http://www.txdemocrats.org Texas Democratic Party News en info@txdemocrats.org Copyright 2009 2009-07-02T23:10:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/575/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/575/#When:23:10:00Z Failed Republican Rule Taking a Toll on Texans. More... 2009-07-02T23:10:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/570/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/570/#When:15:44:00Z AUSTIN - Most Texans rank the economy as the most pressing issue facing them, while voter ID - the issue that recently stalemated Texas lawmakers - holds little importance, according to a statewide poll by the Texas Lyceum. More... 2009-06-23T15:44:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/567/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/567/#When:15:33:00Z Most Texans rank the economy as the most pressing issue facing us while voter ID - the issue that recently tied Texas lawmakers into a stalemate -holds virtually no importance, according to a statewide poll by the Texas Lyceum. More... 2009-06-23T15:33:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/563/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/563/#When:22:46:00Z AUSTIN, Texas - Gov. Rick Perry said Tuesday he will call a special legislative session so lawmakers can address unfinished state business, but he wouldn't say when. More... 2009-06-09T22:46:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/487/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/487/#When:18:19:00Z 2009-05-27T18:19:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/554/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/554/#When:18:12:00Z 2009-05-27T18:12:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/550/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/550/#When:15:30:00Z AUSTIN, Texas - Texas Democrats declared victory in the partisan battle over tightening voter identification laws, but their five-day filibuster left hundreds of bills dead and threatened to spark a special session this summer. More... 2009-05-27T15:30:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/474/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/474/#When:21:38:00Z Republican Lawmakers, Agency Heads Seek Stimulus Funds to Fix His Failures (Austin, TX)- Although Governor Perry, Senator Hutchison and their fellow Republicans continue their intense partisan attacks against the economic recovery plan, the Governor's appointees in state agencies and key Republican lawmakers are busily planning to use stimulus funds to erase some of the many failures of Republican rule in Texas - from health care to education funding to highway construction.  With as much as $27 billion recovery-dollars at stake for Texas and $17 billion for the state budget alone, Perry continues playing politics with the stimulus plan while looking to his own appointees to clean up his mess. Republican Lawmakers, Agency Heads Seek Stimulus Funds to Fix His Failures (Austin, TX)- Although Governor Perry, Senator Hutchison and their fellow Republicans continue their intense partisan attacks against the economic recovery plan, the Governor's appointees in state agencies and key Republican lawmakers are busily planning to use stimulus funds to erase some of the many failures of Republican rule in Texas - from health care to education funding to highway construction.  With as much as $27 billion recovery-dollars at stake for Texas and $17 billion for the state budget alone, Perry continues playing politics with the stimulus plan while looking to his own appointees to clean up his mess. "While Texans are working to make ends meet, the same Republicans who opposed this 'bailout' are counting on this money to bail themselves out politically," said Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie. The Texas Education Agency would receive as much as $5.4 billion for public education over the next two years, some of which the TEA hopes to use for new textbooks and technology for classrooms left unfunded by Republicans.  Texas Health and Human Services has projected using billions to pay for their anticipated shortfall and for funding  health care programs under Medicaid, while the Texas Department of Transportation would dole out funds to shovel-ready projects that would improve existing infrastructure and create thousands of construction jobs. "Hypocrisy and partisan posturing can't fix the things Governor Perry and the Republicans have broken, so while they attack the stimulus plan, his agency heads are finding ways to use the funds to bail out programs left in shambles by Perry's misplaced priorities" continued Richie. "Unfortunately, 'Rip-off Rick' and his fellow partisans are trying to have their cake and eat it too, while Democrats are working to solve the problems caused by Republicans' failure to meet the most important responsibilities Texans rightfully expect from their state government," Richie concluded.                                                        ### 2009-02-19T21:38:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/472/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/472/#When:16:16:00Z Threats to Reject Stimulus Funds Ring Partisan (Austin, TX) - Texans have already seen Republican U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison and Republican Congressman Pete Sessions play politics instead of working to develop a bipartisan plan to rescue our economy.  Now that the economic recovery plan has been signed into law by the President, Governor Rick Perry continues to put Texans in the crossfire of his partisanship by threatening to reject all or part of the benefits Texans would see from our federal tax dollars that would be used here under the plan. PERRY'S OBSTRUCTIONIST ANTICS COULD COST TEXAS BILLIONS Threats to Reject Stimulus Funds Ring Partisan (Austin, TX) - Texans have already seen Republican U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison and Republican Congressman Pete Sessions play politics instead of working to develop a bipartisan plan to rescue our economy.  Now that the economic recovery plan has been signed into law by the President, Governor Rick Perry continues to put Texans in the crossfire of his partisanship by threatening to reject all or part of the benefits Texans would see from our federal tax dollars that would be used here under the plan. "Governor Perry's obstructionist antics demonstrate he is more concerned with political recovery for the Republican Party than economic recovery for Texas," said Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie.  "If the Governor's political agenda allows our tax dollars to be shipped off to other states, ‘Ripoff Rick' will cost Texans an important investment in job creation, schools, health care and transportation." "Years of failed Republican economic policy got us into this mess, and now Rick Perry is threatening to reject real solutions to cleaning up the mess he himself helped create.  That's not leadership - that's reckless partisanship," continued Richie. Gov. Perry's partisan antics are at odds with the new direction our country is taking - the recovery plan is being welcomed by an overwhelming majority of our nation's governors - both Democrats and Republicans.  If Gov. Perry rejects Texas' share of the federal aid, our state could lose as much as $27 billion to invest in infrastructure - funds that could create or save an estimated 269,000 jobs.  "Apparently, Rick Perry would rather Texans sit in traffic on his toll roads than have the funding to build new roads," added Richie.  "He should be ashamed of his threats to ship hard-working Texans' tax dollars off to other states - but perhaps he's hoping the 39% of voters who supported his reelection won't mind becoming casualties of his obstructionism."                                                            ### 2009-02-18T16:16:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/470/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/470/#When:15:48:00Z Tired Partisanship, Obstructionism Fails Texans (Austin, TX) - In response to the most serious economic challenge that has threatened our country since the Great Depression, Congress is prepared to pass an economic recovery plan that could provide Texas as much as $27 billion to invest in infrastructure, create jobs, and pay for the rising cost of health care and a college education. Under the plan, Texas would receive the second-highest job growth of any U.S. state - an estimated 269,000 jobs would be created or saved in our state. Unfortunately, every Texas Republican in our U.S. House voted against final passage of the critical recovery package, and Senators Hutchison and Cornyn, along with their fellow partisan, Governor Perry, have also opposed it. Tired Partisanship, Obstructionism Fails Texans (Austin, TX) - In response to the most serious economic challenge that has threatened our country since the Great Depression, Congress is prepared to pass an economic recovery plan that could provide Texas as much as $27 billion to invest in infrastructure, create jobs, and pay for the rising cost of health care and a college education. Under the plan, Texas would receive the second-highest job growth of any U.S. state - an estimated 269,000 jobs would be created or saved in our state. Unfortunately, every Texas Republican in our U.S. House voted against final passage of the critical recovery package, and Senators Hutchison and Cornyn, along with their fellow partisan, Governor Perry, have also opposed it. "These Republican obstructionists would rather hold Texans hostage to their political posturing than work together in a bipartisan effort to get our economy back on track again," said Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie. "While real leaders work for economic recovery, these failed Republican partisans are hopelessly grasping for political recovery." The stimulus package opposed by Texas Republicans could provide as much as $2 billion for Texas roads and transportation projects, over $5 billion for school modernization and student financial aid, and investments in research and development in alternative energy and other areas that would spur business opportunity and job growth.  In addition, the plan would provide significant funds to state government and local school districts to prevent program cuts and layoffs that could be caused by revenue shortfalls threatened by the recession. "President Lincoln once said ‘let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds,'" Richie continued. "Instead of working to heal the nation's economic wounds, Republicans are willing to let Texans become collateral damage to their vicious partisanship."                                                               ### 2009-02-13T15:48:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/463/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/463/#When:22:04:01Z (Austin, TX) - Although Senator John Cornyn actually showed up for work today - albeit to vote against the interests of Texas families - last night, he was the only Senator who skipped out on work to hobnob with Wall Street Republicans at a New York reception, choosing to play politics with Texans' tax dollars.  While at the party, Sen. Cornyn missed an important procedural vote on the federal stimulus package and appeared to be taking cues from his fellow Texas Senator's work ethic - Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison missed six critical votes on the stimulus package just days before. "In these tough times, Texans expect our Senators to work overtime and get things back on track, like so many of us are doing," said Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie.  "But while some Texans are working for the weekend and others are working all weekend, John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison can't be bothered to show up for work at all."    "These two slackers are an embarrassment and not worthy of representing hard-working Texans who go to work every day to provide for their families and contribute to their communities," Richie continued.   With their recent no-shows for work, Senators Cornyn and Hutchison have truly set themselves apart from their colleagues in the U.S. Senate, not one of whom missed these critical stimulus votes to campaign or socialize.  Only one other Senator missed the crucial vote yesterday evening - Sen. Judd Gregg, who has not been voting because of his Secretary of Commerce nomination.      "If Senator Cornyn and Senator Hutchison were truly concerned with getting our economy back on track, they would quit playing politics with important legislation that will benefit Texas families," added Richie.  "It's clear from their actions they don't value hard work and don't value their jobs, so it's impossible for them to value those who are working to put our country back to work."   "Texans deserve leaders who give us their best, but John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison give us nothing but obstructionist politics and lame excuses," Richie concluded.    ###   2009-02-10T22:04:01-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/529/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/529/#When:21:11:00Z Every session, somebody in the Texas Legislature says something so phenomenally stupid, America takes note. By BUD KENNEDY bkennedy@star-telegram.com Every session, somebody in the Texas Legislature says something so phenomenally stupid, America takes note. This session, that task has fallen Rep. Betty Brown, a Terrell Republican, who came from her East Texas ranch to tell a Chinese-American lawyer at a "voter ID" hearing that if Asian-Americans can't get accurate IDs, they should pick new names "easier for Americans to deal with." Gosh. East Texas is full of fine people. I have no idea why some can't run for the elective offices. Instead, we get stuck with lulus like Brown and: ■ Mineola Republican Bryan Hughes, who has introduced a resolution declaring Texas' "sovereignty" and "states' rights," harking back to the last George Wallace campaign. ■ Center Republican Wayne Christian, who says schools are heading in a "heinous" direction and wants science courses to specifically teach "weaknesses" of evolution instead of just "all sides." ■ And Tyler Republican Leo Berman, 73, who rails about schools having to educate American-born children of immigrants and who told a Chinese-American lawyer at a forum to "go home." Within hours of Brown's gaffe Tuesday in a House Elections Committee hearing on "voter ID" - apparently illegal voters are overrunning the polls from Athens to Gun Barrel City - a satirical Web page offered the "Betty Brown Name Generator." "Is your name too hard to understand? Pesky Asian heritage got you down?" the Name Generator asked at the Web site rumandmonkey.com. "Try our 'Betty Brown Name Generator' guaranteed to give you a name ANY poll worker can understand." I tried my name. Apparently, Kennedy doesn't translate in East Texas. My new "Betty Brown-approved name" is Bubba "Chicken and Dumplings" Brown. I called Ramey Ko, 28, the Austin lawyer who was testifying before the committee when Brown addressed him. Ko, a Democrat and founder of Asian Americans for Obama, said Asians often run into problems because some IDs show phonetic spellings or family names while others show Americanized names. Brown asked him, "Do you think that it would behoove you and your citizens to adopt a name that we could deal with more readily?" Later, she asked: "Can't you see that this is something that would make it a lot easier for you and the people who are poll workers if you could adopt a name just for identification purposes that's easier for Americans to deal with?" Ko called the remarks "not overtly malicious but subtle racism." He's from Denton, he said, "But some people always think we're not from America." He looked up his new East Texas name and laughed. "I'm Billy Ray 'Kool-Aid' Brown." I just wish some East Texas lawmakers would go back where they came from. Bud Kennedy's column appears Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 817-390-7538   2009-04-10T21:11:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/516/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/516/#When:22:13:00Z AUSTIN - The primary is still more than 11 months away, but U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison and Gov. Rick Perry are already jockeying for position in their bid to win the Republican primary for governor. AUSTIN - The primary is still more than 11 months away, but U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison and Gov. Rick Perry are already jockeying for position in their bid to win the Republican primary for governor. Hutchison struck first this month at a Round Rock reception when she chatted up professional fundraiser Susan Lilly. Lilly is respected in Republican circles and has helped raise money for Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn and the Republican Party of Texas, among others. Her presence at the March 20 event has touched off political tension between the campaigns, with Perry consultant Dave Carney saying it meant Hutchison was shoring up lackluster fundraising. And, Hutchison campaign manager Rick Wiley said that Hutchison entered the year with more cash to run than Perry. With Republicans nationwide wondering how to reunite the party, two of Texas' highest-profile Republicans are trading jabs in advance of the 2010 primary race. Perry insists he's not thinking about any election during the legislative session, and Hutchison has said she won't formally declare her challenge until summer. But still, it's clear that their clash has already started. Hutchison has rapidly built her campaign team, while the Perry re-election campaign has been digging for dirt on her husband, Dallas bond lawyer Ray Hutchison, at Dallas City Hall. Meanwhile, the pair spar indirectly over issues including federal stimulus money (both dislike it, but Hutchison said last week that Perry should have tried to find a way to get unemployment money while avoiding federal strings) to million-dollar bonuses for managers of a state investment fund (Perry attacked the bonuses, while Hutchison suggested he was trying to punish one of her campaign supporters). What looms could be a political cage fight on the national stage that could further split and weaken the party. "There will be blood," consultant Mark McKinnon said Sunday in the Austin American-Statesman. He has advised former President George W. Bush and the late Democratic Gov. Ann Richards. "Doesn't matter who you're for. It will be fun to watch the shoulder pads crack." Watching from afar, University of Virginia political scientist Larry Sabato said the Texas governor's race, along with fights in Florida and California, could reveal whether Republicans across the board are forswearing political habits. "If Hutchison can beat Perry in a GOP primary dominated by conservatives, it may indicate that some of the activists have gotten the message: The Republican Party cannot continue to win national elections simply with conservative white males," Sabato said. "It will project (Hutchison) even further into the national debate." "She's a prominent senator now. To be governor of Texas and to win as a moderate conservative Republican, she becomes a very hot property," he said. "She'll automatically become a prospect for vice president." Recent polls give Hutchison the early advantage. Most recently, a University of Texas survey of Republican primary voters found Hutchison was the favorite of 36 percent, compared with 30 percent for Perry. But Perry, who has never lost an election, hasn't given up ground. Intent on winning a third term, which would give him up to 14 years as governor, he's cast Hutchison as representing freewheeling Washington values in conflict with conservative Texas beliefs. He hasn't said so, but Perry's camp is almost certain to remind voters she's been a senator for nearly double the eight-plus years he's been governor. At 65, she's also older (he's 59), and the two offer similar big-stage longevity. Both won their first statewide office in 1990. Some Republicans worry that the contentious fight for the governor's mansion could strain party ranks. "I don't understand this race," said Jim Lunz, a veteran Bexar County activist. "Why are we having this? Why does Perry want to serve another term? And why does Kay want to leave the position she's in?" "If she doesn't like the job she's got, then why doesn't she just go home? ... I would say there are probably a lot of people with these questions," Lunz said. While Republicans worry about the party, some Democrats are betting on damage to both Perry and Hutchison. Fort Worth lawyer Tom Schieffer, a former Bush-appointed ambassador exploring a run for governor as a Democrat, predicts Perry and Hutchison will turn off most voters by focusing on conservative-leaning primary voters. "It gives somebody like me with a middle-of-the-road philosophy an opportunity to demonstrate what a common-sense approach can do," Schieffer said. 2009-03-29T22:13:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/509/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/509/#When:19:34:00Z AUSTIN - Gubernatorial candidate Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison said Monday that Gov. Rick Perry should look for ways to accept $550 million in unemployment fund stimulus money without committing the state to future federal mandates. AUSTIN - Gubernatorial candidate Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison said Monday that Gov. Rick Perry should look for ways to accept $550 million in unemployment fund stimulus money without committing the state to future federal mandates. Hutchison told reporters at a Texas Daily Newspaper Association meeting that there may be a way to use the stimulus money to bolster the struggling fund and keep employers from facing steep unemployment taxes next year. Hutchison questioned Perry's recent decision to reject the unemployment money "out of hand." "I would be hoping that he is looking for innovative ways not to dock the taxpayers of Texas," Hutchison said. "I think a leader would be taking time to look at all of these aspects and coming up with a better solution." Perry, after speaking to the same group later in the day, disagreed. He has said taking the unemployment fund dollars would force the state to keep paying for expanded jobless benefits over the long term. "I think most people in the state of Texas understand that having Washington, D.C., give us a bunch of requirements and then wipe their hands of it and say, 'Oh and by the way, in two years that money is going to be gone' - for us to have taken that money would have been irresponsible and that's the reason we stood up and said we made the right decision: No thank you, Washington," Perry told reporters. 2009-03-23T19:34:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/503/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/503/#When:19:35:00Z The Dallas Morning News AUSTIN - Republicans may win their fierce battle to require voters to present photo IDs, a vibrant issue to grassroots conservatives. But doing so could help them lose the larger, future war for political dominance. Many Latinos, who are the fastest-growing bloc of voters in Texas, feel the bill is aimed at them, with Republicans raising the specter of illegal immigrants casting ballots and swinging elections. This bill, coupled with Republican efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, has led experts to see the Texas GOP quickly losing inroads in the Hispanic community that took years to build. AUSTIN - Republicans may win their fierce battle to require voters to present photo IDs, a vibrant issue to grassroots conservatives. But doing so could help them lose the larger, future war for political dominance. Many Latinos, who are the fastest-growing bloc of voters in Texas, feel the bill is aimed at them, with Republicans raising the specter of illegal immigrants casting ballots and swinging elections. This bill, coupled with Republican efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, has led experts to see the Texas GOP quickly losing inroads in the Hispanic community that took years to build. Republican leaders dismiss the notion that promoting a requirement for voters to present a picture or other forms of identification before they vote will damage the party among minorities. Eric Opiela, executive director of the state party, pointed to a University of Texas poll last year that found 70 percent of Texans favor requiring a photo ID to vote - including 68 percent of blacks and 65 percent of Hispanics. But it has become a noxious partisan issue, forcing the 19 Republicans in the Senate to change rules to muscle the measure past the 12 Democrats after a marathon all-night hearing. A final vote this week will send the bill to a less certain future in the House where Republicans hold a mere 76-74 advantage. Rep. Rafael Anchia, D-Dallas, and others believe the GOP talking points on the issue, commonly referred to as "voter ID," have been decidedly anti-Hispanic. "They would have you believe that busloads of illegal immigrants are coming to a district near you and engaging in voter impersonation in order to vote for Democrats," he said. Six years of sitting on legislative panels studying voter fraud has taught him that people will tamper with mailed-in ballots. But he said there is virtually no evidence of anyone - illegal immigrants or others - showing up at polling places to vote with someone else's voter registration card. "The Latino community is not stupid," Anchia said. "You can't call us fat, ugly and stupid for a year and then ask us to go to the prom with you. It's just not going to happen." Election numbers The attitude seems to be reflected in election numbers: Latino support in Texas was 49 percent for President George W. Bush in 2004; 44 percent for U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison in 2006, when she was the top official on the ballot; and 35 percent last year for John McCain. Democrats say that requiring a photo ID will be particularly hard on the disabled, the elderly and low-income workers without driver's licenses, many of whom are more likely to be racial minorities. Republican supporters of the measure say the issue of securing the integrity of the ballot is important enough to tighten the ID requirements, even if it inconveniences some. Longtime GOP consultant Royal Masset said it is a "serious mistake" for the party to put so much emphasis on the issue in Texas. "There's no doubt voter ID does great" among the Republican base, he said. "But it is also the kind of issue that could lose the Latino vote for the Republican Party for the next 30 years." Masset, the former political director for the state party, called voter ID "another last straw" for Latinos, who would be forced by Republicans to spend time and money obtaining additional IDs because of an alleged threat of fraudulent voting. "One way to get Latinos upset is to start criminalizing them, to imply they are criminals," he said. "And Hispanics should take this personally, because it is aimed at them." Jerry Polinard, a political science professor at the University of Texas-Pan American, predicted that if Republicans are able to push through voter ID, it will be just like the immigration issue: "another gift for the Democratic Party." Polinard, an expert on voting patterns across the state and particularly in South Texas, said that while there is nothing "intrinsically discriminatory" about requiring a photo ID to vote, "it will be about as popular down here as the border fence." "In the short run, voter ID helps the Republican Party in Texas because it is red meat for the base," he said. "But the clock is ticking. "With every election, the Latino vote becomes more important, and in the long run this will come back to haunt the party, because it is seen as having a disproportionate effect on minority voters." Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, D-San Antonio, used the example of her 94-year-old aunt, who has lived with her family and other relatives over the years. Her aunt does not drive or have utility bills or bank accounts in her own name. When advocates of voter ID suggest it's easy to show papers or a driver's license to prove who you are at the voting booth, they are ignoring how a lot of close-knit families operate, she said. "When somebody disses your grandmother, they dis you. And when someone disses what you believe in ... is when Latinos act," she said. Other states Michael Bustamante, a spokesman for the William C. Velasquez Institute, which studies Latino voting trends, said what he's seeing in Texas with the voter ID bill is happening in other states as well. The states pushing the measure have GOP leadership that wants to protect the ballot from illegal voters, which is understandable, he said. "But it's the tone and the tenor of the argument," which seems to be aimed at the growing numbers of Hispanic voters and wondering if they're legal, Bustamante said. "It's amazing how hard Republicans are working to create a divide between their party and the Latino voter," he said. "Pretty soon we're going to be blamed for athlete's foot." But Texas GOP leader Opiela said the only ones hurt by the voter ID bill are the Democrats, who are bucking a popular and commonsense proposal. The Democratic stance "will come back to haunt them," he said, adding: "We certainly plan to make it an issue in the next election." So, say the Democrats, do they.   2009-03-16T19:35:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/450/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/450/#When:23:19:00Z Below is a statement by Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie regarding Opening Day of the 81st Texas Legislative Session: “With Democratic victories that whittled down the number of Republican seats in the Texas House to the slimmest possible majority, along with a new Democratic State Senator from Tarrant County, a new day is dawning at the Texas Capitol.  Texas stands at a crossroads, and the next 140 days will determine how our elected officials address a number of major issues and a looming economic crisis.   “The stakes are high, and I am confident our Democratic officeholders will continue their dedication in doing the job entrusted to them by their constituents.  Texas Democrats have always been willing to reach across the aisle to tackle the issues most important to middle-class Texans, and we remain hopeful that Republicans see beyond partisanship and ideology and apply common sense to solve those problems. Below is a statement by Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie regarding Opening Day of the 81st Texas Legislative Session:   “With Democratic victories that whittled down the number of Republican seats in the Texas House to the slimmest possible majority, along with a new Democratic State Senator from Tarrant County, a new day is dawning at the Texas Capitol.  Texas stands at a crossroads, and the next 140 days will determine how our elected officials address a number of major issues and a looming economic crisis.   “The stakes are high, and I am confident our Democratic officeholders will continue their dedication in doing the job entrusted to them by their constituents.  Texas Democrats have always been willing to reach across the aisle to tackle the issues most important to middle-class Texans, and we remain hopeful that Republicans see beyond partisanship and ideology and apply common sense to solve those problems.   “For example, it’s past time for Republican politicians who control State government to put aside voter suppression proposals and other divisive legislation so we can focus instead on providing health care for every eligible child, adequately funding our public schools, making higher education affordable again and reining in out-of-control insurance and utility rates.   “The legislature has twenty weeks to meet these challenges and find solutions that will benefit all Texans instead of the special interest lobbyists who have benefited from Republican rule in the past.  It will be the duty of every lawmaker to be a good steward of the position entrusted to them by their constituents.”    ### 2009-01-13T23:19:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/445/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/445/#When:17:14:01Z By the numbers, 2008 has been a record-breaking year for the Texas Democratic Party. 2.9 million Democrats cast a ballot in our Primary Election 15,000 delegates attended our Texas State Democratic Convention 11 Texas House seats picked up by Democrats in the last two election cycles 100% of Dallas County county-wide elected seats held by Democrats 85% of Harris County county-wide races won by Democrats in 2008 Texans in every corner of our great state took the fight to Republican politicians and their special interest benefactors - not only with their ballots, but also with their pocketbooks. 14,000 individual contributors invested in the Texas Democratic Party in 2008 $78 was the average contribution to the Texas Democratic Party in 2008 $4.5 million of those contributions was invested by the Texas Democratic Party to support Democratic candidates "Texas Democrats continued to make electoral strides in 2008, despite running race after race in districts designed by Republicans to elect Republicans," said Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie.  "Once again, we expanded the playing field into so-called ‘Republican territory' to win key victories in our two largest counties, gain seats in our Texas House and Texas Senate, and improve our performance in growing suburban counties as Texas Democrats move forward toward statewide success in 2010."  "Texans are looking for new leaders who will put aside the divisiveness, pay-to-play politics and tired, old ideas that have marked an era of Republican rule," Richie continued. "Democrats are moving forward because our candidates and officeholders are working to solve real problems where Republicans have failed - to invest in our underfunded schools, make health care and college affordable and accessible again, and roll back some of the highest utility and insurance rates in the country." 2009-01-06T17:14:01-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/437/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/437/#When:15:32:00Z  December 17, 2008 Dallas, TX Thurgood Marshall Recreation Center (Located at 5150 Mark Trail Way, Dallas Texas 75232) 4 p.m. December 19, 2008 Houston, TX CWA Hall | (Located at 1730 Jefferson Street, Houston, Texas 77002) 9 a.m.   December 20, 2008 San Antonio, TX San Antonio Area Progressive Action Coalition (Located at 7122 San Pedro, Ste 114 San Antonio, Texas 78216) 10:30 a.m. For more information about the Advisory Committee on the Texas Democratic Party Convention/Caucus System click here The 2008 election cycle has created a historic political climate for Democrats in Texas. Over 2.2 million Democrats voted in our Primary and 1 million participated in our convention/caucus system. Such a groundswell of participation by Texas Democrats has produced the momentum we need to go forward into the General Election, ready to take back seats from the County Courthouse to the White House. However, this surge of participation, when combined with Texas' unique hybrid primary/caucus system, presented some logistical challenges for some of our Precinct and County/Senatorial District conventions - particularly in the urban areas. Convention participants throughout the state have expressed their concern over the use of the hybrid system in Texas. As a result of these concerns, Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie has appointed the Advisory Committee on the Texas Democratic Party Convention/Caucus System to examine the issue.  The Advisory Committee on the Texas Democratic Party Convention/Caucus System has been charged with studying the intricacies of our state's election system. The Committee will conduct a series of meetings which will be open to the public and feature testimonies from Democrats around the state. If for some reason you are not able to attend any of these hearings, you are encouraged to submit written testimony by e-mailing it to the Committee at testimony@txdemocrats.org. The Committee will consider this feedback and possibly make recommendations to the State Democratic Executive Committee for changes. An examination such as this may help inform and educate our Party leadership, elected officials and the general public about how best to approach the issue of potential modifications to the Convention process in Texas. In order to ensure that Texas Democrats have a voice in this important process, Committee meetings will be held in the following cities:  December 17, 2008 Dallas, TX Thurgood Marshall Recreation Center (Located at 5150 Mark Trail Way, Dallas Texas 75232) 4 p.m. December 19, 2008 Houston, TX CWA Hall | (Located at 1730 Jefferson Street, Houston, Texas 77002) 9 a.m.   December 20, 2008 San Antonio, TX San Antonio Area Progressive Action Coalition (Located at 7122 San Pedro, Ste 114 San Antonio, Texas 78216) 10:30 a.m. 2008-12-17T15:32:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/427/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/427/#When:22:30:00Z   Election Day for the District 17 runoff is Tuesday, Dec. 16. Click here for more information about voting in the District 17 runoff. Contact the Chris Bell Campaign (713-667-8990) to lend your efforts to this crucial race for Democrats.  Click here for more information about how you can help Chris's campaign.  You and your friends and neighbors can call and mobilize Democratic voters by using the Campaign's virtual phone bank. Click here to join Chris's VIRTUAL PHONE BANK! Even if you can only spare an hour, your efforts can make the difference between a Democratic win and more of the same Republican cronyism.  Please e-mail Lindsey Hagans at lindsay@chrisbell.com in order to get access to the online phone banking feature or if you should have any questions.    If you are unable to volunteer your time, you can make a donation to the campaign. Your contribution will help Chris turn out each and every one of his supporters for the run-off. Click here to make a contribution of $100, $50, $25, or $10 to Chris Bell's campaign. This special election will resonate far beyond Harris County, and it is of the utmost importance that we pull together in this final stretch to spread Chris' message of change to SD 17 voters.   Our Texas Senate is already shaping up to be a more effective, accountable body this session because of Wendy Davis' victory, but this is no time to relax.  The gains Texas Democrats made on Election Day marked a big step forward toward ending one-party rule in our state, and securing a victory for Chris Bell will send a powerful warning to Republican politicians and their special interest cronies.  Let's help Chris finish strong. Working together, we will gain another essential seat in our Texas Senate, aiding our Democratic lawmakers as they work on the real issues that Texas families care most about.  Please contact the Chris Bell Campaign (713-667-8990) and become a part of this important effort.  2008-11-24T22:30:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/418/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/418/#When:20:42:00Z Election Day marked a big step forward toward ending one-party Republican rule in Texas! Despite running in districts designed to elect Republicans, Democrats realized net gains in the Texas House for the third straight election cycle and for the first time in recent history, we gained in the Texas Senate. Additionally, our Democratic victories in Harris County, combined with continued success in Dallas County, signals an opportunity for even more expansive gains in 2010.  With the power of their ballots, Texas voters elected Democrats in districts drawn to elect Republicans, sending a warning to Governor Perry, David Dewhurst and other Republican politicians.         No one person, group, or organization can take credit for our Democratic wins. Once again, through our strength in unity, we accomplished what others thought was impossible. Thanks to the work of faithful Democrats throughout Texas, our Democratic candidates triumphed over their Republican opponents with the utmost resiliency. Most importantly, our party has come to symbolize change and responsible leadership to Texans throughout the state. While the future holds endless possibilities for our Party, one thing remains certain - this is a victory for all of us. Everyone who donated, volunteered, campaigned and most importantly, brought their friends and family to the polls to vote a Straight Democratic Ticket can take credit for these wins. As we celebrate our shared gains, let us remain mindful that there is much work to be done. Voters across our great state have entrusted our Party to forge through abusive Republican cronyism and take on the issues that matter most to Texas families.  It's time to put this election behind us and begin doing the people's work. 2008-11-05T20:42:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/416/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/416/#When:12:35:00Z Election Day Is Here! It's time for Texans to hit the polls today and turn Texas blue by casting a straight Democratic ballot! Our Democratic candidates have been campaigning hard and now it's time for us to finish the job. Click here to find your polling location and visit our voter information page for any questions that you may have about casting your ballot today. Read more information about finding your polling location and checking your voter registration after the jump.     First, check your registration by visiting the Secretary of State's website and find your polling location by clicking here or here. Second, make sure you are informed. There are pressing issues on every ballot across our state and you can review what will be on your ballot by clicking here. Third, understand the voting process. You can get familiar with the voting systems used by your county by clicking here.     Fourth, know your rights as a voter and don't be fooled by misinformation.  Review the "Protecting the Vote" section below to get all the facts and make sure your vote will count. Fifth, do your part by reminding your friends, family and neighbors to get to the polls today.   Have questions?  Check out the Frequently Asked Questions below or click here.  2008-11-04T12:35:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/412/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/412/#When:18:25:00Z We can always count on the Halloween season to bring out all sorts of spooky characters.  But I'm not speaking only of the charming ghosts and goblins who ring our doorbells.  Lurking at the polls, there are some frightfully bad Republican candidates who offer no treats for Texas voters - but plenty of dirty tricks.   Here is a look at the top tricksters:   Sen. John Cornyn: Halloween came early this year for "Big Bad John", who donned a fancy western jacket and played cowboy for a Texas Republican Convention video. The scary truth behind the costume is that this Washington politician is out-of-touch on the issues most important to Texas families. While Cornyn recently expressed to news media that he's wishing to someday be President, 1.4 million Texas children are wishing they simply had health insurance. And if Sen. Cornyn has his way, they never will - he has voted six times against health insurance for children. It's time for "Big Bad John" and his big bad policies to ride into the sunset. Democratic Rep. Rick Noriega has the vision and leadership skills Texans need, and we must elect him to U.S. Senate. Texas Supreme Court: The all-Republican Texas Supreme Court overturns jury verdicts 82% of the time and rules with insurance interests 87% of the time. Justice is for sale at the Texas Supreme Court, at the tragic expense of everyday Texans. We must elect tested candidates like Jim Jordan, Linda Yaez and Sam Houston who will work hard to restore integrity to our judicial system. For more information about our unjust Supreme Court, click here. Michael Williams, Railroad Commissioner: Texas' energy future is frightfully important to our economy and quality of life. However, the current Railroad Commission is haunted by oil and gas industry lobbyists who have bought and paid Commissioner Michael Williams for lax enforcement. Under the spooky spell of these big-money lobbyists, Williams has created a corrupt culture where fatal, preventable accidents are commonplace. As Texas Railroad Commissioner, Democrat Mark Thompson will offer the true leadership our state needs in terms of ensuring the Commission serves the people as it was created to do. Sen. Kim Brimer, SD 10: When it comes to his constituents, Sen. Kim Brimer wants all the treats, but won't even do the work of knocking on their doors. Brimer has spent much of the election season refusing to face his opponent, preferring to file meritless lawsuit after lawsuit to try and remove her from the ballot. After his many failed appeals, it's finally the witching hour - time for Brimer to debate his opponent and let the voters decide. Tarrant County voters need Wendy Davis as their new Democratic State Senator, for she is a tireless community leader who will never hide from a challenge. Texas House Republicans: Republicans in the Texas House of Representatives have done a frightening disservice to their constituents. Republican Speaker Tom Craddick enforces a culture of corruption and shady back-room deals with his strong-arm politics, and House Republicans act as zombies, serving his agenda of divisive non-issues. Willing to sell their constituents down the river to please big-money corporate lobbyists and even going so far as to raise money with congressional fugitive Karl Rove, these Republicans stink like rotten pumpkins. It is essential we shake off these cobwebbed tricksters and elect our Democratic House candidates. Each of these Democrats has demonstrated the leadership skill, work ethic and integrity they will need to take on the most pressing issues facing Texas. When you head to the polls on Nov. 4th, send frightfully bad Republicans home without any treats.  Vote a Straight Democratic Ticket.  Click here to review the lists of Democratic candidates running in your area.   Together we can turn Texas blue by voting our Democratic candidates into office, from the county court house to the White House.  Visit our voter information page for more information on voting. 2008-10-29T18:25:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/398/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/398/#When:15:57:00Z Election Day Is Here!  It's time for Texas Democrats to head to the polls today and turn Texas blue by casting a straight Democratic ballot! Our Democratic candidates have been campaigning hard and now it's time for us to finish the job. Click here to find your polling location and visit our voter information page for any questions you may have about casting your ballot today.  First, check your registration and find your polling place by visiting the Secretary of State's website. Second, make sure you are informed. There are pressing issues on every ballot across our state and you can review what will be on your ballot by clicking here. Third, understand the voting process. You can get familiar with the voting systems used by your county by clicking here.     Fourth, know your rights as a voter and don't be fooled by misinformation.  Visit the Texas Democratic Party's Voter Information page for a clear explanation about how to cast a straight Democratic ticket and to review your voting rights. Fifth, do your part by reminding your friends, family and neighbors to get to the polls today. Together we can turn Texas blue and vote our Democratic candidates into office from the court house to the White House!    Voting Tips: Contact your County Party or County Elections office to find polling locations. If you are going to be out campaigning on behalf of our great Democratic candidates before or after casting your ballot, take a sweater or button-up shirt with you so that you can put it on over your campaign attire when you go into the polls to vote. 2008-10-07T15:57:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/397/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/397/#When:18:38:00Z In the coming weeks, Texans will go to the polls and victory is within our reach.  We know that the Democratic ticket will provide the responsible leadership we need to get our community, our state and our country back on the right track, but there is a great deal of hard work to be done to bring this change to full fruition. That hard work begins by making certain you, your family, and friends are registered to vote. The deadline to register to vote in Texas is Monday, October 6, 2008. Click here to register to vote and make sure that you, your family and your friends will be among the record number of Texans going to the polls this Election Day.  Click here for more voting information from our website. The deadline to register to vote in Texas is Monday, October 6, 2008. Click here to register to vote and make sure that you, your family and your friends will be among the record number of Texans going to the polls this Election Day.   Please have your Texas Driver's License number or Identification Card number ready when you register.  If you do not have either form of identification, you may use the last four digits of your Social Security number. Just remember to check the box on your registration form, indicating that you do not have either a driver's license or a Texas ID card. The Secretary of State's office is required to match new registrations against the DPS database.  If you do not provide your Driver's License or Personal Identification Number, but the SOS finds that you HAVE one of these forms of identification, you will not be registered!  To check to make sure you are properly registered, click here. For more information on voting, please visit our website. Together, we will continue to build on our momentum and take back our great state, but we can only do it if we register every Texas Democrat. Please click here to register to vote by Monday, October 6th.   2008-10-06T18:38:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/387/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/387/#When:15:03:00Z Thanks to your extraordinary generosity, we've managed to surpass both the initial goal of $10,000 and the challenge of an additional $5,000! Democrats around the state have contributed nearly $20,000 to the Texas Democratic Party in the last seven days!  The Texas Democratic Party is committing every dime raised in this effort to help our Democratic candidates up and down the ballot reach the finish line out in front. And every dollar raised is one more voter contacted before November 4th Together, we can ensure that the Party has the resources needed to effectively communicate the "Vote Democratic" message across the Lone Star State and turn out our base voters in November. Let's finish this on a high note. Please click here to help support the Texas Democratic Party's efforts to turn out votes for Democrats on Election Day by contributing an additional $50, $25, $10, or $5.     The Texas Democratic Party is working to elect Democrats up and down the ballot. Your contribution will help support our efforts to Move Texas Forward by giving the Party resources to turn out voters in every region of the state on Election Day. In 2006, the Texas Democratic Party helped elect Nick Lampson and Ciro Rodriguez to Congress, cut the Republican majority in half in the Texas House and helped local Democrats turn Dallas County blue again. With your generous support, we can take back our state in November! 2008-09-23T15:03:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/378/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/378/#When:18:12:00Z                                                                                                                                         Photo courtesy of the Houston Chronicle, 2008 Our thoughts are with our fellow Texans who fell victim to the devastation caused by Hurricane Ike. Both national and state officials and relief organizations are engaged in recovery and relief operations along the Gulf Coast. We have posted some helpful phone numbers and websites for those of you who have been affected or displaced by the hurricane.     If you need immediate assistance, call the Red Cross at 211 or Texas Operations Center at 512-424-2208. For a comprehensive overview of the state's activity related to Hurricane Ike response and recovery, please visit the Hurricane Center on the governor's website at: http://governor.state.tx.us/hurricane/. Congressman Nick Lampson is opening a mobile congressional office to aid hurricane victims with FEMA claims and assistance. The office will be opening September 18, 2008 at American Legion Post 490 located at 11702 Galveston Rd.(State Hwy 3), Houston, TX 77034 (across from Ellington Field). For more information click here. At the state's request, federal transitional housing assistance is now available to those Texas evacuees with inaccessible or uninhabitable homes. The list of approved hotels/motels can be found at: http://femaevachotels.com/. Please note that the number of approved hotels/motels is constantly being updated.  To register for transitional housing assistance, visit http://www.fema.gov/ or call FEMA toll free at 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585. The Public Utility Commission (PUC) of Texas has launched a feature on its website to allow customers to check power outages by entering their utility provider and zip code at http://www.puc.state.tx.us/files/ike.cfm. For price gouging please call 1-800-621-0500 for the Texas Attorney Generals office. For instances of gas gouging please call 800-244-3301. Texas residents who have been displaced by Hurricane Ike who evacuated to another state may call 1-877-541-7905 to reach the Texas 2-1-1 network and obtain information on how and where to apply for food stamp benefits or seek additional assistance. Texas residents displaced by Hurricane Ike who evacuated to another area of Texas may call 2-1-1 from any Texas landline or Texas cell phone to obtain information on how and where to apply for food stamp benefits or seek additional assistance. 2008-09-17T18:12:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/377/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/377/#When:15:06:00Z   Due to inclement weather expected this weekend from Hurricane Ike, the 2008 Campaign Kick Off with Grupo Fantasma has been rescheduled for Sunday, September 21st.  For more information about this event click here Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd L. Richie with Generation Obama and Urbanian Entertainment Present The 2008 Campaign Kick Off Celebration With Special Musical Guests Grupo Fantasma and Les and the Funk Mob All proceeds from this event will benefit the Texas Democratic Party's efforts to turn out voters across the state and to elect Democrats from the White House to the court house. NEW DATE: Sunday, September 21st Doors at 6:30 pm Les and the Funk Mob at 7:00 pm Grupo Fantasma at 8:00 pm Antone's 213 W. 5th Street Austin, Texas Individual tickets are $50; Texas Majority Builder tickets are $35; and Student Tickets are $20 with a valid ID.  Click here to purchase yours today!   For more information, please contact Allison Mansfield at (512) 478-9800 or amansfield@txdemocrats.org. Tickets will be sold online until 12:00 pm on Sunday, September 21st. Tickets will be sold at the door if available. 2008-09-15T15:06:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/373/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/373/#When:19:27:05Z HOUSTON HEARING OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON THE TDP CONVENTION/CAUCUS SYSTEM CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER The previously scheduled Houston meeting of the Advisory Committee on the Texas Democratic Party Convention/Caucus System has been cancelled, as a precautionary measure due to Hurricane Ike.  The cancelled meeting was scheduled to take place Friday, September 12th, but will be rescheduled for a later date.  The Texas Democratic Party will make details on the new date and location available as soon as possible. For more information about the Committee click here.                           HOUSTON HEARING OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON THE TDP  CONVENTION/CAUCUS SYSTEM CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER (Austin, TX)-The previously scheduled Houston meeting of the Advisory Committee on the Texas Democratic Party Convention/Caucus System has been cancelled, as a precautionary measure due to Hurricane Ike.  The cancelled meeting was scheduled to take place Friday, September 12th, but will be rescheduled for a later date.  The Texas Democratic Party will make details on the new date and location available as soon as possible.  "We want to give Houstonians every opportunity to take the necessary precautions for the hurricane," said Texas Democratic Party Spokesperson Hector Nieto. "I thank our Houston Democrats for their understanding, and we look forward to hearing their input on our convention and caucus system."                                     2008-09-10T19:27:05-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/370/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/370/#When:20:19:00Z   Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd L. Richie with Generation Obama and Urbanian Entertainment Present The 2008 Campaign Kick Off Celebration     Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd L. Richie with Generation Obama and Urbanian Entertainment Present The 2008 Campaign Kick Off Celebration With Special Musical Guests Grupo Fantasma and Les and the Funk Mob All proceeds from this event will benefit the Texas Democratic Party's efforts to turn out voters across the state and to elect Democrats from the White House to the court house. Sunday, September 14th Doors at 6:30 pm Les and the Funk Mob at 7:00 pm Grupo Fantasma at 8:00 pm Antone's 213 W. 5th Street Austin, Texas For more information, please contact Allison Mansfield at (512) 478-9800 or amansfield@txdemocrats.org. Tickets will be sold online (click here to buy) until 12:00 pm on Sunday, September 14th. Tickets will be sold at the door if availab 2008-09-08T20:19:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/361/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/361/#When:22:17:00Z The 2008 Democratic National Convention was truly historic and unifying event for our national party. We wanted to share some photos for those of you who were unable to attend. We were proud to be at the convention respresenting the Lone Star State and showing the nation why it's a great time to be a Texas Democrat!   Texas at the 2008 Democratic National Convention   Congressman and Obama VP shortlister Chet Edwards of Waco speaking to State Senator Royce West and Dallas City Councilwoman Pauline Medrano Congressman Silvestre Reyes of El Paso Former Texas Attorney General Jim Mattox, State Representative Ruth Jones McClendon, State Senator Royce West and State Representative Rafael Anchia Political consultant and commentator Paul Begala speaking to the Texas delegation  Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie with Virginia governor and Obama VP shortlister Tim Kaine Excited delegates representing Democrats from the Lone Star State Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton giving an inspirational speech 2008-08-26T22:17:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/359/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/359/#When:21:00:00Z The 2008 election cycle has created a historic political climate for Democrats in Texas. Over 2.2 million Democrats voted in our Primary and 1 million participated in our convention/caucus system. Such a groundswell of participation by Texas Democrats has produced the momentum we need to go forward into the General Election, ready to take back seats from the County Courthouse to the White House.    However, this surge of participation, when combined with Texas' unique hybrid primary/caucus system, presented some logistical challenges for some of our Precinct and County/Senatorial District conventions - particularly in the urban areas. Convention participants throughout the state have expressed their concern over the use of the hybrid system in Texas. As a result of these concerns, Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie has appointed the Advisory Committee on the Texas Democratic Party Convention/Caucus System to examine the issue.   The Advisory Committee on the Texas Democratic Party Convention/Caucus System has been charged with studying the intricacies of our state's election system. The Committee will conduct a series of meetings which will be open to the public and feature testimonies from Democrats around the state. If for some reason you are not able to attend any of these hearings, you are encouraged to submit written testimony by e-mailing it to the Committee at testimony@txdemocrats.org. The Committee will consider this feedback and possibly make recommendations to the State Democratic Executive Committee for changes. An examination such as this may help inform and educate our Party leadership, elected officials and the general public about how best to approach the issue of potential modifications to the Convention process in Texas. In order to ensure that Texas Democrats have a voice in this important process, Committee meetings will be held in the following cities: Date City Location Time September 6, 2008 Harlingen, TX Harlingen Public Library (at 410 76 Drive, Harlingen, TX 78550) 9 a.m. September 12, 2008 Houston, TX     October 4, 2008 El Paso, TX     October 17, 2008 Arlington, TX     October 18, 2008 Nacogdoches, TX     November 8, 2008 Lubbock, TX     November 14, 2008 Austin, TX     Locations and times will be featured on this page as more information becomes available.   2008-08-22T21:00:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/356/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/356/#When:14:10:00Z San Antonio Express-News AUSTIN - San Antonio state Rep. Frank Corte must be declared ineligible to run for re-election this fall because the place he claims as a residence is nothing but a vacant lot, the Texas Democratic Party said in a letter Thursday to Republican Party officials. Chad Dunn, a lawyer for Texas Democrats, provided Bexar GOP Chairman Richard Langlois with public documents showing that Corte lists 4203 Honeycomb St. as his residence. It is a vacant lot in northwest San Antonio. But Corte said he plans to build a house on that lot, where he once had a residence. "As long as I intend to return - that's my residence," Corte said. Corte applied for a permit to have the house moved in the fall of 2006, according to documents. But Corte listed the vacant lot as his residence when filing for re-election on Dec. 17, 2007, and on a legally required personal financial statement last summer. "There's no house. There's no shed. There's no cot. There's no way that Mr. Corte's living at the address that he certified as his residency," Dunn said. "It's as serious as can be when it comes to eligibility of somebody who wants to serve in the Legislature." The issue is a nonstory, Corte said, because lawyers have assured him that he can claim that spot as his residence so long as he intends to return. Corte said he currently lives with his family in an apartment complex located about one-quarter mile from the Honeycomb location. State Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, D-San Antonio, represents the area where Corte has taken up temporary residence. Corte wouldn't say when he plans to start building a new home at his Honeycomb address. "What process I'm in is irrelevant. I intend to return," he said. The documents "conclusively establish that Frank Corte, Jr. knowingly and materially misrepresented facts on his ballot application and is not a resident of District 122, Texas House of Representatives and is therefore not entitled to election to that office," Dunn said in the letter to Republican Party officials. Langlois did not return a phone call. The deadline for replacing a candidate on the Nov. 4 election ballot is today, Dunn reminded Langlois in the letter. Inaction could result in a legal ruling against Corte's candidacy and the inability for Republicans to field a candidate, Dunn said. Corte has represented the area in the state House since his first election in 1992. It's considered a Republican district. If Corte is declared ineligible, Democrats could improve their chances to regain control of the state House. They need to pick up five seats in the November election, and Corte's district is not one of the Democrats' targeted districts. Democrat Frances Carnot is running for the seat. 2008-08-22T14:10:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/344/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/344/#When:16:43:00Z Karl Rove believes he is above the law. Rove reached a new low two weeks ago when he dodged a Congressional subpoena on the fired U.S. attorneys. Instead, Rove is here in our backyard, raising money for vulnerable Republicans like Senator John Cornyn. Stand up to Karl Rove and his Republican cronies on this "Fugitive Fundraising Tour." Make a contribution of $10, $25, $50 or $100 to the Texas Democratic Party today and help us take back our state from corrupt and failed Republican politicians.   Karl Rove believes he is above the law. Rove reached a new low two weeks ago when he dodged a Congressional subpoena on the fired U.S. attorneys. Instead, Rove is here in our backyard, raising money for vulnerable Republicans like Senator John Cornyn. Stand up to Karl Rove and his Republican cronies on this "Fugitive Fundraising Tour." Make a contribution of $10, $25, $50 or $100 to the Texas Democratic Party today and help us take back our state from corrupt and failed Republican politicians. Karl Rove's refusal to respond to this subpoena is just the latest example of the flagrant arrogance and disrespect for our laws that has characterized the Bush administration, its Republican cronies, and Texas Republicans. It is time for Rove's criminal antics to stop, and for us to return responsible leadership to Texas. Make a contribution today and send Rove and his fellow Texas Republicans packing. Tell Karl Rove and his Republican cronies no one is above the law. Join the Texas Democratic Party and help elect our Democratic candidates from the White House to the county court house with a contribution of $10, $25, $50 or $100 today. Democrats are Moving Texas Forward because of your hard work, and with your contribution today, we will put an end to the corrupt behavior of failed Republican politicians and their AWOL advisors like Rove. Your friend and fellow Democrat,   Boyd L. Richie p.s. - Click here to make a contribution of $10, $25, $50 or $100 today, and put an end to Rove's Fugitive Fundraising Tour!   2008-08-11T16:43:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/343/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/343/#When:16:45:00Z In an unprecedented and cowardly move, Karl Rove has blatantly ignored a Congressional subpoena to testify on the political firings at the Department of Justice, forcing the House Judiciary committee to issue Rove with a rarely-used Contempt of Congress citation. Although Rove has been trotting around the country appearing on talk shows, when it comes to owning up to the American people, he indefensibly claims immunity and skips town. Join the Texas Democratic Party and sign the petition demanding Karl Rove respect the laws of the land and respond to the subpoena.    In an unprecedented and cowardly move, Karl Rove has blatantly ignored a Congressional subpoena to testify on the political firings at the Department of Justice, forcing the House Judiciary committee to issue Rove with a rarely-used Contempt of Congress citation. Although Rove has been trotting around the country appearing on talk shows, when it comes to owning up to the American people, he indefensibly claims immunity and skips town. Join the Texas Democratic Party and sign the petition demanding Karl Rove respect the laws of the land and respond to the subpoena. 2008-08-07T16:45:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/340/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/340/#When:02:17:00Z Dear fellow Democrats, I wanted to make sure you know about a great opportunity to receive a trip, with paid travel and hotel accommodations, to the Democratic National Convention in Denver. All you have to do is create a video about "Why are you a Democrat?" and submit it to YouTube. The deadline is August 1st, so get working. More details can be found below. Let's show the country there's no Democrat like a Texas Democrat. Your friend & fellow Democrat,   Boyd L. Richie Chairman YouTube Asks: Why are you a Democrat? We have one simple question for you: why are you a Democrat in 2008? Actually, we have a few more questions for you... Would you like to receive paid travel and hotel accommodations to attend the Democratic National Convention, held August 25-28 in Denver? Would you like to opportunity to present your thoughts at the Convention hall in front of thousands of delegates, guests, and media? Oh, and one more question - would you like to spend the day in the presidential campaign press pool, documenting a day in the life on the campaign trail? Interested? Just create a short video explaining why you are a Democrat in your community. Submit the video at www.youtube.com/demconvention, and you could be chosen to travel to Denver! 2008-07-18T02:17:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/332/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/332/#When:19:16:00Z 08:01 AM CDT on Friday, May 23, 2008 The hunt goes on. And on. And on. Still, proponents of adding new personal identification requirements at Texas polling places haven't produced evidence of an Election Day problem that needs fixing.   08:01 AM CDT on Friday, May 23, 2008 The hunt goes on. And on. And on. Still, proponents of adding new personal identification requirements at Texas polling places haven't produced evidence of an Election Day problem that needs fixing. In the absence of that proof, GOP legislators appear indifferent to the fact that thousands of registered Texas voters – 150,000 to 400,000, by one estimate – have no photo ID and would face some level of expense to obtain one. Research shows that these voters tend to be elderly, female and poor. They also tend to be Democrats, leaving Republicans to answer to a charge of partisanship. It should be noted that while research hasn't produced the long-sought evidence of widespread polling-place fraud, neither has it sustained Democrats' complaints of voter suppression through photo ID laws.   Attorney General Greg Abbott tried but came up short, despite months of investigating. As detailed recently by Dallas Morning News senior political writer Wayne Slater, Mr. Abbott documented scattered cases of familiar methods of ballot fraud – schemes involving mail-in ballots, false registrations and manipulation of elderly voters. These despicable acts undermine the democratic system and should be prosecuted based on state and federal laws already on the books. But warnings from self-styled voting reformers have focused on other kinds of perceived threats to clean elections – patterns of voter impersonation at the polls and massive fraud using illegal immigrants. Were those threats real, Mr. Abbott most certainly would have provided proof, helping Republican state lawmakers make their case for new laws requiring a photo ID at the polls to go along with the traditional Texas voter registration card. He didn't.   The absence of hard data in both categories should be a warning to lawmakers who are eager to remake Texas election law next year. A split U.S. Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of Indiana's voter ID law last month, guaranteeing momentum for new voter ID proposals in Austin. There is a simple test for any legitimate voter ID law: It should not shift new, undue burdens onto registered Texas voters and obstruct their constitutionally guaranteed access to the ballot box.   http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/opinion/editorials/stories/DN-voter_23edi.ART.State.Edition1.4706c90.html    2008-05-23T19:16:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/327/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/327/#When:23:32:00Z To apply for a guest credentials to the 2008 TDP State Democratic Convention, please click the link below and enter your information to be part of a random drawing for passes.  Note that a guest pass does not make you a delegate or alternate, but simply entitles you to observe the Convention on the date for which you receive a credential.  We will make every effort to accommodate each request for guest credentials, but due to the high level of excitement around this year’s convention, we cannot guarantee that you will receive a credential.  Names for the drawing will be accepted through Friday, May 23rd at 6:00pm, and the TDP Staff will contact winners on Tuesday, May 27th. Click here for the Guest Pass drawing page. For more information about the State Convention, please click here. To make changes to pre-existing housing reservations, please click here. To apply for a guest credentials to the 2008 TDP State Democratic Convention, please click the link below and enter your information to be part of a random drawing for passes.  Note that a guest pass does not make you a delegate or alternate, but simply entitles you to observe the Convention on the date for which you receive a credential.  We will make every effort to accommodate each request for guest credentials, but due to the high level of excitement around this year’s convention, we cannot guarantee that you will receive a credential.  Names for the drawing will be accepted through Friday, May 23rd at 6:00pm, and the TDP Staff will contact winners on Tuesday, May 27th. Click here for the Guest Pass drawing page. For more information about the State Convention, please click here. To make changes to pre-existing housing reservations, please click here. 2008-05-01T23:32:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/325/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/325/#When:19:19:00Z The TDP is pleased to announce that we have secured an additional block of hotel rooms for this June's State Convention in Austin. Due to overwhelming demand from Texas Democrats, our original block of over 2,000 rooms sold out in less than 48 hours. We expect these additional rooms to sell out quickly as well, so book your room as quickly as possible. Click here to go to the Convention housing website. If the TDP's block of rooms sells out, you may still be able to find lodging via commercial websites such as www.expedia.com, www.hotels.com, and www.travelocity.com. Please note that hotels are not required to honor the TDP rates for rooms booked outside of our room block. Click here for more State Convention information. The TDP is pleased to announce that we have secured an additional block of hotel rooms for this June's State Convention in Austin. Due to overwhelming demand from Texas Democrats, our original block of over 2,000 rooms sold out in less than 48 hours. We expect these additional rooms to sell out quickly as well, so book your room as quickly as possible. Click here to go to the Convention housing website. If the TDP's block of rooms sells out, you may still be able to find lodging via commercial websites such as www.expedia.com, www.hotels.com, and www.travelocity.com. Please note that hotels are not required to honor the TDP rates for rooms booked outside of our room block. Click here for more State Convention information.  2008-04-23T19:19:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/326/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/326/#When:19:48:00Z Today, Gov. Perry's announcement that he will seek reelection in 2010 signaled that he may want to serve as Governor for life, but in 2006, a 61% majority of Texans already said they want someone else, and he's done nothing to inspire Texans' confidence since then. Given the current State of the State after five years of absolute and failed Republican rule, there's no reason to think Governor Perry's record would earn him more than the 39% he received in 2006. Under Perry's Regime, our local children's schools are facing a budget crisis due to unfunded state mandates and a lack of state resources, scandals have racked the Texas Youth Commission, soaring college tuitions have amounted to a middle class tax increase that's pricing many out of college, over a billion dollars in highway funds were "lost" while toll roads are being outsourced to foreign corporations, and over a million Texas kids have no health insurance. That's the record of Rick Perry and the Republican politicians who masquerade as our leaders while serving the interests of special interest contributors and cronies. Texas Democrats look forward to 2010. Today, Gov. Perry's announcement that he will seek reelection in 2010 signaled that he may want to serve as Governor for life, but in 2006, a 61% majority of Texans already said they want someone else, and he's done nothing to inspire Texans' confidence since then. Given the current State of the State after five years of absolute and failed Republican rule, there's no reason to think Governor Perry's record would earn him more than the 39% he received in 2006. Under Perry's Regime, our local children's schools are facing a budget crisis due to unfunded state mandates and a lack of state resources, scandals have racked the Texas Youth Commission, soaring college tuitions have amounted to a middle class tax increase that's pricing many out of college, over a billion dollars in highway funds were "lost" while toll roads are being outsourced to foreign corporations, and over a million Texas kids have no health insurance. That's the record of Rick Perry and the Republican politicians who masquerade as our leaders while serving the interests of special interest contributors and cronies. Texas Democrats look forward to 2010. 2008-04-17T19:48:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/323/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/323/#When:23:19:00Z Last Saturday's TDP County and Senatorial District Conventions were a tremendous success, with thousands of excited Democrats attending conventions all across the Lone Star State. The eyes of the nation were on Texas as supporters of Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama fought hard for every delegate. You can view unofficial results provided by the Associated Press or Burnt Orange Report. Now that the County and Senatorial District Conventions are over, the focus shifts to the TDP State Democratic Convention, where Texas' National Delegates will be selected. The convention will be held in Austin, TX from June 5th through 7th. For more information about the State Convention, please click here. Due to the extraordinary demand from delegates, alternates and guests to the 2008 Texas Democratic Party State Convention, the TDP’s hotel room allocation is now sold out.  While the TDP is working to secure additional room blocks, there are a number of affordable and convenient hotels and accommodations that are still available in the Austin area.   Those who are interested in information on additional accommodations for the Convention can visit any number of the comprehensive travel websites available, including www.expedia.com, www.hotels.com, and www.travelocity.com. Please note that hotels are not required to honor the TDP rates for rooms booked outside of the room block. The State Convention is where Texas' delegation to the Democratic National Convention will be selected. If you are interested in being a Delegate or Alternate to the National Convention, you need to declare your candidacy by downloading this form, filling it out, and delivering it to the TDP between April 21st and May 21st. You do not even need to be a delegate to the State Convention to be a candidate.  Last Saturday's TDP County and Senatorial District Conventions were a tremendous success, with thousands of excited Democrats attending conventions all across the Lone Star State. The eyes of the nation were on Texas as supporters of Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama fought hard for every delegate. You can view unofficial results provided by the Associated Press or Burnt Orange Report. Now that the County and Senatorial District Conventions are over, the focus shifts to the TDP State Democratic Convention, where Texas' National Delegates will be selected. The convention will be held in Austin, TX from June 5th through 7th. For more information about the State Convention, please click here. Due to the extraordinary demand from delegates, alternates and guests to the 2008 Texas Democratic Party State Convention, the TDP’s hotel room allocation is now sold out.  While the TDP is working to secure additional room blocks, there are a number of affordable and convenient hotels and accommodations that are still available in the Austin area.   Those who are interested in information on additional accommodations for the Convention can visit any number of the comprehensive travel websites available, including www.expedia.com, www.hotels.com, and www.travelocity.com. Please note that hotels are not required to honor the TDP rates for rooms booked outside of the room block. The State Convention is where Texas' delegation to the Democratic National Convention will be selected. If you are interested in being a Delegate or Alternate to the National Convention, you need to declare your candidacy by downloading this form, filling it out, and delivering it to the TDP between April 21st and May 21st. You do not even need to be a delegate to the State Convention to be a candidate.  2008-03-31T23:19:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/319/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/319/#When:22:56:00Z The County and Senatorial District Conventions are the next step in the Texas Democratic Party's convention process, which ultimately leads to the nomination of the next President of the United States at the Democratic National Convention in Denver.  At the County and Senatorial District Conventions, delegates elected at Precinct Conventions gather to elect their county or Senate District's delegates to this June's TDP State Convention in Austin. Date: Saturday March 29th, 2008  Time: Varies by County/District Location: Determined by your County or Senatorial District Chair.   Click here for an unofficial list of County and Senatorial District Convention Locations. Who: Delegates and Alternates elected at the Precinct Conventions Why: To elect Delegates to the TDP State Convention in Austin. Most counties will hold a single County Convention, but in counties that contain more than one state senate district some will hold Senatorial District Conventions, for individual Senate Districts. Note that while these events are open to the public, only delegates elected at the Precinct Conventions may participate.  Alternates elected at the Precinct conventions may take the place of any elected delegates who do not appear. Below are several documents that may be helpful in understanding or conducting County and Senatorial District Conventions. County/Senatorial District Convention Slideshow Advisory Guidelines for Credentials Committees Supplemental Advisory Guidelines Updated TDP Rules Texas Delegate Selection Plan Alternate-to-Delegate Elevation Form Credentials Committee Challenge Form Delegate Allocation Numbers by County and Senate District "How to be a Delegate" Brochure Delegate Selection and the Federal Election Commission The Conventions will be governed by Robert's Rules of Order and the Texas Democratic Party Rules. Questions about credentials will be settled by each Convention's Credentials Committee. A more detailed explanation of the delegate selection process can be found here. For more information on the State and National Conventions, click here. If you were elected as a delegate or alternate to the State Convention, click here to book your room. The County and Senatorial District Conventions are the next step in the Texas Democratic Party's convention process, which ultimately leads to the nomination of the next President of the United States at the Democratic National Convention in Denver.  At the County and Senatorial District Conventions, delegates elected at Precinct Conventions gather to elect their county or Senate District's delegates to this June's TDP State Convention in Austin. Date: Saturday March 29th, 2008  Time: Varies by County/District Location: Determined by your County or Senatorial District Chair.   Click here for an unofficial list of County and Senatorial District Convention Locations. Who: Delegates and Alternates elected at the Precinct Conventions Why: To elect Delegates to the TDP State Convention in Austin. Most counties will hold a single County Convention, but in counties that contain more than one state senate district some will hold Senatorial District Conventions, for individual Senate Districts. Note that while these events are open to the public, only delegates elected at the Precinct Conventions may participate.  Alternates elected at the Precinct conventions may take the place of any elected delegates who do not appear. Below are several documents that may be helpful in understanding or conducting County and Senatorial District Conventions. County/Senatorial District Convention Slideshow Advisory Guidelines for Credentials Committees Supplemental Advisory Guidelines Updated TDP Rules Texas Delegate Selection Plan Alternate-to-Delegate Elevation Form Credentials Committee Challenge Form Delegate Allocation Numbers by County and Senate District "How to be a Delegate" Brochure Delegate Selection and the Federal Election Commission The Conventions will be governed by Robert's Rules of Order and the Texas Democratic Party Rules. Questions about credentials will be settled by each Convention's Credentials Committee. A more detailed explanation of the delegate selection process can be found here. For more information on the State and National Conventions, click here. If you were elected as a delegate or alternate to the State Convention, click here to book your room. 2008-03-20T22:56:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/293/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/293/#When:21:57:00Z The Texas Democratic Party is no longer updating the unofficial results from the Precinct Conventions. We are now shifting our efforts to collecting the official results from the Precinct Conventions to make sure they are available at Senatorial District/County Conventions on March 29, where delegates will be elected to the State Convention. Ultimately, those state conventions delegates will determine the allocation of 67 national delegates. You can view the unofficial Precinct Convention results by clicking here. The Texas Democratic Party is no longer updating the unofficial results from the Precinct Conventions. We are now shifting our efforts to collecting the official results from the Precinct Conventions to make sure they are available at Senatorial District/County Conventions on March 29, where delegates will be elected to the State Convention. Ultimately, those state conventions delegates will determine the allocation of 67 national delegates. You can view the unofficial Precinct Convention results by clicking here. 2008-03-11T21:57:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/291/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/291/#When:02:40:00Z Tuesday is the big day here in Texas. Millions of Democrats all across the Lone Star State will go to the polls to vote in the Texas Democratic Primary and participate in their Precinct Conventions. The excitement over the contest between Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton is like nothing Texas has ever seen, and in order to help clear up any questions voters may have, the TDP has prepared the answers to some frequently asked questions about the process. The TDP has also assembled a statewide list of voting locations for the Democratic Primary.  If you need help finding where to vote, please click here.  Voting runs from 7am to 7pm Tuesday in the Texas Democratic Primary, and any registered voter can cast their vote.  For answers to frequently asked questions about the Democratic primary, click here. Don’t forget to attend your precinct convention on Tuesday evening. Your Precinct Convention is held the same place where you vote on Primary Election Day, and begins at 7:15PM, or when the last person votes if there are still people in line then. For answers to frequently asked questions about the Precinct Convention, please click here. Tuesday is the big day here in Texas. Millions of Democrats all across the Lone Star State will go to the polls to vote in the Texas Democratic Primary and participate in their Precinct Conventions. The excitement over the contest between Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton is like nothing Texas has ever seen, and in order to help clear up any questions voters may have, the TDP has prepared the answers to some frequently asked questions about the process. The TDP has also assembled a statewide list of voting locations for the Democratic Primary.  If you need help finding where to vote, please click here.  Voting runs from 7am to 7pm Tuesday in the Texas Democratic Primary, and any registered voter can cast their vote.  For answers to frequently asked questions about the Democratic primary, click here. Don’t forget to attend your precinct convention on Tuesday evening. Your Precinct Convention is held the same place where you vote on Primary Election Day, and begins at 7:15PM, or when the last person votes if there are still people in line then. For answers to frequently asked questions about the Precinct Convention, please click here. 2008-03-04T02:40:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/283/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/283/#When:00:39:01Z Texans were fired up for Thursday's presidential debate between Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama.  Based on the calls and emails that flooded our office for the past week - including over 43,000 Democrats who entered an online drawing for the debate seating the TDP made available to the general public - there wasn't a venue large enough to hold all the Democrats who wanted to hear directly from our candidates. The Texas Presidential debate was the second-most watched debate in cable news history, truly a historic event held in our own backyard. And the big winners were Texas Democrats. The 2008 Texas Democratic primary will be pivotal in determining which one of our two outstanding candidates will become the next President of the United States. Record turnout in the first days of early voting indicates that on the night of March 4th, a historic number of Texans will have voted in our primary this year. Texans were fired up for Thursday's presidential debate between Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama.  Based on the calls and emails that flooded our office for the past week - including over 43,000 Democrats who entered an online drawing for the debate seating the TDP made available to the general public - there wasn't a venue large enough to hold all the Democrats who wanted to hear directly from our candidates. The Texas Presidential debate was the second-most watched debate in cable news history, truly a historic event held in our own backyard. And the big winners were Texas Democrats. The 2008 Texas Democratic primary will be pivotal in determining which one of our two outstanding candidates will become the next President of the United States. Record turnout in the first days of early voting indicates that on the night of March 4th, a historic number of Texans will have voted in our primary this year. Over the past two years, we have picked up eight seats in the Texas House and swept Dallas County. We have laid the foundation that allows us to build on the momentum being generated by the debate and the primary and put it to work to help us win in November. After seven years of Republican neglect, last night's debate illustrated the best of what our Party has to offer. Senator Obama and Senator Clinton are offering specific proposals that address the issues and concerns that are most important to Texans and all Americans. Our candidates at the state and local level are doing the same thing as we move to replace failed Republican leaders in Austin and every County Courthouse across Texas. If you were unable to see the debate, you can read a recap at cnn.com, complete with video clips of Senator Clinton and Senator Obama. The debate will also be replayed on CNN this Saturday and Sunday at 8pm. The TDP encourages you to watch the debate, choose your candidate, and get involved in his or her campaign. Make no mistake: both candidates are spreading the Democratic message to more voters and that will pay off in November. Please click here to visit Texas for Obama, or click here to visit Texas for Hillary. You can help us stay in touch with thousands of new voters who are participating in the primary by contributing to the Texas Democratic Party. The 2008 primary provides us a unique opportunity to elect Democrats this November, but we will need more resources to communicate to this record influx of democratic voters. On every level, from the County Courthouse to the Texas House to the White House, you can help make Democratic victories a reality. Please support your Texas Democratic Party today. This year's primary is like nothing Texas has ever seen. Let's enjoy these next few weeks, and then unite for victory this fall. 2008-02-23T00:39:01-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/276/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/276/#When:20:47:00Z Democrats all across Texas are excited about the upcoming historic debate between Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton.  At a time when so many people have lost faith in our government thanks to the failed Republican policies of the Bush administration, our two outstanding candidates are ready to provide the change that Texas and America desperately need. While seating at the debate is limited, the TDP has secured 100 debate tickets, which will be made available to the general public through a random drawing.  The tickets will be evenly distributed between supporters of Senator Clinton and Senator Obama, with a number of tickets going to undecided voters. In order to be eligible for tickets, you must be a registered voter in the State of Texas.  The signup period for the drawing is now closed.  The drawing will take place on Tuesday, February 19th and winners will be contacted Tuesday evening. The TDP will also be holding a Debate Watch Party, from 6:30 to 10 p.m. on Thursday at the Hyatt Regency Austin, which Senator Obama and Senator Clinton will attend.  The watch party is now sold out.   We encourage you to watch the debate Thursday evening on CNN and Univision, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Democrats all across Texas are excited about the upcoming historic debate between Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton.  At a time when so many people have lost faith in our government thanks to the failed Republican policies of the Bush administration, our two outstanding candidates are ready to provide the change that Texas and America desperately need. While seating at the debate is limited, the TDP has secured 100 debate tickets, which will be made available to the general public through a random drawing.  The tickets will be evenly distributed between supporters of Senator Clinton and Senator Obama, with a number of tickets going to undecided voters. In order to be eligible for tickets, you must be a registered voter in the State of Texas.  The signup period for the drawing is now closed.  The drawing will take place on Tuesday, February 19th and winners will be contacted Tuesday evening.   The TDP will also be holding a Debate Watch Party, from 6:30 to 10 p.m. on Thursday at the Hyatt Regency Austin, which Senator Obama and Senator Clinton will attend.  The watch party is now sold out.   We encourage you to watch the debate Thursday evening on CNN and Univision, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.   2008-02-14T20:47:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/269/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/269/#When:00:02:00Z Candidate Filing for the 2008 Democratic Primary ballot came to a close on January 2nd, and the Texas Democrats will have an outstanding slate of candidates for 2008.  To view a list of candidates who filed for office with the TDP, please click here.  Candidates whose districts are comprised of only one county file with the Democratic Party in their county rather than with the TDP--you can view a partial list of those candidates here.  We will continue to update the list of county filings throughout the days ahead. The Candidates section of the TDP website has also been updated to reflect new filings.  You can see a list of candidates for President, Statewide Office, U.S. Congress, Texas Senate, Texas House, or State Board of Education.  The Candidates section will continue to expand as we gather more information. Candidate Filing for the 2008 Democratic Primary ballot came to a close on January 2nd, and the Texas Democrats will have an outstanding slate of candidates for 2008.  To view a list of candidates who filed for office with the TDP, please click here.  Candidates whose districts are comprised of only one county file with the Democratic Party in their county rather than with the TDP--you can view a partial list of those candidates here.  We will continue to update the list of county filings throughout the days ahead. The Candidates section of the TDP website has also been updated to reflect new filings.  You can see a list of candidates for President, Statewide Office, U.S. Congress, Texas Senate, Texas House, or State Board of Education.  The Candidates section will continue to expand as we gather more information. 2008-01-04T00:02:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/253/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/253/#When:15:53:00Z Senator John Cornyn just keeps ending up on top of Santa's Naughty List for saying one thing here in Texas and doing the exact opposite in Washington.  It's unfortunate that John Cornyn believes he can hide from the truth. But as the song says, Santa knows if you've been bad or good. And with John Cornyn speaking from both sides of his mouth, he's clearly been bad this year. Let's hope Santa gives him the lump of coal he deserves.  This Christmas, the TDP is exposing Cornyn's Scrooge-like record in a twelve part series. Senator John Cornyn just keeps ending up on top of Santa's Naughty List for saying one thing here in Texas and doing the exact opposite in Washington.  It's unfortunate that John Cornyn believes he can hide from the truth. But as the song says, Santa knows if you've been bad or good. And with John Cornyn speaking from both sides of his mouth, he's clearly been bad this year. Let's hope Santa gives him the lump of coal he deserves. This Christmas, the TDP is exposing Cornyn's Scrooge-like record in a twelve part series:   On the First Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Partisanship and Demagoguery On the Second Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Two Abandoned Veterans On the Third Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Three Disenfranchised Voters On the Fourth Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Four Undisclosed Earmarks On the Fifth Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Five Border Fence Lies On the Sixth Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Six Hurricane-Ravaged Homes On the Seventh Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Seven Undetected WMDs On the Eighth Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Eight Children Left Behind On the Ninth Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Nine Fired US Attorneys On the Tenth Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Ten (Million) Sick Children On the Eleventh Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Eleven Forgotten Military Bases On the Twelfth Day of Christmas, John Cornyn Gave to Me...Twelve Lapdog Cronies   2007-12-19T15:53:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/242/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/242/#When:00:21:00Z The 2008 filing season has begun, and Texas Democrats will be fielding an outstanding slate of candidates up and down the ballot.  Candidates have until January 2nd to file with Chairman Richie or their Democratic County Chair for a spot in the Democratic Primary.  Click here to view an up-to-date list of all the candidates who have filed so far. The 2008 filing season has begun, and Texas Democrats will be fielding an outstanding slate of candidates up and down the ballot.  Candidates have until January 2nd to file with Chairman Richie or their Democratic County Chair for a spot in the Democratic Primary.  Click here to view an up-to-date list of all the candidates who have filed so far. 2007-12-04T00:21:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/240/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/240/#When:22:23:00Z Five years after the Democratic defeats in the 2002 election, Burnt Orange Report is running a series of guest perspectives on the Democratic resurgence in Texas.  Chairman Richie contributed an essay on the turnaround here at the TDP, the strides Texas Democrats have made over the last few years, and our plans to move Texas forward in 2008 and beyond. Click the link below to read the full essay. Five years after the Democratic defeats in the 2002 election, Burnt Orange Report is running a series of guest perspectives on the Democratic resurgence in Texas.  Chairman Richie contributed an essay on the turnaround here at the TDP, the strides Texas Democrats have made over the last few years, and our plans to move Texas forward in 2008 and beyond. In the aftermath of the November, 2002 General Election, Democrats were left without any statewide office and had lost control of the Texas House as a result of the first round of redistricting battles. At the time, I was a State Democratic Executive Committee Member from Senate District 30 and I felt the same frustration and angst that our fellow Democrats were feeling statewide. Democrats were losing races even though our candidates offered better choices and opportunities for Texans, but it was clear our candidates and our Party were not effectively communicating our message to voters. In the months to come, analysts and consultants would try to determine what went wrong. But after that dark day in 2002, we were never presented with a course of action to turn things around and we learned that there was no quick fix to taking back our state. In the meantime, a "new" Republican controlled Texas Legislature was trying to undermine the choices of voters by attempting to pass a mid-decade redistricting map drawn and forced on the Texas Legislature by then Congressman Tom DeLay. In the short run, after ten months and three special sessions of courageous Democratic opposition, Delay won the battle. But in the long run, 2003 was the beginning of the end for Republicans in Texas. They had gone too far and Texas voters were taking notice. When the votes were counted in the November 2004 General Election, we lost some great Democratic leaders from Texas who served in the US Congress, but in the state legislature, Democrats did make small gains. For the first time in decades, Democrats made a net gain in the Texas House and voters across Texas decided they would no longer allow failed Republican politicians like Rick Perry and Tom Craddick to run roughshod over our state. Texans began to notice the Republican regime was kicking children off of CHIP and failing to put more money into our children's classrooms. And although the next election was two years away, I sensed that we might make greater progress in 2006 if we started organizing right away. As an SDEC Member, I listened to Democrats in my area to get a better idea of what voters were prepared to do to elect more Democrats to office. My wife Betty was with me every step of the way as we did whatever we could to promote the Democratic Party, and Betty was ultimately elected DNC Committeewoman. We were a two person team on a mission to rebuild a Texas Democratic Party that some were already writing off as nonexistent. When TDP Chairman Charles Soechting chose to step down, I consulted with my wife and Democratic friends around the state and decided to throw my hat in the ring for TDP State Chairman. After winning a unanimous vote from the SDEC in April of 2006 and then re-election at the State Convention, it was suddenly my responsibility to lead the mission to rebuild our Texas Democratic Party on a statewide level. With the support of other equally determined Democrats, we started making significant changes at the TDP. Immediately upon taking office, I made certain that the TDP was able to communicate its message in both English and Spanish, and for the first time in its history, the TDP had a full time bilingual spokesperson. We also worked to give Democratic organizers the tools they needed and unveiled our new state of the art Voter Activation Network, know as VAN. This voter file was used by campaigns across our state to effectively reach out to voters and get out the vote in all parts of Texas. But we didn't stop there. With an aggressive fundraising plan, the TDP was able to fund a tremendously successful voter contact program that used both direct mail and phone calls to promote a straight Democratic ticket. Our statewide candidates campaigned hard and worked diligently to motivate our base, but neither they nor the party had the kind of funds that had been used in previous coordinated campaigns, which are now even harder to fund due to the restrictive nature of campaign finance laws.  For the first time ever, the TDP found itself in a position where we had to fund a voter communication program to Democratic voters without funding provided by candidates through a coordinated campaign. After the dust cleared and the 2006 elections were finally over, and after a special election runoff in Congressional District 23, it was clear that in Texas, Democrats were on the rise. Through the collaborative efforts of Democrats across our state, we picked up six State House Seats, two U.S. House seats, and had turned Dallas and Hays County blue. It was clear that Christmas had come early for Democrats and I was proud that the TDP played an important part in this massive shift in momentum. More importantly, I knew we were just getting started. Immediately following the 2006 Election Cycle, the TDP hit the ground running. The first thing we did was conduct a statewide Town Hall Tour to find out what worked and didn't work in 2006. After we wrapped up the tour, we gathered all the information collected and began making improvements immediately. The TDP revamped its website for the second time in two years. Powered by Blue State Digital, the same company that manages the Democratic National Committee's website, Texas Democrats now have even more access to online tools to help them organize their precincts. Additionally, the TDP has updated the VAN on line voter file to incorporate even more data that will allow campaigns, Party leaders, and activists to better focus their resources and communicate with voters. Last, but certainly not least, the TDP has maintained its commitment to raise money in all parts of the state. As donors develop a renewed sense of confidence in the TDP, they are more willing to invest in our Party. In fact, the TDP has raised more money this year than in any of the previous four years, including the 2004 presidential election year. We are optimistic that successful statewide fundraising will enable us to expand on our 2006 voter contact program to reach even more Democratic voters in 2008. Coupled with an aggressive communications effort, we are working at TDP to provide grassroots and netroots activists with advancements that enable us to work together to continue the progress our Party has made since 2002. With areas like Harris County on the brink of turning blue, a vulnerable Republican U.S. Senator and other statewide offices up for the taking, and opportunities to pick up more legislative seats, I am certain we will make tremendous gains. It's only a matter of time and our will to work and win. Boyd Richie Chairman Texas Democratic Party 2007-11-19T22:23:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/226/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/226/#When:17:24:00Z The Texas Democratic Party is holding dozens of Delegate Selection Trainings all across the Lone Star State. In conjunction with members of the State Democratic Executive Committee, we will be holding at least one training in every Senate District, so no matter where you live, there will be a TDP workshop in your area. Click here to view a schedule of upcoming Delegate Selection Trainings and be sure to check back regularly—more upcoming trainings are added every week. The Texas Democratic Party is holding dozens of Delegate Selection Trainings all across the Lone Star State. In conjunction with members of the State Democratic Executive Committee, we will be holding at least one training in every Senate District, so no matter where you live, there will be a TDP workshop in your area. Click here to view a schedule of upcoming Delegate Selection Trainings and be sure to check back regularly—more upcoming trainings are added every week. 2007-11-08T17:24:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/219/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/219/#When:16:52:00Z Texas has a long tradition of proud military service.  No matter what happens, Texans supports its troops.  So when their honor and service come under fire from political pundits like Rush Limbaugh, who called troops who oppose the war "phony soldiers", we come to their defense, and we expect our elected officials to do the same. But from Republicans the silence has been deafening, especially from John Cornyn, who two weeks ago leapt to the defense of the US Armed Forces when he believed its reputation was impugned by a newspaper ad from MoveOn.org.  He immediately authored an amendment which strongly condemned both MoveOn and personal attacks on the honor and integrity of all members of the United States Armed Forces.  But now that it's Rush Limbaugh calling thousands of troops who disagree with his view on the war "phony soldiers", including senior Generals like John Batiste and Paul Eaton, Cornyn seems to have lost his voice. Texas has a long tradition of proud military service.  No matter what happens, Texans supports its troops.  So when their honor and service come under fire from political pundits like Rush Limbaugh, who called troops who oppose the war "phony soldiers", we come to their defense, and we expect our elected officials to do the same. But from Republicans the silence has been deafening, especially from John Cornyn, who two weeks ago leapt to the defense of the US Armed Forces when he believed its reputation was impugned by a newspaper ad from MoveOn.org.  He immediately authored an amendment which strongly condemned both MoveOn and personal attacks on the honor and integrity of all members of the United States Armed Forces.  But now that it's Rush Limbaugh calling thousands of troops who disagree with his view on the war "phony soldiers", including senior Generals like John Batiste and Paul Eaton, Cornyn seems to have lost his voice. Shouldn't Senator Cornyn be condemning Limbaugh's attack on our troops?  Where is the latest Cornyn legislation to decry Limbaugh's shameful attacks on our military?  Isn't anything less the height of hypocrisy, and proof that his original amendment was just a political game?  Or that Rush Limbaugh gets special treatment, even if he slanders thousands of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines? That's a lot of questions, and John Cornyn owes us the answers.  That's why it's time to call the Senator and ask him why he no longer believes it's important to support the troops.  Call his Senate office at 202-224-2934 and ask him why he hasn't introduced another amendment to defend our armed forces and condemn Rush Limbaugh.  And ask him to sign on to a letter from forty-one Senators to Clear Channel Communications CEO Mark Mays, demanding he publicly repudiate Limbaugh's comments and apologize to the men and women of our military.  We need Texas leaders that are willing to stand up and fight for our values, not politicians who have to test the political winds before deciding whether to support our troops.  Call Senator Cornyn and tell him that if we can't count on him to support our troops, we'll elect a Senator who will. 2007-10-15T16:52:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/207/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/207/#When:00:01:00Z On the TDP's recent Town Hall Tour, Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie met and shared ideas with local activists, elected officials, and Party leaders in 18 cities across the Lone Star State.  Click the video above to see highlights from the Town Hall Tour, a recap of our Democratic successes in 2006, and information about how the TDP is laying the foundation for victory next November. On the TDP's recent Town Hall Tour, Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie met and shared ideas with local activists, elected officials, and Party leaders in 18 cities across the Lone Star State.  The energy and enthusiasm among Texas is a powerful indication of the strength and momentum our Party has heading into the 2008 election.  Click the video below to see highlights from the Town Hall Tour, a recap of our Democratic successes in 2006, and information about how the TDP is laying the foundation for victory next November.   2007-09-26T00:01:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/199/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/199/#When:15:58:00Z The Texas Democratic Party is pleased to welcome State Representative Kirk England, a lifelong resident of Grand Prairie and a strong advocate for working families.  Representative England, who was elected to the State House as a Republican in 2006, made the courageous decision to become a Democrat because he felt Tom Craddick's extreme partisan agenda was not serving his constituents. The Texas Democratic Party is pleased to welcome State Representative Kirk England, a lifelong resident of Grand Prairie and a strong advocate for working families.  Representative England, who was elected to the State House as a Republican in 2006, made the courageous decision to become a Democrat because he felt Tom Craddick's extreme partisan agenda was not serving his constituents. "In December of 2005, when I filed to run for office, I made a promise to the hardworking families in our community to fight for our public schools, fight for affordable health care and to fight for them on pocketbook issues," England said. "After one session in the House, I found that the Republican leadership in Austin had no tolerance for the values and priorities of the folks I represent. That is why today I am announcing my intention to seek re-election to the Texas House as a Democrat." Texas Democratic Chairman Boyd Richie warmly welcomed Representative England to the Party.  "Representative Kirk England's decision shows courage and commitment to his district," Richie said. "Time and again, Representative England has stood up against the extreme partisan Republican leadership in Austin that has continually failed our state. He's a fighter for the people who elected him to serve and I am very pleased to welcome him to the Texas Democratic Party."  You can read more about Representative England's courageous decision in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, and see below for what our DFW-area Democratic lawmakers had to say. Dallas and Tarrant County Democratic Legislators Support Rep. England "I welcome Kirk England to the Democratic Party, more specifically the Dallas County Democratic Party.  His decision to seek reelection as a Democrat is reflective of his voting record supporting the economic well being of our communities and providing equal access to educational opportunities and demonstrates that the new Democratic Party agenda is reaching all segments of our community." --Senator Royce West (D-Dallas) "Kirk England and I have worked together on important issues to Grand Prairie and North Texas.  We're friends and neighbors, and I'm proud to support him."   --Representative Roberto Alonzo (D-Dallas) "Make no mistake about it - Kirk England has stood up time and time again to Austin strong arm tactics to do what's right for his district, and he'll have my full commitment and strong support." --Rep. Rafael Anchia (D-Dallas) "I am thrilled that Kirk England will be able to represent the folks in Grand Prairie and Irving without having Craddick in his face every day."  --Rep. Lon Burnam (D-Fort Worth) "I applaud Kirk England's commitment and principled decision to put his district ahead of partisan politics and stand up to the Republican leadership's extreme tactics and agenda in Austin.  I look forward to working with Kirk for a better Texas." --Rep. Yvonne Davis (D-Dallas) "I have great respect for Kirk England and we are very happy to welcome him into the fold."  --Rep. Helen Giddings (D-Dallas) "I've served in the House quite awhile; there's no one with more courage or who has earned more respect than Kirk England."  --Rep. Terri Hodge (D- Dallas) "I have always had enormous respect for Kirk England for fighting against the extreme partisan agenda in Austin and doing what's right by his district - I look forward to serving with him as a Democrat."             --Rep. Barbara Mallory Caraway (D-Dallas) "Kirk England is a man of honor and principle, I couldn't ask for a better friend and colleague and his district couldn't find a better leader."    --Rep. Paula Pierson (D-Arlington) "Kirk England is a thoughtful, well balanced and common sense legislator.  I know that his constituents will be better served and proud of his decision."    --Rep. Allen Vaught (D-Dallas) "Kirk England is making a gutsy move by standing up for his district and putting public education, healthcare and pocket book issues ahead of the failed leadership of Tom Craddick."  --Rep. Marc Veasey (D-Fort Worth) 2007-09-20T15:58:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/197/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/197/#When:18:20:00Z Chairman Boyd Richie announced the results of the TDP ePrimary Poll on Monday, and was joined by Elizabeth Edwards at the TDP Headquarters in Austin.  Mrs. Edwards accepted victory on behalf of her husband John, who won the ePrimary Poll with 37.65% of the vote.  Click "more" for exclusive pictures from this exciting event. Chairman Boyd Richie announced the results of the TDP ePrimary Poll on Monday, and was joined by Elizabeth Edwards at the TDP Headquarters in Austin.  Mrs. Edwards accepted victory on behalf of her husband John, who won the ePrimary Poll with 37.65% of the vote.  Here are several exclusive photos from the exciting event. Chairman Richie announces the ePrimary Poll results. Elizabeth Edwards Accepts  Dozens of reporters were on hand. Chairman Richie and Mrs. Edwards  Elizabeth Edwards    Photos by Abbie Joffrain. 2007-09-11T18:20:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/196/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/196/#When:17:56:00Z As we observe the 6th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attack, it is important to remember the men, women and children who tragically lost their lives that day, as well as the brave survivors who are still struggling to recover.  Today, our country stands together in remembrance of the victims of 9/11, in appreciation of the brave men and women who responded to this disaster and in support of the family and friends who are still grieving the loss of a loved one. -Boyd Richie  As we observe the 6th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attack, it is important to remember the men, women and children who tragically lost their lives that day, as well as the brave survivors who are still struggling to recover.  Today, our country stands together in remembrance of the victims of 9/11, in appreciation of the brave men and women who responded to this disaster and in support of the family and friends who are still grieving the loss of a loved one. -Boyd Richie  2007-09-11T17:56:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/195/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/195/#When:20:02:00Z Texas Democratic Party Chair Boyd Richie was joined by Elizabeth Edwards this afternoon to discuss the results of the TDP's recent ePrimary Poll, which Senator John Edwards won with over 37% of the vote. The ePrimary Poll was a weeklong online event that gave Texas Democrats an opportunity to make their voices heard in the presidential nomination process and express support for their favorite Democratic candidate.  Participation in the ePrimary Poll was open to all Texas Democrats who want to provide input as the Party chooses a presidential nominee. We'll have more information and photos after the event concludes!  Texas Democratic Party Chair Boyd Richie was joined by Elizabeth Edwards this afternoon to discuss the results of the TDP's recent ePrimary Poll, which Senator John Edwards won with over 37% of the vote. The ePrimary Poll was a weeklong online event that gave Texas Democrats an opportunity to make their voices heard in the presidential nomination process and express support for their favorite Democratic candidate.  Participation in the ePrimary Poll was open to all Texas Democrats who want to provide input as the Party chooses a presidential nominee. We'll have more information and photos after the event concludes! 2007-09-10T20:02:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/188/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/188/#When:16:00:00Z Here are the most updated results of the Texas Democratic ePrimary:  The Texas Democratic Party ePrimary Poll is a huge success, with over 7,900 Texans logging on to support their favorite candidate for President.  Results from the last few days' voting are now available, and we will continue to update them until the ePrimary Poll concludes.  Click here for more detailed results, or click here to cast your own vote for President. Here are the most updated results of the Texas Democratic ePrimary:  The Texas Democratic Party ePrimary Poll is a huge success, with over 7,900 Texans logging on to support their favorite candidate for President.  Results from the last few days' voting are now available, and we will continue to update them until the ePrimary Poll concludes.  Click here for more detailed results, or click here to cast your own vote for President. 2007-09-07T16:00:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/185/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/185/#When:21:24:00Z Attempting to snag some of the spotlight from Texas Republicans' upcoming straw poll, the state Democratic Party announced Thursday it is launching an online poll for the Democrats' presidential candidates. The Republican event, meanwhile, is losing more luster. Attempting to snag some of the spotlight from Texas Republicans' upcoming straw poll, the state Democratic Party announced Thursday it is launching an online poll for the Democrats' presidential candidates. The Republican event, meanwhile, is losing more luster. Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee became the latest GOP presidential candidate to decide against attending the Saturday event in Fort Worth because of a scheduling conflict, according to the state Republican Party. Party officials wanted all the major candidates to come, but even those who don't show up in person to speak to GOP activists will still have their names on the nonbinding straw poll ballot, said state party spokesman Hans Klingler. Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Arizona Sen. John McCain and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney previously said they aren't planning to attend. Among the candidates expected are Ron Paul, Duncan Hunter, John Cox, Hugh Cort and Ray McKinney. "They're running honest-to-God campaigns, and we're happy to have them," Klingler said. The Texas Democrats' online voting, called the ePrimary Poll, will run from Friday through Sept. 7. The party will post daily updates of vote tallies starting Tuesday. The winner will be announced Sept. 10. It's designed to "capture the tremendous excitement of the Democratic Party and involve more voters in the political process," said Texas Democratic Party chairman Boyd Richie. Anyone can vote in the online poll. All presidential candidates will be featured, along with profiles and messages from candidates, said party spokeswoman Amber Moon. The party acknowledges that some people may vote multiple times and that they may not be Texas Democrats. But Moon said the party has a computer program designed to help identify and eliminate multiple votes from the same person. She said the enthusiasm the voting will generate among Democrats will outweigh any downside of Internet balloting. Voters will have the option of sending e-mail notifications to their friends to urge them to vote, Moon said. At the Republican straw poll, attendees casting ballots must have been a delegate or alternate to a recent GOP state or national convention. They also must pay a $25 registration fee, or $50 the day of the event, and be present in Fort Worth for balloting. The winner will be announced Saturday. Though Republican Party officials estimate there will be thousands in attendance, a precise projection isn't available yet because registration is still occurring, Klingler said. Texas leaders of both political parties say they are trying to find ways to make Texas relevant early in the 2008 presidential primary season, beyond its role as a fundraising stop for candidates. With several other states holding earlier primaries, it's possible presidential nominees will be essentially decided before Texans vote. The Texas primary will be March 4. Both parties wanted the Legislature to move the primary up to Feb. 5, but the measure died in the final days of this year's legislative session. 2007-08-30T21:24:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/172/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/172/#When:22:10:00Z The New York Times reported earlier this week on a new directive from the Bush Administration that restricts access to the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and prevents states from enrolling more kids in the highly successful program.  On Tuesday, the Houston Chronicle also took a strong stance against Bush's decision.   These stringent set of rules is the latest attack in President Bush's continuous fight to limit CHIP, a fight many Republicans refuse to join -- except Republican political pet John Cornyn. The New York Times reported earlier this week on a new directive from the Bush Administration that restricts access to the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and prevents states from enrolling more kids in the highly successful program.  On Tuesday, the Houston Chronicle also took a strong stance against Bush's decision.   These stringent set of rules is the latest attack in President Bush's continuous fight to limit CHIP, a fight many Republicans refuse to join -- except Republican political pet John Cornyn.   Despite Congress's overwhelming bipartisan support for CHIP funding, Senator Cornyn stood behind President Bush and joined a small Republican minority in voting to deny millions of kids the opportunity to obtain quality health care.   And with 20% of Texas kids lacking health insurance - the highest rate of any state in the nation - it is critical that Texans have a U.S. Senator who represents their best interests, not the political interests of national Republicans.   It's time for John Cornyn to take a stand and oppose the White House's cynical efforts to deny kids the health care they need to live a happy, healthy childhood. Call on John Cornyn to do the right thing TODAY and speak out in your community using the Letter to the Editor feature on our website.   Texans deserve a Senator who's on our side.   2007-08-21T22:10:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/164/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/164/#When:20:54:01Z Do you enjoy gourmet food and fine wine?  Do you have a talent for squandering money on lavish parties and a bunch of useless junk?  Are you morally flexible enough to bend Texas' most important ethics rule? Governor Rick Perry wants YOU. With Phil Wilson's $80,000 payout and promotion to Secretary of State, Governor Perry's office has an opening for a new political Crony.  Responsibilities include selling access to the governor, attending sold-out sporting events like the Super Bowl and the NBA Finals, eating at 5-star restaurants, staying at luxurious hotels and pocketing an extra corporate paycheck from the TexasOne slush fund.  Click Here to apply for the cushiest part-time job in Texas. Do you enjoy gourmet food and fine wine?  Do you have a talent for squandering money on lavish parties and a bunch of useless junk?  Are you morally flexible enough to bend Texas' most important ethics rule? Governor Rick Perry wants YOU. With Phil Wilson's $80,000 payout and promotion to Secretary of State, Governor Perry's office has an opening for a new political Crony.  Responsibilities include selling access to the governor, attending sold-out sporting events like the Super Bowl and the NBA Finals, eating at 5-star restaurants, staying at luxurious hotels and pocketing an extra corporate paycheck from the TexasOne slush fund.  Click Here to apply for the cushiest part-time job in Texas. 2007-08-16T20:54:01-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/163/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/163/#When:21:03:00Z The VAN system is shifting into overdrive. The Texas Democratic Party is proud to announce TexasVAN 4.0, a new and updated version of our online voter file system that will help Democrats across Texas organize for victory in every district, county, precinct, and neighborhood.  TexasVAN 4.0 is faster, more reliable and easier to use.  It includes a number of new features, from easily customizable voter reports to a vastly enhanced "My Campaign" suite of tools for candidates.  The VAN is also now fully compatible with Firefox and Safari internet browsers.  The VAN system is shifting into overdrive. The Texas Democratic Party is proud to announce TexasVAN 4.0, a new and updated version of our online voter file system that will help Democrats across Texas organize for victory in every district, county, precinct, and neighborhood.  TexasVAN 4.0 is faster, more reliable and easier to use.  It includes a number of new features, from easily customizable voter reports to a vastly enhanced "My Campaign" suite of tools for candidates.  The VAN is also now fully compatible with Firefox and Safari internet browsers.  But these tools are only as good as the available data, which is why the TDP field staff is working in every county to make sure our Democratic candidates and local parties have the most updated lists of registered voters and accurate voting history information.  With 254 counties in Texas, that isn't an easy task, but the TDP is committed to providing the resources that will give our candidates a critical information advantage next year. The new TexasVAN is a powerful tool, but it's still missing one component-YOU!  In order elect more Democrats, our Party needs your help to organize locally, spread the Democratic message and get out the vote in 2008.  Every precinct chair is entitled to free VAN access--simply click here to request an account.   If you aren't a precinct chair but want to use TexasVAN to help in your neighborhood, contact your county chair today to find out how you can become a precinct chair and do your part to elect more Democrats.   Additionally, precinct-level VAN access is free to all Texas Majority Builders.  With a small monthly donation of $10 or more, these Democrats play a critical role in moving the Texas Democratic Party forward.  If you are already a Texas Majority Builder, I thank you for your support and invite you to sign up for a VAN account today.  If you would like to become a Texas Majority Builder, click here. TexasVan 4.0 is just the latest in a series of major investments in the TDP's infrastructure that will allow us provide more support to our county parties, Democratic candidates and local activists.  Individually, the new TDP headquarters, enhanced website, and upgraded voter file are all giant steps forward for our Party.  Together, they help form an organizational base for the campaign efforts that will help elect more Democrats in 2008.  Help us lay the foundation for victory-get your TexasVAN account by contacting your county chair to find out how you can be a precinct chair or signing up to be a Texas Majority Builder today. 2007-08-14T21:03:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/162/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/162/#When:18:25:01Z Texas Senator Mario Gallegos, the deciding vote to defeat so-called "voter ID" legislation in the Texas Legislature earlier this year, delivered the Democratic Party's weekly Hispanic radio address to the nation last weekend. In May, Gallegos put his life in peril by defying his doctor's orders, instead opting to stay in the state capitol following complications associated with a liver transplant earlier in the year, to deliver the deciding vote to defeat the legislation. The voter ID bill, part of a national Republican effort to disenfranchise minority voters, is strongly opposed by the League of Women Voters, AARP, and several civil rights organizations. Texas Senator Mario Gallegos, the deciding vote to defeat so-called "voter ID" legislation in the Texas Legislature earlier this year, delivered the Democratic Party's weekly Hispanic radio address to the nation last weekend. In May, Gallegos put his life in peril by defying his doctor's orders, instead opting to stay in the state capitol following complications associated with a liver transplant earlier in the year, to deliver the deciding vote to defeat the legislation. The voter ID bill, part of a national Republican effort to disenfranchise minority voters pass such legislation, is strongly opposed by the League of Women Voters, AARP, and several civil rights organizations. The radio address, delivered in Spanish, highlighted Republican efforts to suppress votes, and announced a nation-wide effort by the Democratic National Committee to combat those efforts and instead protect the voting rights of all Americans. "Texans already know because of my efforts against the Republicans' voter suppression bill that there is no issue of greater importance to me than protecting voting rights. I'm proud to have the opportunity to continue this important work by pointing out efforts by Republicans nation-wide to suppress the vote, and Democrats' efforts to protect that fundamental right," Gallegos said. In May when Gallegos killed the Republican's voter suppression legislation, Donna Brazile, Chair of the Democratic National Committee Voting Rights Institute, said, "Senator Gallegos was righteous in his fight against Republican voter suppression efforts, recognizing that a voter ID law amounts to nothing more than a modern day poll tax that works to disenfranchise minorities, immigrants, the elderly, young people and the disabled." Senator Gallegos' address was heard through local Univisión Radio, Latino Broadcasting Company, Radio Fórmula, Radiovisa, Radio Bilingüe, and CNN Radio Noticias affiliates last Saturday.  You can view the text of the address below, in both English and Spanish: English Text Good Morning. This is State Senator Mario Gallegos from Texas on behalf of the Democratic Party. Protecting the voting rights of every American is a high priority for me personally, and for my party. It is the one right without which we would have no others, and a basic requirement for our democracy to work. The Republican Party disagrees, and across the country has fought to make it harder for minorities, including Hispanics, to vote. In May I had the honor to vote against one such effort in Texas, when Republicans tried to push through a bill imposing strict restrictions on identification for voters. The fight was made harder by illness. I had just had a liver transplant, and one of my colleagues was suffering with a stomach virus. Just off the Senate Chamber, we had to have a hospital bed installed so I could take rest breaks while the debate unfolded. I was proud that our votes helped win that fight. But the battle is far from over, and goes beyond Texas. The recent scandal surrounding the firing of several U.S. Attorneys is based on the same issue. From Washington, the Republican Party pressured U.S. Attorneys to prosecute voter fraud cases, even when the evidence did not justify it. They needed those cases to support their strict Voter ID restrictions that would have made it harder for countless Hispanics and other minorities, as well as seniors, students, and even veterans to vote. When the U.S. Attorneys refused, many were fired. The scandal shows that the Republican Party puts partisan political interests ahead of governing, and ahead of the best interests of our country. We Democrats believe that democracy works best when all legally eligible voters can exercise their right to vote. We believe that we should make it easier, not harder for Americans to vote, and to have their vote counted. We need a President in the White House who agrees. Last week the Democratic National Committee announced a major project to survey every single county in the country, to identify potential problems at the polls and address them before Election Day. Teams of volunteer lawyers across the country will be working with that data to protect the right to vote for every American. But you don't have to be a lawyer or work at the state legislature to make a difference. At the end of the day, the biggest impact will come from each and every one of us understanding our rights, standing up to those who would try to take them from us, and exercising our right to vote. We saw the impact of our votes in November. Our votes changed the tone in Washington. In 2008 we can bring in new leadership to the White House that shares our values, and that once again puts our country's best interests first. Let's make it count. This is State Senator Mario Gallegos on behalf of the Democratic Party inviting you to learn more about your rights at www.democrats.org. Thank you for listening. Spanish Text Buenos días. Les habla el Senador Estatal Mario Gallegos desde Texas  a nombre del Partido Demócrata. Proteger el derecho a votar de todo  americano es una alta prioridad para mi personalmente, y también para mi partido.  Sin el derecho al voto,  no tendríamos ningún otro derecho, y  es  un requisito básico para que nuestra democracia funcione. El Partido Republicano no está de acuerdo, y alrededor del país ha intentado hacerle más dificil a las minorías, incluyendo a los hispanos, ejercer su voto. En mayo tuve el honor de votar en contra de semejante esfuerzo en Texas cuando los Republicanos trataron de impulsar un proyecto de ley que hubiera requirido estrictos tipos de identificación para poder votar. La lucha se nos hizo más dificil debido a la enfermedad. Yo acababa de recibir un transplante de higado, y uno de mis colegas sufría con un virus estomacal. Junto a la cámara del Senado tuvimos que instalar una cama de hospital, para que yo pudiera descansar mientras el debate se desarrollaba. Me siento orgulloso de que nuestros votos ayudaron a ganar esa pelea. Pero la batalla no  ha terminado y va más alla de Texas. El escándalo reciente sobre la despedida de varios fiscales federales tiene origen en el mismo tema. Desde Washington el Partido Republicano presionó a fiscales federales buscando que realizaran juicios sobre casos de fraude electoral, aún cuando la evidencia no lo justificaba. Necesitaban esos casos para apoyar sus restricciones de identificación de votantes, que le hubieran hecho más dificil a innumerables hispanos y otras minorías, al igual que a estudiantes, personas de la tercera edad, y hasta a veteranos poder ejercer su voto. Cuando los fiscales  se negaron, muchos fueron despedidos. El escándalo demostró que el Partido Republicano pone los intereses partidistas por delante de gobernar y de los mejores intereses del país. Nosotros los Demócratas creemos que la democracia funciona mejor cuando todos los votantes elegibles pueden ejercer su derecho a votar. Creemos que debemos hacerle más facil, no más dificil, a los Americanos votar, y que su voto sea contado. Necesitamos un Presidente en la Casa Blanca que esté de acuerdo. La semana pasada, el Comité Nacional Demócrata anunció un proyecto importante que revisará la aplicación de las leyes electorales en todos los condados del país para pronosticar y prevenir posibles problemas en las urnas antes del día de las elecciones. Equipos de abogados voluntarios en todo el país trabajarán con esa información para proteger el derecho a votar para todo estadounidense. Pero no se necesita ser abogado o trabajar en la legislatura estatal para hacer la diferencia. Al final del día, el impacto mayor se logrará si cada uno de nosotros entendemos nuestros derechos, los defendemos ante quienes nos los quieren quitar, y ejercemos nuestro derecho a votar. Vimos el impacto de nuestros votos en noviembre. Nuestros votos cambiaron el tono en Washington. En el 2008 podemos llevar nuevo liderazgo a la Casa Blanca que compartá nuestros valores, y que una vez más ponga los mejores intereses de nuestro país por delante. Hagámoslo contar. Les habló el Senador Estatal Mario Gallegos por el Partido Demócrata, invitandolos a conocer sus derechos en la página de internet www.democrats.org/espanol. Gracias por escuchar.   2007-08-10T18:25:01-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/158/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/158/#When:00:51:00Z Last night, Republican Senator John Cornyn once again stood with the most extreme Republican element in the U.S. Senate and voted against desperately needed funding for Children's Health Insurance Program, which provides health insurance for children of working families who cannot afford private coverage.  Despite the fact that one in five Texas kids lacks health insurance - the highest rate of any state in the nation - John Cornyn opposed bipartisan legislation that will give millions of children access to quality health care. Last night, Republican Senator John Cornyn once again stood with the most extreme Republican element in the U.S. Senate and voted against desperately needed funding for Children's Health Insurance Program, which provides health insurance for children of working families who cannot afford private coverage.  Despite the fact that one in five Texas kids lacks health insurance - the highest rate of any state in the nation - John Cornyn opposed bipartisan legislation that will give millions of children access to quality health care. "John Cornyn cannot claim to represent Texas, home to the highest rate of uninsured children in the nation, and then turn around and vote against CHIP funding," said Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie. "Cornyn's blind partisan loyalty has once again taken priority over the needs of working Texas families who deserve access to quality health care." Texas ranks higher than any other state with the number of children eligible for CHIP but not enrolled in the program.  Because of severe budget cuts and restrictions passed by the Republican-controlled State Legislature in 2003, CHIP enrollment has dropped by 40%, causing over 200,000 Texas kids to lose health care coverage. Without insurance, many parents have to take their kids to the emergency room to deal with a problem, instead of taking them to a doctor to prevent one. Thanks to House Democrats, some of the funding was restored by the State Legislature earlier this year.  But since CHIP is a partnership between the state and federal governments, Texas kids who are eligible for CHIP could be denied coverage if Congress does not fund the program at a higher level.  The bill Cornyn voted against calls for a funding level of $35 billion over the next five years, seven times the $5 billion supported by President Bush. "Politicians like John Cornyn and the failed Republican leadership in Austin take care of their special interest friends, but make it harder for working Texans to take care of their families," said Richie. "Cornyn can rationalize his vote against CHIP until the cows come home, but his Republican lip service doesn't help one child see a doctor." "Last year, voters called for change, but all they get from Texas Republicans is more of the same. Democrats will continue to challenge John Cornyn's partisan record of failure and work to elect a Senator who Texans can trust," added Richie. 2007-08-04T00:51:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/150/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/150/#When:00:28:01Z Today, the Republican Party of Texas named a new Executive Director, former State Rep. Talmadge Heflin, a man twice rejected by the voters of his Harris County district.  Talmadge Heflin was defeated in 2004 and again in 2006 because of his role as a poster boy for a Republican Party that puts special interests before the best interests of Texas voters. As Executive Director of the RPT, Heflin will still be carrying water for Republican contributors and their political cronies in 2008. Today, the Republican Party of Texas named a new Executive Director, former State Rep. Talmadge Heflin, a man twice rejected by the voters of his Harris County district.  Talmadge Heflin was defeated in 2004 and again in 2006 because of his role as a poster boy for a Republican Party that puts special interests before the best interests of Texas voters. As Executive Director of the RPT, Heflin will still be carrying water for Republican contributors and their political cronies in 2008. "The hiring of twice defeated Talmadge Heflin provides indisputable proof that the Republican Party is way out of step with Texas voters," said Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie.   "When Heflin had to choose between making the special interests pay their fair share or cutting the heart of the state budget, Heflin cut 200,000 children off of CHIP, forced students to use out of date textbooks in classrooms, and proposed a tax on groceries." Richie recalled. "After Heflin's failure as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee in 2003, the voters who knew him best said ‘no' to misplaced Republican priorities."   Heflin's 2004 defeat was the first clear signal that Texas voters were getting fed up with Republican politicians who don't represent their interests. "Talmadge Heflin's record as a state representative and his rejection by the voters is the perfect resume for the Republican Party of Texas in 2008," added Richie. "No matter who heads the Republican Party organization, Texas voters are looking for a change from Republican leadership that has failed hard working Texas families." 2007-07-31T00:28:01-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/131/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/131/#When:19:45:00Z Throughout 18 cities and nearly 10,000 miles of travel, the Texas Democratic Party's recent Town Hall Tour was a huge success.  From Texarkana to El Paso, Chairman Boyd Richie visited with thousands of Democrats who asked questions, made suggestions and shared their experiences.  The turnout and the enthusiasm at these town halls showed that Texas Democrats are unified, energized and eager to win in 2008.  We defied expectations in 2006, and now we have the momentum and the commitment to carry us to even greater success in 2008.  And the Town Hall Tour is just the beginning. Throughout 18 cities and nearly 10,000 miles of travel, the Texas Democratic Party's recent Town Hall Tour was a huge success.  From Texarkana to El Paso, Chairman Boyd Richie visited with thousands of Democrats who asked questions, made suggestions and shared their experiences.  The turnout and the enthusiasm at these town halls showed that Texas Democrats are unified, energized and eager to win in 2008.  We defied expectations in 2006, and now we have the momentum and the commitment to carry us to even greater success in 2008.  And the Town Hall Tour is just the beginning. The TDP staff is currently in the process of compiling the many ideas and opinions we received at the Town Hall meetings, and we will be using that information in order to develop exciting new initiatives to help Democrats organize in every community and move Texas forward. In the coming months, the TDP will be unveiling a new program that will tap into the tremendous energy we've seen among Democrats all across the state.  This grassroots team will be open to any Democrat who wants to actively participate in our Party's campaign for victory in 2008.  Each team member will be given goals, instructions, and tools from the TDP to help move Texas forward, one step at a time.  This is truly an exciting time to be a Texas Democrat, but the best is yet to come.  While 2006 was a great year for our Party, 2008 can be even better - but only if we get started TODAY building a strong foundation for next year's election. With every Texas Democrat doing their part, there is no limit to what we can accomplish!   2007-07-30T19:45:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/138/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/138/#When:17:41:00Z The DNC's 2007 Democratic Reunion was all about taking real action.  Where Republicans have offered us only talk and empty promises, Democrats are making real changes to improve our environment.  Our Democrats in Congress will be proposing bold new Energy Independence Day Legislation to curb emissions, protect our air and water, and fight global warming.  And Texas Democrats took action on a local level at the Democratic Reunion on July 28th, when Democratic groups across the state gathered to clean up and protect the environment in their neighborhoods. The DNC's 2007 Democratic Reunion was all about taking real action.  Where Republicans have offered us only talk and empty promises, Democrats are making real changes to improve our environment.  Our Democrats in Congress will be proposing bold new Energy Independence Day Legislation to curb emissions, protect our air and water, and fight global warming.  And Texas Democrats took action on a local level at the Democratic Reunion on July 28th, when Democratic groups across the state gathered to clean up and protect the environment in their neighborhoods. Below are some photographs from the Austin Democratic Reunion, where the TDP staff teamed up with the Texas Environmental Democrats and some outstanding volunteers to help beautify Blunn Creek Nature Preserve in South Austin.  If you went to a Democratic Reunion and took pictures, we'd like to showcase them on our website as well.  Please email them to jthompson@txdemocrats.org. Texas Environmental Democrats get ready to work Putting in new plants to preserve a local spring. Texas Democrats--blazing a trail. Texas Environmental Democrats Cecilia Crossley and Fidel Acevedo working on the trail. 2007-07-30T17:41:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/132/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/132/#When:20:36:00Z This week, John Cornyn proved once again that he represents the political interests of Karl Rove, rather than the best interests of middle-class Texans, in the U.S. Senate.  Cornyn, who is suffering from low approval ratings, has enlisted presidential advisor and political ally Karl Rove to appear at a series of fundraisers he is holding this weekend. [Houston Chronicle, 7/11/07]  Cornyn has unfailingly promoted the Bush Administration’s failed policies in the Washington. “From the day he arrived in Washington, John Cornyn has proven to be Karl Rove’s most faithful servant in the U.S. Senate.  The White House can always count on Cornyn to toe the Republican Party line and gladly champion their failed policies,” said Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie. “By placing politics over the people of Texas, it’s no secret who John Cornyn truly represents in the Senate.”   Cornyn’s long-time association with Rove, who first recruited him to run for office, has benefited his political career – until now.  Recent Survey USA polling has shown Cornyn’s approval ratings consistently hovering well below 50% -- dangerously low for an incumbent Senator.  As a result, Cornyn is trying to downplay his devotion to Rove and the Administration, claiming this week, "I work for the people of Texas. I don't work for anyone who comes from the beltway of Washington, D.C." he said. [Dallas Morning News, 7/17/07]  Yet Cornyn has aligned himself with the White House on everything from limiting access to quality health care for Texans to restricting educational opportunity for our children to dismissing the politically motivating firings of nine U.S. Attorneys as a “political witch hunt.” [ABC News, This Week, 3/18/07]   “It is hypocritical for Cornyn to dismiss his extreme partisan credentials and then use his friend Karl Rove to raise money the very next weekend.  His transparent attempt to distract from his real record of failure with hollow rhetoric is cynically designed to mislead Texas voters,” added Richie.  “But Texas Democrats won’t let Cornyn run from his dismal record and will make sure is held accountable to voters in 2008.” 2007-07-20T20:36:00-07:00 http://www.txdemocrats.org/2/ http://www.txdemocrats.org/2/#When:20:59:00Z (Austin, TX) – Today, Texas Democratic Party Chair Boyd Richie called on Republican U.S. Senator John Cornyn (TX) to recuse himself from the Senate Ethics Committee investigation into Republican Senator Pete Domenici (NM) over potential ethics violations in the firing of former U.S. attorney David Iglesias, citing Cornyn’s repeated public statements prejudging the matter.(Austin, TX) – Today, Texas Democratic Party Chair Boyd Richie called on Republican U.S. Senator John Cornyn (TX) to recuse himself from the Senate Ethics Committee investigation into Republican Senator Pete Domenici (NM) over potential ethics violations in the firing of former U.S. attorney David Iglesias, citing Cornyn’s repeated public statements prejudging the matter. 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