The Rabid Faith Behind David Simpson’s ‘Election Sermon’
The Texas Capitol’s auditorium turned into a church late Tuesday afternoon, at least it sounded like one. After the official legislative business had concluded [...]
‘Campbell’s Calvary,’ Secessionists and Other True Believers Pack the Capitol Hallways
It was a wet day in Austin, and the various rallies planned outside—for Latino needs, for Texas secession—were crunched inside. A particularly motley bunch of activists, lookey-loos, road-weary elected officials and well-tanned lobbyists passed each other in the hallways of the Capitol, often at as polite a distance as space would allow.
Texas Legislature Reconvenes for a Strange, but Peaceful, Day One
Tuesday was opening day for the 83rd Legislature, and by noon the House and Senate floors were full again with lawmakers, lawmakers’ families and [...]
Van de Putte Treated to Compliments, Awkward Jokes as Senate’s New President Pro Tem
Zaffirini’s nomination roast continued with a nod to Van de Putte’s 12 kids and grandchildren gathered around her desk. “I’m not sure when she became an advocate for Planned Parenthood,” Zaffirini said, “but I bet her children are glad it wasn’t earlier.”
Perry’s Wish List: Spending Cap, Tax Relief, Fetal Pain Bill
Rick Perry was defiant as ever this afternoon at the Capitol. The governor sketched out his priorities for the legislative session in a brief [...]