Excerpts from statement by Tom Craddick, R-Midland: ... (House Democratic Caucus Chairman) Jim Dunnam's chief of staff said this morning that the Democrats bolted because they 'believe in a principle and a process' and they are 'standing up for their beliefs.' The truth is these members are abdicating their constitutional responsibility to be here. It is their constitutional duty to shape legislation, to vote on issues, to fulfill their duties as the loyal minority. Our citizen Legislature meets only once every two years and then for only 140 days. The members who left are wasting the people's time and money...