Last week, the future of vouchers in Texas was influenced by the pro-voucher opponents, with the Republican runoffs poised to potentially alter the trajectory.
The runoff elections hold significant sway over the House, which has been progressively leaning towards the extreme right. Despite Governor Greg Abbott’s vigorous efforts in endorsing his pro-voucher candidates, the outcome remains uncertain, according to Bill Miller, an Austin lobbyist and political consultant.
Abbott had a successful campaign, investing substantial resources and targeting specific individuals. However, as Miller notes, the competition is far from over.
On May 28, seven GOP incumbents are set to confront their pro-voucher challengers, with the spotlight on the intense showdown between House Speaker Dade Phelan and conservative activist David Covey.
Phelan, although falling short of the required majority for the GOP nomination, faces internal criticism from fellow Republicans for his stance against vouchers, his vote to impeach Paxton, and his appointment of Democrats to committee chairmanships.
Among the Republicans under fire within their own party is Rep. Gary VanDeaver, a longstanding five-term Republican. His rival, Chris Spencer, has garnered substantial backing from Abbott and pro-voucher factions. VanDeaver maintains that his opposition to vouchers is the primary reason for the competitive race.
The battle unfolding is perceived as a struggle for the essence of rural Texas, reflecting a broader purification trend within the state’s Republican Party. The divide is stark: conform to the established norms or face repercussions.
VanDeaver, a vocal advocate against vouchers alongside 20 other Republicans, particularly from rural regions, emphasizes the detrimental impact on public schools. Despite his conservative track record, critics assail him for purported lapses in border security efforts.
The escalating discord within the Republican ranks presents an opening for Democrats to challenge more right-wing candidates in the upcoming general election. While Texas has long been a Republican stronghold, internal shifts and evolving demographics hint at potential competitive races in traditionally Republican strongholds.
VanDeaver cautions that the rightward shift in the House could hinder Democratic support for crucial constitutional amendments requiring a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
With the runoff elections looming, the focus intensifies on the House GOP primaries, determining the fate of incumbents like VanDeaver and shaping the narrative around school vouchers in Texas.