Redistricting: The latest U.S. Census data suggest that Texas could be apportioned three more Congressional seats in 2021. Census projections released earlier this week indicated Texas added nearly 433K people during 2016, the most of any state, and has added 2.7M since 2010, also the most of any state. Three additional seats would mean Texas would have 41 electoral votes for the 2024 and 2028 presidential elections.
Pre-filed Legislation: Sen.-elect Dawn Buckingham (R-Lake Travis) filed a bill that would make it an offense for a presidential elector to vote for someone other than the presidential and vice-presidential candidates who received the most votes. Rep. Eric Johnson (D-Dallas) filed a bill adding a photo identification card issued by an institution of higher education as a valid photo ID that can be shown to vote in person.
El Paso: Former council member Ann Morgan Lilly filed an ethics complaint (pdf) against Mayor Oscar Leeser over an altercation earlier this week at an El Paso restaurant. The complaint alleges “abuse of office and power and misuse of public police resources.” No arrests were made in connection with the altercation, and no charges have been filed. Leeser has previously announced he would not seek re-election in May.
San Antonio: Financial analyst and write-in presidential candidate Tony Valdivia announced he would seek the open D8 council seat being vacated by Ron Nirenberg, who is running for mayor. Valdivia received a total of 15 votes in Bexar Co. Attorney Manny Palaez announced for the seat in October.
