The Texas House turned down Representative James Talarico’s attempt from Austin, who is a Democrat, to bring the school voucher proposition to a statewide vote on the November ballot.
The proposed amendment to the House voucher bill was rejected late Tuesday night with a vote count of 86 against and 62 in favor. Representative Dade Phelan from Beaumont, a Republican, was the sole member of his party to side with the Democrats in support of the amendment.
In search of broad political backing, Talarico mentioned that the concept for this constitutional change originated with ex-Republican Governor Rick Perry along with several conservative advocates. He further stated that “increasingly strong bipartisan endorsement” could be observed amongst representatives just “days prior,” yet he claimed that Governor Greg Abbott pressured his party members to oppose the amendment by promising to strike down their legislation and challenge them during primary elections.
Talarico encouraged members to back the amendment to emphasize the Legislature’s autonomy from the executive branch.
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“The last time I checked, we still had separation of powers in this state,” Talarico said. “The last time I checked, this was still the people’s House, not the governor’s House. All of that is at risk with this vote on this amendment. So, regardless of where you are on this bill, I’m asking you to stand with me on this amendment.”
Andrew Mahaleris, who speaks for Abbott, stated that Talarico’s claims were baseless.
This assertion is completely false,” Mahaleris stated. “Governor Abbott has been engaging with members and urging them to support school choice.
