TMRA Government Affairs Update
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TMRA Government Affairs Update
Government Affairs Committee and 2020 Election
By Government Affairs Committee Chairman, Mance Zachary, Vistra Corp.
On September 22nd Texas Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick was elected to Chair the Railroad Commission of Texas for a third time. Chair Craddick has been a strong supporter of the energy industry and leader in Texas economic development initiatives since first being elected to statewide office in 2012. She is currently joined on the RRC by Commissioner Wayne Christian. The third commissioner’s seat will be determined in the November election.
The national elections will drive the bus on turnout but all the races are expected to be close. Along with the Presidential race there is a U.S. Senate race and (11) Congressional seats on the ballot in Texas. With the pending November election early voting begins on October 13th and runs through October 30th. The extra week of early voting was provided by Governor Abbott to reduce lines at polling places because of the COVID crisis. Also, this will be the first election where voters will not be able to use the “straight ticket” option.
The current makeup of the House is 83 Republicans, 67 Democrats. The Senate is made up of 19 Republicans and 12 Democrats. With the pending retirement of Speaker Dennis Bonnen there will be a new Speaker of the House. The Speaker will be elected by the members on the first day of the legislative session. The November election will definitely determine the direction of Texas for the foreseeable future.
