Post-Perry Corruption OP-ED in Austin Statesman

Austin American-Statesman

By Craig McDonald and Andrew Wheat

Cronyism and entitlement flourish when one political party controls every statewide office for 20 years. Indicted former Gov. Rick Perry created the ultimate crony-corrupt state. He rewarded political supporters with appointments, no-bid contracts and huge handouts from the public purse. The few people who stood up to this corruption notably don’t include Texas’ new leaders. 

Read the full op-ed.

Statement re: Judge's Refusal to Dismiss Perry Charges

"Rick Perry, his high-priced legal team and out-of-state pundits have long argued that Perry's indictments are so flimsy that they will not stand up in court. Today a top GOP judge again refused to dismiss the case. The prosecutor and a grand jury have said there's compelling evidence against Perry. That evidence should be presented in court for all to see.  The chances of that happening improved today," said TPJ director Craig McDonald. 

Texans for Public Justice filed a criminal complaint against Perry in June of last year. That complaint led to Perry's indictment by a Texas grand jury on two counts related to his abuse of office.

Lobby Watch: TLR Mum on 21CT 'SLAPP' Suit

Contractor 21CT, Inc. slapped lobbyist James Frinzi with a libel suit after he blew the whistle on Jack Stick.  Is this lawsuit abuse?  Texans for Lawsuit Reform is silent on the subject.  Is it because they bankrolled the political career of Jack Stick? 

Lobby Watch follows Stick's big donors.

Patrick's New Shadow Government Gave Him $2 Million

Patrick Gives Govt to Tycoons

Most of the business executives that Lt. Governor-elect Dan Patrick appointed to serve on his citizen advisory boards have bankrolled his campaigns. Out of the 56 appointees, 43 (77 percent) contributed a total of $1,975,056 to Patrick's campaign from September 2005 to the eve of the 2014 election. 

See the list of appointee contributions.