THU brief 3.31.22
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Today’s Stories
KEN KING’s signature on a letter sent to GRANBURY ISD illustrates the changing politics of education.
Little known outside the capitol, King is one of the Texas House’s “rural schools” mafia ringleaders.
The letter, primarily authored by outgoing state Rep Matt Krause, commends the district for respecting parents' wishes after inappropriate material was found in the school library. If more sections acted like Granbury ISD, this subject would be less controversial.
Historically, there’s zero chance King would sign onto such a letter. The fact that he did illustrates a correct perception of the political environment.
While the long-term outlook remains TBD, for a ringleader of the “rural schools” mafia to change his behavior in this way is highly noteworthy.
Maintain pressure. (AC)
ELLEN TROXCLAIR was already a liberated woman. In case she continued to harbor illusions. However, Greg Abbott just kicked additional sand in her face.
In endorsing Berry, Troxclair’s runoff opponent, the “bidness as usual” crowd at the Capitol has bare their animosity. Again.
[Aside: Troxclair/Berry seems to be a significant front in the fight over school choice. The role of that issue in this race is beyond the scope of today’s newsletter but will be addressed soon.]
Troxclair’s term on the Austin City Council was highly regarded. There’s no inherent reason for her to inspire this level of antipathy. Yet, she does.
She’s a perceived threat.
Troxclair needs to focus on the task at hand, but if she wins her current runoff she’s on a fascinating long-term trajectory. (AC)
DISNEY could offer Texas a compelling proof of concept to push back against woke corporate lunacy.
Considering the company’s market capitalization, Texas pension funds don’t have the leverage to attempt something like a bear raid (yet). Current holdings, however, are more than adequate for other forms of shareholder activism.
The transgender lunacy fallout continues with the next item. (AC)
BOBBY FRANCIS O’ROURKE did an LOL.
O’Rourke has had moments of clarity during this campaign, but the meme-worthiness of this photo will trump all of that.
Also, past iterations of this parody have drawn cease and desist letters from the state of Texas. (AC)
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