Burnt Orange Report

Madla to Run of Not?

By Karl-Thomas Musselman

A very interesting Express News article gives us some hints as to what is happening in Senator Madla's seat. The first question is, will he even run for re-election?

State Rep. Robert Puente said Madla told him this week that he will announce his re-election campaign June 28 at the Holiday Inn Downtown.

But Madla backed off that Friday because of the likely announcement that Gov. Rick Perry will call a special session of the Legislature as early as Tuesday.

"There are a lot of variables," Madla said. "Am I going to run again? It's possible.

"But it's also possible that my heart could tell me to get on my horse and ride toward the sunset."

I'm hoping that he rides off into the sunset, but barring that, the second questino is raised. Primary Challenge and by whom?

Assuming that Madla does enter the March Democratic primary, the question remains: Will someone from his own party oppose him?

Gallego said flatly, "I would never challenge him."

Puente, who admitted he likes to kid around with Madla "about the great retirement package he would receive if he retires," was also matter-of-fact.

"In my opinion, that's Frank's district until he retires," Puente said.

That leaves Uresti. And unlike his colleagues, he left the door open.

"It's too early, I haven't really given that much thought to it," Uresti said.

Those who follow South Side politics say Uresti is serious about a Senate bid. Uresti is said to believe his name identification is strong coming off the effort to reform Child Protective Services after several child deaths.

But fundraising will be his challenge, as Madla will use his decades-long influence to cut off major funding sources in Austin.