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Huddle with Rep. Jonathan Stickland R-Bedford at the center on August 3, 2017

From RaTmasTer to kingmaker: How Jonathan Stickland trolled his way to Texas GOP power

In his teens and his 20s, Stickland was a prolific internet troll. But instead of growing out of it, he would make a career of it — ascending to the role of a conservative Texas powerbroker, before taking heat for hosting a meeting with white supremacist Nick Fuentes.


“I AM A LEGEND” 

Group of State Representatives from both parties gather on February 21st, 2013 including Mark Strama D-Austin, Yvonne Davis D-Dallas, Byron Cook R-Corsicana, Jonathan Stickland R-Bedford and Kenneth Sheets R-Dallas

Bridge builder, bomb thrower

“I'm trying not to get too wrapped up in some of the political stuff. Right now, I'm just focused on making a lot of friends, trying not to make any enemies, and talking to people about my legislative agenda and building coalitions.”

— Jonathan Stickland, on his first day in the Legislature
Rep. Jonathan Stickland R-Bedford

Big money

Rep. Jonathan Stickland R-Bedford and Rep. Jeff Leach R-Plano stand just outside the Senate press room during a press conference by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and members of the Sunset Commission on May 28, 2017
Rep. Jonathan Stickland R-Bedford asks a question at the back mic on May 12, 2017.
San Antonio, Texas June 14, 2018:  Evening Reception action at the first day of the Texas Republican Convention, including Texas Freedom Caucus event with State Rep. Jonathan Stickland, R-Bedford, speaking.

Defend Texas Liberty

Nick Fuentes (middle) is seen exiting the offices of Pale Horse strategies with Chris Russo, founder and president of Texans for Strong Borders (right) in Fort Worth on Oct. 6, 2023.

"RATMSTR"

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Politics Bryan Slaton Jonathan Stickland Mike Lang Tim Dunn