ProPublica, WFAA, and The Texas Tribune collaborated to investigate how power is wielded in Texas, spotlighting a Dallas nonprofit's efforts. Dallas HERO, funded by a hotelier, pushed propositions to increase the police force, despite declining violent crime rates. The group used rhetoric similar to national narratives about crime and urban decline. Propositions U and S, passed by voters, mandated a larger police force and stripped Dallas of governmental immunity. This led to concerning changes like relaxed hiring standards and budget cuts to other city services. Critics, including former police officers, questioned the rapid implementation of these measures and their potential consequences. The measures, despite criticism before and after, were supported by some officials who urged the passage. Experts and current city officials are concerned, questioning the ability to quickly accommodate such a large influx of new officers. The success of Dallas HERO's efforts raises questions about similar initiatives in other cities, a common trend in national politics.