The legislation gives this rogue agency new tools to punish political speech, all while insulating it from meaningful accountability.
Tony McDonald
Analysis: If You Don’t Want to Register as a Lobbyist, Just Hire One
“It’s not easy, I understand. It’s certainly not intuitive,” said TEC Chairman Randy Erben, explaining the state’s lobbyist registration laws.
Pay Them to Go Away: A TEC Cautionary Tale of Katy Christian Magazine vs The Link Letter
Without meaningful reform, the Texas Ethics Commission will continue to target those least able to fight back while letting well-connected actors off the hook.
From BBQ Plates to First Amendment Fights: How the Texas Ethics Commission Harasses Texans
While the TEC is relentless against small-time players, it often gives politically connected players a pass.
How Texans for Lawsuit Reform Paid Pennies While the TEC Targeted an Elderly Activist
Without change, the TEC will continue to enforce a two-tiered system of justice—one where the powerful pay pennies, and the powerless pay everything.
Darnella Wilkerson: A Grassroots Activist Crushed by the Texas Ethics Commission
The TEC must be redirected to enforce the laws against public officials, not private citizens.
Commissioner Sounds the Alarm Over Weaponization of the FEC
In comments to Congress, Commissioner Trey Trainor warns that the federal speech regulator is abusing citizens’ rights.
Texas Must Cease Using Race in Admissions, Employment, and Contracting
The Legislature should permanently remove the stain of racial discrimination from our statutes.
Texas Law Commands Respect for Wisdom of Voters
The impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton for acts prior to his election is contrary to state law.
Analysis: What Are the House Deadlines During the 88th Legislature?
How soon do bills really need to move in order to pass?