Political People and their Moves

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.