One of the realities of running a small business, especially one built on people, is change. And sometimes, that change tugs at the heart a bit.
Recently, we said goodbye to two wonderful team members, Brad Johnson and Cameron Abrams. Like any growing organization, we eventually watch people we cherish spread their wings. While I hate seeing them go, I am deeply proud of both of them and grateful that The Texan was a part of their professional journeys. We’ll remain steadfast friends, and are cheering them on always.
I have no doubt their futures are bright.
What makes moments like these bittersweet, rather than simply sad, is the culture we’ve built. We are a small business, but we are also a team that genuinely likes and respects one another. Not every workplace can say that. We are fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented, hardworking, and mission-driven people in Texas media.
And while departures always bring a pause, they’re quickly followed by something that reaffirms why I remain so optimistic about The Texan: incredible people stepping up and stepping in.
McKenzie DiLullo, Senior Editor, continues to be our rock. She is the person I hired before we even had a name for this news organization! She has been with us from the very beginning and continues to lead with professionalism, grace, and kindness – qualities that make her a perfect counterbalance to me, as I’m far more aligned with Brad’s curmudgeonly tendencies.
McKenzie does the unglamorous, behind-the-scenes work that keeps The Texan running day in and day out and she has done so with remarkable steadiness even as she and her husband welcomed their sweet daughter, Elsie, into the world. Quite simply, The Texan would not exist without her.
Rob Laucius, whom we also quite literally could not do without, has stepped into the role of Managing Editor in a way that has strengthened our newsroom immeasurably. Rob has taken on leadership responsibilities that support McKenzie, ease the load, and make our entire operation more resilient. Together, their partnership has elevated The Texan and positioned us exceptionally well for the future.
Our senior reporters, Holly Hansen and Kim Roberts, continue to do what they do best: digging into local and statewide political stories that truly matter to Texans. Holly was one of the very first hires when The Texan began, with Kim joining just a few months later. Today, both serve as senior reporters and anchors of our newsroom — a testament to their talent, credibility, and commitment to serious journalism.
Holly’s newsletter, Ripples, focuses on how policy decisions affect real people, connecting legislative action to everyday life in communities across Texas. Kim’s Bluebonnet Bulletin, by contrast, highlights encouraging and often overlooked stories from around the Lone Star State.
Even while attending law school, Matt Stringer continues to keep Texans informed on critical legal developments. His newsletter, The Docket, breaks down how laws are tested, challenged, and applied in the real world, exactly the kind of insight voters need. He’s a staple of the Texas political world — and always knows the scuttlebutt before the world does.
And for those who’ve been asking, yes, our “lil’” Mary Elise Cosgray is all grown up and is now Mary Elise O’Bar. We couldn’t be happier for Mary Elise and her husband as they begin this next chapter. But not to worry: she remains a vital part of The Texan as she continues to lead the charge on all the #txlege happenings, especially as we enter the primary season. And importantly, her newsletter, The 40, continues to keep us informed on Texas’ congressional delegation – the second-largest in the nation.
Meredith Dyer has been an absolute godsend for The Texan. What began as occasional contributions quickly revealed a sharp reporter with natural curiosity and a drive to truly understand complex issues. With her expansive background in education, Meredith just launched her first newsletter, The Report Card, and it is outstanding. Data-driven, insightful, and timely, her debut issue tackled attendance challenges in public schools and set the bar high for what’s to come.
And now to the newest additions to our growing team.
We are thrilled to welcome Hannah Brewer and Ben Hansen, and to welcome back Mazlin Jordan.
Hannah hit the ground running in a way we rarely see. Smart, capable, and fearless, she published her first story during her very first week. We usually ease new reporters in, but Hannah didn’t need easing. She’s the real deal.
Ben joins us reporting on technology, crypto, and AI. You know, those “little” issues that definitely don’t affect the real world at all! His beat will reflect where policy, innovation, and the future collide. We’re excited to see his work unfold.
And then there’s Mazlin Jordan, back with us and once again proving indispensable. From photography and social media to podcasts and advertising, Mazlin wears more hats than most, and she does it with grace, competence, and an unmatched willingness to serve wherever she’s needed.
We will always feel a twinge of sadness when someone moves on. But I am continually amazed at how McKenzie identifies and hires exceptional talent, ensuring that The Texan never skips a beat — and continues delivering relevant, trustworthy political news that helps Texans become more informed voters.
If you haven’t already, today is the day to subscribe and support the incredible work this team does day in and day out, especially as the election season rushes in.
Here’s to a strong and exciting 2026, as we continue reporting on the issues, policies, elected officials, and campaigns shaping Texas — with a team that just keeps getting better.