People write off states like Texas as dyed-in-the-wool Republican strongholds, but it wasn't always that way. Legendary author, organizer, commentator, and former State Agricultural Commissioner Jim Hightower is living proof that there is a strong progressive tradition in Texas that stretches back to the 19th century. Hightower has fought the far right for decades, but he has also seen how Democrats have abandoned grassroots organizing and how the Democratic Party has been hijacked by corporate money and self-serving elites. In this special episode of The Marc Steiner Show, recorded at Hightower's home in Austin, Texas, we talk to Hightower about House Bill 2127 (aka "The Death Star Bill"), how corporate power and far-right nuts took over Texas politics, and how to rebuild the progressive movement in the Lone Star State. Additional links: Jim Hightower's website: https://jimhightower.com/ The Hightower Lowdown Substack: https://jimhightower.substack.com/ Pre-Production: Kayla Rivara, Maximillian Alvarez, Marc Steiner, David Griscom, Alexander Koffler Studio Production: Alexander Koffler Post-Production: David Hebden The Real News is an independent, viewer-supported, radical media network. Help us continue producing The Marc Steiner Show by following us and making a small donation: Donate: https://therealnews.com/donate-yt-st Sign up for our newsletter: https://therealnews.com/nl-yt-st Like us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/therealnews Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/therealnews