Breaking Old Habits

Texas House Republicans worry about members voting for a Democrat

AUSTIN, Texas (AllPolitics, Nov. 14) -- Some Republicans in the Texas House of Representatives fear old habits could be hard to break. Even if the GOP wins a majority in next year's elections, they are worried some of their members may still back three-term Speaker Pete Laney, a Democrat.

Democrats have always had a majority in the 150-member state House, but Republicans think they have a shot at changing that next year. That led state Rep. Mary Denny (R-Denton) to ask GOP House members to commit to supporting a Republican speaker if the GOP wins a majority. She sent them pledge cards in September.

But some other Republicans don't like Denny's pledge-card effort, considering it divisive and premature.

"Let's get a majority first. We need unity, and what's been happening has been divisive," said Rep. Kim Brimer (R-Arlington).

A source close to Laney told the Austin American-Statesman, "A healthy number of Democrats and Republicans are supporting his re-election as speaker. He has plenty of cards, all that he needs."

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Friday Nov. 14, 1997

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• Breaking Old Habits
• Court To Consider Harassment Issue
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