local governments spend taxpayer money, why greater transparency is needed, and what reforms could help protect taxpayers.

From nonprofit funding and government transparency to property taxes, local debt, and public records reform, Rep. Little explains why Texans should pay closer attention to how local governments manage billions of taxpayer dollars—and what lawmakers may do during the next legislative session.

Topics Covered:
Texas local government spending and accountability
Waste, fraud, and abuse in city budgets
NGO funding and taxpayer transparency
Property tax reform in Texas
Public Information Act and open records
Austin homelessness spending
Local government debt and bond reform
School district deficit budgets
Government oversight and taxpayer protections
Texas Legislature interim charges

If you care about lower property taxes, transparent government, fiscal responsibility, and protecting taxpayer dollars, this episode is for you.

]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2026 09:04:18 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 697 Are Texas cities using your tax dollars the way they were intended? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas State Representative Mitch Little joins TPPF's Jose Melendez to discuss how local governments spend taxpayer money, why greater transparency is needed, and what reforms could help protect taxpayers.

From nonprofit funding and government transparency to property taxes, local debt, and public records reform, Rep. Little explains why Texans should pay closer attention to how local governments manage billions of taxpayer dollars—and what lawmakers may do during the next legislative session.

Topics Covered:
Texas local government spending and accountability
Waste, fraud, and abuse in city budgets
NGO funding and taxpayer transparency
Property tax reform in Texas
Public Information Act and open records
Austin homelessness spending
Local government debt and bond reform
School district deficit budgets
Government oversight and taxpayer protections
Texas Legislature interim charges

If you care about lower property taxes, transparent government, fiscal responsibility, and protecting taxpayer dollars, this episode is for you.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Taxpayer Empowerment Ep. 34 | What Washington, D.C. Can Learn From Texas w/ Rep. Roger Williams 29 29 Taxpayer Empowerment Ep. 34 | What Washington, D.C. Can Learn From Texas w/ Rep. Roger Williams full c1f63a0c-5714-459e-8a7a-412ab9576e24 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b9dfdfab Texas continues to lead the nation in economic growth, job creation, and entrepreneurship but what lessons can Washington, D.C. learn from the Lone Star State?

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas Public Policy Foundation's Jose Melendez sits down with Congressman Roger Williams, Chairman of the House Small Business Committee, to discuss why Texas has become America's top destination for businesses, the importance of permanent tax relief, reducing regulations, protecting family-owned businesses, recovering fraudulent COVID relief funds, and creating more opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Topics covered in this interview:

Why Texas is America's best state for small businesses
How lower taxes fuel economic growth
The impact of the "One Big Beautiful Bill"
Why regulatory reform matters for entrepreneurs
Eliminating the capital gains tax
Protecting family farms and family-owned businesses
Recovering billions in fraudulent pandemic relief funds
Government spending and taxpayer accountability
SBA loans and small business growth
Workforce development and skilled trades
Why predictability in tax policy matters
Advice for young entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Texas

If you care about lower taxes, economic freedom, small business success, and protecting taxpayers, this conversation is for you.

👍 Like this video
🔔 Subscribe for more interviews on Texas public policy, taxes, government transparency, and economic freedom.
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments: What should Congress do next to help small businesses?

]]> Texas continues to lead the nation in economic growth, job creation, and entrepreneurship but what lessons can Washington, D.C. learn from the Lone Star State?

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas Public Policy Foundation's Jose Melendez sits down with Congressman Roger Williams, Chairman of the House Small Business Committee, to discuss why Texas has become America's top destination for businesses, the importance of permanent tax relief, reducing regulations, protecting family-owned businesses, recovering fraudulent COVID relief funds, and creating more opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Topics covered in this interview:

Why Texas is America's best state for small businesses
How lower taxes fuel economic growth
The impact of the "One Big Beautiful Bill"
Why regulatory reform matters for entrepreneurs
Eliminating the capital gains tax
Protecting family farms and family-owned businesses
Recovering billions in fraudulent pandemic relief funds
Government spending and taxpayer accountability
SBA loans and small business growth
Workforce development and skilled trades
Why predictability in tax policy matters
Advice for young entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Texas

If you care about lower taxes, economic freedom, small business success, and protecting taxpayers, this conversation is for you.

👍 Like this video
🔔 Subscribe for more interviews on Texas public policy, taxes, government transparency, and economic freedom.
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments: What should Congress do next to help small businesses?

]]> Wed, 22 Jul 2026 14:36:23 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 975 Texas continues to lead the nation in economic growth, job creation, and entrepreneurship but what lessons can Washington, D.C. learn from the Lone Star State?

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas Public Policy Foundation's Jose Melendez sits down with Congressman Roger Williams, Chairman of the House Small Business Committee, to discuss why Texas has become America's top destination for businesses, the importance of permanent tax relief, reducing regulations, protecting family-owned businesses, recovering fraudulent COVID relief funds, and creating more opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Topics covered in this interview:

Why Texas is America's best state for small businesses
How lower taxes fuel economic growth
The impact of the "One Big Beautiful Bill"
Why regulatory reform matters for entrepreneurs
Eliminating the capital gains tax
Protecting family farms and family-owned businesses
Recovering billions in fraudulent pandemic relief funds
Government spending and taxpayer accountability
SBA loans and small business growth
Workforce development and skilled trades
Why predictability in tax policy matters
Advice for young entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Texas

If you care about lower taxes, economic freedom, small business success, and protecting taxpayers, this conversation is for you.

👍 Like this video
🔔 Subscribe for more interviews on Texas public policy, taxes, government transparency, and economic freedom.
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments: What should Congress do next to help small businesses?

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Taxpayer Empowerment | Episode 33: Affordable Housing with White House Economist Aaron Hedlund 28 28 Taxpayer Empowerment | Episode 33: Affordable Housing with White House Economist Aaron Hedlund full 8a03443b-8095-4854-8df3-45b0fbe1767d https://share.transistor.fm/s/181f011d Why are home prices rising so much faster than incomes? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez sits down with Aaron Hedland, White House economist and one of the Trump administration's leading voices on housing policy, to discuss the federal government's latest effort to tackle America's housing affordability crisis.

President Trump's executive order aims to eliminate costly regulations, streamline permitting, reduce unnecessary fees, and remove barriers that make it harder and more expensive to build new homes. Aaron explains how excessive government regulations have added a six-figure "bureaucrat tax" to the cost of housing and why increasing housing supply is the key to restoring affordability.

The conversation also highlights Texas as a national model, examining how pro-growth housing policies, regulatory reform, and increased home construction have helped keep housing more affordable than in states like California.

In this video, you'll learn:

Why housing prices have dramatically outpaced incomes
How government regulations increase the cost of new homes
What President Trump's housing executive order does
The impact of permitting delays, impact fees, and building mandates
Why increasing housing supply lowers costs
How Texas housing reforms compare to other states
Why regulatory reform matters more than housing subsidies
What success would look like for first-time homebuyers and taxpayers

If you care about housing affordability, property rights, economic freedom, homeownership, or Texas public policy, this conversation is for you.

]]> Why are home prices rising so much faster than incomes? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez sits down with Aaron Hedland, White House economist and one of the Trump administration's leading voices on housing policy, to discuss the federal government's latest effort to tackle America's housing affordability crisis.

President Trump's executive order aims to eliminate costly regulations, streamline permitting, reduce unnecessary fees, and remove barriers that make it harder and more expensive to build new homes. Aaron explains how excessive government regulations have added a six-figure "bureaucrat tax" to the cost of housing and why increasing housing supply is the key to restoring affordability.

The conversation also highlights Texas as a national model, examining how pro-growth housing policies, regulatory reform, and increased home construction have helped keep housing more affordable than in states like California.

In this video, you'll learn:

Why housing prices have dramatically outpaced incomes
How government regulations increase the cost of new homes
What President Trump's housing executive order does
The impact of permitting delays, impact fees, and building mandates
Why increasing housing supply lowers costs
How Texas housing reforms compare to other states
Why regulatory reform matters more than housing subsidies
What success would look like for first-time homebuyers and taxpayers

If you care about housing affordability, property rights, economic freedom, homeownership, or Texas public policy, this conversation is for you.

]]> Thu, 16 Jul 2026 08:11:35 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 544 Why are home prices rising so much faster than incomes? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez sits down with Aaron Hedland, White House economist and one of the Trump administration's leading voices on housing policy, to discuss the federal government's latest effort to tackle America's housing affordability crisis.

President Trump's executive order aims to eliminate costly regulations, streamline permitting, reduce unnecessary fees, and remove barriers that make it harder and more expensive to build new homes. Aaron explains how excessive government regulations have added a six-figure "bureaucrat tax" to the cost of housing and why increasing housing supply is the key to restoring affordability.

The conversation also highlights Texas as a national model, examining how pro-growth housing policies, regulatory reform, and increased home construction have helped keep housing more affordable than in states like California.

In this video, you'll learn:

Why housing prices have dramatically outpaced incomes
How government regulations increase the cost of new homes
What President Trump's housing executive order does
The impact of permitting delays, impact fees, and building mandates
Why increasing housing supply lowers costs
How Texas housing reforms compare to other states
Why regulatory reform matters more than housing subsidies
What success would look like for first-time homebuyers and taxpayers

If you care about housing affordability, property rights, economic freedom, homeownership, or Texas public policy, this conversation is for you.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Taxpayer Empowerment | Episode 32: Housing Affordability & Election Integrity with Sen. Bryan Hughes 27 27 Taxpayer Empowerment | Episode 32: Housing Affordability & Election Integrity with Sen. Bryan Hughes full a05ef8ad-9839-47c3-8299-15ba7184877a https://share.transistor.fm/s/037785d6 The American Dream of homeownership is becoming harder to achieve but Texas lawmakers are working to change that.

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Senator Brian Hughes to discuss the landmark housing reforms passed during the 89th Legislative Session, the challenges cities are creating in implementing those reforms, and what's next for protecting property rights and expanding housing affordability across Texas.

The conversation also dives into election integrity, including proposals to consolidate local elections, prevent foreign influence in Texas elections, and strengthen voter confidence ahead of the next legislative session.

In this episode:

Why homeownership is becoming less affordable in Texas
How Senate Bill 840 is unlocking thousands of new housing opportunities
Why some cities are resisting state housing reforms
The fight for property rights and accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
What's planned for housing reform in the next legislative session
Why local election dates matter for voter turnout
The push to consolidate elections into November
Preventing foreign money from influencing Texas elections
The future of election integrity in Texas

If you care about property rights, affordable housing, limited government, election integrity, and public policy in Texas, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

]]> The American Dream of homeownership is becoming harder to achieve but Texas lawmakers are working to change that.

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Senator Brian Hughes to discuss the landmark housing reforms passed during the 89th Legislative Session, the challenges cities are creating in implementing those reforms, and what's next for protecting property rights and expanding housing affordability across Texas.

The conversation also dives into election integrity, including proposals to consolidate local elections, prevent foreign influence in Texas elections, and strengthen voter confidence ahead of the next legislative session.

In this episode:

Why homeownership is becoming less affordable in Texas
How Senate Bill 840 is unlocking thousands of new housing opportunities
Why some cities are resisting state housing reforms
The fight for property rights and accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
What's planned for housing reform in the next legislative session
Why local election dates matter for voter turnout
The push to consolidate elections into November
Preventing foreign money from influencing Texas elections
The future of election integrity in Texas

If you care about property rights, affordable housing, limited government, election integrity, and public policy in Texas, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

]]> Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:32:10 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 877 The American Dream of homeownership is becoming harder to achieve but Texas lawmakers are working to change that.

In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Senator Brian Hughes to discuss the landmark housing reforms passed during the 89th Legislative Session, the challenges cities are creating in implementing those reforms, and what's next for protecting property rights and expanding housing affordability across Texas.

The conversation also dives into election integrity, including proposals to consolidate local elections, prevent foreign influence in Texas elections, and strengthen voter confidence ahead of the next legislative session.

In this episode:

Why homeownership is becoming less affordable in Texas
How Senate Bill 840 is unlocking thousands of new housing opportunities
Why some cities are resisting state housing reforms
The fight for property rights and accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
What's planned for housing reform in the next legislative session
Why local election dates matter for voter turnout
The push to consolidate elections into November
Preventing foreign money from influencing Texas elections
The future of election integrity in Texas

If you care about property rights, affordable housing, limited government, election integrity, and public policy in Texas, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez The Duties of The Texas Comptroller w/ Don Huffines 26 26 The Duties of The Texas Comptroller w/ Don Huffines full 3d354843-e064-4ee7-ba9d-dc4e8ce48ae3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/37e4409d On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with candidate for Texas Comptroller Don Huffines to discuss the role of the Texas Comptroller, how they handle the state's money, Texas DOGE reforms and cutting taxes for Texans. 

]]> On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with candidate for Texas Comptroller Don Huffines to discuss the role of the Texas Comptroller, how they handle the state's money, Texas DOGE reforms and cutting taxes for Texans. 

]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:28:17 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 861 On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with candidate for Texas Comptroller Don Huffines to discuss the role of the Texas Comptroller, how they handle the state's money, Texas DOGE reforms and cutting taxes for Texans. 

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez San Antonio’s Economic Future with City Councilwoman Misty Spears 25 25 San Antonio’s Economic Future with City Councilwoman Misty Spears full 29858a07-c6f8-4ccf-8a01-bda0e531a230 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cf27eef0 How can San Antonio stay affordable, competitive, and accountable to taxpayers? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas Public Policy Foundation's Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears to discuss economic development, artificial intelligence, veteran entrepreneurship, city budgeting, government transparency, housing affordability, public safety, infrastructure, and the future of San Antonio.

Councilwoman Spears shares insights from her recent economic development mission to Taiwan and Japan, where she worked to strengthen international partnerships in cybersecurity, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and advanced manufacturing. She also discusses her proposal for an AI workforce certification program, initiatives supporting veteran-owned small businesses, and her vision for responsible city budgeting that prioritizes core services over government expansion.

The conversation explores some of the most important issues facing Texans today:

✅ Economic Development & Job Creation
✅ Artificial Intelligence & Workforce Training
✅ Veteran Entrepreneurship & Small Business Growth
✅ Government Transparency & Accountability
✅ Public Safety & Infrastructure Investment
✅ Property Taxes & Affordability Challenges
✅ Housing Policy & Homeownership Opportunities
✅ Local Control vs. State Oversight
✅ Audits, Budget Reform & Taxpayer Protection
✅ The Future of San Antonio & Texas Growth

If you're interested in Texas politics, local government, taxpayer advocacy, economic growth, housing affordability, public policy, city budgets, government transparency, and the future of San Antonio, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

📌 Subscribe for more interviews, policy discussions, and taxpayer-focused content.

]]> How can San Antonio stay affordable, competitive, and accountable to taxpayers? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas Public Policy Foundation's Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears to discuss economic development, artificial intelligence, veteran entrepreneurship, city budgeting, government transparency, housing affordability, public safety, infrastructure, and the future of San Antonio.

Councilwoman Spears shares insights from her recent economic development mission to Taiwan and Japan, where she worked to strengthen international partnerships in cybersecurity, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and advanced manufacturing. She also discusses her proposal for an AI workforce certification program, initiatives supporting veteran-owned small businesses, and her vision for responsible city budgeting that prioritizes core services over government expansion.

The conversation explores some of the most important issues facing Texans today:

✅ Economic Development & Job Creation
✅ Artificial Intelligence & Workforce Training
✅ Veteran Entrepreneurship & Small Business Growth
✅ Government Transparency & Accountability
✅ Public Safety & Infrastructure Investment
✅ Property Taxes & Affordability Challenges
✅ Housing Policy & Homeownership Opportunities
✅ Local Control vs. State Oversight
✅ Audits, Budget Reform & Taxpayer Protection
✅ The Future of San Antonio & Texas Growth

If you're interested in Texas politics, local government, taxpayer advocacy, economic growth, housing affordability, public policy, city budgets, government transparency, and the future of San Antonio, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

📌 Subscribe for more interviews, policy discussions, and taxpayer-focused content.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2026 09:49:43 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1552 How can San Antonio stay affordable, competitive, and accountable to taxpayers? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Texas Public Policy Foundation's Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears to discuss economic development, artificial intelligence, veteran entrepreneurship, city budgeting, government transparency, housing affordability, public safety, infrastructure, and the future of San Antonio.

Councilwoman Spears shares insights from her recent economic development mission to Taiwan and Japan, where she worked to strengthen international partnerships in cybersecurity, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and advanced manufacturing. She also discusses her proposal for an AI workforce certification program, initiatives supporting veteran-owned small businesses, and her vision for responsible city budgeting that prioritizes core services over government expansion.

The conversation explores some of the most important issues facing Texans today:

✅ Economic Development & Job Creation
✅ Artificial Intelligence & Workforce Training
✅ Veteran Entrepreneurship & Small Business Growth
✅ Government Transparency & Accountability
✅ Public Safety & Infrastructure Investment
✅ Property Taxes & Affordability Challenges
✅ Housing Policy & Homeownership Opportunities
✅ Local Control vs. State Oversight
✅ Audits, Budget Reform & Taxpayer Protection
✅ The Future of San Antonio & Texas Growth

If you're interested in Texas politics, local government, taxpayer advocacy, economic growth, housing affordability, public policy, city budgets, government transparency, and the future of San Antonio, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

📌 Subscribe for more interviews, policy discussions, and taxpayer-focused content.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Property Rights and Short-Term Rentals with Lauren Bouton 24 24 Property Rights and Short-Term Rentals with Lauren Bouton full 2e79d6ef-26f3-45d7-9230-f604a839c58c https://share.transistor.fm/s/e5dfa5f5 On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, recorded live at TPS 2026, Jose Melendez sits down with Lauren Bouton of Airbnb to break down the growing debate over short-term rental regulations in Texas.

]]> On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, recorded live at TPS 2026, Jose Melendez sits down with Lauren Bouton of Airbnb to break down the growing debate over short-term rental regulations in Texas.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:18:24 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 590 On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, recorded live at TPS 2026, Jose Melendez sits down with Lauren Bouton of Airbnb to break down the growing debate over short-term rental regulations in Texas.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Why The Woodlands Has Some of the Lowest Property Tax Rates in Texas 23 23 Why The Woodlands Has Some of the Lowest Property Tax Rates in Texas full eb20d00d-44d2-4d32-aed8-c624a5714931 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e2e6926a In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, we sit down with Brad Bailey, Chairman of The Woodlands Township, to break down one of the most successful low-tax government models in Texas.

]]> In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, we sit down with Brad Bailey, Chairman of The Woodlands Township, to break down one of the most successful low-tax government models in Texas.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:17:30 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 873 In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, we sit down with Brad Bailey, Chairman of The Woodlands Township, to break down one of the most successful low-tax government models in Texas.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Responsible Government at Every Level with Mayor Art Martinez de Vara 22 22 Responsible Government at Every Level with Mayor Art Martinez de Vara full eac04753-f200-4cec-b57d-05b609d85cac https://share.transistor.fm/s/c8489910 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Von Ormy, Texas Mayor Art Martinez de Vara to discuss the importance of responsible, accountable, and transparent local government.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Von Ormy, Texas Mayor Art Martinez de Vara to discuss the importance of responsible, accountable, and transparent local government.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:16:37 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 2283 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Von Ormy, Texas Mayor Art Martinez de Vara to discuss the importance of responsible, accountable, and transparent local government.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Standing Up for Taxpayers with Galveston County Judge Mark Henry 21 21 Standing Up for Taxpayers with Galveston County Judge Mark Henry full 3d08cd9b-2862-4e2c-999b-990b9079dc8f https://share.transistor.fm/s/065c6f48 How do county decisions impact your property taxes, local debt, and government transparency? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez, Campaign Director of the Taxpayer Protection Project, sits down with Mark Henry, County Judge of Galveston County, for a deep dive into fiscal discipline at the local level.

]]> How do county decisions impact your property taxes, local debt, and government transparency? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez, Campaign Director of the Taxpayer Protection Project, sits down with Mark Henry, County Judge of Galveston County, for a deep dive into fiscal discipline at the local level.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:14:26 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 802 How do county decisions impact your property taxes, local debt, and government transparency? In this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, Jose Melendez, Campaign Director of the Taxpayer Protection Project, sits down with Mark Henry, County Judge of Galveston County, for a deep dive into fiscal discipline at the local level.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Bond Elections and Property Tax Reform with Mayor Shane Saum 20 20 Bond Elections and Property Tax Reform with Mayor Shane Saum full 57576185-9255-4427-8a09-5a1bfbb3ede6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/73abc47f TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Lago Vista, Texas Mayor Shane Saum to break down how decisions made at city halls across Texas directly impact local taxpayers.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Lago Vista, Texas Mayor Shane Saum to break down how decisions made at city halls across Texas directly impact local taxpayers.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:12:45 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 822 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Lago Vista, Texas Mayor Shane Saum to break down how decisions made at city halls across Texas directly impact local taxpayers.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Housing Affordability Crisis Explained with Alex Horowitz 19 19 Housing Affordability Crisis Explained with Alex Horowitz full 84a584f3-eb58-41b9-b53e-0bb1d8edc57c https://share.transistor.fm/s/b83437f4 TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by Alex Horowitz of the Pew Charitable Trusts to discuss the growing housing affordability crisis in the United States and Texas.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by Alex Horowitz of the Pew Charitable Trusts to discuss the growing housing affordability crisis in the United States and Texas.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:11:32 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1141 TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by Alex Horowitz of the Pew Charitable Trusts to discuss the growing housing affordability crisis in the United States and Texas.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Election Date Reform with San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears 18 18 Election Date Reform with San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears full 39c321d5-03ed-421f-bcd2-f47b7a5256a1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/95fb8140 TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears to discuss uniform election dates in Texas and why election timing matters for voters and taxpayers.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears to discuss uniform election dates in Texas and why election timing matters for voters and taxpayers.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:10:02 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 717 TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears to discuss uniform election dates in Texas and why election timing matters for voters and taxpayers.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Make Homeownership Attainable Again with AEI's Ed Pinto 17 17 Make Homeownership Attainable Again with AEI's Ed Pinto full 662c08d9-80e9-4d9e-b6c0-914f53b38aa5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1170bc38 TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by Ed Pinto, Senior Fellow and Co-Director of the AEI Housing Center at the American Enterprise Institute, to break down the housing affordability crisis in Texas and across the United States.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by Ed Pinto, Senior Fellow and Co-Director of the AEI Housing Center at the American Enterprise Institute, to break down the housing affordability crisis in Texas and across the United States.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:06:41 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1822 TPPF’s Jose Melendez is joined by Ed Pinto, Senior Fellow and Co-Director of the AEI Housing Center at the American Enterprise Institute, to break down the housing affordability crisis in Texas and across the United States.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Inside Texas’ Finances with Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock 16 16 Inside Texas’ Finances with Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock full 0661e168-9e77-4969-bbad-2fefbeb65664 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e7c4610d On this special episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock for an in-depth discussion on the state of Texas’ finances. Comptroller Hancock explains how the Comptroller’s office manages the launch of the nation’s largest school choice program, ensures transparency in state budgeting, and delivers tax relief to families impacted by the recent Hill Country flooding.

]]> On this special episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock for an in-depth discussion on the state of Texas’ finances. Comptroller Hancock explains how the Comptroller’s office manages the launch of the nation’s largest school choice program, ensures transparency in state budgeting, and delivers tax relief to families impacted by the recent Hill Country flooding.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:03:22 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1291 On this special episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock for an in-depth discussion on the state of Texas’ finances. Comptroller Hancock explains how the Comptroller’s office manages the launch of the nation’s largest school choice program, ensures transparency in state budgeting, and delivers tax relief to families impacted by the recent Hill Country flooding.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez How State Government and Local Government Intersect w/ Matt Krause 15 15 How State Government and Local Government Intersect w/ Matt Krause full 81daf00d-52cf-4b6f-a36f-558c1b2e74ac https://share.transistor.fm/s/85853204 Join TPPF’s Jose Melendez on this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment as he sits down with Tarrant County Commissioner Matt Krause to break down how decisions made at the Texas Capitol directly impact local governments and taxpayers in Tarrant County and beyond.

]]> Join TPPF’s Jose Melendez on this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment as he sits down with Tarrant County Commissioner Matt Krause to break down how decisions made at the Texas Capitol directly impact local governments and taxpayers in Tarrant County and beyond.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 08:01:44 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 757 Join TPPF’s Jose Melendez on this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment as he sits down with Tarrant County Commissioner Matt Krause to break down how decisions made at the Texas Capitol directly impact local governments and taxpayers in Tarrant County and beyond.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Fiscal Responsibility & Parental Rights with Rep. Hillary Hickland 14 14 Fiscal Responsibility & Parental Rights with Rep. Hillary Hickland full 8ec39c96-c0a1-4da8-814b-5c0b565130b2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ffc584af TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Representative Hillary Hickland to discuss bond elections, local government debt, and the growing use of taxpayer-funded lobbyists in Texas. They also talk about Rep. Hickland’s strong advocacy for parental rights, her efforts to protect students from political indoctrination in schools, and how Texas can promote transparency and accountability in local governance.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Representative Hillary Hickland to discuss bond elections, local government debt, and the growing use of taxpayer-funded lobbyists in Texas. They also talk about Rep. Hickland’s strong advocacy for parental rights, her efforts to protect students from political indoctrination in schools, and how Texas can promote transparency and accountability in local governance.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 07:59:22 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1517 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Representative Hillary Hickland to discuss bond elections, local government debt, and the growing use of taxpayer-funded lobbyists in Texas. They also talk about Rep. Hickland’s strong advocacy for parental rights, her efforts to protect students from political indoctrination in schools, and how Texas can promote transparency and accountability in local governance.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Housing and Economic Growth in Texas with Glenn Hamer 13 13 Housing and Economic Growth in Texas with Glenn Hamer full 9811c37c-6b8e-4a07-a43b-7b4bf55a3175 https://share.transistor.fm/s/549f1e03 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Glenn Hamer, President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, to discuss housing affordability in Texas, the state’s economic growth, and the pro-growth policies that help keep Texas’ economy strong.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Glenn Hamer, President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, to discuss housing affordability in Texas, the state’s economic growth, and the pro-growth policies that help keep Texas’ economy strong.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 07:57:06 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1030 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Glenn Hamer, President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, to discuss housing affordability in Texas, the state’s economic growth, and the pro-growth policies that help keep Texas’ economy strong.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Election Integrity and Reform with Chad Ennis 12 12 Election Integrity and Reform with Chad Ennis full 39d2a958-4231-4cbe-980a-7b32f670ce7c https://share.transistor.fm/s/e8ddc32b TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Chad Ennis from the Honest Elections Project to discuss election integrity in Texas and the reforms aimed at keeping our elections secure and transparent. They break down the push for a uniform election date in Texas and what it could mean for voters across the state. Plus, they discuss the upcoming constitutional amendments that Texans will be voting on this November.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Chad Ennis from the Honest Elections Project to discuss election integrity in Texas and the reforms aimed at keeping our elections secure and transparent. They break down the push for a uniform election date in Texas and what it could mean for voters across the state. Plus, they discuss the upcoming constitutional amendments that Texans will be voting on this November.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 07:55:03 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 668 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Chad Ennis from the Honest Elections Project to discuss election integrity in Texas and the reforms aimed at keeping our elections secure and transparent. They break down the push for a uniform election date in Texas and what it could mean for voters across the state. Plus, they discuss the upcoming constitutional amendments that Texans will be voting on this November.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Austin's Prop Q with Matt Mackowiak 11 11 Austin's Prop Q with Matt Mackowiak full 8cad88a9-2154-4785-bcae-75087df3de03 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ccaa91cd TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Save Austin Now’s Matt Mackowiak to discuss Austin’s Proposition Q, a controversial ballot measure that would raise city property taxes by 20%. They break down what Prop Q would actually do, why the City of Austin is asking voters to approve the tax increase, and the growing concerns from Austinites about affordability, government spending, and transparency.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Save Austin Now’s Matt Mackowiak to discuss Austin’s Proposition Q, a controversial ballot measure that would raise city property taxes by 20%. They break down what Prop Q would actually do, why the City of Austin is asking voters to approve the tax increase, and the growing concerns from Austinites about affordability, government spending, and transparency.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 07:52:18 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 620 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Save Austin Now’s Matt Mackowiak to discuss Austin’s Proposition Q, a controversial ballot measure that would raise city property taxes by 20%. They break down what Prop Q would actually do, why the City of Austin is asking voters to approve the tax increase, and the growing concerns from Austinites about affordability, government spending, and transparency.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Property Taxes, Lobbyists & PFAs with Rep. Helen Kerwin 10 10 Property Taxes, Lobbyists & PFAs with Rep. Helen Kerwin full 8b663166-47a2-41fb-b669-4fd4570c5144 https://share.transistor.fm/s/22851360 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Representative Helen Kerwin to discuss major property tax reform and the potential elimination of property taxes in Texas. Rep. Kerwin also shares details about her PFAS legislation designed to keep harmful chemicals out of fertilizer and protect Texas farmers and families. Plus, they expose how taxpayer-funded lobbyists were paid to fight against this important reform.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Representative Helen Kerwin to discuss major property tax reform and the potential elimination of property taxes in Texas. Rep. Kerwin also shares details about her PFAS legislation designed to keep harmful chemicals out of fertilizer and protect Texas farmers and families. Plus, they expose how taxpayer-funded lobbyists were paid to fight against this important reform.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 14:47:12 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1265 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Texas State Representative Helen Kerwin to discuss major property tax reform and the potential elimination of property taxes in Texas. Rep. Kerwin also shares details about her PFAS legislation designed to keep harmful chemicals out of fertilizer and protect Texas farmers and families. Plus, they expose how taxpayer-funded lobbyists were paid to fight against this important reform.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Addressing Homelessness with Chris Baker 9 9 Addressing Homelessness with Chris Baker full bb3994e7-fc28-4e39-80ac-74b780252773 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6b7efc84 TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Chris Baker, founder of The Other Ones Foundation, to discuss the growing homelessness crisis in Texas. Chris shares how he got involved in helping the homeless community, why he founded The Other Ones Foundation, and what solutions could make a real impact.

]]> TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Chris Baker, founder of The Other Ones Foundation, to discuss the growing homelessness crisis in Texas. Chris shares how he got involved in helping the homeless community, why he founded The Other Ones Foundation, and what solutions could make a real impact.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 14:43:02 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 2076 TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Chris Baker, founder of The Other Ones Foundation, to discuss the growing homelessness crisis in Texas. Chris shares how he got involved in helping the homeless community, why he founded The Other Ones Foundation, and what solutions could make a real impact.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Texas Constitutional Amendments Explained 8 8 Texas Constitutional Amendments Explained full 59d6385e-7a07-47f1-baaf-5c6c1657b0ab https://share.transistor.fm/s/f47c898d TPPF’s Jose Melendez and Judge Shepard are joined by Co-State Director for Convention of States Texas Darren York to break down the 2025 Texas constitutional amendments on the ballot this November. Learn what each amendment means for Texas voters — from technical college funding and water infrastructure funding to new taxes, bail denial, and more.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez and Judge Shepard are joined by Co-State Director for Convention of States Texas Darren York to break down the 2025 Texas constitutional amendments on the ballot this November. Learn what each amendment means for Texas voters — from technical college funding and water infrastructure funding to new taxes, bail denial, and more.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 14:38:45 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 820 TPPF’s Jose Melendez and Judge Shepard are joined by Co-State Director for Convention of States Texas Darren York to break down the 2025 Texas constitutional amendments on the ballot this November. Learn what each amendment means for Texas voters — from technical college funding and water infrastructure funding to new taxes, bail denial, and more.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Tackling Education Policy with Rep. Leo-Wilson 7 7 Tackling Education Policy with Rep. Leo-Wilson full b6303676-c695-4355-ad00-f91dbd094ebd https://share.transistor.fm/s/9b9073f0 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Rep. Terri Leo-Wilson to discuss critical issues shaping Texas education policy and how the Texas Legislature is working to improve outcomes for students. They also dive into pressing taxpayer concerns, including the rising local government debt in Texas, the influence of taxpayer-funded lobbying, and more.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Rep. Terri Leo-Wilson to discuss critical issues shaping Texas education policy and how the Texas Legislature is working to improve outcomes for students. They also dive into pressing taxpayer concerns, including the rising local government debt in Texas, the influence of taxpayer-funded lobbying, and more.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 14:33:34 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 743 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Rep. Terri Leo-Wilson to discuss critical issues shaping Texas education policy and how the Texas Legislature is working to improve outcomes for students. They also dive into pressing taxpayer concerns, including the rising local government debt in Texas, the influence of taxpayer-funded lobbying, and more.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Property Taxes & Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying with Rep. Cody Vasut 6 6 Property Taxes & Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying with Rep. Cody Vasut full 2b594471-39a6-44ef-b310-842dd4c72a63 https://share.transistor.fm/s/35e243dd TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Representative Cody Vasut to break down the latest efforts at the Texas Legislature to deliver real property tax relief and stop government entities from using your tax dollars to lobby against you.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Representative Cody Vasut to break down the latest efforts at the Texas Legislature to deliver real property tax relief and stop government entities from using your tax dollars to lobby against you.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 14:17:40 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 770 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with Representative Cody Vasut to break down the latest efforts at the Texas Legislature to deliver real property tax relief and stop government entities from using your tax dollars to lobby against you.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez A Special Session Update with James Quintero 5 5 A Special Session Update with James Quintero full 79f10731-471a-422e-acf4-6f8bc381e966 https://share.transistor.fm/s/55e79554 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with his colleague James Quintero to break down the latest from the Texas Legislature’s special session and what it means for Texas taxpayers. They discuss the recently passed SB 10, which lowers the Voter Approval Tax Rate from 3.5% to 2.5%, and explore how this change impacts property taxes across Texas.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with his colleague James Quintero to break down the latest from the Texas Legislature’s special session and what it means for Texas taxpayers. They discuss the recently passed SB 10, which lowers the Voter Approval Tax Rate from 3.5% to 2.5%, and explore how this change impacts property taxes across Texas.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 14:11:45 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1225 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with his colleague James Quintero to break down the latest from the Texas Legislature’s special session and what it means for Texas taxpayers. They discuss the recently passed SB 10, which lowers the Voter Approval Tax Rate from 3.5% to 2.5%, and explore how this change impacts property taxes across Texas.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Zero-Based Budgeting with San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte 4 4 Zero-Based Budgeting with San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte full f02f9a6b-c95a-44ba-ade4-6d93ffc68a08 https://share.transistor.fm/s/29001e46 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte to break down the importance of zero-based budgeting in San Antonio. Discover how this budgeting approach can rein in excessive local government spending, improve city accountability, and give taxpayers a stronger voice in how their dollars are used.

]]> TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte to break down the importance of zero-based budgeting in San Antonio. Discover how this budgeting approach can rein in excessive local government spending, improve city accountability, and give taxpayers a stronger voice in how their dollars are used.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 13:20:31 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 802 TPPF’s Jose Melendez sits down with San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte to break down the importance of zero-based budgeting in San Antonio. Discover how this budgeting approach can rein in excessive local government spending, improve city accountability, and give taxpayers a stronger voice in how their dollars are used.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Stopping Runaway Local Spending and Bond Debt with Joel Castro 3 3 Stopping Runaway Local Spending and Bond Debt with Joel Castro full 4933f2d0-7fba-4626-8e4f-873c7543cfff https://share.transistor.fm/s/81f859a1 TPPF's Jose Melendez is joined by Former Alvin City Council Member Joel Castro to discuss local government's increasing amount of bond debt, runaway spending, bond election reform and more. 

]]> TPPF's Jose Melendez is joined by Former Alvin City Council Member Joel Castro to discuss local government's increasing amount of bond debt, runaway spending, bond election reform and more. 

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 13:18:04 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 1223 TPPF's Jose Melendez is joined by Former Alvin City Council Member Joel Castro to discuss local government's increasing amount of bond debt, runaway spending, bond election reform and more. 

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Local Spending Limits and Tax Reform with Commissioner Grant Moody 2 2 Local Spending Limits and Tax Reform with Commissioner Grant Moody full 4b7e8296-7148-462d-bc3a-b3b93336c769 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f2acb55e On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez and Bexar County Commissioner Grant Moody of Precinct 3 to discuss implementing local spending limits and tax reform to help taxpayers across Texas and stop local governments from eating up your property tax relief.

]]> On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez and Bexar County Commissioner Grant Moody of Precinct 3 to discuss implementing local spending limits and tax reform to help taxpayers across Texas and stop local governments from eating up your property tax relief.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 12:44:04 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 916 On this episode of Taxpayer Empowerment, TPPF's Jose Melendez and Bexar County Commissioner Grant Moody of Precinct 3 to discuss implementing local spending limits and tax reform to help taxpayers across Texas and stop local governments from eating up your property tax relief.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez Fighting Taxpayer-Funded Lobbyists with Ben Crockett 1 1 Fighting Taxpayer-Funded Lobbyists with Ben Crockett full b7350b5f-71e3-4017-a788-0a2ad1ab02c4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/47c94992 TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Ben Crockett to discuss Ben's experience dealing with taxpayer-funded lobbyists in the legislature while advocating for a piece of legislation he and his fellow Texas A&M classmates drafted.

]]> TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Ben Crockett to discuss Ben's experience dealing with taxpayer-funded lobbyists in the legislature while advocating for a piece of legislation he and his fellow Texas A&M classmates drafted.

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 11:10:22 -0600 Texas Public Policy Foundation Texas Public Policy Foundation 361 TPPF's Jose Melendez sits down with Ben Crockett to discuss Ben's experience dealing with taxpayer-funded lobbyists in the legislature while advocating for a piece of legislation he and his fellow Texas A&M classmates drafted.

]]> taxpayers, taxes, property taxes, tax relief, tax reform, fiscal responsibility, local government, conservative, limited government No Jose Melendez