The governor asked lawmakers to put ethics reform at center stage this year. They filed bills. They even voted in favor of some strong restrictions on lobbyists’ and officeholders’ official behavior. But most of it never got to Greg Abbott’s desk.
84th Legislative Session
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Politics
Video: Patrick on the Senate’s “New Day”
At our 6/4 conversation, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick enumerated the Texas Senate’s accomplishments in the 84th Session.
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Politics
Video: Patrick on His Conservative Critics
At our 6/4 conversation, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick rebuffed conservative criticism of the 84th Legislative Session.
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Politics
Video: Patrick on the 2016 Presidential Race
At our 6/4 conversation, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick talked about whether he’ll endorse in a 2016 presidential race — and the qualities he’s looking for in a GOP nominee.
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Politics
Video: A Conversation With Dan Patrick
Full video of my 6/4 conversation with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. Among the topics discussed: 84th session accomplishments, conservative criticism, the Senate vs. the House, the 2016 presidential race and why he’s not running against Gov. Greg Abbott.
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Economy
Abbott Signs Higher Ed Bill Ending Fund Touted by Perry
Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill Thursday that eliminates a controversial startup investment fund long touted by his predecessor, Rick Perry. The legislation directs much of the fund’s money to a new researcher recruitment effort.
Posted inPolitics
Catch Up on What Happened With Ethics Issues This Session
Gov. Greg Abbott’s call for meaningful ethics reform prompted heated debates this session on secret recordings, “dark money” and the lawmaker-to-lobbyist “revolving door.” See what happened to ethics reform using our Texas Legislative Guide.
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Politics
TribCast: The Sine Die Edition
On this week’s TribCast, Emily talks to Evan, Ross and Patrick about the drama — or lack thereof — in the 84th Texas Legislature, Dan Patrick’s political future and Rick Perry’s big announcement.
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Politics
Straus Files for Another Term as Speaker
Texas House Speaker Joe Straus has filed the paperwork to officially seek another term presiding over the lower chamber. If he wins, it will be his fifth.
Posted inHigher Education
Catch Up on What Happened With Higher Ed Issues This Session
During the 84th legislative session, lawmakers considered a variety of higher education issues, including tuition costs and in-state tuition for undocumented immigrants. See what happened to higher education issues this session in the Texas Legislative Guide.
