Voter ID: A continuance requested by the U.S. Dept. of Justice has been granted, delaying until February 28 the start of Tuesday’s trial to determine whether the state passed its Voter ID law with discriminatory intent. The motion for continuance cited “the federal government’s change in administration” and a need for “additional time to brief the new leadership” on the case. The federal government was set to argue that the Voter ID was passed with a discriminatory intent.

GOV: Gov. Greg Abbott confirmed he would seek a second term in 2018. Abbott’s campaign reported having $34.4M on hand as of December 31.

Local Elections: The filing period continues for candidates for offices on the May 6 uniform election ballot. Some notable filings to date include:

  • Abilene – Former council member Robert Briley filed for mayor. He lost a 2014 challenge against Norm Archibald, who is not seeking re-election.
  • Fort Worth – Mayor Betsy Price filed for re-election. She has at least one challenger in Chris Nettles.
  • San Antonio – Mayor Ivy Taylor filed for re-election. She has at least five challengers including council member Ron Nirenberg.
  • Tarrant Co. – Former Rep. Diane Patrick (R-Arlington) filed for election to a full term on the Tarrant Co. College Board of Trustees. She was appointed to the board in August by the board.