Free Republic

News Roundup Gov. Rick Perry has endorsed Joe Straus III, the Republican candidate for House District 121, adding to Straus' arsenal of support in the conservative-leaning district. "Joe Straus has the experience, the skills and the knowledge to be a great state representative for San Antonio," Perry said Sunday. "With the Legislature already in session, I know that Joe will be able to step in and immediately make a difference as we work to improve public education for Texas children, keep traffic moving and help keep our economy growing." Straus faces Democrat Rose Spector and independent Paul Silber in the...

The field for the Texas House District 121 race shrunk to three candidates Friday when Republican Glen S. Starnes withdrew from the race, although his name will remain on the ballot. "I believe that the Democrats are waging a very strong campaign, and I do not want even one vote displaced for a Republican in that district," said Starnes, a financial adviser. The election is Feb. 5; early voting runs through Tuesday. Starnes, 39, was one of two Republicans seeking the seat. The other, Joe Straus III, already has garnered key endorsements from elected area leaders, including U.S. Rep. Lamar...