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September 16, 2019
Gov. Greg Abbott today appointed Lufkin chiropractor Dr. Keven Ellis chair of the State Board of Education (SBOE).
Although the members of the board are elected, the governor appoints the chair from among the 15 board members. The appointment must be confirmed by the Texas Senate.
From Texas Education Agency
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September 16, 2019
Attorney General Paxton released the following statement in response to the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing of Purdue Pharma and all affiliated U.S. companies in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York:
“For over a year, my office has been aggressively working to hold Purdue Pharma accountable for its deceptive marketing of prescription painkillers like Oxycontin, which has fueled our opioid epidemic.
From Office of the Attorney General
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September 16, 2019
Today, Navy veteran and El Paso legislator César J. Blanco announced his campaign for Texas Senate District 29, remarking, “Senator Rodriguez has spent his life fighting for this community, fighting for our fair share, and standing up for what’s right. He will be truly missed with big shoes to fill. It is in that spirit, and after many conversations with community leaders, that I’m announcing my candidacy for state senate.”
From Cesar Blanco Campaign
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September 16, 2019
Representative Chris Turner, Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, released the following statement regarding the announcement by Rep. César Blanco of his Senate run:
“Representative César Blanco has been an outstanding leader in the House Democratic Caucus. As the Caucus Whip for the last two sessions, Rep. Blanco has been our vote counter on the House floor and has helped facilitate better communication among members during floor debate.
From Texas House Democratic Caucus
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September 16, 2019
Speaker Pro Tem Joe Moody (D-El Paso) issued this statement supporting César:
“The people of District 29 deserve a strong, effective leader who will put them
first and deliver on their priorities. César Blanco and I have spent three sessions
fighting together for El Paso in Austin, and I can tell you that’s who he is and
what he does.
From Joe Moody Campaign
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September 16, 2019
State Representative Rafael Anchía, Chairman of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus (MALC), released the following statement:
“Senator Jose Rodriguez has relentlessly advocated for the people of El Paso and Texas for almost three decades. In his capacity as El Paso County Attorney, Senator Rodriguez was known for his extraordinary record of achievement.
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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September 16, 2019
Latino Victory Fund launched “Run, César, Run!” today -- a digital draft campaign to urge Texas State Rep. César Blanco to run to represent Texas Senate District 29. As part of this campaign, Latino Victory unveiled a website, RunCesarRun.org, in which the organization hailed Blanco’s proven record as a Texas legislator, a U.S. Navy Veteran, and his emergence as a unifying voice in the El Paso community.
From Latino Victory Fund
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September 16, 2019
On Thursday, Sept. 12, 2019, Gov. Greg Abbott released the Texas Safety Action Report in an effort to address gun violence in Texas. These legislative recommendations are riddled with half-measures and do not adequately rise to meet the magnitude of our current gun epidemic.
From Jolt Action
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September 13, 2019
"From his first day in office, José Rodríguez has been a courageous leader in the Texas Senate. He has stood up for the labor movement and delivered for our members in an era of repeated attacks on Texas working families. José Rodríguez has worked to raise wages, to crack down on workplace discrimination, to deliver justice for immigrant workers, and to fully fund our neighborhood public schools.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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September 13, 2019
"It is bittersweet to see the retirement of my colleague and mentor, Senator Rodríguez. He has been a true champion for El Paso for decades - I couldn't have asked for a better role model in this journey. Senator Rodríguez has been a tireless advocate for El Paso in the Texas Senate. During his time in office, Senator Rodríguez has passed over 240 bills, all of which have made our state a better, healthier, and more just place to live.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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September 13, 2019
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton joined a coalition of 20 states in supporting the Trump Administration’s Affordable Clean Energy rule against a court challenge by Democrat attorneys general.
The coalition seeks to intervene in defense of repealing the so-called Clean Power Plan, an Obama-era regulation which would have subjected Americans to higher electricity costs and could have weakened the nation’s power grid.
From Office of the Attorney General
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September 13, 2019
Sen. Rodríguez issued the following statement:
It has been my privilege to serve as your State Senator for the past nine years, and preceding that, your County Attorney for over 17 years. I am sincerely grateful for your trust and confidence.
After nearly three decades in elected office, I will not seek re-election and will retire from the Senate at the end of this term on January 12, 2021.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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September 13, 2019
Today, Governor Greg Abbott endorsed Representative Jeff Leach for re-election to the Texas House of Representatives.
“I am proud to support Representative Jeff Leach for re-election, and I know he will continue to lead with grit, determination, and integrity,” said Governor Abbott. “I am grateful for his fearless leadership on important issues like property tax reform, investing in our public schools, and protecting survivors of sexual abuse.
From Jeff Leach Campaign
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September 13, 2019
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) today announced their offices are partnering to protect consumers from the sale of contaminated or inferior quality motor vehicle fuel. By aggressively leveraging the respective authorities and resources of both agencies, TDLR and OAG are able to provide an interim solution easing the transition of the Motor Fuel Program from the Texas Department of Agriculture to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
From Office of the Attorney General
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September 13, 2019
Harris County Republican Party Chairman Paul Simpson released the following statement regarding the 2020 Democrat presidential candidates in Houston for the ABC News Debate.
"What Americans saw last night in Houston was a circus of far-left Democrat candidates who are wildly out-of-touch with Texas. In Harris County, we’re proud to be the home of the ‘Energy Capital of the World’ and the largest medical center in the world.
From Harris County Republican Party
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September 13, 2019
Today, August Pfluger (R-San Angelo) announced his campaign to represent Texas’ 11th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. For nearly 20 years, Pfluger has served his country as an elite F-22 fighter pilot, a decorated Air Force officer, and most recently, as a key national security advisor to President Trump.
From August Pfluger Campaign
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September 13, 2019
Texas Rising Director Rae Martinez released the following statement at the conclusion of tonight’s Democratic Presidential Debate on the Texas Southern University campus in Houston.
From Texas Rising
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September 13, 2019
The Tony Gonzales for Congress campaign today was named to the ‘On the Radar’ level of the Young Guns program by the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC).
According to the NRCC, Young Guns is a recruitment program that identifies candidates across the country who embody the principles of the House Republican Conference and show promise of running a successful campaign.
From Tony Gonzales Campaign
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September 13, 2019
State Senator José Rodríguez released the following statement regarding the publication of Governor Abbott's Texas Safety Action Report.
While the Governor's report proposes good ideas for addressing gun violence, I am disappointed to see that many of the common sense gun safety proposals discussed at the Texas Safety Commission’s meetings were not included.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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September 12, 2019
Lina Ortega, a lifelong El Pasoan, today announced her reelection bid for the Texas House of Representatives District 77 in the 2020 Democrat Primary. She is currently serving her second term as State Representative.
This year in the 86th Legislative Session, Lina successfully passed several bills relating to economic development, transportation, healthcare workforce development, and human trafficking.
From Lina Ortega Campaign
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September 12, 2019
During the recent Harris County Commissioner Court meeting, the commissioners proposed a massive double digit property tax rate increase. On the average home, slightly under $180,000 in taxable value, this means a 12% ($131) increase on their Fall 2019 property tax bill.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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September 12, 2019
In the wake of the mass shootings in El Paso and Midland-Odessa, Senator John Cornyn took to the Senate floor to defend his failure to act on gun safety reforms, including expanded background checks, that the majority of Texans are demanding.
Senator Cornyn called a vote on expanded background checks - a reform that 89% of Texans want and even the Republican Lt. Governor of Texas has said is common sense - a “SHOW VOTE”.
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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September 12, 2019
Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC (TLRPAC) today endorsed Rep. Rick Miller for reelection in House District 26, which covers part of Fort Bend County.
“TLRPAC supports candidates who understand what it takes to keep Texas’ economy strong and the need for a fair and efficient legal system in our state,” TLRPAC Chairman Richard J. Trabulsi Jr. said.
From Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC
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September 12, 2019
The following statement may be attributed to Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening:
"The Waters of the U.S. rule, as conceived in 2015, was arbitrary, overreaching and unnecessary. After studying it in detail, Texas Farm Bureau was convinced that many normal and environmentally-sound farming practices would be difficult or impossible.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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September 12, 2019
Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC (TLRPAC) today endorsed Rep. Valoree Swanson for reelection in House District 150, which covers part of Harris County.
“TLRPAC supports candidates who understand what it takes to keep Texas’ economy strong and the need for a fair and efficient legal system in our state,” TLRPAC Chairman Richard J. Trabulsi Jr. said.
From Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC
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September 12, 2019
Today, State Representative Jeff Leach announced plans to seek re-election to the Texas House of Representatives to continue his service to the people of District 67, which includes portions of Plano, Allen, Richardson and Dallas in Collin County.
From Jeff Leach Campaign
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September 12, 2019
The Johnson Space Center (JSC) makes a $4.7 billion annual impact on the Texas economy and supports more than 52,000 jobs, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said today in a visit to the NASA facility as part of his Good for Texas Tour.
JSC currently operates three facilities in Texas covering nearly 1,700 acres.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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September 12, 2019
Yesterday, the Texas Senate Democratic Caucus (SDC) held elections for the next Chair and Vice Chair. Per the SDC bylaws, no member may serve more than two consecutive terms as Chair or Vice Chair. Effective January 1, 2020, Sen. Carol Alvarado will serve as the Chair, and Sen. Nathan Johnson will serve as the Vice Chair.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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September 12, 2019
Today, Progress Texas released a special report utilizing Texas election data to analyze Texas’ electorate ahead of 2020. The new report shows stagnating numbers of Republican voters and exponential growth of Democratic voters since 2012, pre-dating Beto O’Rourke’s historic Senate campaign.
From Progress Texas
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September 12, 2019
Republican Congressional Candidate Genevieve Collins is here to tell Washington, DC to get the heck out of Texas. Texans don’t want the federal government in our pocketbook or overseeing our daily lives. We deserve to make decisions on how to make money and live the life that is best for us and for our communities.
From Genevieve Collins Campaign
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September 11, 2019
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) today commended the Senate’s confirmation of Ada Brown to fill a judicial vacancy on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in Dallas. There are now two remaining federal vacancies in Texas, only one of which does not yet have a nominee.
“Ada’s experience serving Texans on the state’s Fifth Court of Appeals has prepared her well for the federal bench,” said Sen. Cornyn.
From Senator John Cornyn
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September 11, 2019
Austin City Council members voted yesterday to allocate $150,000, within their total $4.2 billion budget for 2019-2020, toward funding support services for low-income women seeking an abortion. This measure includes "logistical and support services for Austin residents seeking abortion care," per the City of Austin news release dated Sep. 11, 2019.
From Texas Alliance for Life
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September 11, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made this statement today following the passing of Texas energy entrepreneur and philanthropist Thomas Boone Pickens:
“T. Boone Pickens is a Texas legend and a pioneering entrepreneur whose fierce entrepreneurial spirit changed the course of business history in America. But more than that, he was my friend.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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September 11, 2019
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement on the passing of T. Boone Pickens:
“T. Boone Pickens lived a life marked with kindness and generosity. Boone was a friend, and he was a legendary Texas entrepreneur. He was larger than life, had a passion for others, and embodied Texas values. An extraordinarily generous philanthropist and a passionate advocate for American energy independence, Boone will be remembered as a legend in the hearts of Texans and Oklahomans alike.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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September 11, 2019
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) on Tuesday met with Alyssa Milano, Fred Guttenberg, and Ben Jackson to discuss the Second Amendment and actions Congress can take to stop mass shootings and protect lives, including bipartisan legislation Sen. Cruz and Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) reintroduced earlier this year.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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September 11, 2019
The Travis County Emergency Services District 1 was awarded a $765,824.15 federal grant to increase the number of firefighters and support their work, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn announced today. The funding comes through the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, which provides direct funding to fire departments and volunteer firefighter organizations to help increase the number of trained firefighters.
From Senator John Cornyn
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September 11, 2019
As has been noted by numerous media outlets and advocates [1] at this point - absent from the Democratic Presidential debates thus far has been any question or in-depth discussion of democracy issues like voting rights, campaign finance reform or gerrymandering.
From Common Cause Texas
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September 11, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) joined Governor Greg Abbott to present a prestigious state award to five deputies from the Ector County Sheriff's Office who had been shot in the line of duty.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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September 11, 2019
Today, state Representative Chris Turner, Chair of the House Committee on Higher Education, released the following statement in response to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board appointing Dr. Harrison Keller as the state’s new Commissioner of Higher Education.
From Representative Chris Turner
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September 11, 2019
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (Coordinating Board) today voted unanimously to appoint Dr. Harrison Keller to serve as the next commissioner of higher education. Dr. Keller will assume his new post on Oct. 1.
From Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
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September 11, 2019
Doctors, nurses, hospitals and community leaders are increasingly alarmed about our state’s worsening rate of people without health insurance. Data from the U.S. Census shows that the number and percent of uninsured Texans has now gotten worse for two consecutive years from 2016 to 2018.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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September 11, 2019
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement in observance of the 18th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks:
“Eighteen years ago our country faced one of its darkest hours, as thousands of innocent lives were lost in an act of pure evil.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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September 11, 2019
Today the City of Austin adopted a $4.2 billion dollar budget, which included an amendment with $150,000 in funding to support abortion. Texas Values opposed this amendment and Director of Policy Nicole Hudgens stated:
From Texas Values
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September 10, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) issued the following statement on Tuesday announcing his plans to run for re-election, ending speculation that he will run for Congress in 2020:
“After weeks of prayers and countless discussions regarding where I can serve most effectively and immediately as a strong, conservative voice for West Texas, I’m proud to announce I am running for re-election as state representative.
From Brooks Landgraf Campaign
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September 10, 2019
Last night, knowing that news was going to break about a potential Republican primary challenge, Senator John Cornyn did what career politicians do when they are worried - release a digital ad full of other politicians helping him hide from his record of failing Texas.
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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September 10, 2019
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement on the resignation of former Ambassador of John Bolton:
“John Bolton is a friend, and he has devoted his life to defending our national security, including providing wise counsel to multiple administrations.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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September 10, 2019
Governor Greg Abbott today endorsed Sam Harless for re-election as State Representative of House District 126. Representative Harless demonstrated principled, conservative leadership throughout the 86th Legislative Session. Working on behalf of his constituents in northwest Harris County, Representative Harless helped reform our property tax and school finance systems, provided support to law enforcement officers, and ensured a more resilient future for Texas by securing disaster recovery funding.
From Greg Abbott Campaign
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September 10, 2019
Yesterday, ahead of the third Democratic presidential debate in Houston, the Texas Democratic Party unveiled our plan to flip the state of Texas in 2020.
Called “ambitious” and “expansive,” both local and national pundits are in agreement: with this plan in place and the third Presidential debate being held right here in Houston, Texas is the biggest battleground state in the country.
From Texas Democratic Party
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September 10, 2019
Last month, Governor Greg Abbott's Office revealed that Representative Rick Miller (R – Fort Bend) was on the shortlist of candidates for the Commissioner of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Although Rep. Miller has remained insistent on winning re-election in 2020, his consideration for the position has continued to spark resignation gossip. In order to put the rumors to rest, Rep. Miller has decided to officially remove his application from further consideration for the DFPS position.
From Rick Miller Campaign
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September 10, 2019
Today, the House Redistricting Committee will hold their first public hearing to begin gathering input from experts and the public on how the next round of district lines should be drawn.
In 2011, Texas drew election maps that intentionally discriminated against people of color.
From Common Cause Texas
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September 10, 2019
Tomorrow, the House Redistricting Committee meets in Austin for a field hearing that marks the beginning of what is supposed to be a once-a-decade process of redrawing district lines. In reality, redistricting has resulted in lengthy and bitter legal battles in each of the last several decades in Texas.
From Common Cause Texas
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September 10, 2019
Today the Texas General Land Office's (GLO) Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) is announcing it has reached a major milestone with application levels in many counties achieving full subscription, meaning applications in those counties now outnumber available funds.
From Texas General Land Office
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September 10, 2019
Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed his visits to El Paso and Odessa after last month’s shootings and urged his Senate colleagues to come together on solutions. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s floor remarks are below, and video can be found here.
From Senator John Cornyn
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September 9, 2019
Backed by a growing list of over 160 key elected officials, community leaders, and GOP activists, Republican Kronda Thimesch today officially announced her candidacy for Texas House District 65. Thimesch, a Lewisville ISD Trustee, small businesswoman, and Denton County GOP “Volunteer of the Year,” continues to attract the strong support needed to secure the Republican nomination in Texas House District 65.
From Kronda Thimesch Campaign
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September 9, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that Texas is leading 50 attorneys general in a multistate, bipartisan investigation of tech giant Google’s business practices in accordance with state and federal antitrust laws.
The bipartisan coalition announced plans to investigate Google’s overarching control of online advertising markets and search traffic that may have led to anticompetitive behavior that harms consumers.
From Office of the Attorney General
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September 9, 2019
Today, ahead of the Houston Democratic debate, the Texas Democratic Party unveiled our new plan to flip the state of Texas and win up and down the ballot in 2020.
To view the full plan, click here. Some highlights of the plan include:
A commitment to closing the “statewide gap” in voter registration by making investments towards registering voters in the pool of 2.6 million potential Democratic voters.
From Texas Democratic Party
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September 9, 2019
Today, Jonathan Saenz, Esq., President of Texas Values, joined a press conference with citizens of the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, and Comal County announcing a lawsuit against the San Antonio City Council under the Save Chick-Fil-A Religious Freedom Law. According to the plaintiffs,
“The lawsuit asks the Court to enjoin the city from allowing any vendor other than Chick-fil-A to operate in the space that had been reserved for Chick-fil-A in the original concession agreement between the city and Paradies Lagardère.
From Texas Values
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September 9, 2019
Republican State Representative Cody Harris announced today that he will seek re-election to the Texas House after a historic legislative session that delivered a number of victories on key issues like property tax reform, public school funding, teacher pay, and border security.
From Cody Harris Campaign
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September 9, 2019
U.S. Senator John Cornyn led a letter to Acting Administrator Pete Gaynor of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in support of Texas communities’ and non-governmental organizations’ (NGOs) applications for federal reimbursement for migrant care. He was joined by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and U.S. Representatives Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Will Hurd (TX-23), and Veronica Escobar (TX-16).
From Senator John Cornyn
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September 6, 2019
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today wrapped up a statewide tour to visit with local workers, families, and job creators. In the past month, Sen. Cruz has traveled to El Paso, Goliad, Dallas, Corsicana, Waco, Temple, Brenham, Houston, Port Arthur, Beaumont, Texarkana, Wichita Falls, Midland-Odessa, and San Antonio.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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September 6, 2019
Millions of voters will head to the polls this November to vote on 10 proposed amendments to the Texas constitution. One of these amendments, Proposition 2, will impact Texans all across the state by allowing them to turn on the taps in their homes and flush their toilets. Prop 2 would allow the Texas Water Development Board to continue the Economically Distressed Areas Program (EDAP), which helps fund water infrastructure and wastewater systems in economically distressed areas of the state.
From Turn On The Tap Texas PAC
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September 6, 2019
On Thursday, Sept. 5, 2019, Gov. Greg Abbott unveiled eight executive orders he said will help protect the public from mass shootings. The orders center on reporting to and public awareness of the Texas Suspicious Activity Reporting Network. Abbott said he will announce legislative proposals next week.
The following is a statement from Antonio Arellano, interim executive director of Jolt Action, a Texas Latino voter organization:
From Jolt Action
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September 6, 2019
Representative Bernal's House Bill 706 is now effective as of September 1, 2019. Last year, during his tour of public schools in his district, Representative Bernal met a student who was hard-of- hearing and was having difficulty accessing audiology services covered by Medicaid; this meeting revealed a larger issue.
From Representative Diego Bernal
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September 5, 2019
On behalf of the Texas Senate Democratic Caucus, State Sen. José Rodríguez delivered the attached letter requesting a special session to the Governor today (body of text included below).
Dear Governor Abbott:
We, the Senate Democrats, share your eagerness and determination to craft and implement policies that will effectively address the issues underlying the hate-fueled terroristic attack in El Paso and continued gun violence in our great state, including the latest mass shooting in Midland and Odessa.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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September 5, 2019
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has appointed Senator Bryan Hughes as Chair of the Senate State Affairs Committee, effective October 1.
"I am honored to serve as Chair of the Senate State Affairs Committee and am grateful to Lt. Governor Patrick for the confidence he has placed in me," Hughes said.
From Senator Bryan Hughes
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September 5, 2019
Republican Lucio Valdez announced that he is running for the Texas House of Representatives, District 52. Valdez retired from the U.S. Army in 2017 after 33 years of active and reserve service. He was deployed overseas seven times on long-range reconnaissance missions, and on counterdrug operations along the Texas-Mexico border.
From Lucio Valdez Campaign
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September 5, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) issued the following statement on the eight executive orders Governor Abbott released today in response to the El Paso and Odessa-Midland tragedies:
“Governor Abbott’s executive orders will go a long way in providing the resources law enforcement and the public need to report suspicious activity and help prevent mass shootings, such as the one that terrorized my hometown of Odessa on Saturday.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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September 5, 2019
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, has been appointed to the Senate Select Committee on Mass Violence Prevention and Community Safety.
"We are all horrified by continued acts of violence, and I applaud leadership for appointing this committee to examine ways to prevent these senseless tragedies," Senator Nelson said.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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September 5, 2019
Yesterday it came to light that the Trump Administration is taking away over $3.6 billion, including $38.5 million from Texas, from military readiness and construction projects and using it to fund a border wall that experts acknowledge will not increase national security.
“John Cornyn should be ashamed that he enabled his political allies to steal $38.5 million from projects to improve the conditions at Fort Bliss and Joint Base San Antonio for our men and women in uniform.
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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September 5, 2019
Texas Speaker of the House Dennis Bonnen today issued the following statement after Governor Greg Abbott issued eight executive orders in response to the El Paso, Midland, and Odessa shootings.
“Protecting the State of Texas from future tragedies requires an immediate, multifaceted approach on the part of our Legislature, state and local governments and their agencies,” said Speaker Bonnen.
From Speaker Dennis Bonnen
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September 5, 2019
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller today released the following statement regarding state Rep. Matt Krause, R-Fort Worth, writing in a Facebook post that he would support a special session of the Texas Legislature to address gun violence with the condition that it also include anti-abortion legislation.
From Texas Freedom Network
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September 5, 2019
Lawyers from Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office appeared today before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit to present oral arguments in defense of Texas’ law requiring humane treatment of fetal remains.
The case centers on a 2017 law that requires health care facilities to dispose of the remains of aborted and miscarried children through burial, cremation, or the scattering of ashes.
From Office of the Attorney General
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September 5, 2019
Today, NARAL Pro-Choice Texas and Progress Texas issue a statement in response to Rep. Matt Krause’s (R-Fort Worth) call for an emergency session on gun reform to include dangerous attacks on Texans' right to abortion. Krause's extremely politicized call follows Texas Democrats' statewide push for necessary gun reform policies after the El Paso and Odessa-Midland shootings.
From Progress Texas
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September 5, 2019
Following the tragedies in El Paso and Odessa, Governor Greg Abbott today issued eight executive orders to help prevent further mass shootings by enhancing reporting requirements and ensuring law enforcement and the public have the training, tools, and resources they need to provide and respond to Suspicious Activity Reports.
From Office of the Governor
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September 5, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced the members of the Senate Select Committee on Mass Violence Prevention and Community Safety today and charged the bipartisan committee to study a series of issues in response to the recent mass shootings in El Paso and Midland/Odessa as well as previous mass shootings in Santa Fe, Sutherland Springs and Dallas.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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September 5, 2019
Republican Felicia Harris Hoss announced her campaign for Texas’s 22nd congressional district this morning.
A founding partner at Barry Conge Harris LLP, Harris Hoss is a self-made businesswoman and the first in her immediate family to graduate from college. She earned her bachelors degree with honors from Texas A&M University.
From Felicia Harris Hoss Campaign
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September 5, 2019
Today, the list of military bases that will lose critical funding under President Trump’s wall boondoggle was revealed. Among the victims is Joint Base San Antonio, located in Texas’ 21st Congressional District. Wendy Davis released the following statement in response:
"It is completely unacceptable for President Trump to raid vital funding for Joint Base San Antonio to pay for a wall he promised Mexico would underwrite.
From Wendy Davis Campaign
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September 5, 2019
In the wake of the second mass shooting in Texas in less than a month, Senator John Cornyn is still refusing to do his job and urge his political allies to pass the common-sense gun safety legislation that is languishing away in the Senate and could have prevented the shooting spree in Odessa and Midland.
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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September 4, 2019
Earlier today, Rep. Matt Schaefer tweeted out his concern over how gun safety bills would harm the Second Amendment rights of undocumented immigrants, despite his anti-immigrant record.
Mexican American Legislative Caucus Chairman Rafael Anchía issued the following statement:
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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September 4, 2019
Bedford Mayor Jim Griffin today announced his candidacy for Texas House District 92 in northern Tarrant County which includes Bedford, Euless, and Hurst and parts of Fort Worth, Arlington, and Grand Prairie.
"I've helped Bedford solve big problems and uphold the conservative values that make Texas such a wonderful place to live," Griffin said.
From Jim Griffin Campaign
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September 4, 2019
On Saturday, August 31, a gunman opened fire on multiple locations in Odessa and Midland, Texas, killing seven and injuring at least 22. Just four weeks prior, Texas was the home to another horrific mass shooting in El Paso, where a shooter motivated by racism killed 22 people in a Walmart.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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September 4, 2019
State Sen. José Rodríguez released the following statement:
It has been a month since El Paso was targeted by a young man who wanted to kill Mexicans. We can't know everything that went on in his mind, but we do know the means by which he carried out this attack - guns.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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September 4, 2019
Representative Drew Darby (R-San Angelo) will serve as Chairman of the House Select Committee on Mass Violence Prevention and Community Safety, which will work alongside a Senate select committee and Governor Greg Abbott's Domestic Terrorism Task Force to develop recommendations for combatting mass violence and improving public safety in Texas.
From Representative Drew Darby
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September 4, 2019
This morning, members of the Texas House Democratic Caucus held press conferences throughout the state urging Governor Abbott to call a special session to address gun violence in Texas.
The House Democratic Caucus filed 47 gun safety bills, of which only 1 passed both chambers.
From Representative Rafael Anchia
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September 4, 2019
Progress Texas is joining Texas House Democrats in calling for an emergency session to protect Texans from gun violence.
“Texans’ lives are at risk,” said Ed Espinoza, executive director of Progress Texas. “These shootings will continue to happen and innocent people will continue to die unless someone takes legislative action.
From Progress Texas
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September 4, 2019
Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC (TLRPAC) today endorsed Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr. for reelection in Senate District 27, which covers Cameron, Kenedy, Kleberg, Willacy and part of Hidalgo counties.
“TLRPAC supports candidates who understand what it takes to keep Texas’ economy strong and the need for a fair and efficient legal system in our state,” TLRPAC Chairman Richard J. Trabulsi Jr. said.
From Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC
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September 4, 2019
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced that his office filed a civil Medicaid fraud lawsuit against pharmaceutical manufacturer Johnson & Johnson, and its subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., for misrepresentations made to the Texas Medicaid program about their dangerous opioid drug, Duragesic.
From Office of the Attorney General
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September 4, 2019
Speaker Dennis Bonnen today appointed 13 members of the Texas House of Representatives to serve on the newly-formed Select Committee on Mass Violence Prevention and Community Safety. The House Select Committee was formed in response to the recent tragedies in El Paso, Midland, and Odessa, and will be tasked with studying and recommending effective legislative solutions and other measures to help prevent mass violence and improve community safety in Texas.
From Speaker Dennis Bonnen
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September 4, 2019
"My heart breaks each time I hear of another horrific mass shooting. I offer my sincere condolences to the victims, families, and loved ones of the Odessa and Midland mass shooting.
"I'm a gun owner and have a Texas Handgun License, but I also believe we need sensible gun laws to keep guns out of the hands of those who would commit acts like the ones last month in Texas.
From Senator Borris Miles
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September 4, 2019
On Friday, August 30, 2019, the Texas Home School Coalition, along with a bipartisan group of 22 legislators and five statewide organizations, filed an amicus brief in support of the Pardo family with the Supreme Court of Texas (SCOT).
From Texas Home School Coalition
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September 4, 2019
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and Speaker of the House Dennis Bonnen today announce the formation of the Senate and House Select Committees on Mass Violence Prevention and Community Safety. In response to the recent tragedies in El Paso, Midland, and Odessa, Lt. Gov. Patrick and Speaker Bonnen have each formed a select committee to study and recommend effective legislative solutions that will help prevent mass gun violence and improve community safety.
From Speaker Dennis Bonnen
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September 3, 2019
On August 14th, the El Paso state delegation sent a letter to Walmart President Doug McMillon requesting changes to their gun policies and additional support for El Paso Walmart employees. Today, Walmart announced that it will discontinue sales of short-barrel rifle and handgun ammunition and discontinue handgun sales in Alaska, completely exiting the handgun market. Walmart also announced that it will ban open carry in states where it is permitted by law, which includes Texas.
From Representative Lina Ortega
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September 3, 2019
Dr. Dawn Buckingham, Senator for District 24, is proud to announce her reelection campaign. During her time in the Senate, she has earned a reputation as a conservative defender of life protecting the unborn and has prioritized increasing teacher salaries and public education funding.
From Dawn Buckingham Campaign
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September 3, 2019
State Representative Carl Sherman said he is proud of the results as it relates to the District 109 schools districts’ Accountability Ratings recently released by the Texas Education Agency. “I want to take a moment and congratulate Cedar Hill, DeSoto, Duncanville and Lancaster ISDs for raising your Texas Educational Accountability Ratings for 2019 and also, to Dallas ISD for its continued B rating,” State Representative Sherman said. “It takes much work and dedication from every level, from superintendents to school nurses to the maintenance team, to achieve.”
From Carl Sherman Campaign
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September 3, 2019
This weekend, Genevieve Collins released the 32nd video in her 32 videos in 32 days for the 32nd District campaign. Throughout the past 32 days Genevieve has shared stories about her past and present, from her days as a Division 1 Rower, to being a successful business executive with Istation, to stories about her family, including her Grandmother Calvert Collins, who was the first woman elected to the Dallas City Council.
From Genevieve Collins Campaign
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September 3, 2019
Out of respect for the workers of Texas and the labor unions that represent them; the people that consume and produce energy in Texas; and the environmental groups and leaders and industry workers that rely on the Texas Railroad Commission every day, I have filed the necessary paperwork to explore a run for this major statewide office for a second time as a Democrat in 2020.
From Cody Garrett Campaign
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September 3, 2019
State Representative John P. Cyrier has announced his intention to seek re- election to the Texas House for District 17, which includes Bastrop, Caldwell, Lee, Gonzales and Karnes counties. First elected in 2015, Cyrier is Chairman of the House Committee on Culture, Recreation, and Tourism.
From John Cyrier Campaign
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September 3, 2019
The Tony Gonzales for Congress campaign today announced they have surpassed $100,000 raised in their first month since announcing on August 3, with about a month left in the third quarter of the year.
“Angel and I are humbled by the outpouring of support we have received from so many friends and supporters across Texas and the United States,” said Gonzales.
From Tony Gonzales Campaign
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September 3, 2019
Members of the Alliance for Securing and Strengthening the Economy in Texas (ASSET) representing almost every industry in the state, along with other North Texas economic development organizations, have signed on to an amicus brief filed by the Dallas Chamber of Commerce in support of the lawsuit challenging the city of Dallas’ unconstitutional paid sick leave ordinance.
From Alliance for Securing and Strengthening the Economy
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September 3, 2019
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy and Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay issued the following Labor Day statement on the deadly shooting spree in the Permian Basin:
"When Mary Granados went out on her delivery route Saturday as a unionized Letter Carrier, she had everything to live for. The member of National Association of Letter Carriers Odessa Branch 3964 was engaged to be married, had a solid career in a great federal service and held all her hopes and aspirations in her heart.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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September 3, 2019
Today, the Wendy Davis for Congress campaign released the following statement calling on Congressman Chip Roy to use his appearance at the Texas Tribune today to apologize for voting against tax relief for Gold Star families:
“Congressman Chip Roy is a disgrace to Texas military families.
From Wendy Davis Campaign
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September 3, 2019
State Representative Rafael Anchi?a, Chairman of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus releases the following statement in the wake of Saturday's shooting in the cities of Midland and Odessa:
“Our hearts are broken for the victims and families impacted in the Midland and Odessa communities.
From Representative Rafael Anchia
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September 3, 2019
The "Patient Health Care Protection" Bill (SB 1742) was authored by State Senator José Menéndez; coauthored by Sen. Dawn Buckingham, Sen. Charles Schwertner and Sen. Judith Zaffirini; and sponsored by House Representative Julie Johnson. This legislation won unanimous bipartisan vote from the Senate and became law on Sept. 1, 2019.
From Senator Jose Menendez
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August 30, 2019
This morning, Governor Greg Abbott appointed Danny Kindred as Judge of the newly created 454th Judicial District Court in Medina County. Kindred's term begins September 1, 2019 and will expire on December 31, 2020, or until his successor is duly elected and qualified.
From Senator Peter Flores
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August 30, 2019
Texas Values announced today their new Director of Policy, Nicole Hudgens. Previously Nicole was the Senior Policy Analyst for Texas Values. During the 2019 Legislative Session, Nicole led the organization’s legislative team which saw numerous bills pass and signed into law, including the Save Chick-fil-A religious freedom bill.
From Texas Values
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August 30, 2019
Yesterday, Governor Abbott acknowledged that “mistakes were made” in his racist fundraising mailer sent the day before the El Paso shooting without actually apologizing for it.
He then went on to say, “And a course correction has been made...we will make sure that we will work collaboratively.”
From Texas Democratic Party
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August 30, 2019
Today is the last day of functioning operations for the Federal Election Commission, which protects secure elections and enforces election and campaign finance laws, because Senator John Cornyn and Majority Leader Mitch McConnell have failed to take action to confirm new commissioners.
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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August 30, 2019
The Texas Safety Commission met today in El Paso to continue the development of a plan to heal the community and fight the rise of extremism, hate and domestic terrorism in Texas. Following the six-hour meeting, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick told the victims in attendance:
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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August 30, 2019
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) this week during his statewide tour released a video marking the second anniversary of Hurricane Harvey’s landfall and the incredible progress made on the road to recovery.
On Wednesday, Sen. Cruz toured Anheuser-Busch’s Houston Brewery to visit with employees and thank them for their efforts during Harvey.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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August 29, 2019
As of September 1, 2019, Texans wanting to file a complaint about fuel quantity, fuel pump measurement or skimmers can contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) online at www.tdlr.texas.gov/complaints.
Senate Bill 2119 in the 86th Legislature transferred responsibility for the Motor Fuel program to TDLR from the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA).
From Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
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August 29, 2019
Anti-toll watchdog group Texans Uniting for Reform and Freedom (TURF) released its Report Card from the 86th Legislature today. In comparison to the prior session in 2017, where 57% of legislators were considered friendly, in 2019, that number fell to just 19% (based on the number of lawmakers who earned 'A's & 'B's). TURF used 18 different transportation, property rights, and good government bills (that impact those first two issues) to calculate each legislator's score, all of which are listed at the end of its Report Card.
From Texas TURF
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August 29, 2019
Today, Republican Governor Greg Abbott hosted the second meeting of his Texas Safety Commission. During this meeting he acknowledged for the first time publicly his racist, anti-immigrant, anti-Latino fundraising mailer sent the day before the El Paso shooting. While these roundtables are a step in the right direction, Governor Abbott still has not apologized for this racist fundraising mailer and he has yet to pledge to eliminate white supremacist language from his discourse.
From Texas Democratic Party
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August 29, 2019
September 1st will see numerous new pro-family laws that passed during the legislative session go into effect. September 1st after a state legislative session is a general date when most new laws go into effect. Putting many local governments on notice concerning new laws on faith, family, and freedom.
From Texas Values
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August 29, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) was on hand Thursday morning when the Texas Transportation Commissioners, led by Chairman Bruce Bugg, voted unanimously to approve more than $2 billion in additional funding for transportation projects in the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) Odessa district over the next decade.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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August 29, 2019
During this year’s legislative session, anti-choice extremists pushed through one of their top priorities, SB 22, an extremely dangerous bill that bans local governments from partnering with Planned Parenthood for critical health care, education and outreach.
The bill will take effect September 1, and the extent of its impact on Planned Parenthood’s community partnerships are widespread.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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August 29, 2019
All across Texas, students, their parents, teachers and school administrators are getting back into the swing of things as this new school year has started. While curriculum, classroom materials and technology have changed over the decades, one thing has remained constant – the meaningful impact the Texas oil and natural gas industry has had in the success of our state’s education system.
From Texas Oil & Gas Association
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August 29, 2019
Dr. Anna Allred, kicked off her campaign for Texas State Representative, District 28, to replace her retiring colleague, Dr. Zerwas. Dr. Allred lives in the Cinco Ranch area of Ft. Bend County.
“I have a deep and abiding desire to serve my community and the Great State of Texas,” said Dr. Allred.
From Anna Allred Campaign
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August 29, 2019
During its annual board of directors meeting, the Texas Conservative Coalition Research Institute (TCCRI) unanimously elected State Representative Jeff Leach to serve on its Board of Directors. A longtime member of TCCRI, Representative Leach is serving his fourth term representing the citizens of House District 67, which encompasses portions of Plano, Allen, Richardson and Dallas in Collin County. Representative Leach currently serves as Chairman of the Texas House Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence.
From Representative Jeff Leach
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August 29, 2019
Beginning Sept. 1, Texans will see new reproductive health care protections go into effect as a result of progressive efforts during the 2019 Legislative Session.
“Texas mothers, including those incarcerated, will finally receive much of the reproductive health care they need,” said Sam Robles, advocacy director at Progress Texas.
From Progress Texas
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August 29, 2019
After a successful legislative session in the Texas House with notable accomplishments, Rep. Mary González has announced that she will be running for re-election for State Representative in House District 75. Rep. González looks forward to continuing to promote equitable public education funding, expand economic opportunities for hardworking Texans, and support the needs of farmers and rural communities.
From Mary Gonzalez Campaign
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August 28, 2019
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and the Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) today announced the results of a study on the Green New Deal’s impact on Texas. The study, called “The Cost of the Green New Deal to Texas”, was conducted by Texas Public Policy Foundation’s Life:Powered and found that under the Green New Deal, the annual electricity cost for the average Texas household would rise to $13,846.
From Senator John Cornyn
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August 28, 2019
Since 2015, I have been sounding the alarm about electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and the harmful effects this product can have on consumers. That year, I authored and passed Senate Bill 97, which prohibited any person under 18 years of age from buying, possessing, accepting or consuming an e-cigarette.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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August 28, 2019
Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC (TLRPAC) today endorsed Rep. Mike Lang for reelection in House District 60, which covers Brown, Callahan, Coleman, Eastland, Hood, Palo Pinto, Shackelford and Stephens counties.
“TLRPAC supports candidates who understand what it takes to keep Texas’ economy strong and the need for a fair and efficient legal system in our state,” TLRPAC Chairman Richard J. Trabulsi Jr. said.
From Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC
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August 28, 2019
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the announcement that he will serve as Honorary State Chair of the Texas Trump Victory Leadership Team:
“President Trump has done what Texans elected him to do — create jobs, grow the economy, reduce meaningless regulation and invest in America’s future.
From Dan Patrick Campaign
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August 28, 2019
Beginning September 1st Texans who want physical therapy for an injury or pain management can now access their Physical Therapist without having to first go see a physician, or other healthcare provider.
From Texas Physical Therapy Association
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August 28, 2019
The Coordinating Board has announced the names of seven finalists for the 2019 Star Awards for exceptional contributions toward meeting one or more of the goals of the Texas higher education plan, 60x30TX. The Coordinating Board received 45 nominations and 37 applications for this year’s Star Award program.
From Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
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August 28, 2019
Today, Republican Tricia Krenek announced a long list of endorsements in the November Special Election for Texas House District 28. The list of more than 50 names includes current and former local elected officials, community leaders, Republican Party grassroots activists, and Republican Party precinct chairs.
From Tricia Krenek Campaign
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August 28, 2019
The Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC) this week passed Railroad Commission Chairman Wayne Christian's (R - Texas) resolution urging the federal government to oppose the Green New Deal in the spirit of cooperative federalism.
From Railroad Commission Of Texas:
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August 28, 2019
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy and Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay issued the following statement condemning an amicus brief filed on behalf of Texas and other states by Attorney General Ken Paxton against the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:
From Texas AFL-CIO
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August 27, 2019
A Houston Chronicle story published Tuesday, August 27, discussed political activities by a Republican Super PAC, Engage Texas. Specifically, the article highlighted a potential screening process for registering voters, and included the following quote from Engage Texas spokesperson Lucy Nashed about low voter turnout in Texas:
From Texas House Democratic Caucus
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August 27, 2019
In advance of her expected announcement for state representative in House District 65, Republican Kronda Thimesch announced today the endorsement of over 100 citizens including a broad cross-section of elected officials, community leaders, and Republican activists.
Thimesch said, “The last week and a half has been an incredible journey, with overwhelming encouragement as our family makes the decision for me to run for state representative.
From Kronda Thimesch Campaign
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August 27, 2019
State Representative John Raney (R-Bryan/College Station) today announced he will seek re-election to the Texas
House of Representatives.
"I am excited to announce that I will be seeking re-election to the Texas House of Representatives,” Representative Raney said. "The 86th Legislative Session concluded with many victories, including increased funding and safety for our schools, investment in our retired teachers, prioritization of safe communities, property tax reform, improved transportation infrastructure, expansion of emergency preparedness, and a state budget that remains fiscally responsible.”
From John Raney Campaign
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August 27, 2019
Dr. Ray Perryman, founder and President of The Perryman Group, has been selected to receive the Chairman's Award for Lifetime Achievement in Economic Development from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The award is being given in recognition of Dr. Perryman’s decades-long commitment to economic development and providing the information corporations and communities need to optimize location decisions.
From The Perryman Group
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August 27, 2019
The Office of Public Insurance Counsel (OPIC) released its annual Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) reports last week. The reports, Comparing Texas HMOs 2018-2019 and Guide to Texas HMO Quality 2018-2019, provide Texans with consumer satisfaction and quality of care information about HMOs.
From Office of Public Insurance Counsel
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August 27, 2019
Last night, parents, grandparents, and citizens packed the Austin Independent School District (AISD) Board Meeting commenting about the district’s consideration and rewriting of the sex-education program. Parents and citizens in AISD are concerned because of the radical sex-education the district has proposed and the lack of transparency with parents. Over 1,600 messages have already been sent to AISD calling for the radical sex-education curriculum and standards to be repealed.
From Texas Values
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August 27, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today led a multistate coalition in an amicus brief filed with the United States Supreme Court opposing the unlawful Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and supporting the Trump administration’s decision to rescind the program. When created via executive memo in 2014, DACA unilaterally granted lawful presence and access to work permits to over 1.7 million unlawfully-present aliens in defiance of laws enacted by Congress.
From Office of the Attorney General
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August 27, 2019
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding residents that the Driver Responsibility Program (DRP) was repealed under HB 2048 during the 86th Legislature and will end on Sept. 1, 2019. DRP was initially created on Sept. 1, 2003, to establish a system to assess a surcharge based on a driver’s traffic offenses. Surcharges were assessed on an individual’s driving record by points or convictions.
From Texas DPS
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August 27, 2019
With Border Patrol apprehensions along the southern border in May 2019 up nearly 300 percent from May 2018, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today urged United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acting Secretary Kevin McAleenan to provide much-needed support for the border communities disproportionally affected by the rise in illegal immigration.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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August 27, 2019
Given that Senator Cornyn has spent his almost 20 years in Washington putting his own political interests and the interests of his donors above Texans it is no wonder he doesn’t want to talk about how:
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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August 26, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton led a multistate coalition in an amicus brief filed with the United States Supreme Court in support of faith-based child welfare organizations. Discriminating against faith-based organizations that partner with state agencies based on their religious beliefs would not only be a blatant violation of the Constitution’s religious liberty protections, it would greatly diminish the number of child-placement agencies available to children and limit placement and care options across the nation.
From Office of the Attorney General
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August 26, 2019
Texans for Lawsuit Reform (TLR) today issued the following statement regarding the appointment of Justice Jane Bland to the Texas Supreme Court:
“Throughout her more than 20 years of service as a judge—15 of those as a justice on Houston’s 1st Court of Appeals—Jane Bland has proven an appreciation for our Constitution and the rule of law, and handled some of the most pressing issues facing our state’s courts,” TLR Senior General Counsel Hugh Rice Kelly said.
From Texans for Lawsuit Reform
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August 26, 2019
The Railroad Commission of Texas is the winner of the 2019 Chairman's Stewardship Award for Energy Education from the Interstate Oil & Gas Compact Commission. The award is in recognition of the Commission's RRC Online Inspection Lookup (RRC OIL) tool. For the first time in the Commission's history anyone, anywhere can look up the inspection and enforcement history of oil and gas wells and operators online.
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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August 23, 2019
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Governor Greg Abbott (R-TX) issued the following statements after the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced it would move forward with the release of $4 billion in Hurricane Harvey funds that had been stalled after Congress appropriated them to the state of Texas in February 2018:
From Senator John Cornyn
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August 23, 2019
Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s latest controversial tweet targets children’s access to free public education. Specifically, Governor Abbott chose to attack Plyler v. Doe in response to an anti-immigrant comment on Twitter that questioned the citizenship status of children in public schools.
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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August 23, 2019
Today Texas Land Commissioner George P. announced the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released mandatory rules for the use of more than $4.3 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds for mitigation projects.
From Texas General Land Office
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August 23, 2019
Following a highly-successful legislative session hailed by Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, and Speaker Dennis Bonnen as "the super bowl of sessions," conservative State Rep. Chris Paddie today announced his intention to seek re-election to Texas House District 9. House District 9 covers Cass, Marion, Harrison, Panola, Shelby and Sabine Counties.
From Chris Paddie Campaign
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August 23, 2019
The Texas Young Republican Federation (TYRF) has launched its first ever scholarship to promote criminal justice reform in Texas. The scholarship is named the James White Second Chance Scholarship to commemorate the leadership of Rep. James White, Texas House of Representatives District 19.
From Texas Young Republicans
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August 23, 2019
Yesterday, Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa was presented with the Extension in the City Award from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service by Chancellor John Sharp. The presentation was made during an event at the Texas A&M Higher Education Center in McAllen in recognition of Senator Hinojosa's leadership and support to Texas A&M's Urban Programs, especially the Healthy South Texas program. Texas A&M AgriLife Vice Chancellor and Dean Patrick Stover was also on hand for the award presentation.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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August 23, 2019
Texas Values Action just announced the release of their 2019 Faith & Family Scorecard based on information from the most recent 86th Texas Legislative Session.
The 2019 Faith and Family Scorecard is the most comprehensive pro-family accountability tool of its kind in Texas. It measures how state legislators performed on Texas Value Action’s core issues, including religious freedom, marriage & family, life, human sexuality, as well as other important pro-faith and family issues.
From Texas Values Action
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August 22, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton, co-leading a coalition of 51 attorneys general, secured a nationwide agreement with 12 of the nation’s premier voice service providers to implement principles that take the fight directly to robocallers and scammers and empower citizens to take back their privacy.
From Office of the Attorney General
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August 22, 2019
Senator John Cornyn’s top corporate donor, AT&T, announced plans to cut 1,880 jobs over the next two months, including over 400 in Texas alone. These layoffs were scheduled to start last week and come following Cornyn spearheading the passage of a Tax Bill that gave AT&T billions, which the company promised - then failed - to invest in job creation.
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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August 22, 2019
State Representative Roland Gutierrez (D-Bexar County) announced that this Saturday, August 24th, he will host a trigger lock giveaway at Mission Library.
Gutierrez stated, "Trigger locks are considered a recommended best practice for securing firearms by the NRA, Texas DPS, US Army, and others.
From Roland Gutierrez Campaign
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August 22, 2019
Today, the Texas Signal and Texas Tribune reported that Governor Greg Abbott sent out a racist, anti-Latino, and anti-immigrant fundraising letter one day before the white supremacist terror attack that left 22 people dead and 24 people injured in El Paso.
From Texas Democratic Party
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August 22, 2019
Today, the Texas Safety Commission convenes for its first meeting to address gun violence and the rise of domestic terrorism, including white nationalism. This past Monday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the formation of the Texas Safety Commission, which will develop an immediate action plan for the State of Texas.
From Representative Cesar Blanco
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August 22, 2019
Eric Holguin is proud to receive the endorsement of Run for Something (RFS), the groundbreaking organization that recruits and supports strong voices in the next generation of progressive leadership.
“This campaign for the people is continuing to build momentum because of the hard work we are putting in, and I’m so excited to have the endorsement of Run For Something to elevate us even more.
From Eric Holguin Campaign
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August 22, 2019
Worker’s Compensation is facing changes with new trends in technology, legislation, and safety measures; ICT is here to help industry professionals keep up with these evolving trends. The ICT 2019 Workers’ Compensation Conference is a full day session open to anyone with an interest in learning more about the industry.
From Insurance Council of Texas
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August 22, 2019
Since 2009, Texas has seen almost a 340-fold increase in the amount of electricity it gets from the sun and similarly impressive growth in wind, energy storage, and electric vehicle technology, according to a new report from Environment Texas Research & Policy Center. And earlier this summer, ERCOT revealed that wind outproduced coal in Texas in the first half of the year, for the first time ever.
From Environment Texas
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August 22, 2019
Today, Common Cause Texas is launching Let Texas Vote - an advocacy campaign aimed at breaking down the barriers that exist between Texans and the ballot box.
“Our problem with low turnout in Texas is about more than people just choosing not to vote, it’s also about people actually being prevented from voting.
From Common Cause Texas
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August 22, 2019
Today, Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin K. McAleenan and Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar announced the termination of the Flores Settlement Agreement (FSA). The FSA was put in place in 1997 to protect children from being detained indefinitely and under inhumane conditions.
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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August 21, 2019
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced today's sale of $8 billion in Texas Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes (TRAN) received a net interest rate of 1.34 percent.
“Texas remains a very solid investment, and we are pleased with the market’s reaction to this sale,” Hegar said.
From Office of Attorney General
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August 21, 2019
Almost two years after Hurricane Harvey, disturbing details are coming to light about GEO Group’s treatment of individuals in their custody during the storm and its aftermath. Individuals claim the private detention company left them in a flooded halfway house surrounded by toxic waste and without food, clean water or medical care for days on end.
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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August 21, 2019
Businessman Gary Gates today announced his candidacy for State Representative in Texas House District 28. HD 28 covers the northern portion of Fort Bend County including Fulshear, Orchard, Simonton, Weston Lakes, and parts of Katy.
"I'm excited for the chance to fight for our freedoms and conservative values," Gates said.
From Gary Gates Campaign
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August 21, 2019
Today, August 21st Community Voices for Public Education (CVPE) will be holding a press conference opposing a state takeover of Houston Independent School District (HISD) at 4:30 pm at the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center. Representative Garnet Coleman (D-Houston) stands with them in opposition to a state takeover of HISD. Regrettably, Representative Coleman is unable to attend today's press conference.
From Representative Garnet Coleman
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August 20, 2019
On Friday, NASA announced that Huntsville, Alabama, not Houston, Texas, would take the lead on developing the new lunar lander that would take mankind back to the moon in 2024. This is a huge blow to Houston.
From Wesley Hunt Campaign
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August 20, 2019
Today, the Gina Ortiz Jones for Congress campaign announced that Jones raised more than $1 million in the first 98 days of her campaign for Texas’ 23rd Congressional District. Jones announced her 2020 challenge to Congressman Will Hurd on May 14, 2019. Earlier this month, Hurd announced that he would not seek re-election.
From Gina Ortiz Jones Campaign
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August 20, 2019
Today, August 20th, Representative Garnet F. Coleman (D-147) released the following statement:
"I am proud to represent the people of District 147 and want to continue working with leaders in our community and throughout the state to improve access to quality health care, increase affordable housing, reform the criminal justice system and provide educational opportunity to every child.
From Garnet Coleman Campaign
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August 20, 2019
State Representative James Talarico announces his re-election, ending rumors of a congressional run.
Talarico said, “I'm honored by the constituents, supporters, and groups that have asked me to run for Congress in TX-31. While I'm humbled by their encouragement, I have no interest in going to Washington.
From James Talarico Campaign
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August 20, 2019
Members of Austin City Council announced an initiative to use taxpayer dollars to drive women to and from their abortion appointments. The city will consider granting up to $150,000 to anti-Life organizations that pay for transportation, lodging, and childcare for women seeking abortions.
From Texas Right to Life
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August 19, 2019
Today, Planned Parenthood announced that in response to unethical demands and restraints from the Administration and their political allies, including Senator Cornyn, they can no longer participate in the Title X program.
From MJ Hegar Campaign
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August 19, 2019
The Public Interest Legal Foundation (PILF) is spotlighting jurisdictions across 29 states for in-depth inspections of voter registration records and local list maintenance practices in preparation for the 2020 presidential election. At least 244 counties across 28 states plus Alaska and D.C. report bloated voter rolls to federal officials.
From Public Interest Legal Foundation
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August 19, 2019
Today, Texas Governor Greg Abbott appointed Ruth Ruggero Hughs to the Texas Office of Secretary of State. Governor Abbott’s appointment of incoming Secretary Hughs follows the scandal-plagued appointment of David Whitley, who resigned from his position after he was unable to receive Senate confirmation.
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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August 19, 2019
This afternoon Eric Hanke announced his entry into the Democratic Primary campaign for Texas’ 31st Congressional District, which is on the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s list of targeted districts.
“For the last few years, I have been traveling the State of Texas, counseling county and district employees on planning for their retirement.
From Eric Hanke Campaign
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August 19, 2019
More than 70 new laws and changes affecting programs administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) go into effect on September 1, 2019. These changes are the result of bills passed by the 86th Texas Legislature earlier this year, some of which took effect immediately.
From Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
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August 19, 2019
The Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA) today announced the hiring of two community relations directors in Houston and Corpus Christi. Caroline Conte will represent TXOGA in Houston and Matt Garcia will serve in Corpus Christi.
From Texas Oil & Gas Association
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August 19, 2019
Conservative State Representative Jay Dean announced today he will seek re-election to Texas House District 7. HD 7 covers Gregg and Upshur Counties.
"This session has been a huge success for conservative East Texas values," said Rep. Dean. "We passed a balanced state budget that cut property taxes by $5 billion and achieved much-needed school finance reform to put money back into our local classrooms."
From Jay Dean Campaign
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August 19, 2019
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Commissioner of Higher Education, Raymund Paredes, authored the following Op-Ed in the San Antonio Express-News highlighting the success of Texas’ higher education policies and the need to bring those ideas to the national level.
From Senator John Cornyn
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August 19, 2019
State Representative Steve Allison today announced he will seek re-election to the Texas House. Allison currently serves Texas House of Representatives District 121 in northeast San Antonio and the communities of Alamo Heights, Olmos Park and Terrell Hills.
From Steve Allison Campaign
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August 16, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that his office reached an agreement with the City of San Antonio regarding an April 11 open records request for documents related to the City’s decision to exclude Chick-fil-A from the San Antonio International Airport based on the restaurant chain’s donations to religious ministries.
From Office of the Attorney General
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August 16, 2019
Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner (D-Grand Prairie) released the following statement regarding Representative Jessica Farrar’s retirement:
“For 25 years, Rep. Farrar has been an outstanding leader for her district, the city of Houston, and the state of Texas.
From Texas House Democratic Caucus
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August 16, 2019
“Good evening Texans.
I'm Joaquin Castro, congressman from San Antonio, and a proud Texas Democrat.
Tonight our state still mourns the lives lost in El Paso. Gunned down at the hands of a racist terrorist, with a weapon designed for war.
From TDP
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August 16, 2019
Today, the Texas Democratic Party called for immediate action to address gun violence and white nationalist terrorism. Gun violence has become an epidemic and four of the top eight mass shootings in United States history have taken place in the state of Texas.
From TDP
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August 16, 2019
While Abbott’s right hand man Dennis Bonnen continues to face a crippling lawsuit and a criminal investigation conducted by the Texas Rangers, Governor Greg Abbott side-stepped all questions about these allegations currently roiling his party.
From TDP
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August 16, 2019
For decades, the Texas Republican Party has been spreading dog-whistles, violent, and outright racist, white supremacist langugage that a large portion of their base latch onto. Governor Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Patrick have contributed to this phenomenon.
From TDP
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August 16, 2019
Lt. Gov. Patrick issued this statement today following the release of the 2019 A-F ratings for individual school campuses:
"I began the fight to establish A-F ratings in our schools as a senator, in 2013, when I served as Chair of the Senate Education Committee because I knew district and campus ratings would provide educators with the information they need to help transform our schools and ensure that more students are successful.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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 Copyright September 17, 2019, Harvey Kronberg, www.quorumreport.com, All rights are reserved
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