AngelouEconomics Executive Vice President Dr. Matt Patton has recently been featured in several major Texas news outlets, providing valuable insights on topics ranging from aviation disruptions to immigration policy and retail-driven community growth. The following summaries showcase how his thought leadership continues to position AngelouEconomics as a trusted source for economic analysis in Texas and beyond.
Flight Cancellations and Local Economic Impact During the Government Shutdown
In an interview with KXAN, Dr. Patton discussed the accelerating effects of widespread flight cancellations triggered by the FAA’s reduction of air traffic during the government shutdown. While Austin was not on the initial list of impacted airports, Austin–Bergstrom International Airport still warned of expected schedule changes—raising concerns for both travelers and the regional economy.
Dr. Patton emphasized how quickly such disruptions can intensify, noting that even short-term interruptions to travel have cascading economic effects. He pointed to upcoming events, such as the Texas Book Festival, as examples of gatherings that could face financial strain from last-minute cancellations or reduced attendance.
Nexstar / KXAN: Immigration Crackdown and Texas Job Growth Slowdown
In a detailed story examining the effects of federal immigration enforcement on Texas businesses, Dr. Patton spoke to Nexstar/KXAN about the growing uncertainty companies face as labor markets tighten.
Citing Texas’s long-standing reliance on migration-driven economic expansion, he stressed that immigration policy does not operate in isolation—it is intertwined with interest rates, tariffs, and broader economic forces.
Patton highlighted that businesses of all sizes—particularly those in manufacturing, hospitality, and food services—are navigating a new level of unpredictability, making long-term workforce and investment strategy increasingly difficult.
KXAN: Walmart’s Proposed Expansion into Jarrell and Its Economic Potential
In KXAN’s coverage of Walmart’s proposed $70 million investment in Jarrell, Texas, Dr. Patton provided insight into how major retailers often act as catalysts for broader commercial growth. With more than 300 jobs projected at opening, the new Walmart would be the city’s first major grocery store and a potential magnet for additional businesses.
Dr. Patton pointed to similar patterns elsewhere in Texas, where a single large retailer triggered waves of new development.
He added that the I-35 corridor—from Waco to Austin—is already experiencing steady expansion, and Walmart’s arrival in Jarrell is likely to accelerate that trend.
