Staff Reports
In Texas, there’s a heated battle among Republicans as they seek to steer the party further to the right. Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton are at the center of this political tussle, which has triggered a frenzy among their fellow conservatives.
Trump’s power put to the test with bitter fight in blood-red Texas https://t.co/QYiIJ8ZtN1 via @dcexaminer
— Fearless45 (@Fearless45Trump) May 23, 2024
Republican Speaker of the Texas House Dade Phelan, known for advocating and enacting GOP-led bills, has initiated impeachment proceedings against Paxton. Phelan’s move has drawn ire from Paxton’s allies, including former President Donald Trump. Adding to the intrigue, Phelan now faces a primary challenger in the upcoming runoff election on May 28.
The race is already making history, with a whopping $6.9 million spent on the candidates, making it the most expensive race in Texas legislative history. Phelan’s opponent, David Covey, a 34-year-old energy consultant endorsed by Trump, is banking on his outsider status to sway voters.
Despite Phelan’s conservative track record, his impeachment of Paxton has put him at odds with Trump and his allies. Trump has openly criticized Phelan’s leadership, labeling him as “weak RINO leadership.” This showdown also serves as a litmus test for the power of a Trump endorsement against an incumbent.
Covey has received substantial financial support, with close to a million dollars from the Club for Growth, an economic conservative organization, and half a million dollars from a political action committee backed by oil billionaire Tim Dunn. Phelan has pushed back against these financial backers, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to conservative values.
Former Texas Governor Rick Perry has rallied in support of Phelan, urging voters to consider the implications of removing a longstanding conservative leader. Perry has questioned the motives behind the efforts to oust Phelan, hinting at underlying factors driving the discord within the party.
As the candidates gear up for the runoff election, the clash between Phelan and Covey underscores the internal struggle within the Texas Republican Party. The outcome of this race will undoubtedly have significant implications for the party’s future direction and the influence of key players within its ranks.
