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Today’s Stories
JOHN CORNYN was criticized by the Collin County GOP on Monday.
On the one hand: This is both three years too late, and two years too early to make a difference. Cornyn’s currently in year two of a six-year term. From his perspective, this is background noise in the middle of his time.
The most significant “x” factor in Cornyn’s next election is the presidential race in 2024. Handicapping Cornyn’s reelection bid will be dependent on the next cycle.
On the other hand: This is an early indicator that 2026 is likely to be a volatile election cycle. In addition to Cornyn, Texas is expected to see open seat races for most (if not all) statewide offices at the state level (e.g., Gov, Lite Gov, AG).
Conservatives will likely retain leverage through that 2026 cycle as potential candidates line up support.
[ASIDE: Texas should consider returning to two-year terms for state officials. Just because the posturing is likely to consume the next four years doesn’t mean it should.]
The TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY is being sued by multiple media outlets following their refusal to release several records related to the Uvalde shooting.
When the New York Times and television network news outlets are involved, there’s every reason to suspect they’re pushing a narrative in bad faith. Not wanting to cooperate might be understandable.
That being said, DPS isn’t exactly trustworthy. Those who assume the worst can’t be blamed.
Kissinger’s classic maxim seems apt: We hope they both lose.
BRIAN HARRISON, the state representative from Ellis County, is urging local governments across his district to cut property taxes.
Specifically, Harrison wants local jurisdictions to adopt the so-called “no new revenue rate” as they adopt their 2023 Budgets. As property values go up, rates should come down by that amount (or more).
[Note: Most local governments in Texas adopt their budgets during August/Sept.]
Harrison’s move cuts against the “club-like” atmosphere among elected officials. It’s potentially significant if it catches on.
Hit the Links
Constitutional Convention gains momentum.
Hocul holds significant, but not overwhelming, lead.
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