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Today's stories
GREG ABBOTT is being sued by bar owners, again. A lawsuit filed by Austin attorney Brent Webster makes the case that Abbott should have called a special session since we have a representative government, not a monarchy.
TEXAS GOP LEADERSHIP is trying to manufacture an outcome it prefers, but its membership does not.
A review of public postings by elected officials and local party leaders soliciting feedback on a change of venue suggests a majority want to proceed with an in-person convention as planned.
Keeping to the plan is prototypical conservative behavior.
The polar opposite of the conservative thing to do is what the party is considering, moving to a completely virtual gathering and voting process.
Ironically, Chairman Dickey is suggesting the use of technology regularly and rightly decried by Republicans for use in conducting elections due to its insecurity, ease of use issues, and potential for fraud.
According to Austin blogger Scott Braddock, a document was circulated to members of the SREC contending that "the option that permits the most delegates to participate with the fewest limitations on their life is going virtual."
This is inaccurate but solidifies the party leadership's position on the matter; it's making a full-court press for virtual.
One of the anticipated blocking tactics leadership has deployed is the corporate-speak "logistical issues."
Don't lose sight of the reality that all options pose logistical issues. Still, only one has a monopoly on transparency and trust issues, and it happens to be the choice the party is careening toward.
REPUBLICANS in Texas and nationwide, for that matter, should take notes from Democrats in Virginia.
After taking control of all three branches of government, the Democrats have made sweeping reforms to a laundry list of items including removing protections to prevent election fraud.
Democrats "make hay while the sun shines" Republicans run from the task.
RASSMUSSEN: 45% of likely voters want less immigration, and 65% don't support an increase.
THE TEXAS TRIBUNE teamed up with Pro Publica to look at pictures and claim a border wall will fall.
DAN PATRICK caught flack from liberals yesterday following a Tuesday evening appearance on Fox News; this routine is old hat.
Patrick goes on Fox; liberals twist what he says, Patrick issues a response. The only interesting variable in this well-worn pattern is the response, how aggressive is the apology or defense.
On Tuesday, Patrick directed criticism at Dr. Fauci for his unbalanced critique of Texas when compared to other states. Patrick issued a lengthy response defending his position.
GHISLAINE MAXWELL, a confidante and alleged accomplice to Jeffrey Epstein has been arrested by the FBI.
This is one of many major developments that could take place between now and November that could drastically alter Donald Trump’s reelection bid.
Hit the links
Comptroller: June sales tax revenue down 6.5% from a year ago
Middleton: We've got to protect people's right to make a living
Remains of missing soldier Vanessa Guillen likely found ($)
One suspect is dead and another arrested in Guillen disappearance
Appeals court reverses Wisconsin voting restrictions rulings
4.8 million jobs gained in June smashes expectations
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Coming up
7/15: FEC reports due
7/31: PFS filings due
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