In the brief time he's been state representative, Barrett has immersed himself in establishing contacts and building relationships with other Austin lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. His two interim committee assignments - Land and Resource Management and Pensions and Investments - have introduced the attorney to the mundane but important work of government, with issues ranging from eminent domain to contracts with the company that runs the state's pharmacy benefits program.
Should voters return him to Austin, Barrett said, he will focus on the economic issues affecting the residents of District 97: reining in escalating homeowners insurance and utility rates, promoting programs that will decrease the transportation gridlock, and revisiting the state's less-than-successful funding formula for public education.
We couldn't agree more. House District 97 was the first race that focused on Tom Craddick's failure to lead in Austin. It was a campaign that focused on the problems Tom Craddick has caused since becoming Speaker and the solutions the Democrats would like to work toward if given control of a legislative district, or better the Texas House.
Barrett's December 18 victory was an early Christmas present to HD-97, Democrats, and Texas.
With the Fort Worth Star-Telegram's endorsement highlights how out of touch the Republican Party has become in Texas.
Barrett has done a lot in the interim. As the FWST highlights, he has made friends regardless of party affiliation, he has worked with constituents to improve their lives, and has only given voters more reasons to vote for him this November.
Congrats to Rep. Dan Barrett on this well earned endorsement. |
