After narrowly avoiding defeat in the Texas GOP primary runoff, Speaker Dade Phelan of Beaumont is evicting the Orange County Republican Party from its offices.
In a letter first noted by Kevin Steele of 1813 News, Phelan Investments told his local GOP they must be out of the space by July 5 and “must continue to pay rent until this date.” No reason is given for the eviction.
“You are required to vacate and surrender possession of the premises to the undersigned on or before the above date, free of all occupants and personal possessions. A final bill for all unpaid rental amounts will for forwarded to this address in the coming days,” writes Michael A. Phelan, the speaker’s uncle, noting that the party had been leasing the space since at least Dec. 1, 2019.
In social media posts, district residents said they were not surprised by Phelan‘s actions.
“The guy is a joke and true politician. Not a person with anyone else in mind but himself. I hope voters remember this next time,” wrote Nathaniel Bailey.
“His feelings are hurt,” added JD McHann.
“Retaliation, they didn’t do what he wanted and he’s paying them back. He doesn’t have to worry about how he looks to the voters for a few years,” posted Bret Howard.
Others, though, said Phelan was justified in removing the office space since Orange County voters rejected him at the polls.
“To the victor goes the spoils,” wrote Chad Anderson. “OCRP played dirty games and guess what they pay the price. District 21 is safe and secure with Dade Phelan at the helm.”
