In With the Workhorse, Out With the . . . Show Pony?
January 13th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
The main event on the floor of the Texas House this afternoon was the swearing-in ceremony for the new speaker, San Antonio Republican Joe Straus.Six representatives gave nominating speeches, seasoning their remarks with plenty of Texas flavor. More than one representative noted that Straus grew up “in the shadow of the Alamo,” and Rep. Jose Menendez, D-San Antonio, used an extended Alamo metaphor to discuss Straus’ qualifications as speaker.Rep. Jim McReynolds, D-Lufkin, used a livestock metaphor: “We in this chamber want a workhorse, not a show pony.”While everyone spoke highly of Straus’ leadership ability, only Straus himself hinted that his leadership style would be a departure from former speaker Tom Craddick’s heavy-handed approach.“We will create a place where we respect each other’s points of view,” Straus said. “Disagreements are necessary because they will result in stronger and better laws.”Straus was also the only member to recognize Craddick’s service. Craddick stayed seated as the other representatives and the rest of the audience gave him a standing ovation, rising briefly to wave as the applause died down.
