History Lesson: Joe Straus and Planned Parenthood

When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice;
But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.
Proverbs 29:2

Heading into the second special session of the 83rd Texas Legislature, Cahnman's Musings is thrilled to see how many ideologically sympathetic Christians are paying detailed attention for the first time.  This type of civic stewardship has been missing in America for a long time.  Welcome.

Cahnman's Musings feels led to warn you about the political games that get played in the Texas Legislature.  The Texas Legislature, especially the Republican leadership of the Texas House, loves to talk a big game while working behind the scenes to maintain the status quo.  Behind most of the shenanigans, you find Texas House Speaker Joe Straus (R - Lobbyists San Antonio).

And Joe Straus has a long history with Planned Parenthood.

During the 1990's, Straus' wife served on the board for the San Antonio chapter of Planned Parenthood.  In 2007, Straus co-authored sex-ed legislation that was supported by Planned Parenthood.  In 2008, Planned Parenthood donated money to Straus' re-election campaign.  In 2009, Planned Parenthood thanked Straus for his efforts (after he had become speaker).  Just yesterday, Straus sided with Wendy Davis over Governor Perry.

During the first special session, there was speculation that Straus was working to delay the bill.  Who knows?!?  But it does seem strange that a shrewd legislative tactician like Joe Straus would mismanage the calendar by accident.

As a Christian, we believe in grace.  But as a Reaganite, we also believe in 'trust but verify.'  It is time for the Republican leadership in the Texas House to verify.

Babies lives are at stake.  This is no time for political games from the Republican leadership of the Texas House. Cahnman's Musings will be watching.