From Texas Weekly, this same week a year ago: "Kay Bailey Hutchison's term in the U.S. Senate runs through 2012 and she now says she won't resign earlier than the end of next year if she runs for governor. She has formed an exploratory committee."
Full StoryRep. David Swinford, R-Dumas, won't seek reelection next year, he said late Monday afternoon. Here's his press release:
After almost 20 years of legislative service, I have decided not to run for re-election as State Representative, District 87. This district includes Carson, Moore, Potter and Sherman counties in the Texas Panhandle. I have enjoyed every minute of my service because I have been honored to represent the finest people in the world. I have also been honored to serve with the Panhandle Team made up of Ambassador Teel Bivins, Senator Kel Seliger and Representatives John Smithee and Warren Chisum. These are the finest, most dedicated public servants in the State. At our family Christmas gathering, we decided that it was time to become a private citizen again after completing my term that ends in January, 2010. We have missed so many family events, grandson's ballgames, concerts and events that are special things in all our lives. Joyce and I need to take care of our family and ourselves at this stage in our lives. I have always strived to serve with honesty and integrity while being an aggressive representative for the folks of the Texas Panhandle. We have accomplished a lot for the region but it is time for “new blood” to join the great Panhandle Delegation in Austin. I look forward to being a voter in the election of our next State Representative. May God bless you and the great State of Texas
Rep. Frank Corte Jr., R-San Antonio, became the sixth eighth member of the Texas House to say he won't seek reelection next year. He says he doesn't have specific plans, and adds that he's not endorsing any would-be successor.Corte, a colonel in the Marine Reserve, was first elected to the House in 1992 and served almost straight through; his wife, Valerie, took his place in the House when he was deployed to Iraq during a legislative session.
He joins a growing list of state legislators who don't plan to serve after their current terms expire: Sen. Eliot Shapleigh, D-El Paso; and Reps. Joe Crabb, R-Atascocita; Brian McCall, R-Plano; David Farabee, D-Wichita Falls; Dan Gattis, R-Georgetown; Kino Flores, D-Palmview; Carl Isett, R-Lubbock, and David Swinford, R-Dumas. Swinford announced his intentions — or lack of them — on Monday; Isett's announcement came last week. Next Monday — January 4 — is the last day candidates can file with the parties to run for office next year.