All of the Above
Column Published in syndication April 26, 2023While it is widely known that Texas is a key producer of oil and natural gas, many are unaware that the state is also a leader in green energy. The installed capacity in renewables has been growing at a rapid pace, and, barring artificial obstacles, this pattern will likely continue.
- Tags:
- energy,
- oil and gas,
- renewable energy,
- Texas
What did first quarter 2023 GDP growth look like?
Radio Spot Broadcast via Texas State Networks on April 27, 2023Dr. Perryman discusses the slowdown in first quarter GDP growth.
- Tags:
- first quarter,
- GDP
The Counting Man
Column Published in syndication April 19, 2023Dr. Steve Murdock, our foremost Texas demographer and my dear friend, recently passed away. Steve had a distinguished career spanning endowed positions at three major universities, designation as the State Demographer, and a stint as Director of the US Census Bureau. More important, however, he was the clarion voice proclaiming a reality that we all needed to hear.
- Tags:
- demographics,
- population,
- Texas
How much did the population increase in Texas last year?
Radio Spot Broadcast via Texas State Networks on April 19, 2023Texas had the highest population increase in the US last year.
- Tags:
- DFW,
- Houston,
- population change,
- Texas
The Outlook for the Texas Economy
Column Published in syndication April 12, 2023It goes without saying that there's a lot going on in the economy these days. The United States (and most of the rest of the world) is dealing with high (though moderating) inflation, rising interest rates, struggling industries and markets, geopolitical tensions, and a host of other uncertainties. Nonetheless, I remain optimistic regarding the potential for growth, although the path will probably not be as smooth as we would hope.
- Tags:
- economic forecast,
- outlook,
- Texas,
- Texas economy
The Short‑Term Outlook for the US Economy
Column Published in syndication April 05, 2023The US economy is currently enduring some major headwinds. High inflation persists even as the Federal Reserve raises interest rates. Fallout from the escalating interest rates is affecting a number of industries and individuals, with ripple effects throughout the economy. Geopolitical uncertainty is also a factor, with not only Russia-Ukraine, but several other areas showing signs of rising tensions. However, while there will almost certainly be some bumps along the way, I don't anticipate a major meltdown. In fact, our latest projections call for notable growth over the next five years. Let's briefly explore a few key issues.
- Tags:
- economic forecast,
- outlook,
- short-term
How important are rural areas to the Texas economy?
Radio Spot Broadcast via Texas State Networks on April 07, 2023Dr. Perryman discusses the importance of rural areas to the Texas economy.
- Tags:
- rural,
- Texas economy

Our Greatest Opportunity‑ Our Greatest Challenge
Newsletter Published on April 04, 2023 (Vol. 40, No. 01)Excellent public education is the single most important factor in securing our future prosperity. This issue highlights key patterns and trends affecting Texas education, as well as workforce needs in the decades to come.
Opportunity Knocks
Column Published in syndication March 29, 2023The Texas Legislature is inexorably marching toward the biennial State budget. While there are always far more legitimate ways to spend money than available funds, we are starting from a strong - unprecedented, in fact - position.
- Tags:
- state budget,
- Texas
What is the Texas Legislature doing about property tax relief?
Radio Spot Broadcast via Texas State Networks on March 29, 2023The Texas Legislature is considering some property tax relief during the current legislative session.
- Tags:
- property tax,
- state budget