Latest Contributions

• "Former Fetus" Signs Cause Stir at Capitol

  by Patrick Svitek and Edgar Walters March 11, 2015

  Signs identifying some state lawmakers as former fetuses are generating controversy at the Capitol. Full Story 

• Four File For José Menéndez's Texas House Seat

  by Patrick Svitek March 10, 2015

  Four Democrats have filed to run in the March 31 special election for Texas House District 124, the Bexar County seat formerly held by now-Sen. José Menéndez. Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Bob Daemmrich

• Housing Legislation Puts Local Control Debate Front and Center

  by Patrick Svitek March 10, 2015

  A bill before a Texas Senate committee is bringing into focus the simmering debate over local control in the state. It's a charge that has been backed by Gov. Greg Abbott and state legislators who see cities overstepping their authority. Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Bob Daemmrich

• George P. Bush to Help Raise Cash for Dad's Super PAC

  by Patrick Svitek March 9, 2015

  Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush is stepping up to help raise money for a super PAC supporting his dad's likely 2016 presidential campaign. Full Story 

• Cruz: Timing of Menendez Probe "Awfully Coincidental"

  by Patrick Svitek March 7, 2015

  U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, says the timing of the pending indictment against U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., "seems awfully coincidental." Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Rebecca Miller

• In Iowa, Cruz and Perry Won't Pledge to Biofuels

  by Patrick Svitek March 7, 2015

  Former Gov. Rick Perry and U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz made their presidential cases to the heavyweights of Iowa agriculture Saturday, and each made no apologies for opposing one of the state's favorite programs. Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Cooper Neill

• Perry, Cruz to Face Questions in Iowa Over Fuel Standard Opposition

  by Patrick Svitek March 6, 2015

  When they attend the Iowa Ag Summit on Saturday, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and former Gov. Rick Perry will almost certainly be asked about their criticism of the Renewable Fuel Standard, an issue that packs a political punch in the Hawkeye State. Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Cooper Neill

• Welcome to the House (and Senate)

  by John Reynolds and Patrick Svitek March 5, 2015

  Three new House members are sworn in, and a new vacancy opens with the departure of José Menéndez for the Senate. Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Marjorie Kamys Cotera

• Race "Wide Open" As Texas Republicans Weigh New Party Chairman

  by Patrick Svitek March 5, 2015

  No clear front-runner has emerged days before the State Republican Executive Committee meets to vote to replace Texas GOP chairman Steve Munisteri. Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Bob Daemmrich / Todd Wiseman

• As Perry Staffs Up, Supporters Form Super PAC

  by Patrick Svitek March 5, 2015

  Allies of former Gov. Rick Perry have announced the creation of a super PAC that could boost his 2016 presidential bid. It is one of several signs his presidential apparatus is kicking into high gear. Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Marjorie Kamys Cotera

• Et tu, Rick? Perry Has Own Private Email Trail

  by Patrick Svitek March 4, 2015

  Despite his criticism of Hillary Clinton, former Gov. Rick Perry is no stranger to using a private email account for government business, according to two lawmakers. Full Story 

  Photo credit:  Rebecca Miller