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July 23, 2010
SAN ANTONIO -- As Rick Perry heads to San Antonio for a ribbon cutting and a headline for his political career, he hopes Texans will forget about what else is going on in San Antonio today: proposals for tax and tuition hikes.
The San Antonio Express-News today reports that "leaders at the Alamo Colleges are proposing tax and tuition increases on top of eliminating jobs and freezing wages and hiring."
"Under Rick Perry tuition has skyrocketed 93 percent and Texans have been priced out of being able to get the education they need to compete for good jobs," said Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson.
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 23, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Pasadena Police Officer’s Union PAC for re-election in 2010.
“Gov. Perry has been a true champion of the law enforcement community, and put his words into action through his dedicated efforts to ensure we have the tools we need to protect our communities,” said E.R. Rogge, president of the Pasadena Police Officer’s Union. “The Pasadena Police Officers Union PAC is proud to support the governor in his bid for re-election.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 23, 2010
"It's not surprising that Bill White would raise such large amounts of money from Washington considering he is the poster boy for President Obama's liberal policies," said Texans for Rick Perry spokesman Mark Miner.
Today is also Day 138 of Bill White refusing to release his taxes from his years in public service.
Bill White refuses to release his taxes from 1993-1998, years he held public service positions that required him by law to complete annual personal financial disclosures.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 23, 2010
AUSTIN - The deadline for jobless Texans to qualify for emergency unemployment benefits has been extended to the week of November 27, 2010. Congress passed HR 4213, the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2010, on Thursday setting this new filing deadline which allows long-term claimants to continue receiving unemployment benefits. President Barack Obama signed the bill shortly after it was passed.
From Texas Workforce Commission
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July 22, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Associated Security Services and Investigators of the State of Texas (ASSIST) in the 2010 general election.
“ASSIST is proud to endorse Gov. Perry in his bid for re-election and thankful for his dedicated work to make Texans safer through disaster and emergency response planning,” said Bob Burt, State President of ASSIST. “Gov. Perry understands the valuable partnership between public and private law enforcement, and his efforts have helped add thousands of eyes and ears in the effort to keep Texans safe at no additional cost to taxpayers.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 22, 2010
HOUSTON -- Bill White today issued the following statement about border security:
"Rick Perry has been governor for nine and a half years, and he's failed to get Texas the federal resources we need to secure our borders. During eight of the years, the President was somebody in Perry's own party who he'd served with in public office. Every election, Perry promises that he'll do more to secure our borders, but he's failed."
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 22, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Automotive Parts and Services Association (APSA) for the 2010 general election.
“The Automotive Parts and Services Association is pleased to endorse Rick Perry in his re-election campaign,” said Jim Quinten, president of APSA. “Gov. Perry has steadfastly fought on behalf of small business, working to provide the tools we need to contribute to this state’s growing economy. His conservative fiscal management and efforts to create jobs have made Texas the number one business climate in the nation. We are proud to have his leadership over our state which has allowed the automotive aftermarket to succeed.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 22, 2010
HOUSTON -- Twenty-five year incumbent career politician Rick Perry is refusing to debate, refusing to meet with newspaper editorial boards and refusing to be accountable to voters. Perry's approach is dramatically different from what it was in 2002, when he said, "If two debates are good, twelve will be great."
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 22, 2010
Bill White refuses to release his taxes from 1993-1998, years he held public service positions that required him by law to complete annual personal financial disclosures. While Bill White was Deputy Secretary of Energy (1993-95) and Chairman of the Texas Democratic Party (1995-98), he was required by law to complete annual personal financial disclosures that he has also failed to make public.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 22, 2010
In an article titled, “Texas gubernatorial candidate Bill White tries to distance himself from Obama,” Bill White falsely claimed, "I was in the oil and gas business when he was a community organizer,” and, "There are some people, including me, who believe that the president is spending a lot more money than we're taking in, is spending too much money in Washington. I don't believe in borrowing so much money.”
“Liberal Bill White has selective memory when it comes to denying parts of his past that he does not want the people of Texas to know,” said Texans for Rick Perry spokesman Mark Miner.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 22, 2010
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) joined a bipartisan group of 24 U.S. Senators today to express support for allowing coastal states to share in a fair portion of the revenues from energy production in the outer Continental Shelf (OCS). In a letter to all 100 Senators, the 24 Senators urged their colleagues to support a revenue sharing plan that recognizes the role that coastal states play in hosting offshore oil and gas exploration.
From Sen. John Cornyn By Kevin McLaughlin, Charles Chamberlayne
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July 22, 2010
AUSTIN - Representative Debbie Riddle (R - District 150) has been ranked as the fourth most conservative member of the Texas House of Representatives, according to an analysis of voting records done by the James A. Baker III Institute of Public Policy at Rice University.
Representatives Linda Harper-Brown, Sid Miller, and Randy Weber all scored above Riddle by less than three-hundredths of a point each. In all, only 12 of the 150 members of the House were rated as "Very Conservative" by the study.
From Rep.-150 Debbie Riddle By Jon English
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July 22, 2010
Washington, D.C. – Rep. Gene Green (TX-29) voted to stand with American families and extend unemployment benefits for millions of Americans who have earned them through a lifetime of work and lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Republicans in the Senate blocked these benefits for more than 7 weeks, causing 2.5 million American families to lose the benefits they earned. The benefits are a proven boost to the American economy, shown by economists to create jobs as families spend into the economy.
From Rep.-29 Gene Green By Timothy Merritt
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July 22, 2010
Austin, Texas - Railroad Commissioner Michael L. Williams today
continued his drive to reduce air pollution from school buses in an
address to the Texas Parent-Teacher Association’s board of directors.
The Railroad Commission, Texas’ chief energy agency, currently
administers $15.7 million of federal grants through its Alternative
Energy Division. The grants help school districts and other public
fleets buy low-emissions propane school buses, pickups, vans and fueling
facilities.
From Texas PTA By Carol Treadway
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July 22, 2010
Washington, DC - The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) announced an expanded State and Regional Policy team with the additions of Tim Raphael as AWEA’s Western Representative and Christy Omohundro as AWEA’s Eastern Representative. They will work with regional partners and member companies on state policy matters involving taxes, siting, transmission, renewable electricity standards, and other issues that influence wind energy development at the state and regional level.
From American Wind Energy Association By Debra Preitkis-Jones
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July 22, 2010
AUSTIN – Today Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott announced support from Peggy Venable, State Director of Americans for Prosperity - Texas*, for his 2010 General Election campaign.
Peggy Venable is a respected advocate for taxpayers, actively supporting initiatives that expand transparency in government, limit government spending, and increase government accountability. Venable has served in public policy and grassroots initiatives in Texas and nationally for over 30 years.
From Texans for Greg Abbott By Jason Johnson
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July 22, 2010
AUSTIN -- Recent development of a model state law aimed at preserving home ownership in poor, predominantly minority communities coincides with Texas Appleseed’s participation in a state working group on the far-reaching heir property issue.
Texas and other states are being asked to adopt the Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act approved last week by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws. The model law would establish important legal protections for owners of heir property -- family land that has been passed down without a will, leaving families vulnerable to losing their biggest asset.
From Texas Appleseed By Janis Monger
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July 22, 2010
Texas physicians forecast higher health care costs and lower quality under America’s new health reform law, according to a new Texas Medical Association (TMA) physician survey.
Health reform largely was billed as a way to decrease health care costs for the average American. However, findings from a recent TMA survey say that most Texas physicians are not convinced. TMA sent the study to its members to measure their attitudes toward the new health reform law. “We wanted to see how our physicians’ beliefs, hopes, and fears compared with national studies,” said TMA President Susan Rudd Bailey, MD.
From Texas Medical Assn. By Pam Udall, Brent Annear
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July 22, 2010
Congress is finally on the verge of extending the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act's extra weeks of jobless insurance benefits. Doing so is critical to helping hardworking Texans who cannot find jobs and to sustaining our economic recovery.
Congress should now take a second important step and extend the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act's help to states to balance their budgets. Texas balanced its present budget with federal help that largely runs out by December 31.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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July 22, 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) joined Senators Jim DeMint (R-South Carolina), Orrin Hatch (R- Utah), John Ensign (R-Nevada), John Thune (R- South Dakota), Tom Coburn (R- Oklahoma), and Jeff Sessions (R-Alabama) in introducing the Freedom for Consumer Choice Act (FCC Act). This legislation, based on language from Sen. DeMint’s 2005 Digital Age Communications Act (DACA), is intended to institute needed, market-based reforms to the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) rulemaking authority.
From Sen. John Cornyn By Kevin McLaughlin, Charles Chamberlayne
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July 22, 2010
Williamson County – Williamson County Republican Party Chairman Bill Fairbrother today called on liberal freshman Rep. Diana Maldonado to explain major discrepancies between the initial July 15 report she filed, and a corrected version filed July 16.
Maldonado’s initial filing showed only five expenditures totaling little more than $6,000 for the first six months of the year. Her “corrected” filing showed more than $58,000 in expenditures, meaning she withheld or inexplicably failed to report nearly 90 percent of the money she spent. Similarly, Maldonado failed to report $60,000 in political contributions in her initial filing, including a $25,000 contribution from Annie’s List*, her largest contributor, $1,000 from the Texas Trial Lawyers Association PAC, two $5,000 contributions from the Border Health PAC, and several $1,000 and $500 contributions from liberal Democrat incumbents.
From Bill Fairbrother
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July 22, 2010
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of speaking at the "Official Launch" press conference of the Hispanic Republicans of Texas. We had tremendous media coverage at the event, with outlets as far away as Chicago requesting more information.
The HRT mission statement includes the following: "The Hispanic Republicans of Texas will recruit, elect, support and defend Hispanic Republican officeholders and candidates for state and local elected offices who share our common values of faith, family, lower taxes, less regulations and less government spending to promote individual prosperity and economic growth in Texas."My speech can be found on my facebook "fan" page, as well as YouTube.
From D-52 Rep. Larry Gonzales
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July 22, 2010
Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley received one of the most prestigious national awards a local government official may obtain when he was named County Leader of the Year for 2010 by Penton's American City and County magazine at the National Association of Counties (NACo) annual conference in Reno, Nevada.
During the awards ceremony Monday, Whitley was praised for being able to build consensus on transportation projects and on other North Texas issues in a cover story for the magazine’s July 2010 issue.
From Texas Association of Counties By Elna Christopher
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July 21, 2010
HOUSTON -- Last week, after months of hammering from Bill White, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and others, Rick Perry re-released a so-called "plan" to reduce the dropout rate. He'd make having a driver's license contingent on enrollment in school or GED classes.
"Unfortunately for Rick Perry, this law has been on the books since 1989 and he's been responsible for enforcing it. Only a career politician would try to sell a law already in existence as his own slick new idea," said Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson. "We need a governor who's actually going to work on the dropout crisis instead of dredging up election year sound bites."
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 21, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Texas Process Servers Association (TPSA) for re-election.
“Gov. Perry has worked successfully to clean up the process serving business in Texas, and the Texas Process Servers Association is proud to endorse his re-election,” said Eric Johnson, president of TPSA. “Gov. Perry was one of the first to recognize that having notice papers served by private process servers allows our law enforcement professionals to devote more of their time to fighting crime and keeping our communities safe. We need his leadership moving forward to uphold low taxes, keep Texas a top destination for business, and secure the tools we need to successfully implement our jobs.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frasier
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July 21, 2010
“Frontera Fiasco” joins growing list of ethical problems for liberal trial lawyer Bill WhiteToday is Day 134 of liberal trial lawyer Bill White refusing to release his taxes from his years in public service. He has also failed to release past financial disclosures that are no longer available to the public.
“Another day, another scandal for shady Bill White,” said Texans for Rick Perry spokesman Mark Miner. “Every time Bill White releases some tax returns, more scandals are unveiled. Bill White should come clean and release his missing tax returns and all personal financial disclosures he has filed while in public service.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 21, 2010
Since taking office in 2007, Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins has worked tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable citizens in Dallas County, putting dangerous criminals in jail and driving up the felony conviction rate to 99.4 percent.
In fact, Watkins felony conviction rate has never dropped below 99 percent.
Recently, Clancy has questioned Watkins’ record, during a bumbling attack on WFAA-TV’s “Inside Texas Politics.”
From Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins By Eric Celeste
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July 21, 2010
AUSTIN - Semi-annual finance reports filed with the Texas Ethics Commission last week show Annie's List candidates with fundraising leads over their opponents in almost all of our targeted races. See the example below of challenger Pati Jacobs in HD-17 and incumbent State Rep. Carol Kent in HD-102:
From Annie's List
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July 21, 2010
DALLAS – State Representative Carol Kent of House District 102 outpaced her opponent’s cash on hand by more than three to one, after reporting over $250,000 in the bank for the election season.
The announcement comes on the heels of a strong fundraising period that saw the campaign bring its total raised since January 2009 to nearly $350,000.
From State Rep. Carol Kent By Phil Lovegren
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July 21, 2010
AUSTIN, TX – The Hispanic Republicans of Texas (HRT) officially launches its organization at a formal press conference in Austin at the Republican Party of Texas Headquarters at 11AM on Tuesday, July 20, 2010. Hispanic Republicans of Texas, co-founded by George P. Bush, George Antuna Jr. and Juan Hernandez established HRT as an organization that will recruit, elect, support and defend Republican officeholders and candidates for state and local elected offices.
From Hispanic Republicans of Texas By Nelda Carrizales Skevington
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July 21, 2010
TYLER--Hank Gilbert, the Texas Democratic Party's nominee for Agriculture Commissioner, Tuesday questioned what Todd Staples was hiding in the files from his days as a member of the Texas House and Texas Senate--which are sealed in perpetuity at Staples' request.
Many records from Staples' days as a State Representative and State Senator housed in the custody of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission--particularly correspondence from lobbyists, constituents, business people, contributors, and even the Texas Legislative Council sent to Staples' House and Senate offices--are sealed in perpetuity--meaning no Texan will ever be able to gain access to the records for the entire future of recorded human history, Gilbert noted.
From Hank Gilbert for Ag Commissioner By Vince Leibowitz
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July 21, 2010
Fearing a Backlash from Hateful Rhetoric and the Politics of Division, Texas GOP Tries to Sweet Talk Latino Voters
Today, the Hispanic Republicans of Texas launched yet another “new” effort to “recruit, elect, support, and defend” Hispanic Republican office holders and candidates. Daniela Santoni, TDP Deputy Communications Director issued the following statement:
“After years of pandering to those who bash Hispanics and a decade of neglect, more empty promises from Texas Republicans is too little, too late to win the hearts and minds of Hispanic voters.
From Texas Democratic Party By Daniela Santoni
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July 21, 2010
When asked by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram about a Lone Star Project candidate analysis that documented her failure to provide complete and accurate questions on an official state application, Barbara Nash made matters worse. She ducked the reporter and directed her campaign consultant to tell the press that she had consulted with family members and Governor Perry’s staff before submitting her responses. The application formally filed by Nash failed to disclose her past business failures or the formal state investigations of elder abuse at the nursing homes she managed.
From Lone Star Project By Matt Angle
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July 21, 2010
The Young Conservatives of Texas (YCT), a non-partisan, conservative grassroots organization, believes Texas State Representative Mark Strama has lost touch with the needs of his constituents. YCT is known for producing the longest running and most well-respected legislative ratings in the state, ranking legislators on a scale of 1 to 100 after each biennium based on their voting record. During the 81st Legislative Session, Strama received a legislative rating of 3 percent out of a maximum 100 percent, a voting record that has helped Strama receive the endorsement of groups well known to back far left candidates.
From Young Conservatives of Texas By Tony McDonald
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July 21, 2010
(Austin, TX) - Two weeks ago, Texas Democratic Party Executive Director Ruben Hernandez filed complaints with the Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) regarding Rick Perry’s failure to properly report required information on his Personal Financial Statement (PFS) in 2007, 2008, and 2009. Perry failed to report the identity of the person who had an interest and to whom he paid notes on a house bought in College Station in April 2007. Perry also failed to report rental income on the house on his 2007 and 2008 PFS. When asked about his failure to report the debt and rental income last week, Perry dismissed this three year “oversight” by telling the Houston Chronicle “somebody (did not) fill out paperwork on one line of a report correctly.”
From Texas Democratic Party By Kirsten Gray
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July 16, 2010
Today is Day 131 of liberal trial lawyer Bill White refusing to release his taxes from his years in public service. He has also failed to release past financial disclosures that are no longer available to the public.
“Why does liberal Bill White refuse to release tax returns that supposedly contain financial information he disclosed in financial reports that are no longer available to the public?” said Texans for Rick Perry spokesman Mark Miner.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 16, 2010
State Representative Candidate Cindy Burkett outraised her opponent Rep. Robert
Miklos by a huge margin in the first half of 2010 according to campaign finance reports
released by both campaigns on Thursday.
Burkett and Miklos are vying for Texas House District 101 in the Mesquite,
Sunnyvale, Balch Springs area of Dallas County.
From Cindy Burkett for State Rep. campaign By Craig Murphy
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July 16, 2010
Republican State Representative Candidate Stefani Carter raises nearly $200,000 in the
first half of 2010, making her one of the top three GOP challengers in Texas. The other two top
GOP fundraisers were Austin-area candidates whose numbers were bolstered by runoff elections
in April.
Carter’s fundraising total nearly matched her opponent, Democratic incumbent Carol
Kent. Carter and Kent are running in the historically Republican Texas House District 102.
From Stefani Carter for State House campaign By Craig Murphy
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July 16, 2010
(Hopkins County, TX) - In a development that underscores the growing vulnerability of Democrat Mark
Homer, Republican State Representative nominee Erwin Cain today announced that he reported raising
over $114,000 in campaign contributions compared to only $65,000 for Mr. Homer.
On the July 15th report required by the Texas Ethics Commission, Cain demonstrated significant financial
support from House District 3 and across the state of Texas, including contributions of almost $19,000 from
his opponent’s home county of Lamar.
From Erwin Cain for State Rep.
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July 16, 2010
ARLINGTON, TX – Rep. Paula Pierson’s finance report demonstrates wide support for her re-election campaign and spells trouble for her struggling opponent. Pierson’s report showed $100,554 cash on hand having raised more than $90,000 from 180 contributors during the reporting cycle. Nearly 70% of Pierson’s contributors reside within Tarrant County.
“I am once again humbled by the tremendous support my campaign has received,” said Pierson. “I am especially grateful for those supporters who have donated $1, $5, or $10 to my campaign. Many of these families are struggling and understand first-hand the real issues that need to be addressed in Texas."
From Rep. Paula Pierson By DeeJay Johannessen
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July 16, 2010
Mesquite, TX – The Texas State Rifle Association announced their endorsement of State
Representative Robert Miklos in his re-election bid to represent the families of Mesquite,
Sunnyvale and Balch Springs, giving him an “A” rating for his defense of the Second
Amendment rights of law abiding Texans.
From State Rep. Robert Miklos By Brian Hodgdon
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July 16, 2010
ARLINGTON – Yesterday, State Representative Chris Turner's campaign (House District 96, Tarrant County) filed its July Semiannual Report with the Texas Ethics Commission, reporting $191,724 in contributions from over 300 donors for the first six months of the year and an ending cash balance of $321,116. The Turner campaign has raised $443,000 for the 2010 campaign to date, fueled by bipartisan support from individuals and organizations across Tarrant County and Texas.
From State Rep. Chris Turner By Terrysa Guerra
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July 16, 2010
Austin, TX – GOPAC-TX is pleased to announce that state representative Ken Paxton (R-McKinney) has joined the Executive Board of Directors. “Ken is a rising star in the Texas House of Representatives and I am thrilled he has joined our executive board,” stated Phil King, GOPAC-TX Chairman.
From GOPAC-TX
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July 15, 2010
A company that paid Bill White millions to serve on its board of directors from 2003-2010 has admitted to Congress that it lied to the EPA when it promised to stop injecting diesel fuel into wells in underground sources of drinking water.
In December 2003, BJ Services and two other companies signed an agreement with the EPA that said, “The companies agree to eliminate diesel fuel in hydraulic fracturing fluids injected into CBM (coalbed methane) production wells in USDWs (underground sources of drinking water) within 30 days of signing this agreement.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 15, 2010
San Antonio, TX ––Republican candidate Francisco Canseco today announced that he outraised his opponent, Rep. Ciro Rodriguez for the second quarter of 2010. Canseco raised $207,989.12 over that period, beating Ciro Rodriguez’s $168,026.15, by nearly $40,000. In terms of individual donations, Canseco outraised Rodriguez 4-to-1.
“This was a decisive quarter for our campaign. We garnered far more support from Texans in the district than Ciro Rodriguez,” said Canseco Campaign Manager Scott Yeldell.
From Canseco for Congress campaign By Scott Yeldell
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July 15, 2010
Washington, DC –Today, Congressional Democrats overcame the final hurdle to Wall Street reform legislation with Senate passage of the conference report on Wall Street reform. In response, DNC Chairman Tim Kaine issued the following statement:
“Today, Democrats in Congress overcame the final barrier to implementing historic Wall Street reform, securing a major victory for American families and small businesses who paid a heavy price for risky bets and greed that was all too common on Wall Street. Whether they’re saving for retirement or purchasing a home,
From Democratic National Convention
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July 15, 2010
BRYAN, TX – The Republican nominee for Texas’ 17th Congressional District, retired businessman Bill Flores, today announced that the campaign reported over $613,000 in contributions in the second quarter of the year. This fundraising haul is more than 20-year incumbent Rep. Chet Edwards (D-TX) raised and is even more impressive since the Republican primary runoff did not occur until April 13 and Edwards did not have a primary.
From Bill Flores for Congress campaign By Matt Mackowiak
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July 14, 2010
With liberal trial lawyer Bill White failing to offer one new policy idea during his two years of statewide campaigning, Texans for Rick Perry has released a new video, “Bill White’s Campaign About Nothing.” The video is available online at www.liberalbill.com.
Today is also Day 128 of Bill White refusing to release his taxes from his years in public service. Bill White refuses to release his taxes from 1993-1998, years he held public service positions that required him by law to complete annual personal financial disclosures. While Bill White was Deputy Secretary of Energy (1993-95) and Chairman of the Texas Democratic Party (1995-98), he was required by law to complete annual personal financial disclosures that he has also failed to make public.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 14, 2010
HOUSTON -- In the wake of proof that his education agency inflated school district rankings, Rick Perry proved again yesterday that he simply can't tell the truth when it comes to education.
"Like a typical career politician, Rick Perry makes up fake facts on student improvement rather than listening to parents and teachers about how to create real improvement," said Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson. "He falsely claims the dropout rate is 10%, he's hiding from accountability on the Texas Projection Measure inflation scandal, and now he gives blatantly false information about SATs. He's more interested in his own re-election than preparing Texans to compete for good jobs."
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 14, 2010
HOUSTON -- The Bill White for Texas campaign released a web ad today highlighting Rick Perry's use of Washington, D.C. as a tactic to distract from the $18 billion budget deficit he helped create. "Every time Rick Perry says Obama or Washington, you can bet he's hoping Texans forget he nearly doubled state spending, doubled state debt, and helped create an $18 billion budget deficit," said Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson.
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 14, 2010
WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement today after President Obama nominated Diana Saldana to be District Court Judge for the Southern District of Texas (Laredo):
"The President has made an outstanding choice in nominating Diana Saldana to be District Court Judge for the Southern District of Texas, and I was proud to recommend Judge Saldana to fill the vacancy left by her mentor, Judge Kazen.
From Sen. John Cornyn By Kevin McLaughlin, Charles Chamberlayne
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July 14, 2010
AUSTIN, TX – Paul Workman’s Campaign for House District 47 today announced they have raised $100,000 since he filed his last report. This brings Workman’s total raised since announcing in late October to nearly $308,000. His total for the first six months of this year is about $235,000 raised, with almost $67,000 cash-on-hand.
“Our support is deep and wide, reflecting the strong desire for change in a district represented by a liberal out of touch with local values and views,” said Workman. “I have spent my career running a business, creating jobs, and making a payroll. In an election year where voters are worried about our economic future, there couldn’t be a greater contrast between an entrepreneur who has created opportunity, and a liberal with a big spending agenda.“
From Paul Workman for State Rep. campaign By Jennifer Harris
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July 14, 2010
HIDALGO, Texas (July 14, 2010) – The Texas Border Coalition (TBC) today announced that Hidalgo Mayor John David Franz has assumed the chairmanship of the coalition.
Franz succeeds Del Rio Mayor Efrain Valdez, who stepped down as TBC chairman after his mayoral term ended in June.
Franz, who has served as mayor of Hidalgo since 1990, affirmed his commitment to uphold the mission and values of the coalition and to help solve the education, health care, border security and transportation challenges facing more than 2.1 million people who reside along the Texas-Mexico border.
From Texas Border Coalition By Julie Hillrichs
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July 14, 2010
In the eleven weeks since an underwater pipeline ruptured, spilling massive quantities of oil into the gulf, pressure has mounted on the Washington politicians to “do something” about it. Unfortunately, their impotent response has contributed little to the two most pressing needs: stopping the leak, and protecting our shores and gulf waters from an environmental and economic disaster.
Instead, the Washington politicians have given us a sideshow masquerading as a solution: over-reacting to the first such major spill in 30 years by making repeated attempts to ban all deepwater exploration. Washington has a tendency to offer pseudo-solutions that increase their role in managing what they have already bungled. Think the federalization of emergency response following Katrina. Or in this case, consider the Obama ban on deepwater drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.
From David Porter for Railroad Commissioner
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July 14, 2010
Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s nomination of U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Saldana to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Laredo Division. If confirmed by the Senate, Judge Saldana will serve as one of two federal judges for the U.S. District Court in Laredo, Texas. This is the first nomination made by the President to fulfill the pending federal judgeships throughout the State of Texas.
From Congressman Henry Cuellar By Ashley Patterson
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July 14, 2010
From the outset, Barbara Nash was a risky candidate for Republicans in Arlington-based State House District 93. Typically, Republican candidates highlight their business acumen and management abilities. This approach is simply not credible for Nash. She has a relatively well-known history of business failure that includes bankruptcy, tax liens, unpaid bills and even charges of elder abuse in the nursing homes she managed.
From Lone Star Project
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July 14, 2010
(Austin) It's bad enough that Republican nominee for SBOE District 10 Marsha Farney has been virtually silent for weeks regarding her priorities, if elected to the State Board of Education.
Far worse was what Farney said once she finally broke her silence, before quickly returning to seclusion.
"I'd rather be here than with those America-bashing Democrats," Farney said at a July 4th weekend Tea Party rally in Georgetown, according to the Austin American-Statesman.
From Judy Jennings for State Board of Education Campaign By Harold Cook
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July 14, 2010
NEW YORK, NY – The Hispanic Federation and LULAC released a study of Latino public opinion today measuring the remarkable unity of the Hispanic community in opposition to Arizona’s racial profiling law, known as SB 1070, and support for comprehensive immigration reform across political affiliations, degrees of assimilation, and national origin groups.
From LULAC, hispanic federation By Jonathan Kent, Chris Espinosa, Lizette Jenness Olmos
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July 14, 2010
(AUSTIN, TX) – Luke Hayes, Organizing for America-Texas (OFA-TX) State Director, issued the following statement regarding Vice President Joe Biden and Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers Christina Romer unveiling the Council of Economic Advisers’ latest quarterly report on the economic impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA):
“Today Vice President Biden and the White House Council of Economic Advisers released a report that confirms what many of us already knew—the Recovery Act brought our economy back from the brink of another Great Depression and according to today’s report the Recovery Act can be credited with creating or saving about 3 million jobs. The Recovery Act is well on its way to meeting the 3.5 million jobs benchmark by the end of the year.
From Organizing for America-TX, DNC By Hector Nieto
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July 13, 2010
HOUSTON -- Time and time again, and especially in election years, career politician Rick Perry tries to cover up the facts about his failures in education.
On Friday at a Texas Classroom Teachers Association event, Perry said, "...we have created an accountable public school system that says...you come to the State of Texas and they will deliver a skilled workforce."
"Does Rick Perry think it's acceptable that Texas ranks 49th out of 50 states in the percentage of adults with a high school diploma? That SAT and ACT scores are lagging while college tuition rates have skyrocketed 93 percent?" asked Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson.
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 13, 2010
EL PASO – Gov. Rick Perry today proposed an initiative that will provide a business tax credit that in turn will help working Texans who never finished high school return to school to earn a diploma or GED.
“A single dropout is one dropout too many, so we must continue pursuing sensible education options that give every Texan a shot at a better life,” Gov. Perry said. “With the help of the 82nd Legislature, we can continue this collaborative approach to improving education and keep removing the barriers that stand in the way of dropouts completing their education and taking their rightful place in our workforce.”
From Office of the Governor By Allison Castle, Lucy Nashed
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July 13, 2010
In a pathetic attempt to draw attention to his abysmal campaign, Bill White held a sparsely attended online “town hall” on Monday where the liberal trial lawyer bored dozens of viewers and answered a planted question from a Democratic consultant.
The Texas Tribune said of the event: A “Mr. Cook”, a.k.a. Democratic consultant Harold Cook, tweeted a question asking if White would live in a rental mansion like Perry.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 13, 2010
A new statewide survey shows Texans overwhelmingly support reforming the way the state sets requirements for curriculum and textbooks in public schools and reject key “culture war” positions the right has taken regarding public education.
“The future of education in Texas stands at a crossroads,” said Kathy Miller, president of the Texas Freedom Network Education Fund, which commissioned the survey. “Texans want a cease-fire in the divisive ‘culture war’ battles that have dominated education issues in our state and think what our schoolchildren learn should be based on the knowledge and expertise of teachers and scholars, not the personal agendas of politicians on the State Board of Education.”
From Texas Freedom Network Education Fund By Dan Quinn
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July 13, 2010
Jason Isaac, Republican candidate for State Representative in Texas House District 45, has raised over $169,000 in his campaign to unseat incumbent Democrat Patrick Rose. For this reporting period, Isaac’s fundraising total surpasses the total amount raised in the same reporting period by the past three Republican candidates combined.
Isaac’s fundraising success comes from a variety of sources, including hundreds of small-dollar donations and several large individual contributions.
From Jason Isaac for State Rep. campaign
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July 12, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Boating Trades Association of Texas PAC (BTAT PAC) for re-election in 2010.
“The Boating Trades Association of Texas PAC is pleased to endorse Gov. Perry in the general election,” said Mike Hebert, president of BTAT. “Gov. Perry is a powerful advocate of our state’s outdoor recreation industry and understands the role it plays in fortifying our state’s economy and tourism. He has been steadfast in efforts to improve the boating industry and boating access in Texas, and we are happy to offer our endorsement.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 12, 2010
SAN ANTONIO -- Bill White spoke at the National Council of La Raza's annual conference today, emphasizing that the organization has helped build a "stronger America and a stronger Texas," and highlighting his five point education plan for Texas' and the nation's future.
"Texas is the battleground for a great fight for our nation's future. One in every ten students in public school live in Texas. The majority of young children in our state are Hispanic," White said. "Our future, the future of Texas, depends on our ability to equip those young people with the skills and training to compete for good jobs, jobs with a future, in an increasingly competitive global economy."
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 12, 2010
A company that paid Bill White more than $2.6 million is one of two companies under investigation by Congress for admittedly pumping diesel and other dangerous chemicals into the groundwater, though Bill White attempted to deceive the Texas Farm Bureau regarding this startling truth last week.
Bill White served on the BJ Services Board of Directors from 2003-2010, and BJ Services has admitted to Congress that it used diesel fuel while fracturing between 2005 and 2007. As a board member, Bill White had oversight of these actions and all of the company’s operations.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 12, 2010
HOUSTON — Jeff Weems, Democratic nominee for Texas Railroad Commissioner, today took issue with his opponent’s criticism of his twenty-year energy legal practice and restated that his extensive background and experience are important to the State of Texas as its regulatory agency grapples with many issues dealing with the exploration and production of natural gas and oil.
In today’s article, the Austin American-Statesman discussed ties between BP and some national and state candidates for political office. The article noted that Weems’ opponent, David Porter, has urged newspapers to look into Weems’ representation of BP in a couple of litigation matters.
From Jeff Weems for TX Railroad Comm. By Helen Sutton
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July 12, 2010
Travis County – Democratic incumbent Donna Howard has forced Republican opponent Dan Neil off the airwaves, harming his ability to make a living with his weekday sports radio show on local ESPN affiliate FM 104.9 The Horn. Neil will now be off the air for the remainder of the 2010 election cycle.
"In forcing me off the airwaves, Donna Howard has only served to give my campaign a greater voice," said District 48 nominee Dan Neil. "Apparently she thinks voters will be unduly influenced by my views on the spread formation in football, Ron Artest’s shot selection, or the vuvuzelas at the World Cup. She must have a pretty low opinion of voters."
From Dan Neil for State Rep. #48 By Zach Vaughn
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July 12, 2010
AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today identified multiple constitutional defects with the so-called Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act, a bill pending before the U.S. Senate that would coerce state and local governments to collectively bargain with labor unions representing certain public employees.
In a letter to U.S. Senator John Cornyn (Texas), Attorney General Abbott explained that the Act violates both the Tenth Amendment and the Eleventh Amendment, and exceeds Congress’ authority to regulate interstate commerce.
From Attorney General of Texas Greg Abbott
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July 12, 2010
Austin, Texas – Today, Back to Basics announced an extended and expanded run for their television commercial decrying Governor Perry’s misuse of taxpayer dollars in renting a $1.85 million mansion in the hills, while the state is facing an $18 billion budget shortfall.
The additional air time will allow greater exposure of their commercial which also mentions Perry’s other taxpayer-funded ‘creature comforts’, including his heated pool, $44,000 in lawn care expenses, as well as his personal subscription to Food & Wine Magazine.
From Back To Basics PAC By Cliff Waker
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July 12, 2010
AUSTIN- Today, Texas Legend and Pro Baseball Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan has pitched his support for Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Todd Staples by agreeing to serve as Chairman of the Texans for Todd Staples Campaign Finance Committee. In addition to his Hall of Fame major league career, Ryan is a long time Texas rancher and leader in the agriculture community.
“As a former major league pitcher, I know the importance of having your ace on the mound who can deliver in the clutch and be a team leader. Todd Staples has delivered time and again for the agriculture community, and I am proud to be part of his winning team for this election and into the future,” Ryan said.
From Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Todd Staples By Cody McGregor
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July 12, 2010
At a townhall event on Monday July 5th, while answering a routine question about ObamaCare, Rep. Ciro Rodriguez responded with hostility and anger at a constituent... “Ciro Rodriguez has a history of cursing and yelling at people who disagree with him. It shows how much contempt he has for the people of this district and their concerns about the economy, exploding federal deficits, and reckless government growth.” Canseco said.
From Canseco for Congress campaign By Scott Yeldell
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July 12, 2010
AUSTIN – Today Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott announced support from 27 South Texas leaders for his 2010 General Election campaign.
"We are pleased with the efforts of Attorney General Greg Abbott to combat criminal activity, especially child abuse cases. We appreciate his prompt, fast attention to the needs of law enforcement and South Texas," said Leo Longoria, Chief of the Mission Police Department.
From Greg Abbott campaign By Jason Johnson
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July 9, 2010
HOUSTON -- Career politician Rick Perry, as he told the Texas Tribune, is "agile" when it comes to avoiding questions about his ethics.
"This week Perry exhibited the sidestepping skills he's acquired as a 25-year career politician. In light of the ballot scam and Perry's friends and employees' involvement, Perry needs to tell Texans the whole truth. He also needs to give a real answer to questions about hundreds of thousands of dollars in hidden debts and income," said Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson.
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 9, 2010
As liberal trial lawyer Bill White continues to run a negative campaign bankrupt of ideas, the Texas Observer recently published an article that begins: “Rick Perry has picked up on an important and hard-to-argue flaw in his opponent’s campaign. For once, I’ll let Gov. Perry say it for me: ‘Bill White's been running for governor now for close to a year, and he has yet to lay out one positive, substantive policy issue for this state.’”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 9, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Wholesale Beer Distributors of Texas (WBDT) PAC for re-election in 2010. WBDT PAC voted unanimously in support of Gov. Perry.
“The Wholesale Beer Distributors of Texas PAC is delighted to support Gov. Perry's re-election bid in November,” said WBDT CEO Mike McKinney. “Gov. Perry's conservative, common sense approach is just what Texas needs in these very difficult times.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 9, 2010
Yesterday Secretary Sebelius signaled a clear policy change in the Obama Administration, strengthening consumer rights to health privacy.
Sec. Sebelius said "it's important to understand that this announcement we are making today is part of an Administration-wide commitment to make sure no one has access to your personal information unless you want them to."
From Patient Privacy Rights By Deborah C. Peel, MD
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July 9, 2010
AUSTIN – A federal appeals court today upheld a lower court ruling that the Needville Independent School District (NISD) violated Texas state law by punishing a five-year-old American Indian kindergarten student for wearing his hair in traditional braids as a form of expressing his family's religious beliefs. The case was brought by the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU of Texas.
"We feel vindicated in our belief that no parents should be forced to choose between their religion and culture, and a public education for their children," said the boy's parents, Kenney Arocha and Michelle Betenbaugh.
From ACLU By Jose Medina, Robyn Shepherd
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July 9, 2010
Austin, TX - Texas PTA, the largest child advocacy organization in Texas, has joined forces with the Texas Railroad Commission, the state's chief energy agency, to bring information to school districts and transportation directors about grant programs that will help districts to purchase brand new propane and natural gas-fueled school buses or to retrofit existing buses.
The state of Texas is home to over 35,000 school buses that transport children to and from school every day, as well as on field trips and to athletic events. Several studies report that children riding school buses are exposed to high concentrations of fine particles and other toxic substances inside the bus due to the intrusion of the bus's own emissions into the bus cabin.
From Texas PTA By Stacy Glover
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July 8, 2010
AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott, leading a multi-state coalition of 29 attorneys general, today took legal action to defend the annual National Day of Prayer. An amicus brief authored by Attorney General Abbott urges the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit to overturn a lower court ruling, which held that the National Day of Prayer is unconstitutional.
The National Day of Prayer statute was established by Congress in 1952. Since then, presidents have issued proclamations that designate a single day each year as the National Day of Prayer. In 2008, the Freedom From Religion Foundation, a Wisconsin-based group of atheists and agnostics, filed a lawsuit claiming that the National Day of Prayer is unconstitutional. On April 15, 2010, U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb issued a decision ruling that the National Day of Prayer violates the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause, which provides: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.”
From Attorney General of Texas Greg Abbott
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July 8, 2010
While mayor of Houston, liberal trial lawyer Bill White used eminent domain to condemn land that helped one of his top campaign donors close a $12.5 million land deal, leading to a lawsuit from the landowners. The city was forced to settle the lawsuit for more than twice the appraised value of the property. [1]
White hid this abuse of power from the Texas Farm Bureau today, just as he has hidden his taxes for his years in public service for 123 days and counting.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 8, 2010
SAN MARCOS -- Bill White, candidate for governor, addressed members of the Texas Farm Bureau today at the organization's County Presidents' Conference. The full text of prepared remarks is available at www.billwhitefortexas.com/farmbureau.
White, who has been meeting with members of the Farm Bureau throughout the state, introduced himself as an alternative to the incumbent.
He committed to fight for Farm Bureau members on issues of property rights, water rights, excessive regulation, transportation and public education. On each issue, White emphasized the need for more local control and fewer mandates from Austin.
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 8, 2010
HOUSTON — Three leading hospital groups in Texas and the Houston area today announced that they were endorsing the City of Houston’s intersection safety camera program as an effective means for fighting red light runners and reducing deadly traffic accidents.
The Texas Hospital Association, the Harris County Hospital District and the Memorial Hermann Healthcare System all said they supported the City of Houston’s Digital Automated Red Light Enforcement Program, or intersection safety camera program, after reviewing the evidence and weighing the program’s impact on the broader community.
From Keep Houston Safe PAC By Jim McGrath
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July 8, 2010
AUSTIN – Today Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott announced support from the Texas Alliance for Life PAC for his 2010 General Election campaign.
Dr. Joe Pojman, Executive Director of the Texas Alliance for Life PAC, praised General Abbott saying, “Greg Abbott is a staunch defender of our state's pro-life laws, and we strongly urge Texans to vote for him.”
From Greg Abbott campaign
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July 8, 2010
Austin, Texas (July 8, 2010) -- The international law firm Greenberg Traurig LLP announced that Former Texas Representative Terral R. Smith has joined its Austin office as an of counsel in the governmental affairs practice group.
His practice is focused on state and federal legislative and administrative matters. Smith has been active in politics for more than 30 years. He was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1980 and served as Chairman of two House Committees: the Criminal Jurisprudence Committee (1985-1987) and the Natural Resources Committee (1987-1991). From 1996 to 2001, Smith served as Governor Bush’s legislative director.
From Greenberg Taurig
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July 8, 2010
Texas Railroad Commissioner Elizabeth Ames Jones released the following
statement about the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency meeting in Fort
Worth on its proposed study of hydraulic fracturing:
*Tonight the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will be
hosting a public information meeting in Fort Worth on its proposed study
of hydraulic fracturing and potential impacts on drinking water. I will
be attending this meeting and welcome yet another study on this issue.
From Texas Railroad Commissioner Elizabeth Ames Jones
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July 8, 2010
AUSTIN - Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson today announced the
rapid response to remove Deepwater Horizon tarballs from the upper Texas
coast this week won*t affect the state*s $20 million fund set aside
for oil spill cleanups.
*In Texas, we*re ready,* Patterson said. *I think the rest of
the nation could learn a few lessons from us when it comes to planning
ahead and preparing for oil spills.*
From Texas General Land Office By Jim Suydam
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July 8, 2010
(Granbury, TX) - Election results from last week’s special election runoff were canvassed this afternoon by Governor Rick Perry, clearing the way for Lt. Col. (Ret.) Brian Birdwell to be sworn in and immediately assume his duties as Texas State Senator for District 22. Joined by his wife Mel and son Matt, Birdwell was privately administered the oath by Governor Perry in his Capitol Office.
From Brian Birdwell Campaign By Maggie Moran
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July 8, 2010
AUSTIN—Rep. Veronica Gonzales’ list of supporters continues to grow as the Texas State Teachers Association (TSTA) announces its endorsement for her re-election campaign to represent District 41 in the Texas House of Representatives.
“I am extremely honored to receive the support of the men and women who have dedicated their careers to educating our children,” Representative Gonzales said. “Receiving an education made all the difference in my own life, and I am committed to ensuring the state provides the tools and resources teachers need in order to give our children increased opportunities for success.”
From Veronica Gonzales re-election campaign By Ricardo Lopez-Guerra
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July 8, 2010
Earlier today, the Texas Values in Action Coalition filed a formal complaint with the Texas Ethics Commission detailing State House Representative Linda Harper-Brown’s failure to report gifts of two Mercedes-Benz automobiles and a Chevy Tahoe on her personal financial statements as required by Texas law. Linda Harper-Brown (Republican – HD105, Irving) has been under intense criticism from constituents and local media since the Dallas Morning News and WFAA-TV revealed that she has been driving a luxury Mercedes-Benz sedan owned by a corporation that holds millions of dollars in state transportation contracts.
From Lone Star Project By Matt Angle
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July 8, 2010
The recent announcement that four wet-process cement kilns in Midlothian will permanantly close is an important step toward improving air quality and protecting the health of families in the Tarrant County region, Sen. Wendy Davis said Thursday.
From Dist. 10 Sen. Wendy Davis By Anthony Spangler
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July 8, 2010
BRYAN, TX – Budget Committee member Congressman Chet Edwards (D-TX) provided one of three deciding votes that allowed legislation to pass which protected Democrats from having to vote for an actual budget. For the first time since 1974, Congress will not be passing an annual budget, missing an opportunity to provide spending discipline, reduce the deficit, and control government spending. Instead, with the help of Chet Edwards, on July 1 Congress passed legislation which does not responsibly set spending limits and account for deficit projections.
From Bill Flores for Congress campaign By Matt Mackowiak
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July 7, 2010
HOUSTON -- Career politician Rick Perry has been in office so long that he thinks he can play fast and loose with the law and not be held accountable.
Yesterday, after being slapped with two ethics complaints regarding over $200,000 in secret loans and undisclosed income, Perry refused to answer the complaints, saying he has "lots of reports to file," and a question about "did somebody fill out paperwork on one line of a report correctly," is not a "serious matter."
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 7, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry has received the ongoing support of the Texas Association for Interior Design (TAID). The board voted unanimously to endorse Gov. Perry in the 2010 general election.
“Throughout the national economic downturn, Gov. Perry has worked tirelessly and effectively to build and maintain our state’s strong economy,” said TAID Executive Director Donna Vining. “We are proud to support him in his re-election efforts and look forward to working with him to fortify our economy and build a better, stronger Texas.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 7, 2010
CHICAGO, July 7 – Today, Liberty Institute filed an amicus brief in the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in support of the National Day of Prayer in Freedom from Religion Foundation v. Obama. Among those Liberty Institute represents in the brief include Dr. James Dobson, the Family Research Council (FRC), Focus on the Family Action (Citizenlink), the American Civil Rights Union (ACRU), Let Freedom Ring, and Liberty Counsel, along with 28 family policy councils located in states nationwide.
From Liberty Institute By Jennifer Grisham
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July 7, 2010
As many of you may have noticed, Texans For Todd Staples yesterday told the Dallas Morning News that a vehicle the campaign purchased with campaign funds in 2005 no longer existed.
In response, we'd like to remind reporters of a couple of things. One is, quite simply, the definition of the word "exist." According to the online edition of the Cambridge Dictionary, exist is defined as, "to be, or to be real."
From Hank Gilbert for Texas Ag. Commissioner campaign By Vince Leibowitz
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July 7, 2010
Dallas—Today the Texas Values in Action Coalition (TEXVAC) filed a complaint with the Texas Ethics Commission regarding Rep. Linda Harper Brown’s failure to report the gifts of two Mercedes Sedans and a Chevy Tahoe on her personal financial statements as required by Texas law.
“The Law is very clear that gifts in value of over $250 must be reported on the Personal Financial Statement of a member of the Legislature.” said Ed Cloutman, attorney representing TEXVAC. “A Mercedes Sedan and a Chevy Tahoe are certainly worth more than $250, and Harper Brown should have reported them on her PFS.”
From Texas Values In Action Coalition
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July 6, 2010
Yesterday the U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that tar balls from BP’s Deepwater Horizon were located on Texas shores. While we do not yet know--and cannot yet calculate--the ultimate damage this ecological and economic disaster will inflict upon the state of Texas, we do know that BP will be held fully financially accountable for the costs incurred by the taxpayers when state and local governments engage in clean-up and response efforts. Equally important, BP will also be held responsible for the economic harm suffered by coastal businesses, fisherman, landowners, individuals and communities as a result of the Deepwater Horizon spill.
From Office of the Attorney General
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July 6, 2010
DALLAS -- Over the weekend Texans answered the challenge Perry laid down to the Texas Tribune last week when he said, "If they've made anybody that can outwork me yet, please introduce him to me. Or her." ... Travis from Denton said, "I'm absolutely positive he can under-work and outspend me any day."
"What's Rick Perry doing with his seven hour work week?" asked Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson. "Has he been working with coastal communities and other states on a response plan for oil on our shores? Has he been working on ways to solve the $18 billion budget crisis?"
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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July 6, 2010
"Bill White is a shameful candidate who has denied active military families the right to vote, mismanaged the Houston budget and profiteered by steering business to a company he had financial ties with during Hurricane Rita while he was Mayor of Houston. Bill White continues to have more in common with President Obama than he does with the concerns and beliefs of Texans.
"It is unfortunate that Bill White failed to unveil one new policy initiative this evening and chose instead to continue a campaign based on personal attacks, rather than ideas that would move Texas forward. Under Governor Perry’s leadership, Texas continues to have one of the strongest economies in the nation and is a leader in job creation."
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 6, 2010
During an appearance in Kerrville on Monday night, Bill White pretended to be a defender of the environment, yet neglected to confess that BJ Services, a company that paid him $2.6 million while he served as mayor of Houston, is under investigation by Congress for potentially polluting groundwater in North Texas.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 6, 2010
HOUSTON – Gov. Rick Perry today announced the formation of the Gulf Project, a coalition of energy and environmental scientists, policy experts, academic researchers, private sector research scientists and state officials who will work to ensure Texas never endures the environmental and economic disaster currently occurring in the Gulf of Mexico as a result of the Deepwater Horizon rig explosion.
From Office of the Governor By Allison Castle, Katherine Cesinger
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July 6, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the ongoing support of Career Colleges and Schools of Texas (CCST) for the 2010 general election.
"The Career Colleges and Schools of Texas is proud to offer its continued support of Gov. Rick Perry in his bid for re-election," said CCST Board Chair Maureen K. Clements. “Gov. Perry is a true partner in providing the tools our graduates need to prepare and equip themselves to succeed in this competitive economy."
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 6, 2010
The close relationship between liberal trial lawyer Bill White and President Obama continues as former Houston police chief Harold Hurtt has joined the Obama Administration as director of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Office of State and Local Coordination.
Hurtt was Houston’s police chief when White was mayor and the city was recognized as a sanctuary city by the U.S. Department of Justice for the police department’s official policy stating, “Officers shall not make inquiries as to the citizenship status of any person.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 6, 2010
A document surrendered under court order identifies Rick Perry campaign consultant, Anthony Holm, as a key person working with Green Party leaders to use Republican money to fund a signature gathering campaign to qualify Green Party of Texas candidates for the 2010 ballot. Holm is a principal of the Patriot Group, which is a well- known GOP political consulting firm that lists Republican Governor Rick Perry as its client. During the current election cycle, the Rick Perry Campaign has paid the Patriot Group at least $90,000.
From Lone Star Project
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July 6, 2010
(Austin, Texas - 1,164 miles from Merrillville/Hammond, Indiana) Hector Uribe, the Democratic nominee for Texas Land Commissioner, could not have been more surprised when he recently received a Facebook message from a woman in Indiana, notifying him that a man there is using an old talent agency photo of Uribe's on a dating website. In addition to being a former Texas state senator and lawyer, Uribe is also an actor who has appeared in several films.
From Hector Uribe
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July 6, 2010
TYLER-Hank Gilbert, the Texas Democratic Party's nominee for Texas Agriculture Commissioner, on Tuesday questioned why Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples bought a suburban with campaign funds, registered it in his own name, and is still driving it around-with State Official license plates.
At issue is a 2005 purchase of a Chevrolet Suburban by Texans for Todd Staples, which is presently registered in Staples name with a State Official License Plate. According to publicly available records of the Texas Ethics Commission, Staples paid Cutshaw Chevrolet in Grapeland, Texas $15,406.25 for a "vehicle" on July 9, 2005.
From Hank Gilbert for Texas Ag. Commissioner campaign By Vince Leibowitz
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July 6, 2010
Houston, Texas. July 6, 2010. Recent press claims express the same concerns as expressed during the State Democratic Convention by the Texas Attorney General's spokesman concerning private legal fees in Barbara Ann Radnofsky's proposed lawsuit by Texas against the Wall Street banks for their financial misconduct that brought down the economy in September 2008.
Radnofsky pledged: "As Attorney General, I will only use great lawyers willing to handle this case at no fee and the fine lawyers within the Attorney General's office. I've already got volunteer counsel. I made a written pledge to work with the current Attorney General, at no fee, with other volunteer counsel I identified to him, to get the lawsuit timely filed. I renew my pledge made in writing to the AG."
From Barbara Ann Radnofsky for Texas Attorney General By Katie Floyd
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July 2, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry has received the endorsement of the Texas Beverage Association (TBA) for the 2010 general election.
“From bottlers to distributors to franchisers, the Texas beverage community is thankful for Gov. Perry’s work to establish a business climate that has allowed our industry to succeed,” said Brenda Eschberger, Executive Director of the Texas Beverage Association. “His commitment to fiscal restraint, low taxes, and job creation are vital to our state’s future economic strength, which is why the Texas Beverage Association enthusiastically continues its support of Gov. Perry for re-election.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 2, 2010
This July 4 weekend, Americans of all backgrounds will come together to celebrate our country’s freedom and thank the brave military men and women who have served our nation. Yet as the wait for liberal trial lawyer Bill White to release his taxes for his years in public service reaches Day 117, Texans also continue to wait for White to apologize for his past anti-military actions.
“Liberal Bill White has yet to apologize for his shameful support of litigation and legislation to restrict the voting rights of our military,” said Texans for Rick Perry spokesman Mark Miner. “On July 4 weekend, our nation’s military deserves gratitude from all Americans – and an apology from Bill White.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 2, 2010
The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT)
recently awarded its first round of research commercialization grants to three Austin companies. Apollo Endosurgery has developed new surgical devices for endoscopic removal of lesions in the colon, esophagus and stomach. Mirna Therapeutics is developing new therapeutics that block key genes that can trigger cancer. Rules-Based Medicine is developing tests for use in the early diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring and treatment efficacy of cancer therapy tailored to an individual patient’s disease.
From Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas
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July 2, 2010
Austin- Would you trust someone who has a criminal conviction for theft, four years of unpaid taxes, a decade of outstanding tax liens, two recent guilty pleas for unsafe driving convictions, took $150,000 in political bribes, has a public record of lying and is stupidly telling our children that it’s safer to not wear seat belts?
This is the repeat offender record of Obama Democrat and carpet cleaner Hank Gilbert who is running for Texas Commissioner of Agriculture.
From Ag Commissioner Todd Staples By Cody McGregor
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June 30, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today issued the following statement regarding the EPA’s decision to disapprove Texas’ air permitting program:
“The EPA’s irresponsible and heavy-handed action not only undermines Texas’ successful clean air programs, but threatens thousands of Texas jobs, families, businesses and communities throughout our state. It will also likely curtail energy supplies and increase gasoline prices nationwide.
From Office of the Governor By Allison Castle, Lucy Nashed
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July 1, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Texas Locksmiths Association (TLA) for the 2010 general election.
“Gov. Perry’s work to protect and strengthen small business has been essential to the success of our industry,” said Billy Garrett, president of TLA. “We are proud to endorse him in his re-election effort and look forward to working with him to give small business owners the tools they need to create jobs and thrive.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 30, 2010
In 2009, the Houston Chronicle reported White “met with senior EPA officials about how the state handles emissions permit requests,” and, “After meeting with White, EPA officials announced that many of the TCEQ rules are in violation of the federal Clean Air Act.” [1, 2]
White also is a former Board Member of the Advisory Board of Environmental Defense Of Texas, as is EPA Regional Administrator Al Armendariz, the Obama Administration official responsible for the EPA’s power grab. [3, 4]
“Liberal Bill White should be held accountable for his role in the EPA’s power grab of Texas’ permitting process,” said Texans for Rick Perry spokesman Mark Miner.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 30, 2010
Liberal trial lawyer Bill White continues to refuse to rule out raising taxes in addition to refusing to release his income taxes for his years in public service for 115 days and counting.
As detailed in an article in today’s Wall Street Journal titled, “Why Obamanomics Has Failed: Uncertainty about future taxes and regulations is enemy No. 1 of economic growth,” White’s threat of tax increases is harmful to the economy.
“Liberal Bill White’s refusal to rule out tax increases is yet another example of his support for the failed policies of President Obama,” said Texans for Rick Perry spokesman Mark Miner.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 30, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry raised more than $1 million in a 24-hour Money Cannon fundraising effort yesterday, more than tripling the original goal of $300,000. The effort included a major online presence that resulted in numerous Texans donating through the governor’s website. The total amount raised was $1,001,385.
“I deeply appreciate the support I have received from Texans across the state,” said Gov. Perry. “Our successful fundraising efforts combined with our statewide grassroots support are proof that Texas values and proven leadership are what Texans look for in their elected leaders. These are qualities I will always embrace as I continue to pursue the principles of limited government, low taxes, fiscal restraint and individual freedom that are sure to strengthen our state for years to come.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 30, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Perry today received the endorsement of the Texas Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (TBFAA) for re-election.
"Gov. Perry has a proven record of successfully working with public safety and law enforcement personnel, as well as members of the security industry, to provide the resources necessary to ensure the safety of all Texans,” said TBFAA President Chris Russell. “We owe a great debt to Gov. Perry for all his public safety initiatives which have had an incredibly positive impact on our state, and we are proud to endorse him through the general election."
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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July 1, 2010
LOS ANGELES, CA – Ry Cooder created his new single "Quicksand" in response to anti-immigrant law SB 1070 and the ongoing Arizona immigration battle. SB 1070 requires police to demand ‘papers’ from people they stop who they suspect are "unlawfully present" in the U.S. As described by Cooder, "Quicksand" is a slow-burning rocker that tells the story of six would-be immigrants making their way from Mexico to the Arizona border. On June 29th, Ry Cooder's "Quicksand" went on sale exclusively on iTunes, and Cooder has pledged to donate all proceeds from the song to MALDEF.
From Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund
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July 1, 2010
AUSTIN—Today, Speaker Joe Straus (R-San Antonio) announced the reappointment of Representative Warren Chisum (R-Pampa) and Representative Myra Crownover (R-Denton) to the Business Tax Advisory Committee.
Presided over by the Texas Comptroller, the Business Tax Advisory Committee is a panel comprised of tax experts, legislators and business representatives responsible for analyzing the revised franchise tax's effect on the business community and the Texas economy. The committee is required to issue a report to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the Speaker of the House prior to the 82nd Texas Legislature.
From House Speaker Joe Straus By Tracy Young
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July 1, 2010
TYLER-Hank Gilbert, the Texas Democratic Party's nominee for Texas Agriculture Commissioner, Thursday questioned why incumbent Commissioner Todd Staples was using the TDA's Go Texan marketing program to promote companies who had contributed to his campaign.
Gilbert noted that, on June 23, Staples and TDA scheduled a major "Go Texan" media event at the Brookshire Brothers Fresh Market in Lufkin. According to the Texas Ethics Commission, Brookshire Brothers' Political Action Committee and its former CEO have contributed thousands to Staples' campaigns.
From Hank Gilbert for Texas Ag. Commissioner campaign By Vince Leibowitz
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July 1, 2010
(Dallas, TX) – Organizing for America-Texas (OFA-TX) State Director Luke Hayes released the following statement on President Obama’s speech on comprehensive immigration reform today:
“The President’s speech today highlights our nation’s urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform. Our current system is broken, unfair, and failing all Americans—and must be dealt with from many angles. The federal government must do more to increase border security; businesses must be held accountable for hiring undocumented workers; and those here illegally must come admit they broke the law, pay a fine, and get in line to earn citizenship.
From Organizing for America, DNC By Hector Nieto
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July 1, 2010
AUSTIN, TEXAS -- July 1, 2010 -- The Texas Civil Justice League Political Action Committee (PAC) has endorsed former district judge Melissa Goodwin for the 3rd Court of Appeals, Place 4. The statewide general election is Tuesday, November 2, 2010.
The 3rd Court of Appeals is based in Austin and serves 24 Central and West Texas counties. Unlike the other thirteen intermediate courts, it has unique jurisdiction over executive branch, legislative, and regulatory appeals involving the state government.
From Texas Civil Justice League By Cary Roberts
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June 30, 2010
"The action today by the TCEQ Commissioners to retain the current bacteria pollution standard primary contact recreation streams and lakes is a partial victory for the environment and a clear triumph for public input. The state agency staff had recommended revisions to the state's water quality standards that would have weakened public health protections from bacteria for people swimming and wading in Texas streams and lakes. Thousands of Texans communicated their opposition to the Texas Commission on Enviromental Quality.
From Sierra Club By Ken Kramer
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June 30, 2010
TYLER-Denials and blame shifting by the Texas Department of Agriculture and Commissioner Todd Staples, as well as damning Food and Drug Administration inspection reports for the Peanut Corporation of American plant in Plainview fully illustrate that the Gilbert campaign's findings of incompetence by Commissioner Todd Staples and his agency have hit their mark, a campaign spokesperson said Wednesday afternoon.
From Hank Gilbert for Texas Ag. Commissioner campaign By Vince Leibowitz
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June 29, 2010
HOUSTON -- The Bill White for Texas campaign today released a web video highlighting the history of Rick Perry and Mike Toomey. Toomey, Perry's close friend and former chief of staff, was implicated on Thursday in an illegal ballot scam involving $532,000 in corporate money funneled by GOP operatives into the Green Party.
In 2007, Toomey, a hired lobbyist for Merck, helped the drug company secure an executive order from Perry that mandated vaccines for middle school girls across Texas. The order created a public firestorm and was later reversed by the Texas Legislature.
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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June 29, 2010
Liberal trial lawyer Bill White is embarrassed by and hiding his support for President Obama just like he has hidden his income tax returns for his years in public service for 114 days and counting. Though White has supported all three of President Obama’s signature policy initiatives – Obamacare, cap and trade, and the $787 billion stimulus – he is trying to deceive the public about his true beliefs.
Yesterday Politico reported that White is now “criticizing the size of the Democratic $787 billion dollar economic stimulus package,” a complete flip-flop from 2009 when White traveled to the White House to promote the stimulus with President Obama three days after it was signed into law.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 29, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Texas Association of Licensed Investigators for re-election in 2010.
“We are proud to endorse Gov. Perry in his re-election bid,” said Randy Kildow, president of the Texas Association of Licensed Investigators. “Gov. Perry’s strong anti-crime measures and continued efforts toward transparency in state government give investigators the tools we need to seek out and expose fraud and crime in Texas.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 29, 2010
“This is clearly an admission of guilt by Linda Harper Brown that she illegally took a Mercedes from a company that benefitted from her role as a state legislator and has over 10 million dollars in state contracts. She can’t un-ring the bell, un-drive the Mercedes, or un-accept a bribe.”
• “Once again, Linda Harper Brown is failing to address the serious issues at hand here, she can’t un-drive the car and think that the taking of it in the first place was ethical or legal. That’s like trying to give back the money after you’ve been caught robbing the bank.”
From Texas Values In Action Coalition
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June 29, 2010
The Texas State Teachers Association reported today that Attorney General Greg Abbott has issued an opinion protecting a state-ordered pay raise for educators. The attorney general’s ruling, issued today, provides that a statewide pay boost received last year won’t be eroded by local school districts during the upcoming school year.
“This is good news for Texas’ hard-working educators,” said TSTA President Rita Haecker. “This assures a cost-of-living increase that many teachers would not have received otherwise.”
From Texas State Teachers Association By Clay Robison
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June 29, 2010
AUSTIN – School districts will be required to give teachers annual pay increases based on years of experience for the 2010-11 school year, according to an opinion issues today by Texas Attorney General Gregg Abbott.
The attorney general’s decision is in response to a question from the commissioner of education on whether a law passed by the Texas Legislature requires school districts to maintain regularly scheduled pay increases in effect when the law was passed in 2009.
From Association of Texas Professional Educators By Adam Rondeau
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June 28, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today issued a disaster proclamation for 19 Texas counties and ordered the pre-deployment of state resources as Tropical Storm Alex tracks toward the Texas coast. The governor’s declaration allows the state to initiate necessary preparedness efforts, such as pre-deploying resources to ensure local communities are ready to respond to disasters.
“We continue to closely monitor this storm, and are preparing accordingly for its potential impact to our communities,” Gov. Perry said. “Tropical Storm Alex is now in the Gulf, and it is imperative that residents pay attention to this storm, heed warnings from their local leaders, and take the steps necessary to protect their families, homes and businesses.”
From Office of the Governor By Allison Castle, Katherine Cesinger
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June 28, 2010
Last week, Bill White challenged Rick Perry to get to work and address the $18 billion budget hole. Perry's state schedules show that from January to May 2010, Perry did not work on the budget crisis, or it appears, much of anything, yet he continues to charge Texas taxpayers over $9,000 a month in rent and $428.57 an hour for work.
Over the weekend, Bill addressed delegates of the Texas Democratic Party at the state convention. You can watch a full video of his speech here and read coverage from around the state below.
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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June 28, 2010
AUSTIN – The Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA) today endorsed Gov. Rick Perry in the 2010 general election.
“TMPA is proud to continue its support of Gov. Rick Perry’s bid for re-election,” said TMPA president Eddie Wilkerson. “Gov. Perry has effectively worked with law enforcement to ensure that Texas is a safe and secure place to live and work. We look forward to his return to the governor’s office.”
TMPA represents more than 16,000 Texas peace officers from all around the state and from all types of agencies. TMPA, formed in 1950, acts as the voice for Texas law enforcement in the State Legislature and actively seeks to promote the mission of “Professionalism in Texas law enforcement through education and representation.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 28, 2010
On Day 113 of liberal trial lawyer Bill White refusing to release his taxes for his years in public service, the United States Supreme Court ruled that Second Amendment rights also apply to state and local governments with its decision in the McDonald v. Chicago case.
Bill White was an active member of the US Conference of Mayors while he was mayor of Houston, and on April 24, 2009, the US Conference of Mayors filed an amicus brief defending Chicago’s ban on handguns by arguing that the Second Amendment does not extend to state and local governments.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 28, 2010
Texas AFT today has won a signal victory for truth in grading--the authority of teachers to give grades that accurately reflect students' actual, demonstrated proficiency in their courses.
A state district judge in Austin this afternoon rejected an attempt by 11 Texas school districts to nullify the 2009 state law outlawing local minimum-grade policies. Under these local policies, teachers have been required to give students grades no lower than some district-mandated minimum, even if the students have refused to do any assignments or have failed to attend class.
From Texas AFT
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June 28, 2010
The federal stimulus bill passed in 2009 provided $87 billion in federal funds for Medicaid programs across the states through higher reimbursement rates. Senate Democrats have proposed extending the higher reimbursement rates in order to help alleviate state budgets. The enhanced funds would reduce the looming budget deficit in Texas by as much as $1 billion. Twenty two other states have already included the enhanced funds in their proposed budgets and are anxiously awaiting approval of the extension.
From State Rep. Garnet F. Coleman
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June 28, 2010
The battle between Democratic and Republican Party operatives over the Green Party’s ballot access petition drive, now headed for the Texas Supreme Court, has the potential for consequences not yet brought to light. The ban on corporate contributions in Texas campaigns could be ruled unconstitutional by the Republican aligned Texas Supreme Court in light of the recent U.S. Supreme Court Citizen’s United ruling, which makes it easier for corporations and labor unions to fund federal campaigns. The Texas corporate (and union) ban, established in 1905 during the heyday of the populist movement, is one of the few campaign finance laws in Texas. It is widely supported by voters of all political hues including independent-minded (read: independent of Rick Perry) tea partiers.
From Independent Texans By Linda Curtis
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June 28, 2010
BRYAN, TX – Bill Flores, the Republican nominee for Texas’ 17th Congressional District, released the following statement today regarding a 5-4 ruling by the Supreme Court that applies the Second Amendment to state and local gun laws:
“Today’s ruling is good news for Americans who want to see their Second Amendment rights protected, not infringed upon by activist states and local governments. Across the country in places like New Jersey, Chicago and Washington, D.C., laws exist that drastically limit the fundamental rights of Americans to legally possess firearms – in direct violation of the Second Amendment.
From Bill Flores for Congress campaign By Matt Mackowiak
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June 28, 2010
CORPUS CHRISTI -- Among the speakers taking the stage on this final day of the Texas Democratic Party’s convention in Corpus Christi were members of the state house Democratic Caucus joined by many state house candidates.
When Boyd Richie first took office in 2005, Texas Democrats held sixty-three seats in the state house. Today they hold seventy-three seats with many of the seats gained having come from Harris County.
From Harris County 2010 - Texas Democratic Party By Anthony Gutierrez
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June 25, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Texas Nursery and Landscape Association PAC (TNLA-PAC) for the 2010 general election.
“Texas Nursery and Landscape Association PAC is proud of Gov. Perry’s dedicated service to our state and support of our industry,” said TNLA President Eddy Edmondson. “We are pleased to endorse his 2010 re-election for governor of Texas and look forward to working with him to ensure the values of limited government, restrained spending and low taxes are upheld in the years to come.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 25, 2010
CORPUS CHRISTI – Taxpayers are footing the bill for Congressman Solomon Ortiz to push his liberal political agenda through an “Ortiz On Demand” TV program and Republican Blake Farenthold called it a colossal waste of taxpayer money.
Ortiz is one of four Congressmen who signed up to air prerecorded videos through MiCongress On Demand at a startling cost that can range between $500 to $2,000 a month -- and it’s all coming from his taxpayer-funded office account.
In addition to the cost of the programming, there is also more money associated with filming the program to be aired “on demand.”
From Blake Farenthold for Congress Dist. 27 campaign By Steve Ray
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June 25, 2010
WASHINGTON – With both the nominations hearing of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court and the Supreme Court’s release of its decision in McDonald v. Chicago expected on Monday, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today raised concerns that Elena Kagan’s record indicates hostility toward gun rights and the Second Amendment.
“Elena Kagan’s record raises concerns that she will be a reliable vote against Americans’ right to keep and bear arms, and I intend to question her about her commitment to protecting Second Amendment rights,” Sen. Cornyn said.
From U. S. Sen. John Cornyn By Kevin McLaughlin
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June 25, 2010
Austin— A coalition of nonprofit organizations involved in charitable bingo, led by two of the state’s major military veterans organizations, filed suit today asking a federal court to declare unconstitutional state statutes that prohibit them from using charitable bingo proceeds to lobby the Legislature or publicly advocate for or against measures on the election ballot. The move comes as the Texas Legislature considers authorizing new electronic gaming in an effort to bridge an impending $18 billion gap in the next state budget.
From Texas Bingo Charities By Steve Bresnen
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June 25, 2010
(AUSTIN, TEXAS)— In a vote happening now, it is widely expected that the U. S. Congress will fail to pass a jobs bill that would have extended federal assistance to Texas. The price tag of this failure for Texas is $858,000,000 in enhanced Medicaid funding. Loss of this assistance could force state leaders to make further deep spending cuts to balance the state’s budget.
The Center on Budget and Policy and Priorities in Washington, D.C., has released a table showing how much aid each state, including Texas, will lose if this bill fails.
From Center for Public Poliy Priorities By Brian Stephens
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June 25, 2010
(Corpus Christi, TX) – Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie called on Rick Perry to come clean with Texas voters about what role Perry’s campaign played in funneling over $500,000 in secret corporate funds to fund a Green Party petition drive to help Perry’s floundering campaign.
During testimony today, a witness testified that he was paid approximately $12,000 by Rick Perry’s close friend and former Chief of Staff, lobbyist Mike Toomey, to create a plan to gather signatures to get the Green Party of Texas on the ballot.
From Democratic Party of Texas By Kirsten Gray
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June 25, 2010
Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie issued the following statement regarding the passing of Mrs. Sybil Gilbert, the mother of the Democratic nominee for Agriculture Commissioner, Hank Gilbert.
“On behalf of thousands of Texas Democrats who are gathered in Corpus Christi for our convention and thousands more who have come to know him in his tireless advocacy for working Texans, I want to extend our sincere condolences to Hank Gilbert and his family on the passing of his mother, Mrs. Sybil Gilbert.
From Texas Democratic Party
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June 24, 2010
AUSTIN– Gov. Rick Perry has proclaimed Sunday, June 27, 2010, as a Day of Prayer in Texas for the Gulf Coast, following the explosion and sinking of the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig that took 11 lives and has led to economic hardship for many others throughout the region.
"The Deepwater Horizon oil spill has impacted numerous lives along the Gulf Coast, especially those families who lost loved ones as a result of this incident,” Gov. Perry said. “I am joining Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour and Alabama Gov. Bob Riley in declaring June 27th a day of prayer to honor those who lost their lives and the many who have lost their livelihood as a result of this tragedy.”
From Office of the Governor By Allison Castle, Katherine Cesinger
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June 24, 2010
HOUSTON -- Rick Perry continues to evade questions about an ethics complaint filed against him by a government watchdog group for spending more than $816,000 in campaign contributions on his rental mansion without itemizing the expenses.
The response from Perry's team to date has essentially been, "Trust us, everything is fine."
"Questions raised about $816,000 in mansion spending need answers. If Perry wants to claim he's not breaking the law, then he needs to prove it," said Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson.
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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June 24, 2010
Liberal trial lawyer Bill White continues to hide his taxes for his years in public service, including the years he worked for former President Bill Clinton, even as he releases an endorsement from the former President.
“Liberal Bill White boasts of his relationship with former President Bill Clinton, yet he has hidden the taxes he filed while working for him in Washington for 109 days and counting,” said Texans for Rick Perry spokesman Mark Miner. “Bill White and Bill Clinton have a quid pro quo relationship dating back nearly 20 years to when Bill White raised millions of dollars for Clinton’s presidential campaign.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 24, 2010
Washington, D.C. – As the White House continues its ban on deepwater drilling in the Gulf, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is proposing an interim step that would satisfy concerns about further spills while protecting approximately three-fourths of the jobs associated with oil and gas production in the Outer Continental Shelf.
In a letter sent to Secretary Salazar today, 24 lawmakers - led by Texas Reps. Kevin Brady (R-Woodlands) and Gene Green (D-Houston) - proposed allowing low-risk development and appraisal wells to go forward while the Department of Interior continues its assessment on deepwater exploratory wells. Earlier this week a Louisiana federal judge struck down the moratorium, but Administration officials have vowed to appeal.
From Representatives Kevin Brady, Gene Green By Tracee Evans, Timothy Merritt
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June 24, 2010
AUSTIN, TX, June 24, 2010 – Austin governmental affairs professional Laura R. Doll has been selected as an independent board member for the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), grid operator for most of the state.
The decision was announced following an executive session at last week’s joint meeting of the nominating committee and the ERCOT board and is subject to approval by the Public Utility Commission and an ERCOT membership vote. The membership balloting is expected to be completed in mid-July.
From ERCOT By Dottie Roark
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June 24, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of the Texas Retailers Association (TRA) PAC for re-election.
“The Texas Retailers Association PAC is proud to continue its support of Gov. Perry through the general election,” said Gary Huddleston, Chair of TRAPAC. “Gov. Perry has demonstrated a strong commitment to limited government and market-based solutions that Texas needs to maintain its competitive economic position in the years to come. He has consistently reached out to the retailing community to listen and respond to our unique concerns, and it is clear that he is the leader our state needs to ensure a promising future for all Texans.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 24, 2010
Washington—Today, U.S. Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) delivered the following remarks on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives during debate of the DISCLOSE Act, legislation that requires stricter disclosure requirements on political activity in response to the Supreme Court’s misguided ruling in Citizens United earlier this year. Rep. Doggett said:
“This is a vote for a fully informed, fully empowered American people. We want to keep America the best democracy, not the best democracy money can buy.
From Congressman Lloyd Doggett By Sarah Dohl
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June 24, 2010
Representative Helen Giddings (D-Dallas) is pleased to announce that two educators she
nominated were chosen by the Texas Education Agency to serve on the State Textbook
Panel. The state review panel is charged with evaluating instructional materials to
determine coverage of the TEKS and identify factual errors. Both Verna Mitchell and Dr.
Thalia Matherson have a long history of working as principals in the public school
system.
From State Rep. Helen Giddings By Tamara Hobbs
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June 24, 2010
Dear Friend,
In 2008, the federal government took over government sponsored mortgage-backing companies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. At the time of their collapse in September 2008, these two institutions owned or guaranteed $5 trillion in mortgages and mortgage-backed securities. Since then taxpayers have invested over $145 billion in these failing institutions, while the Democratic Congress has repeatedly resisted reforming them.
From Bill Flores for Congress campaign
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June 24, 2010
AUSTIN — As the Texas Democratic Party convenes in Corpus Christi this week, a leader on one of the convention's core purposes is a state representative carrying past and perhaps present ethical and legal violations.
"Boyd Richie or Matt Angle - whichever one of them is actually running this convention - chose state Rep. Garnet Coleman to help draft the party's platform again," said Republican Party of Texas spokesman Bryan Preston. "This choice makes it crystal clear that the Democrats don't care about ethics or the law. If they did, they'd find someone without ethical problems to chair their platform committee."
From Republican Party of Texas
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June 23, 2010
HOUSTON -- Rick Perry has set records by spending more taxpayer dollars on international travel than any other governor in Texas history, even as he's overseen the near doubling of state spending, the doubling of state debt and the creation of an $18 billion budget hole.
"Career politician Rick Perry shows Texans again and again that he's in it for himself. Perry goes to extraordinary lengths to fund his lavish lifestyle with campaign contributions, taxpayer dollars and corporate cash," said Katy Bacon, campaign spokesperson. "He charges taxpayers nearly $10,000 a month for an extravagant rental mansion, uses a non-profit, TexasOne, as a travel slush fund, and is now facing an ethics complaint on $816,000 in campaign funds he used for mansion expenditures. How much is enough for Rick Perry?"
From Bill White for Texas By Katy Bacon
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June 23, 2010
Liberal trial lawyer Bill White is hiding the truth about his financial relationship with BTEC majority owner Wedge Group, just as he has hidden his taxes for his years in public service for 108 days and counting.
When White said, “I had no interest in a company called BTEC during the time of Hurricane Rita,” he is not being truthful, as he received more than $81,000 from BTEC majority owner Wedge Group the same year he steered a $2 million contract to BTEC. White was also CEO of Wedge Group in 2001 when the company acquired a controlling interest in BTEC.
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 23, 2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry has received the ongoing support of the Texas Recreational Vehicle Association (TRVA) for the general election.
“Gov. Perry has proven his commitment to upholding our state’s strong economic foundation which has been essential to fortifying the Texas RV industry especially during these tough economic times,” said TRVA Executive Director Clark McEwen. “Because of Gov. Perry’s support of small business and lower taxes, Texas is much better positioned than any other state in the country to rebound when national recovery takes hold. We are deeply indebted to Gov. Perry for his small business initiatives and proud to offer our ongoing, enthusiastic support through the general election.”
From Texans for Rick Perry By Mark Miner, Catherine Frazier
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June 23, 2010
WHO: Clean Economy Coalition of Corpus Christi, Sierra Club, Public
Citizen, and other concerned individuals. Speakers: Daniel Lucio & Jim Klein with Clean Economy Coalition, Medical Community
Representative, Pat Suter & Eva Hernandez with Sierra Club, Tom 'Smitty' Smith with Public Citizen
WHAT: Press Conference in advance of TCEQ decision on Las Brisas
petroleum coke-fired power plant permit
WHEN: Monday, June 28, 10:00 AM/CST
From Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club By Donna Hoffman
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June 23, 2010
Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the flight of an unmanned aerial vehicle over 1,200 miles of the Texas-Mexico border, in addition to the Texas Gulf Coast. As a result of the decision, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can now move forward in permanently stationing a remotely-piloted aircraft in Texas. This will be the first UAV based and operated in Texas to help combat illegal activity along the Texas-Mexico border.
From Office of Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) By Ashley Patterson
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June 23, 2010
AUSTIN – After the special election results were released last night in Senate District 22, Senator Dan Patrick offered the following statement concerning the election of Senator-Elect Brian Birdwell.
“A few years ago I met Lieutenant Colonel Brian Birdwell, a survivor from the attack on the Pentagon on 9/11, in my role as M.C. at a Veterans Day event in my district. Brian was the keynote speaker. I was inspired by his story, his courage, and his dedication to service. After over 30 surgeries Brian was ready to serve again, this time in the Texas Senate.
From Texans for Dan Patrick
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 Copyright July 30, 2010, Harvey Kronberg, www.quorumreport.com, All rights are reserved
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