Political players in Austin stick to something called the "friendly incumbent rule."

It means they don't oppose — financially or otherwise — any officeholders who haven't given them good reason. It's why you rarely see the institutional political action committees lining up against current members of the Legislature or other officeholders who are seeking re-election.

The code keeps them out of fights that might later work against their interests, and it gives them an easy explanation for turning down support for candidates who might share their views.

It also generally means that you'll find the establishment all lined ...

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