The reluctant Mr. Perry
The governor has finally weighed in, kind of, on the steel cage deathmatch that is the Texas House. Rick Perry, a former House member himself, has understandably been reluctant to take political sides over the fate of Tom Craddick.
After all, if he chooses the wrong (i.e., losing) side, he's got to try to get his agenda past a House speaker with an ax to grind. In fact, Mr. Perry's spokesman, Robert Black, took pains to tell Austin bureau chief Christy Hoppe yesterday that the guv has no dog in this fight.
But the walkout last night imperiled legislation the governor cares deeply about, including the massive water bill so important to North Texas. So he's telling them, in so many words: Get your act together. The full statement after the jump:
Statement from Gov. Rick Perry on the need for legislators to finish their work:“The members of the Texas Legislature have not finished the people’s work. The events that transpired in the Texas House of Representatives last night have placed in serious jeopardy legislation that has statewide impact. Important legislation addressing our future water needs, border security, clean air, funding for parks and our future energy needs will die unless they are acted upon today. I encourage legislators to rise above their differences and finish the work of the people of Texas.”
Comments
Surprised he didn't mention the TDCJ sunset bill. If that one doesn't pass, that guarantees a special session. Can't have the prison system abolished and 155,000 felons turned loose on the public.
Posted by: Dave | May 28, 2007 2:53 PM