State Sens. Dan Patrick and Leticia Van de Putte have taken to promoting their business credentials while campaigning to become the state’s lieutenant governor in a race that influential groups say should be good for business.
Dan Patrick
The Brief: Aug. 15, 2014
One of the most intractable questions in Texas politics in recent years is why the state hasn’t moved blue despite drastic demographic changes. A new analysis from The New York Times sheds new light on why this is so.
Van de Putte Calls for State-Subsidized Community College
State Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, the Democratic nominee for lieutenant governor, wants the state to pay college studentsโ tuition and fees for two years if they attend a public community college in the state.
Analysis: Timing of Mayoral Speculation Not on Van de Putte’s Side
Last week, state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, the Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor, shot down speculation she was considering a run for San Antonio mayor. The rumors could hurt her prospects on multiple fronts.
Van de Putte Calls for Reducing High-Stakes Testing
Leticia Van de Putte, the Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor, calls for reducing high-stakes testing in a new plan for Texas schools. The campaign of her Republican opponent, Dan Patrick, said the plan would do nothing to help turn around underperforming schools.
The Brief: July 29, 2014
At a special University of Texas System regents meeting on Tuesday evening, they are expected to name a sole finalist for the system’s next chancellor. And their choice is expected to be Admiral William H. McRaven.
Analysis: Senate Decks Shuffled a Little Early
Lame-duck Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst had to make a few committee assignments to replace members who resigned. But he didn’t stop there.
Texplainer: Does New AP U.S. History Curriculum Contain Common Core?
Hey, Texplainer: If high school students take AP U.S. history, does that mean they are studying Common Core? Wouldn’t that be illegal in Texas?
The Brief: July 18, 2014
Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst is on his way out in a few months, but on Thursday he moved to fill some key Senate leadership slots to help the chamber prepare for the coming legislative session in January.
Patrick, Van de Putte Take Aim at Border Crisis
As the recent surge of Central Americans entering the country illegally through Texasโ border with Mexico has drawn national attention, it has also become a major talking point for the 2014 candidates for lieutenant governor.


