Legislature Bombs In Fiscal Rating

Just how did the legislative session go? We’ll be releasing a full legislative score card soon, but overall, this legislative session was a bust. The cumulative score of all members of the Texas House and Texas Senate, on fiscal issues, was an abysmal 52%. Meaning? Half the time the legislature voted contrary to the best interests of Texas’ taxpayers.
 
The Republicans in the legislature scored a barely-passing cumulative rank of 70%. The Democrats? A not-unexpected 30% — but then, they make no bones about wanting to grow the size of government.
 
The Senate Rs failed with a 49%; and they campaign as being fiscal conservatives.  That means when a taxpayer vote comes up in the Senate, Republicans are more likely to get it wrong than get it right. Some of the blame rests with the antiquated rules in that chamber; but most of it rests with the senators. In the House, Republicans overall voted 74% of the time for sound fiscal policy. Passing, but not something to brag about at the family picnic.
 
With those scores, you almost want to ask for your money back. But then, they’ve already spent it. Thankfully the Session concluded when it did; one can only imagine how much worse their scores would be if they’d stuck around any longer…

Michael Quinn Sullivan

Michael Quinn Sullivan is the publisher of Texas Scorecard. He is a native Texan, a graduate of Texas A&M, and an Eagle Scout. Previously, he has worked as a newspaper reporter, magazine contributor, Capitol Hill staffer, and think tank vice president. Michael and his wife have three adult children, a son-in-law, and a dog. Michael is the author of three books, including "Reflections on Life and Liberty."