Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN TEXAS The traditions and practices of the state capitol have kept me from becoming involved in the ongoing race for Speaker.
However I am now convinced that there is too much at stake to sit on the sidelines.
As a State Senator I want to be sure that important legislation passed by the Senate is also passed by the House. As a Republican I dont want to see our party divided going into what will be one of the most challenging sessions in the history of Texas. Finally as a Texan I want to see an election process that is dignified and demonstrates that Republicans are ready to lead.
Last week I began talking to all parties about facilitating a face to face meeting and received positive feedback from all sides. With their agreement I have decided to host a private meeting on a neutral site in Austin on Tuesday November 23. All three candidates have agreed to be present along with representatives from the conservative and tea party movements. Each candidate will be invited to sit down separately for 45 minutes with grassroots representatives share their vision for 2011 and answer questions that do not violate any ethics rules.
My primary goal is simply for the grassroots to get to meet each candidate and for each candidate to hear the concerns of the people. Another goal is for everyone to agree to do their best to end the negative attacks that have been directed at all sides and candidates. At the very least we should agree to have a debate that is spirited but not mean spirited.
I do not believe this meeting will end the debate or settle the election. If the candidates and the grassroots folks can leave the meeting with a better understanding of the others point of view that will be a step forward. In the end my hope is that whoever wins will have broad support from Republican members and the people. If not they will not have the credibility needed to successfully navigate the House through the 82nd legislative session.
The race for Speaker should not be about any candidates personal ambition but about principles interests and values. It is important that as Republicans we put the peoples interest first.
