All that can be said about Republican dominance in Washington can be said and doubled concerning Austin. The GOP holds every statewide office, controls every branch of government and, by way of explanation, commands a sizable majority among Texans willing to bestir themselves enough to go to the polls.
For the first time in 130 years, Republicans control both the Texas Senate, 19-12, and the House, winning at least 83 seats in the 150-member lower chamber. Democratic Rep. Pete Laney has a chance to be re-elected House speaker in January, but insiders are starting to bet on Republican Rep. Tom Craddick of Midland.
Lt. Gov.-elect David Dewhurst, who has no experience in the Legislature but could wield more influence there than the governor, will preside over the Senate.
Gov. Rick Perry, in claiming victory for himself and other Republican officeholders, said that now the real work must begin. He pledged that his administration would promote business and jobs, control state spending and home insurance rates, improve education and reduce the dropout rate. The Texas Legislature has a long tradition of working in bipartisan fashion to reward well-funded interests. Fulfilling Perry's agenda will require unusual energy and cooperation aimed at advancing the general welfare. Should they do so, legislators can expect little but gratitude, and probably not even that.
Many legislators, particularly the rookies, made this job more difficult by promising the voters reduced taxes and increased spending for schools, highways, flood control, health services and whatever else they were clamoring for. Now legislators must disabuse their constituents of these fantasies and acquaint them with the unbendable rules of arithmetic.
And the Democrats say something different?
Now that the GOP is in power, that is the media shrill, "they have to deliver'!
As if the Democrats ever 'delivered' anything but higher taxes and more Gov't!