From Thanksgiving Lights to Election Fights

This week on Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina break down a whirlwind of political developments shaping both the national and Texas landscapes — from Washington’s latest power transitions to Houston’s holiday stage.On the national front, a major political era nears its end as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced she will not seek reelection, closing a decades-long chapter of Democratic leadership. Meanwhile, the political world is remembering former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away at 84. His legacy — from the Bush administration’s post-9/11 policies to his enduring influence on conservative politics — continues to spark debate.At the White House, concerns are mounting over donors linked to the planned East Wing ballroom construction, raising questions about transparency and access. All of this unfolds against the backdrop of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, as gridlock in Washington underscores the growing divide between Congress and the administration.The hosts also unpack the latest Election Day takeaways nationwide — from key governor’s races to voter turnout trends — and what they signal for both parties heading into 2026.In Texas, politics meets pageantry as Houston Mayor John Whitmire taps Grammy-winning artist Brian McKnight to emcee the city’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and tree lighting ceremony. But while the holidays bring celebration, the campaign season is far from over.Runoffs are set across the state, including Texas Congressional District 18, the Houston City Council, and Senate District 9, as candidates prepare for another round of voter battles. Plus, the hosts explore the propositions passed in this election, and how they could reshape everything from local infrastructure to public funding.NATIONAL TOPICS:Nancy Pelosi will not seek reelection.Former Vice President Dick Cheney dies at 84.Concerns arise around donors to White House east wing ballroom construction.Longest government shutdown to date.Takeaways from Election Day nationwide.TEXAS TOPICSHouston Mayor John Whitmire taps singer Brian McKnight to emcee Thanksgiving Day parade and light tree.Congressional District 18 heads into a runoffHouston City Council elections goes to runoff.Senate District 9 to be decided in runoff.Passed propositions this election.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).