AUSTIN – I applaud Governor Abbott’s selection of Mike Morath as the next Commissioner of Education. He is a great choice. As Vice Chair and Chair of the Senate Education Committee, I worked closely with Mike over the years to develop education reforms that have improved our schools and expanded school choice. I look forward… Read more »

AUSTIN – For as long as capitol historians can remember, going back more than 70 years, the Texas Senate Chamber has not had an annual Christmas tree to welcome members and visitors in the true spirit of the holiday. Why not? “I was asked that question two years ago as a state senator,” said Patrick,… Read more »

AUSTIN – Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick sent this letter to President Barack Obama and the Texas Congressional delegation urging swift action on securing our border.   —————————– Dear President Obama:   As a result of the failed immigration and border security policies of your administration, the state of Texas continues to shoulder the burden of… Read more »

AUSTIN – President Obama and his administration may not believe it but we are indeed in a time of war. I stand with Senator Ted Cruz and Governor Greg Abbott calling on Congress to immediately pass much needed legislation strengthening states’ legal rights to block potential terrorists.

AUSTIN – “I want to thank Sen. Paul Bettencourt for serving as Chair of the Property Tax Reform and Relief Select Committee. He conducted his first hearing today. “The Senate did not waste any time during the last legislative session and we are not slowing down now,” said Patrick. “This Select Committee is tasked to… Read more »

AUSTIN – President Obama’s speech on the war against Islamic terrorism was predictably weak and only serves to highlight his lack of attention to the safety and security of the American people. In his remarks he failed to announce any real action on national security and seeks to undermine our personal security by once again… Read more »

AUSTIN – Today, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick made the following statement following the first interim hearing on Border Security. “I am very pleased the Texas Senate continues to lead on border security and efforts to end the practice of allowing Sanctuary Cities,” Patrick said. “Clarification and consistency on this issue for our 254 counties and… Read more »

AUSTIN – Today, Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced the retirement of Senior Adviser Walter Fisher. Fisher joined the Lt. Governor’s staff as part of the initial transition team before Patrick’s inauguration, earlier this year. “By most accounts the 84th legislative Senate session exceeded expectations, both in legislative achievement and overall functioning efficiency,” said Patrick…. Read more »

AUSTIN – Today, Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick sent this letter to Texas Racing Commission Chairman Robert Schmidt urging the commission to repeal historic racing, at their December 15 meeting. ————————————————   Dear Chairman Schmidt:   Thank you for your service to the State of Texas and your work on the Texas Racing Commission. I… Read more »

AUSTIN – “Demands that Texas and other states must bow to the federal government and accept Syrian refugees is just another example of the arrogance and overreach of the Obama Administration. The risk to the safety and security of all citizens is outrageous. “Governor Abbott has taken the correct and courageous position, and I stand… Read more »