Democratic primary runoffs for two congressional districts and two legislative seats in South Texas highlight the candidates’ divergent visions for the party in a region the GOP is heavily targeting.
2022 elections
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Texas 2022 Elections
In Texas visit, Donald Trump rallies Republican voters to deliver a GOP wave in November midterms
The former president criticized Democrats, who control Congress and the White House, on a number of issues. He also praised Texas Republicans he’s endorsed in this month’s primary runoff.
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Texas 2022 Elections
Largely aligned on policy, candidates in Democratic runoff for lieutenant governor push their experience
The winner will face a tough challenge against Republican incumbent Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.
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Unconventional Wisdom
Analysis: The case for big ideas in Texas government
Texas political leaders usually settle for caution. The big stuff is risky, but it’s also possible — and even inspiring — to see leaders ignoring the small stuff and aiming higher.
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Texas 2022 Elections
Here’s how two Texas constitutional amendments could lower some property taxes
The propositions on the May 7 ballot would lower property taxes by shifting more public school costs to the state. But the measures’ language can be hard to understand.
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Texas 2022 Elections
In Democratic runoff for South Texas congressional seat, nonprofit backing a candidate is accused of campaign finance violations
Michelle Vallejo faces Ruben Ramirez in a runoff for the Democratic nomination in the 15th Congressional District. A nonprofit that supports Vallejo is accused of breaking campaign finance rules.
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Unconventional Wisdom
Analysis: Texas lawmakers listen to the voters who show up
Politicians are always listening to voters — but the ones who actually select the state’s elected officials have a lot more clout than those who stay home. You can see it in the way lawmakers govern.
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Unconventional Wisdom
Analysis: Gerrymandering has left Texas voters with few options
Texans who don’t vote in primaries and primary runoffs are missing a chance to choose who goes to Congress and the Texas Legislature. Thanks to the political maps drawn by lawmakers last year, only a handful of those contests will be competitive in November.
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Politics
Two Democrats, two Republicans will compete in special election for South Texas congressional seat that GOP wants to flip
The winner of the special election will replace former U.S. Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Brownsville, who resigned last month to work for Akin Gump.
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Unconventional Wisdom
Analysis: Texas schools need support from politically distracted state leaders
Public education in Texas — like everywhere in the country — is hurting after more than two years of pandemic. But many in the political class are preoccupied with reforms that have more to do with social issues than with education.