Collin County Paxton joins the Speaker's race

Rep. Ken Paxton, R-McKinney, threw his hat in the ring to join the race for Speaker of the Texas House.

Paxton's office released a statement this morning announcing his intention to try to unseat Rep. Joe Straus, R-San Antonio.

"Voters across Texas sent a clear message that they favor leadership dedicated to protecting our freedoms and fighting government growth," the statement said. "Texans have provided us with an historic mandate, and they expect us to use this mandate to honestly advance conservative principles and not simply protect the status quo. These goals can only be accomplished with a conservative Speaker."

When the Legislature reconvenes in January, the lawmakers will be faced with up to a $21 billion deficit. Paxton will join Rep. Warren Chisum, R-Pampa, in trying to unseat Straus.

Paxton's statement said the Legislature has the opportunity to do more than simply balance the budget without raising taxes. He said the Legislature has the opportunity to reduce property taxes over time, reclaim state sovereignty, pass voter id legislation and immigration reform and make health care decision that free Texans from governmental intrusion and mandates.

Source: http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/11/collin-county-paxton-joins-the.html

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