2016 Texas Republican Runoff Election: YOUR Conservative/Libertarian Voter Guide!!!

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

With early voting underway in the 2016 Republican Runoff, Cahnman's Musings makes the following endorsements:

STATEWIDE -- Texas Railroad Commission

Wayne Christian:

Read our previous endorsement here; read our endorsement from the 2014 cycle here.

With this race, we have an opportunity to fix the greatest injustice of the 2014 cycle.

Let's take it.


STATEWIDE -- Judicial

Ray Wheless (Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 2):

Read our previous endorsement for Ray Wheless here.

In addition, Judge Wheless won't be a rubber stamp for prosecutors.  That's often a problem in criminal cases.  Judge Wheless' record also suggests he will take a sane and rational approach to low level drug offenses.

While the worst candidate for this seat was eliminated in the first round, we remain unenthusiastic about Judge Wheless' opponent.

Brent Webster (Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 5):

If we can only communicate one message to voters, it's this: The Governor of Wisconsin is NOT running for a judicial position in Texas.

Richard Scott Walker is an unqualified Dallas-based attorney who put his name on the ballot in such a way that it allows him to coast off of the Wisconsin governor's name recognition.  That's the only reason he made the runoff.  It's also worth pointing out that, at least to our knowledge, Walker hasn't spoken to a single grassroots group during this entire campaign.

Brent Webster, by contrast, is an actual attorney with meaningful criminal law experience.  While his background in the Williamson county DA's office makes us nervous, we've gotten to know him over the past few months and are comfortable he will treat defendants with fairness and respect.  FWIW, he's also been endorsed by every conservative group in Texas.

TEXAS SENATE

Bryan Hughes (District 1):

Let's make it official: We're switching sides.

Obviously, we endorsed David Simpson in the first round.  Heck, we gave David money back in December.  But we cannot support David's actions during the runoff.

Since this campaign moved into the runoff, David Simpson has gotten into bed with the Ratliff family.  He's been endorsed by ParentPAC.  His attacks on Ken Paxton were the final straw.

Fortunately, Bryan Hughes also got into this race.  Bryan is a conventional conservative who will vote in a predictable manner.  In the Texas Senate, at this point, a consistent 20th vote is more important than anything else.

This race was always a close call.  Both candidates are good Christian men, but neither is perfect.  Either one will be mostly good on most issues most of the time, and they have both made bewildering decisions over the years.

Nevertheless, at this point, we're just more comfortable with Bryan.

Sometimes you need to swallow your pride and hop in a life boat.  Stubbornly clinging to a sinking ship doesn't help anyone.  Especially when the ship is sinking due to it's own design failures.

Dawn Buckingham (District 24):

Read our previous endorsement of Dawn Buckingham here.








TEXAS HOUSE

The Stickland Six:

Jonathan Stickland is currently supporting the following six House candidates in runoffs:

• Keith Strahan (Liberty, San Jacinto, Walker counties); previously donated.
• John Keating (Collin, Rockwall counties)
• Briscoe Cain (Eastern Harris County)
• Read King (Denton County); previously endorsed.
• Kyle Biedermann (Comal, Gillespie, Kendall counties).

• Cole Hefner (Camp, Morris, Rains, Smith, Titus, Wood counties). 

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION

Mary Lou Bruner (District 9):

We don't agree with Donna Garner on everything, but we do agree with her on issues related to the State Board of Education:

"Texas public school students, parents, and teachers badly need Mary Lou Bruner on the SBOE. Mary Lou is now retired; but she worked for 36 years in the Texas public schools as a teacher, counselor, and educational diagnostician. She knows how children think. She also knows the best ways to help them learn the foundational knowledge and skills that parents want their children to know. Mary Lou will not be fooled by those who want to indoctrinate our Texas children into anti-American thinking nor by those people who see no need for children to learn the basic skills needed for success (e.g., phonics, grammar, usage, spelling, cursive, math facts, etc.)."

The fact that Mary Lou Bruner's election will give both Thomas Ratliff and the so-called Texas "Freedom" Network conniption fits doesn't hurt either.

David Simpson and the Educrats: Strike Two

Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”
1 Corinthians 15:33

First he gets into bed with the Ratliff family, now this:

Seventeen East Texas school superintendents have endorsed David Simpson for Senate District 1 in the May 24 runoff, including Longview ISD Superintendent James Wilcox.

Simpson faces state Rep. Bryan Hughes in the GOP runoff.

"I feel Rep. Simpson was responsive when he represented the district in the House," Wilcox said Friday. "The No. 1 reason I am endorsing Simpson is that I don't think David will be influenced by outside groups or interests. When you have an elected official that is controlled by interests in his home district, he has no representation at all. I think he will be his own man and will not be pressured by outside groups or individuals."

White Oak ISD Superintendent Michael Gilbert said he has met and worked in past legislative sessions with Simpson and Hughes.

"(Simpson) will be a strong voice for all students in the Senate district, despite the efforts of our lieutenant governor to divert taxpayer funds to finance private schools," Gilbert said in a statement.

Simpson said he looks ahead to public school funding in the next legislative session.

"As we enter the next legislative session, funding battles for our public schools will be the greatest challenge faced by our elected officials," Simpson said in a statement.

[Author's Note: Emphasis added.]

Read the whole thing here.

The Increasingly Indefensible Campaign of David Simpson

Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”
1 Corinthians 15:33

Earlier this cycle, we endorsed David Simpson.  We've donated money.  Unfortunately, since the race moved to the runoff, David's behavior has given us serious misgivings.

When the race began, it made sense.  Both David Simpson and Bryan Hughes are pro-Life.  Both are strong fiscal conservatives, but David historically has been a little better on corporate welfare.  It was a close call, but we were comfortable that we liked David just a little bit more.

But the past few weeks have severely tested that assessment, specifically on education.

About a month ago, Empower Texans noted:

And in an email to supporters on March 10, Simpson wrote that school choice plans that would “substantially alter public education is not in the best interest of our children, their parents, or the school districts in Senate District 1.”

Then, on Wednesday, David announced an endorsement:

Mount Pleasant – Today, former Lt. Governor Bill Ratliff endorsed Representative David Simpson in his May 25th runoff bid to replace retiring Senator Kevin Eltife.

"While we don't agree on every issue, we agree that Northeast Texas needs a Senator who represents us and is not beholden to anyone or any special interests,” said Ratliff.

“Senator Ratliff’s tenure in public office was a hallmark of political courage. He served with integrity and honor. He frequently took stands on difficult issues in face of withering criticism and did so for one reason only – it was the right thing to do for Senate District 1. I am honored to have his support,” said Simpson.

“In the words of Winston Churchill, “You have enemies? Good, that means you've stood up for something." I'm sure some will attempt to twist and diminish this endorsement against me, but that's okay. Senator Ratliff and I have stood on principle and what we believe is right, not what is popular. I will continue to stand on principle,” Simpson concluded.

Ratliff served in the Texas Senate from 1988 to 2004. When Governor George W. Bush was elected to the presidency in 2000, a vacancy occurred in the lieutenant governor’s office as Rick Perry ascended to the governor’s mansion. Upon Perry’s ascension, Ratliff was elected by his Senate colleagues to serve as lieutenant governor.

So David Simpson is crawling into bed with the Ratliff family....

---

Now you might be asking yourself "who is the Ratliff family"?!?  If you've never heard of Bill Ratliff, there's a good chance you've heard of his sons.  One is named Bennett and the other is Thomas.

Bennett Ratliff is a  liberal former state representative who has run against Matt Rinaldi the last several election cycles.  Most recently, Bennett Ratliff was seen accusing Matt Rinaldi of being friends with Bill Cosby.  Real winner there....

Thomas Ratliff, Bill's son and Bennett's brother, is a pro-Common Core lobbyist for Microsoft.  For the past 6 years, he has also been serving illegally on the state board of education while a registered lobbyist.  You can read our archive on Thomas Ratliff here.

Bill Ratliff, the father, sponsored George W. Bush's signature education bill as a member of the Texas Senate in 1995.  During his time in the legislature (both as a Senator and Lite Guv), he was a well known ally of the education lobby.  Since leaving office, Ratliff has continued to align himself with the education lobby.

You get the picture.

---

The worst part is that, while there's no moral or substantive reason to get anywhere near the Ratliff family, it does make a certain amount of perverse political sense.

Unfortunately, Senate district 1 is a rural district where, in many communities, the school district is the largest employer.  And those educrats vote!  So if you're looking to win a low turnout runoff, and most of the grassroots organizations in the district are supporting the other guy, pandering to the educrats is a logical strategy.

Bottom Line: We're not ready to withdraw our support...yet, but the type of support David Simpson has cultivated since this race moved to the runoff is raising major red flags and is rapidly approaching the point of becoming a deal-breaker.

David Simpson: Saddle Up Texas!!!

"He has shown you, O man, what is good;
And what does the Lord require of you
But to do justly,
To love mercy,
And to walk humbly with your God?"
Micah 6:8

FANTASTIC appearance for David Simpson a few years ago in Houston:



Highlights:

• "We have neglected individual responsibility and freedom and idolized government force."

• "Like Israel of old, we have become willing slaves of force."

• "It's not just the force of a King, or even of a few oligarchs, but the force of an overwhelming bureaucracy with a multitude of new offices and swarms of officers that harass us and eats our substance."

• "Civil government and minions are a poor substitute for free men and women."

• "We complain about licensing and regulation, but because it gives us an advantage against the competition, we support it."

• "The takeover of the Health Care industry is not limited to the Federal government."

• "Our bodies and our health are individual responsibilities, not the government."

• "There can be no real charity or love where it is forced."

• "Socialism confuses the distinction between government and society."

• "Do you wish to see the poor cared for?!?  Then care for them yourself and persuade others to do the same."

• "The Tea Party arose because of decades of irresponsibility by those who claim to be conservative."

• "We must relinquish our idolatrous attachment to force."

• "The sword is a poor tool for production and for healing."

• "Freedom can not be forced on people, they must seek it and learn to love it, despite the risks."

David Simpson: God and Governing

"Do not strive with a man without cause,
If he has done you no harm."
Proverbs 3:30

David Simpson spoke with the Trib last fall about the intersection of scripture and civil government:



Highlights:

• "We only really need government when we don't use that Freedom responsibly and we harm our neighbor."

• "Under the new covenant, I don't think we even need civil government."

• "Most sins are self-correcting."

• "We're not made to be robots, we're not to be slaves, we're to be free and responsible independent human beings."

• "When I do talk about my Christian convictions it's usually to speak to other Christians, because many times they are conservatives but they just want to take the gun out of the liberal's hands and turn it on them, and I want to take the gun out of everybody's hand and lay it on the table and have a voluntary discussion."

• "The only time we should really use force is when you commit aggression."

• Influence should be through discourse, not coercion.

• "I don't think you should have to have a licence from the government to defend yourself in the means that you think is best."

• Pot is a plant, compared to the chemical substances uses to make hard drugs.

• Death Penalty has a place "when you commit aggression."

• Sex Ed: "I think it should be taught at home."

• "I did not support government's expansion to pre-K."

• "Government is not our savior."

• "One of the problems right now with the border is the drug war, and until we solve the drug war, we're going to have a porous border."

• "Churches should do much more that the government is doing today."

David Simpson and Brent Mayes on ENDING Texas' SANCTUARY CITIES

"Do not remove the ancient landmark,
Nor enter the fields of the fatherless;"
Proverbs 23:10

Earlier today, the Texas Senate held an interim hearing on sanctuary cities; nothing interesting happened at the hearing, but that does make it a good time to review where candidates stand on the issue.

First thing first, David Simpson is the only Texas Senate candidate to have called for a special session to eliminate sanctuary cities:

“We must uphold the rule of law within our jurisdiction under our constitutional republic and stop the implementation of sanctuary city policies. How can we complain about the federal government not enforcing immigration law, if we will not uphold our end of the bargain? I support the Governor’s decision to end sanctuary city policies which undermine the fabric of our society. However, we should do it now and not wait till 2017. If sub-political sections of our state will not fulfill their responsibilities, then the Legislature should reign them in now in a special session.”

Next, Brent Mayes:

We can do much with simple things that cost little or nothing. We can eliminate sanctuary cities, have mandatory e-verify, stop in-state tuition for illegals, and cut off all non emergency social services for those here illegally. These are the least we can do as first steps.

Bottom Line: Both of these open seat candidates will be LIGHT YEARS better on this issue than the retiring RINO's they're going to replace!!!

Simpson calls BS on Abbott's #ConCon Stunt

"And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction."
1 Corinthians 7:35

Amen, good for David Simpson:

The Constitution is not the problem. It’s elected officials that won’t stand up and enforce the strict... https://t.co/VEPeQKMFwu

— David Simpson (@davidsimpsontx) January 10, 2016

Campaign Donation Disclosure: $25 to DAVID SIMPSON (in Rick Perry's NAME)....

"Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord,
But a just weight is His delight."
Proverbs 11:1

We've been considering Rick Perry's indefensible endorsement against Jonathan Stickland.  That's certainly an offense worthy of breaking out the debit card, but a) we've already given Stickland money, b) Stickland is in good shape financially (with an upcoming fundraiser), and c) Stickland's going to win his race.  There is, however, a VERY competitive Texas Senate race where Rick Perry has also endorsed AGAINST a vocal opponent of corporate welfare.

Then we remembered that (like this website) Jonathan Stickland has endorsed David Simpson!!!



Which is how we ended up here:

Bottom Line: David Simpson was the first Republican to oppose Rick Perry's corporate welfare slush funds.  Without David Simpson, there never would have been a Jonathan Stickland.  To send a message to Rick Perry in a race where it will make a difference, donate to David Simpson here.

David Simpson, Certain Former Governors, and "Economic Development" SLUSH FUNDS

"Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord,
But a just weight is His delight."
Proverbs 11:1

On Tuesday, Rick Perry endorsed David Simpson's opponent in the Texas Senate race; considering the history, we find this turn of events amusing.

Rewind to 2011:

Only two Republicans voted against the proposed budget. We Texans commends Freshman Rep. David Simpson and Rep. Aaron Pena who cast those dissenting votes. According to the Texas Observer, consistent with my own conversations with Mr. Simpson, “…the Tea Party representative voted against the bill. He said he decided against it when he saw ‘half billion dollars going to corporate welfare instead of the weak among us.’ In particular, he wanted to see funding decreased for corporate incentives, like the film incentives and the governor’s Enterprise Fund, in favor of schools and health care.” Newly minted Republican Aaron Pena was the only other dissenting Republican vote.

[Author's Note: Emphasis added.]

Again, in 2013:

The Texas House on Friday sent Gov. Rick Perry a bill to ensure state support for a college football playoff game at Cowboys Stadium.

The vote was 130-4.

Four Republicans, all elected with tea party backing, voted no.

One of them, Rep. David Simpson, R-Longview, has criticized state tax subsidies for corporations, artistic endeavors such as movies and special events.

As Simpson explained:

“During my first session [2011], the governor (Perry) invited me into his office four times. The fourth time was to call me on the carpet for opposing his corporate welfare schemes,” Simpson said in an interview.

Bottom Line: The various 'economic development' funds available to the Governor were not always as unpopular as they are today.  Five years ago, David Simpson was a lone voice opposing corporate welfare.  Considering the history, Rick Perry's endorsement of David Simpson's opponent isn't surprising in the least.

For which Texas Conservatives should be THANKFUL....

"Oh, give thanks to the Lord!
Call upon His name;
Make known His deeds among the peoples!"
1 Chronicles 16:8

While Texas Conservatives are justifiably livid with the lousy legislative results we've seen at both the state and federal level in 2015, it's worth taking today to consider how far we've come since 2010.  Five years ago, we had nothing; today, we've got footholds across all levels of government that we can reasonably expect to grow over the next few cycles.  Consider the following:

• Ted Cruz:
  
  
  
  We'll leave it to others to debate if he's the front-runner.  The fact remains, one of the strongest contenders for the Presidential nomination (who, if he were to secure the nod, would be the instant general election favorite as the Republican nominee) is someone grassroots Texans elevated to his current position against the wishes of both the Austin establishment AND the D.C. establishment.  By itself, that's something worth celebrating.
• Dan Patrick:
  
  
  
  Historically, the office of Texas Lt. Governor has been the most powerful position in state government.  Today, we have not only the most conservative Lt. Governor Texas has ever seen, we have someone who consistently punches above his weight in political negotiations.  Even better, he's someone who understands how to use the power his office grants him to advance conservative policy objectives.

• Ken Paxton:
  
  
  
  Over the past year, no one has done more to protect Texans from Washington D.C's ravenous appetite.  Closer to home, Ken has rebuked governmental lawlessness whether it comes from Travis County probate courts or the University of Texas.  No one has done more to protect our religious liberty.

• Wallace Hall:
  
  
  
  Over the past five years, no one has been subjected to more personal abuse for doing his job than University of Texas Regent Wallace Hall.  In doing that job, Wallace has turned up evidence that some of the most notorious RINO's in Texas have abused their offices to assist their cronies.  While the current days at the University of Texas are dark, patriots like by Wallace Hall make the long term future bright...#HookEmWallace!!!

• Louie Gohmert:
  
  
  
  While the rest of Texas' congressional delegation is mediocre at best, Louie Gohmert remains a consistent conservative superstar.  Most recently, Louie voted against Paul Ryan for Speaker; similarly he voted against the TARP bailout and every screwy fiscal "deal" we've seen since Obama was inaugurated.  If the other Republicans acted more like Louie Gohmert, the other Republicans would be in a lot less trouble.

• More Conservative U.S. House Challenger than we can count:
  
  
  
  Speaking of Congress, there are currently 25 Republicans in Texas' U.S. House delegation.  Of those 25, at least 9 have credible primary challengers.  Several of them will win in 2016 and those that fall short will set Texas conservatives up for another fantastic cycle in 2018.
  
  
  
  
  
• Konni Burton, Bob Hall, and Don Huffines:
  
  
  
   While the Texas Senate has been slowly trending conservative for a decade, last cycle these three kicked that transition into high gear.  All three knocked off notorious liberals, one of whom was a Democrat (honorable mention also goes to Donna Campbell, who accomplished something similar in 2012).  While other members of the Texas Senate are also more conservative than the person they replaced, none of these three had the luxury of running in a special election.
• David Simpson:
  
  
  
  While there are a couple dozen solid conservatives in the Texas Legislature, no one understands Christian grace quite like David Simpson.  David Simpson brings a level of humility about the effectiveness of government others would be well served to match.  As Simpson explains: "Even when we make a wrong choice, it's usually self-correcting if it's not subsidized by the government."
• Jonathan Stickland:
  
  
  
  "Mr. Speaker, does the gentleman yield for a question?!?"  Nothing strikes terror in the hearts of the criminals and reprobates that populate the Texas House of Representatives quite like that one.  For more reasons than we can count, Jonathan Stickland is a courageous voice for righteousness in a wicked legislative body.
• Matt Rinaldi:
  
  
  
  See everything we just said about Jonathan Stickland and add a more conservative voting record.  Prior to being sworn in, Matt Rinaldi danced circles around of the most intellectually feeble RINO's in the Texas House of Representatives.  Matt Rinaldi is on our short lists of legislators we'd like to see run statewide the next time we play musical chairs in 2022.
• The rest of the Scott Turner 19:
  
  
  
  It would take too long to personally thank each member of the Texas House who voted for Scott Turner for Speaker.  Suffice to say, this election season wouldn't look as promising as it does if we hadn't gotten that recorded vote on the first day of this past legislative session.  Kudos also to Scott personally for seeing that race through to the end.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• More Conservative #TXLEGE challengers than we can count:
  
  
  
  We're not sure how many dozens of Texas Legislative primaries have solid conservatives running either against incumbents or for open seats, but it's A LOT of them.  March 1st is GOING TO BE a good night.  The inevitable long-term trend will continue.
• Austin killing THREE BONDS IN THREE YEARS: 
  
  
  
  First the 2013 Austin ISD bond.  Then the 2014 rail bond.  Most recently, the 2015 Courthouse bond.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Don Zimmerman and Ellen Troxclair:
  
  
  
  Finally, we would be remiss if we didn't acknowledge our two spectacular conservatives on the Austin City Council.  Don and Ellen have stopped bad things, promoted good things where they could, and (even when unsuccessful in the final vote) forced the Council to discuss our agenda.  Don and Ellen are an example Republican elected officials across all levels of government would be well served to emulate.

Bottom Line: It's easy to become frustrated with the day to day nonsense, but that's a mistake.  Over the past five years, grassroots conservatives across the state of Texas have made head-spinning progress against a corrupt political class that has had decades to entrench itself.  While plenty of work remains, take today to appreciate how far we've already come.

Simpson speaks with Central Texas Grassroots Activists

"He has shown you, O man, what is good;
And what does the Lord require of you
But to do justly,
To love mercy,
And to walk humbly with your God?"
Micah 6:8

Texas Land and Cattle -- Fresh off our endorsement this afternoon, David Simpson's Senate campaign held a fundraiser with grassroots activists from around Central Texas this evening.  There were several dozen people in attendance.  Simpson discussed how liberty is a gift from God and how it's our responsibility to defend it:



Highlights:

• "Not all of you can vote for me, but you can pray."

• "Ultimately God exalts, and He casts down."

• "He made us to love our neighbor's liberty as much as our own and that's ultimately what this campaign is about."

• "We passed numerous ex post facto bills this past session that completely violate the constitution."

• "If you haven't harmed your neighbor, the government shouldn't be in the way."

• 11,000 doors so far.

• "Even when we make a wrong choice, it's usually self-correcting if it's not subsidized by the government."

-----

Read our endorsement of David Simpson here; donate to his campaign here.

Our First Round of 2016 Candidate Endorsements

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

It's that time in the political cycle.  With the Texas Republican primary only three and a half months out, we must separate wheat from chaff.  Therefore, Cahnman's Musings endorses the following candidates:

PRESIDENT

Ted Cruz (Previously Donated):

Among the candidates running, Ted Cruz defines the problems facing the United States best; because Ted properly defines the problem, he's able to properly discuss solutions.

Early in this campaign, Ted coined the phrase "Washington Cartel" to describe the entrenched culture he is running to break up and replace.  It's a devastatingly accurate phrase.  On issue after issue, corrupt career politicians in both parties have colluded with lobbyists and the media to pass the lobby agenda while stiffing voters.  Nothing is going to change in D.C. until you blow up the corrupt insider culture.  America's problems pre-date the current President and will, unless radical change occurs, continue long after he leaves.  Ted Cruz would be that radical change.  While other candidates have taken on bad ideas in the other party, no one in this race has taken on his own party like Ted Cruz.

It's uncanny how closely, after 4 years of observation, Ted's views on DIFFICULT public policy issues continue to mirror our own.  On issues like the border and national security, Ted strikes a middle ground between hawks and libertarians that draws on the best ideas of both but avoids their respective excesses.  Ted Cruz is the only candidate with a plausible path to the White House who understands our DESPERATE need to reign in the Federal Reserve.  Ted Cruz made the grotesque Export-Import "bank" a household name.  When it comes to judicial nominations (and saving babies), Ted Cruz has stated that he's NOT afraid of a confirmation fight.


UNITED STATES HOUSE

Matt McCall, CD-21:

In the Congressional district where we reside, Matt McCall is running for the second time against a 30 year incumbent who has failed to deliver.

We've been disgusted with our 30 year incumbent congressman since he voted for the TARP bailout in 2008.  Three years later, this 30 year incumbent attempted to pass a hideous invasion of internet privacy called SOPA.  Over 30 years, the incumbent has run up a record we described in 2012 as: "Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad."

Despite having lived in his district for most of the past seven years, we'd never met the incumbent Congressman until earlier this year.  Strangely enough, Matt McCall's underfunded 2014 campaign managed to capture 34% of the vote.  Since then, the incumbent has voted modestly better, but a couple months of better votes cannot repair years of violated trust.  Matt McCall would be a fresh start.  Between a 30 year incumbent and a fresh start, the choice is obvious.

TEXAS SENATE

David Simpson, SD-1:

The best symbol for this race is the back microphone in the chamber of the Texas House of Representatives.

There is more than one good candidate in this race.  Between those good candidates, David Simpson is the one who was most frequently a public thorn in the side of House leadership.  There's a reason why Jonathan Stickland and Konni Burton support David Simpson.

On the policy front, David Simpson is the only candidate in this race to vote against Governor Abbott's godless act of socialism "pre-K" scheme.  The clearest way to send a message to Governor Abbott over "pre-K" would be to send David Simpson to the Texas Senate.  Finally, it's not a secret this website supports marijuana legalization.

TEXAS HOUSE (Running for Re-Election)

Jonathan Stickland, HD-92 (Previously Donated):


You know someone terrifies leadership when they resort to intimidation and lawlessness to stop him; Team Straus has done this to Jonathan Stickland more times than we can count.

Jonathan Stickland has a habit his colleagues despise: he reads bills.  Because Jonathan Stickland reads bills, Jonathan Stickland comes prepared to ask his colleagues difficult questions on the Texas House floor.  They HATE that.  Last session, at personal peril and legal expense, Jonathan Stickland (with an assist from Dan Patrick) killed a bill that would have granted law enforcement authority to rent-a-cops from the Federal Reserve.  For that alone, Jonathan Stickland deserves re-election.

Jonathan Stickland is the conscience of the Texas House of Representatives.  Jonathan Stickland keeps the Texas House of Representatives honest.  Jonathan Stickland has carried legislation to promote conservative priorities like Constitutional Carry and repealing tuition subsidies for illegal aliens.  Jonathan Stickland is a conservative champion.  Let's send Jonathan Stickland back for another two years!!!

Matt Rinaldi, HD-115:

This one was the most difficult decision.  That's not because of anything Matt Rinaldi did; Matt Rinaldi's awesome.  We just have such a low opinion of Matt Rinaldi's opponent that we're not sure he needs our help.

Before he was sworn in, Matt Rinaldi set the tone for the session when he publicly disemboweled the Joe Biden of Texas Republicans in a debate over the speaker's race.  During the session, Matt Rinaldi used social skills to play good cop to Stickland's bad cop.  By the end of the session, Matt Rinaldi had edged out Stickland as the most conservative representative.

One note about Matt Rinaldi's opponent: A former state representative, Matt Rinaldi's opponent is the latest entitled, narcissistic, progeny of a Texas political dynasty to attempt to buy public office.  Think of the Bush family minus the ethics and manners.  While there are plenty of positive reasons to vote for Matt Rinaldi, striking a blow against political dynasties is another good one.

Tony Tinderholt, HD-94:

The #3 conservative last session, Tony Tinderholt is the latest sensation to emerge from Tarrant County.

Early in the session, Tony Tinderholt filed a complaint against a lawless Travis County judge who attempted to use a probate case to re-write Texas' marriage laws.  In so doing, Tony Tinderholt gave Jon Stewart a fit.  If Tony Tinderholt can give Jon Stewart a fit, he's alright in our book.

Tony Tinderholt took out a Straus lieutenant in 2014.  Now, Team Straus is looking for revenge. Re-electing Tony Tinderholt would preserve a seat that had been in RINO hands until very recently.

TEXAS HOUSE (Challenger Candidates)

Jeff Judson, HD-121:

Jeff Judson is the strongest challenger Joe Straus has ever seen; that alone is sufficient reason to support Jeff Judson.

Jeff Judson is the former President of the Texas Public Policy Foundation.  Jeff Judson has run successfully for local office in the district.  Jeff Judson has defeated left-wing transportation proposals locally and is well versed in transportation policy.

Jeff Judson is also an outspoken school choice supporter.  Education is the most liberal policy realm in the Texas House, and Joe Straus has pledged to maintain the status quo if he returns.  Joe Straus is an obstacle to structural governmental reforms, and Jeff Judson is the strongest candidate to remove that obstacle.

Thomas McNutt, HD-8:

Thomas McNutt is running against Byron Cook; that alone is reason to support Thomas McNutt.

Thomas McNutt is a fourth-generation steward of one of the most successful family-owned businesses in Texas' History.  Thomas McNutt supports economic liberty and, unlike the incumbent, opposes illegal immigration.  Thomas McNutt will NOT kill 8 pro-life bills in committee out of spite.

Thomas McNutt has been endorsed by Empower Texans, Texas Right to Life, and Texas Values.  Corsicana is a conservative stronghold and its residents deserve better than a lawless state rep who supports corrupt, liberal, "leadership."  Thomas McNutt is the conservative consensus choice to replace a prominent member of the corrupt cartel that runs the Texas House.

Bo French, HD-99:

Bo French is running against Charlie Geren; that alone is reason to support Bo French.

Just this morning, Bo French was endorsed by Empower Texans.  As they write: “Bo French is a bold champion for values and principles that Texans hold dear,” said TFR’s president, Michael Quinn Sullivan. “Bo French’s smart, no-nonsense approach to good public policy is precisely what taxpayers are demanding. Just as importantly, French will fight the cronyism and corruption that has infested so many levels of government.”

Tarrant County is the leading edge of Texas' grassroots renaissance.  Up to this point, HD-99 has resisted these countywide, statewide, and national trends.  On March 1st, voters in Northwestern Tarrant County will have the opportunity to send Bo French to Austin to represent their conservative values.

Jay Wiley, HD-47:

We've known Jay Wiley since he ran for Austin City Council in 2014.  After he (barely) came up short in that race, we had hoped Jay Wiley would run for HD-47.  Thankfully, he did.

Jay Wiley is the choice for Travis County taxpayers based on local issues alone.  Unlike the silent incumbent, Jay Wiley was a vocal opponent of the recent courthouse bond.  The husband of an ob-gyn, Jay Wiley has committed himself to reducing your property taxes by eliminating the odious entity known as Central Health.

While it's in Travis County, HD-47 is one of the safest Republican districts in Texas.  There's NO reason for Travis County conservatives to pull punches.  Whether your motivating issue is property taxes, defending babies, property taxes, illegal immigration, property taxes, anything else, or property taxes, Jay Wiley is the clear conservative choice in HD-47.

Simpson requests Special Session over Sanctuary Cities

"Do not remove the ancient landmark,
Nor enter the fields of the fatherless;"
Proverbs 23:10

Interesting news from Team Simpson following Governor Abbott's recent Road to Damascus moment:

SIMPSON CALLS FOR A SPECIAL SESSION ON SANCTUARY CITIES

“If Texas refuses to uphold the rule of law, we lose our sovereignty ”

(Longview, TX) Wednesday, David Simpson applauded Governor Abbott’s statements on sanctuary cities and his letter to the Dallas County Sheriff in which he told the Sheriff that the sanctuary city polices being implemented by Dallas County will be “No longer tolerated in Texas.”

However, Simpson also asked the Governor to seriously consider a special session to address this issue.

“We must uphold the rule of law within our jurisdiction under our constitutional republic and stop the implementation of sanctuary city policies. How can we complain about the federal government not enforcing immigration law, if we will not uphold our end of the bargain? I support the Governor’s decision to end sanctuary city policies which undermine the fabric of our society. However, we should do it now and not wait till 2017. If sub-political sections of our state will not fulfill their responsibilities, then the Legislature should reign them in now in a special session.”

Earlier this year, following the Supreme Court ruling on marriage, Simpson requested the Governor call a special session to address the repercussions of that decision on the state—particularly in regard to state agencies paying benefits to same-sex couples without legislative approval, protecting the civil and religious liberties of vendors, overreaching local non-discrimination ordinances, and the issuance of marriage licenses. He also called for dealing with the re-defining of the term “parent” on birth certificates without legislative approval.

“I still believe a special session should be called to address the state agencies which are paying same sex benefits with taxpayer dollars not appropriated for that purpose, a practice specifically prohibited in our Texas Constitution. These agencies cannot legally act without legislative approval, and they must be stopped. I believe we could address the marriage issue and sanctuary cities in one special session,” concluded Simpson.

Bottom Line: While we welcome the Governor's recent actions on this subject, there was no reason Sanctuary Cities couldn't have been addressed during this year's regular session and there's no reason to wait until 2017; kudos to David Simpson for pointing this out.

Simpson rebukes lawless state agencies; repeats call for Special Session

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

Big news out of Team Simpson today:

(Longview, TX) Monday, David Simpson sent a letter to Governor Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Patrick, Attorney General Paxton and Speaker Straus concerning the decisions of state agencies to pay benefits for same-sex partners. Simpson observed that the Texas constitution prohibits new spending without legislative approval.

Simpson started his letter stating, “The further we are removed from the decision of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) pertaining to marriage, the more concerned I become about the enforcement of our Texas Constitution and Texas statutes…. While I do not agree with the decision . . . my main concern at this point is our state’s response.”

Simpson also noted that Article 8, Section 6, of the Texas Constitution stipulates: “No money shall be drawn from the Treasury but in pursuance of specific appropriations made by law.”

Simpson then stated, “There is no question that the appropriations made by the Texas Legislature did not include benefits for same-sex partners. In fact, such benefits have been intentionally prohibited by state law. The SCOTUS has the authority to decide a case, but it has no authority to appropriate state funds, and anyone who expends state funds without an appropriation is in violation of state law.”

Read Simpson's full letter below:

Simpson Letter on Same-Sex Benefits

Simpson endorses ending Marriage Licenses

"teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,"
Titus 2:12

David Simpson released the following statement today:

(Longview, TX) On Monday, House member and Texas State Senate candidate David Simpson announced that he is calling on Governor Abbott to immediately call a special session of the 84th Legislature in light of the Supreme Court’s lawless and unconstitutional redefinition of marriage.

Says Simpson, “In light of the Supreme Court’s actions, I believe that the best way to protect marriage is to divorce marriage from government. I am asking the governor to recall the legislature so that legislation may be immediately considered to remove state and local officials from the process of issuing marriage licenses. In its place, the process of issuing a certificate of marriage will be performed by any willing clergy member consistent with their conscience and in respect for our culture and our heritage. For those who do not wish to have a religious ceremony, any authorized notary may approve a certificate.”

Simpson added, “I cannot and I will not sit idly by while unelected judges redefine the sacred institution of marriage and force our county and state officials to violate their most cherished beliefs. Marriage is a divinely instituted tradition as old as humanity. Government marriage is just another government program and a modern failure. Government has cheapened it, redefined it, and parceled it out for profit. As a Christian, I call on every Texan to reject this aberration and contact the governor to take swift action to end it.”

Read the whole thing here.

Texas House votes to censor filming legislators

"Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips
And from a deceitful tongue."
Psalm 120:2

One of the most egregious provisions of Byron Cook's re-written "ethics" bill currently being debated on the Texas House floor would open citizen journalists to lawsuits if they film a legislator without the legislator's knowledge.  Representative Matt Schaefer offered an amendment to strip that provision from the bill.  During the debate, Cook and Representative Jessica Farrar whined about how it was just so dadgum mean to do ambush interviews of legislators without knowing who signs their paychecks.

Schaefer, David Simpson, and Jonathan Stickland, meanwhile, explained how filming legislators is a tool for citizen journalists to hold elected officials accountable; Pat Fallon explained that, even if the elected officials don't like it, ambush interviews come with the territory.

The amendment failed 66-74:

RV# 1539 — Unofficial Totals: 66 Yeas, 74 Nays, 3 Present, not voting

Yeas - Anderson, C.; Anderson, R.; Ashby; Bell; Bohac; Bonnen, G.; Burns; Burrows; Canales; Craddick; Crownover; Cyrier; Dale; Davis, S.; Fallon; Fletcher; Flynn; Frank; Goldman; Gonzales; Guillen; Gutierrez; Huberty; Hughes; Keough; King, P.; King, S.; Klick; Koop; Krause; Landgraf; Larson; Laubenberg; Leach; Lozano; Metcalf; Meyer; Miles; Murphy; Murr; Paddie; Parker; Paul; Phelan; Price; Rinaldi; Rodriguez, E.; Sanford; Schaefer; Schofield; Shaheen; Simmons; Simpson; Smithee; Spitzer; Springer; Stickland; Thompson, E.; Tinderholt; Turner, E.S.; VanDeaver; White, J.; White, M.; Wray; Zedler; Zerwas

Nays - Allen; Alonzo; Alvarado; Anchia; Aycock; Bernal; Blanco; Bonnen, D.; Button; Clardy; Coleman; Collier; Cook; Darby; Davis, Y.; Deshotel; Dukes; Dutton; Elkins; Faircloth; Farias; Farrar; Frullo; Galindo; Geren; Giddings; González; Guerra; Harless; Hernandez; Herrero; Howard; Hunter; Isaac; Israel; Johnson; Kacal; King, K.; King, T.; Kuempel; Longoria; Lucio; Márquez; Martinez; Martinez Fischer; McClendon; Miller, D.; Miller, R.; Minjarez; Moody; Muñoz; Naishtat; Nevárez; Oliveira; Otto; Phillips; Pickett; Raney; Raymond; Reynolds; Riddle; Rodriguez, J.; Romero; Rose; Schubert; Sheffield; Smith; Thompson, S.; Turner, C.; Villalba; Vo; Walle; Workman; Wu

Present, not voting - Mr. Speaker; Sheets(C); Turner, S.

Absent - Burkett; Capriglione; Farney; Keffer; Morrison; Peña; Stephenson

First Amendment Tuesday: Shenanigans Late in Session

"and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel,"
Ephesians 6:19

With less than two weeks till sine die, we've entered the most dangerous part of any legislative session.  With deadlines looming and the self-inflicted time crisis having squandered the bulk of the session, now is the time when things get sneaked in under cover of night.  Even if you can't stop something, the key is to raise a stink about it so that it at least occurs in public.

Tony McDonald (Empower Texans):



Highlights:

• Conference committees rarely have formal meetings.

• Texas open meetings act de facto doesn't apply to the legislature.

• Bills are usually hashed out between the House and Senate bill authors.
• "This is a REALLY dangerous process."
• Lack of Transparency and tight deadlines.

• Outside the bounds resolutions: Supposed to ask for permission but usually they ask for forgiveness and it's granted automatically.

• Read conference reports during the last few days of the session.
• This is one of the most useful things activists can do; no one has time to go through them all.
• Dan Flynn tried to use this process last session to sneak thru an anti-Wallace Hall bill.
• "Dan Flynn Should be censured and removed from the House."

• You have to trust guy at the front mic to tell the truth.
• Author's Note: Exactly.

• You'd be surprised what qualifies as a typo on the last day of session.

• Short notice periods on all this nonsense.

• If you catch anything, TELL DAVID SIMPSON.

• If you see something fishy during the last few days of the session, don't assume anyone else has found it.

Ann Hettinger (Concerned Women for America):

Highlights:

• Event tomorrow to "lean on calendars committee."

• House killed Pastor protection bill.

• Dan Patrick is the only reason we got Pastor protection bill thru Senate.

• SB 531 (American Laws for American Courts) -- Needs to be heard on Senate Floor.

David Walls (Texas Values):

Highlights:

• SB 2065 needs a House vote THIS WEEK.

• "It's not done till it's done."

• We knew the D's would chub if they got the opportunity.

• Locate Tea Party leaders in Calendars committee members districts.

• Joan Huffman says she'll move ALAC, but she hasn't done so and she has the votes.

Dustin Matocha (Empower Texans):

Highlights:

• Details likely tax relief plans: Likely to be something along the lines of Senate's approach to property taxes and House's approach to margins tax.

• #2A: If you want to carry openly, and you don't want to be harasses constantly, contact your Senator.

• The Governor ought to call a special session "on a number of things."

Liberty Cities on Display

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me,
Because the Lord has anointed Me
To preach good tidings to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives,
And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;"
Isaiah 61:1

Liberty Cities are a growing phenomenon in Texas, learn more below.

Art Martinez de Vara (Original mayor, Von Ormy, TX):

• Original mayor of Von Ormy, TX
• Liberty city = City founded on limited govt., preservation of individual and property rights, restrictions on debt, and taxing authority.
• Becoming more popular as larger cities encroach on unincorporated areas.
• Virtual city hall instead of brick and mortal (ie. website)
• Privatization of public services.
• Economic development by getting out of the way.
• Eliminating classes of tax payers.
• Shifting the tax burden from ad valorem to consumption taxes.
• Avoiding restrictions on personal freedoms
• Use of trained volunteers.
• Zero cost permitting
• Minimal fees for City Residents
• Elimination of taxes or withdrawal from taxing jurisdictions that provide little or no service.
• Zero-based budgeting
• Aim to be under budget each year by at least 20%.
• Whereas San Antonio has a property tax dedicated specifically to debt service, Von Ormy doesn't need it.
• Voter approval of all public debt.

Ernest Gay (Mayor, Sandy Oaks, TX):

• Began incorporation process in 2011.
• Completely within San Antonio city limits.
• 2.4 square miles without any major highways or traffic arteries.
• Successful incorporation election in May 2014.
• Single ballot item in a very small city
• Elected officeholders in August 2014.
• City of San Antonio announced a "limited purpose annexation."
• One of their big problems is a lack of business.
• Problem when the main source of revenue is the sales tax.
• First big check from local power company will come in March.
• The taxes you pay this year pays for next year's budget.
• Set you budget relative to income rather than attempting to do vice-versa.

Robert Grafe (Kingsbury Incorporation Committee):

• Started incorporation after Seguin tried to annex them.
• Attempted to model their approach after Von Ormy.
• Currently working their way through the incorporation process.

David Simpson:

• Served three terms as Mayor of his hometown in the mid-1990's.
• The whole reason we have civil government is because we haven't used freedom responsibly.
• The place of government is justice, but let's use our freedom to limit government.
• "We can incorporate and voluntarily limit our intrusiveness."
• Limit "economic development" to commonly used infrastructure instead of bribing companies.

"Home rule" (ie. >5000 residents) can engage in "involuntary annexation."