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New Appointments and Legislative Moves in Texas Politics

David Cook Enters Speaker Race, Rick Perry Joins Phelan’s Team, and Tim Walz Dallas Fundraiser

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TXLege
September 06, 2024

Welcome back, friends

In today's newsletter, we cover leadership changes and political events in Texas. We discuss State Representative David Cook’s official bid to challenge Phelan for the Texas House Speaker role. Former Governor Rick Perry joins Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan’s team as a senior advisor before the upcoming legislative session. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also headlined a Democratic fundraiser in Dallas as party members prepare for the 2024 elections.

Today’s Insights:

  • David Cook Announces Bid for Texas House Speaker

  • Former Governor Rick Perry Joins Speaker Phelan’s Team

  • Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to Headline Democratic Fundraiser in Dallas

David Cook Announces Bid for Texas House Speaker

Texas State Representative David Cook has declared his intention to run for Speaker of the Texas House. Cook, a Republican from Mansfield, becomes the 3rd member to challenge Phelan, joining Rep. Tom Oliverson, and Rep. Shelby Slawson. His announcement comes amid continued dissatisfaction with Phelan’s leadership among some of the Republican caucus.

Former Texas Governor Rick Perry has joined Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan’s team as a senior advisor, effective immediately. Perry, who served as Texas Governor for 14 years, will work closely with Phelan and his team in preparation for the upcoming legislative session, providing insights on policy areas such as economic growth and job creation. Perry’s advisory role is voluntary and will continue until the start of the 89th Texas Legislature. Phelan expressed gratitude for Perry's willingness to collaborate, citing Perry’s deep understanding of Texas politics and the legislative process as key assets for the Texas House.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz Headlines Democratic Fundraiser in Dallas

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is scheduled to headline a Democratic fundraiser in Dallas on Monday. The event is part of an effort to raise support for Democratic candidates in Texas ahead of the 2024 election cycle. Walz, known for his leadership on healthcare and economic policy, will address key issues important to Democratic voters in Texas.

Former President Trump leads Vice President Harris, 49%-44%, according to a UT/Texas Politics Project poll released this morning. Trump led President Biden, 46%-39%, in the June UT/TPP poll. The new poll shows Sen. Ted Cruz leading U.S. Rep. Colin Allred, 44%-36%, virtually unchanged from the 45%-34% advantage in the June poll. Our Jeff Blaylock will share some insights about the poll early next week.

We hope you enjoyed today’s read!

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