Transparency USA | 02/07/2017

Last week Governor Greg Abbott gave his State of the State address, essentially kicking off the 85th legislative session. While the legislature has been in session since January 10, not much has been done to this point. Many would argue that until Gov. Abbott laid out his priorities for session, much of the activity at …

Transparency USA | 11/29/2016

Wal-Mart heiress and Fort Worth resident Alice Walton is, according to Forbes, the wealthiest person in Texas and the richest woman in the world. Ms. Walton’s giving this cycle encompassed an interesting mix of candidates. Her $945,500 to Texas politics included four Democrat candidates, one moderate Republican in Texas House leadership, and several conservative challengers …

Transparency USA | 11/14/2016

Mr. James “Doug” Pitcock, Jr., 88, is President and CEO of Williams Brothers Construction Company and resides in Houston. His company is one of the largest highway and bridge contractors in the state, undertaking projects both in Texas and across the nation. Mr. Pitcock gave $1,218,000 in political contributions during the last cycle, making him …

Transparency USA | 11/04/2016

We’ve all gotten those glossy mailers pleading for a donation to a candidate’s campaign. They beg you to spare $50, or even just $25, to help a candidate get elected so he or she can single-handedly save the state of Texas. How would you feel if you made a donation to a Texas political candidate or …

Transparency USA | 11/03/2016

Arguably the most surprising electoral upset in the Texas Republican Party primary occurred in House District 20 (HD20). This district is comprised of Burnet and Milam counties, along with the northern portion of Williamson County. The race saw two-term incumbent State Representative Marsha Farney face off with, and ultimately lose to, Colonel Terry Wilson, a retired …