That was fast.
As promised, and less than 3 weeks after the second special session wrapped up, Special Session 3.0 is set to begin today in Austin.
Governor Greg Abbott called it, and has put 5 items on the agenda. They are, redistricting, the allocation of $16 billion dollars of federal Covid aid, the transgender sports bill, a ban on government vaccine mandates, and a ban on chaining up dogs outside.
Important items for the state of Texas, and an important finish to this long running marathon for Governor Abbott. "This is the last chance that he has to shore up his record ahead of his re-election bid" said Brad Johnson, reporter for the Texan.
Most believe that Abbott is still far ahead, but he is going to be challenged by fellow Republicans Allen West, and Don Huffines, in next years primary.
Before the primary however, the red redistricting has to be done, and it is priority number one, here in special session #3. "That is priority number one for the legislature and the governor" Johnson told KTRH, "Republicans controlling the legislature have the ability to control the redistricting process, and benefit themselves in their favor."
The Democrats have already filed a lawsuit against the redistricting, and they are also expected to fight the transgender sports, as well as the government vaccine mandates.
One thing we're not expected to see during this 3rd special session? A run-away by the Texas Democrats! "There's always a chance for another quorum break" Johnson said, "But I think the political capital has been spent on that."
We shall see.