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Bullock, 1998 Tom Lankes/Austin American-Statesman THE MAN WHO RAN TEXAS The following excerpts are from a biography of the late Bob Bullock to be published in February by the University of Texas Press. During a political career that began with a stint in the Texas House of Representatives and ended in the lieutenant governor’s office, Bullock became one of the most powerful, feared, and unpredictable politicians in Texas. He was a chainsmoking, manic depressive alcoholic who burned through wives, employees, and whiskey, and narrowly escaped indictment. He was also admired to the point of reverence for his political skills, directness, and dedication to the state he loved. 4 THE TEXAS OBSERVER JANUARY 11, 2008