Former Texas Governor details support for Speaker Phelan

I’ve trod the political trails of Texas for a good long while, from the gravel roads of my old House district in Haskell County to the grand halls of the Texas Governor’s mansion. Along that journey, I've seen the kind of folks it takes to make Texas thrive—folks with grit, integrity, and a deep-seated drive to do what’s best for our state and its people. One such person is Dade Phelan, a name that's become synonymous with leadership and dedication for decades in Southeast Texas.

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My connection to Southeast Texas began while campaigning for Agriculture Commissioner in the 1990s at a time when finding a Republican friend around these parts was akin to finding a needle in a haystack. The Phelans were that needle; They dedicated their time and treasure to advancing conservative causes and candidates in Southeast Texas back then, and their work lives on today in Dade, a man they raised to give back to his community, to lead with honor, and never forget where he comes from.

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Dade’s not just any politician. He’s the first Speaker of the House in state history to hail from Southeast Texas. What that means for you is that you’re not just on the map, you’re in the room. And Dade’s the man at the table, fighting for Jasper, Orange and Jefferson counties as decisions are made and the future of Texas is shaped. A vote for Dade is a vote to keep Southeast Texas running the table.

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Throughout my career, I've worked with my fair share of Texas Speakers, so I know a thing or two about what makes a good one. Dade Phelan’s as good as they come – he’s fair, honest to the bone, and he listens. His approach to governance is rooted in a belief that collaboration and pragmatism can transcend partisan divides, and that kind of leadership is precisely what Texas needs today. At a time when politics-at-large seem more about conflict that accomplishment, Dade has shown us a better path forward – a path that leads to real conservative results getting over the finish line.

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It is disheartening to see the political discourse surrounding this primary, with outside interests spending millions to influence the outcome in their favor. Politics is a rough-and-tumble business, sure, but the attacks against Dade are from folks who don’t know the first thing about what Southeast Texas needs. These outsiders want Dade out so they can take control of the Texas House and District 21 for themselves. They don’t see what you see – the guy who takes your call when something in the district needs fixing, the guy you run into at church or who talks shop with you in the Market Basket checkout line. Dade is your guy – not theirs – and he fights for Southeast Texas as hard as the day is long. Don’t let the noisy outsiders dictate what’s best for you and your community.

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As March 5th draws near, the choice before you is clear. I encourage you not to be swayed by the external forces trying to distract voters with unfounded claims so they can purchase your house seat and the speakership for themselves. Use your vote to send a message that Southeast Texas is not for sale.

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Dade Phelan is the real deal—a true Southeast Texan through and through, dedicated to serving House District 21 with every ounce of his being. I urge you to stand together and send a message loud and clear: Dade Phelan is your choice, your voice, and your champion. He is the right man for the job.

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Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry

Feb 26, 2024

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