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Natalia Contreras covers election administration and voting access for Votebeat in partnership with The Texas Tribune. She has covered a range of topics as a community journalist including local government, public safety, immigration and social issues. Natalia previously reported for the Austin American-Statesman, focusing on impacts of government policies on communities of color. Natalia previously worked at the Indianapolis Star, where she helped launch the first Spanish-language newsletter, and at the Corpus Christi Caller-Times. She was born in Tampico, Tamaulipas in Mexico and grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas. She is based in Corpus Christi.
Critics fear increased election prosecutions could intimidate voters and local election officials. Attorney General Ken Paxton has long sought more autonomy over election cases. Full Story
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The Biden administration had challenged a Republican-led redistricting plan that diluted the political power of minorities. Other legal challenges will continue. Full Story
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All 20 GOP senators signed on to Senate Bill 16, which would apply to currently registered voters, and restrict some to only congressional elections. Full Story
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The academy offers an inside look at how votes are counted and secured. It’s building confidence — and inspiring similar programs across Texas. Full Story
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Senate Bill 985 would revise a 2023 law that raised the minimum number of voting locations. County election officials say they’ve struggled to comply with it. Full Story
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Michele Carew was unanimously appointed as election administrator for the county that’s home to San Antonio, four years after leaving her post in Hood County. Full Story
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Election administrators say letting people cast a ballot at any polling site is more convenient for voters and cheaper for local governments. Full Story
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Texas decertified a widely used electronic pollbook after problems in November. Will a fix arrive in time for the next election? Full Story
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Five people threw their hats in the ring for a single council seat in the South Texas city. That level of interest kicked off an unorthodox — but not unprecedented — series of events. Full Story
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Proposals to allow online registration and broaden photo ID options may have a chance to advance, supporters say. Full Story
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