Texas panhandle economy

Local leaders see data centers, which help power the world's shift to artificial intelligence, as a way to keep their towns open. Residents worry their way of life — and water — is at stake.

Economic uncertainty, inflation, strict state limits on property tax collections and uncertainty around future federal funds have crimped local budgets.

The Smokehouse Creek Fire burned over a million acres, and recovery is ongoing.

The windswept plains of West Texas have some of the highest solar power potential in the United States. Now, the Permian Basin region is taking advantage…