Texas outgoing Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick called for the Republican-controlled Senate to strip his successor, Democrat Vikki Goodwin, of her special powers. The move generated strong backlash against Patrick, as the appeal to the Texas Senate was seen as a low blow.
As reported by the Austin American-Statesman, Patrick urged Republican state senators to limit the authority of the incoming Democratic lieutenant governor in the Senate chamber. According to him, a simple majority of the Texas Senate can change its rules to strip away some of the lieutenant governor’s powers.
Under the current rules, Goodwin will be able to influence the legislative agenda, appoint Senate committees and chairs, and more. While Patrick acknowledged that Goodwin’s victory was legitimate, the appeal is seen as a move to consolidate Republican control of the Texas Senate, which still has more Republicans than Democrats.
Texans Are Not Happy With Dan Patrick
The decision was largely seen as anti-democratic on r/Texas, as Republicans did not seem to have any issue with how things worked when they were entirely in control of state politics.
One user wrote: “Texas Republicans panicking over the amount of power they are handing to successors is hilarious, complaining it’s the power of a tyrant. Hello, who has that exact same power now?”
Someone else commented: “Only repubs are interested in stripping power and prevent a smooth and orderly change. Says alot about their ties to democracy, rule of law and the US Constitution.” To which someone answered: “Honestly if Texas Republicans do this and strip power, I hope dems strip their power the next time a republican wins any Texas election. Fair is fair.”
Others criticized how the system worked: “Our system really needs a reboot where someone gets fired then has two months to [expletive] up as much as they can.” Overall, Patrick was considered a “bad loser” in the thread, as many criticized his position. One user summarized the controversy: “Just accept the L, bro.”
2027 will certainly mark a major shift in Texas politics, and it remains to be seen how Vikki Goodwin will fare as the state’s new lieutenant governor.
