Long as I've posted some rumor-confirmations, I'll now link to another rumor: Katie hears that former Rep. Max Sandlin is thinking about running for the to-be-vacated Senate District 3 seat currently held by Todd Staples.
Now, I've previously advocated for some of the defeated Democratic reps to aim for the State Senate in 2006, so I approve of this. I had thought Sandlin underperformed a bit last year, but as Greg noted, he was running in a really unfriendly district. If he chooses to run in SD3, he'll have name recognition, some infrastructure in place, and as good a shot as any Democrat would have.
On the other side, the Quorum Report has a press release from TxDOT Commissioner Robert Nichols which indicates he may run for this seat.
"I have received numerous calls over the past two weeks encouraging me to seek the Senate District 3 seat should Senator Staples seek higher office. Our region has benefited greatly from Senator Staples’ vision and leadership. Without question, we must continue along a path of economic growth and development. I am flattered to be considered and will make a formal announcement next week," said Nichols.
Robert Nichols in the Texas Senate! This is great news!
It is something you don't see too often -- a true man of achievement running for the Texas Leg.
Posted by: ttyler5 on June 12, 2005 1:22 PMThis could have implications for the toll road juggernaut that Governor Perry is trying to unleash on Texas. Staples was chair of the Senate Transportation Committe and effectively was one of Perry's toll henchman by not allowing any legislation which could give localities more options or slow down the juggernaut.
The questions is: will the new commitee chair be a toll henchman? I would expect Nichols to be in line for the Senate Transportation Committee, although it seems unlikely that a freshman could be chair.
My impression is that Nichols is not as rabidly pro-toll as chief toll henchman and Texas Transportation Commission (TTC) Chair Ric Williamson. But Nichols has towed the toll line quite well. If he goes to the legislature to implement the current TTC directive, then things will only get worse.
Posted by: MaxConcrete on June 12, 2005 3:21 PMMax will not be running for SD3. That is confirmed. While he may not be out of elected politics, SD3 is not in his future. You can confirm that on BOR comments where Bill Brannon (Max's campaign manager) states it.
Posted by: Cody Yocom on June 14, 2005 12:07 AM