26 Comments
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Scott Buehner's avatar

Rafael is bad luck for Texas and the nation as a whole, not just his favored sports teams.

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Tai's avatar

Normally I get rather depressed after reading your brilliant reports. But I was utterly delighted by your tidbit on the Ted Cruz curse. I am speaking as a proud Washington husky.

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Dave Yell's avatar

Ted Cruz and the Texas mascot have a a this in common; a lot of bull.(couldn't resist)

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Tracy Early's avatar

Ditto!

#BowDown 💜🏈💜

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Jackie Ralston's avatar

Welcome back, Joe. I hope you had a lovely break and are well fortified for what's likely ahead in 2024.

Speaking of betting, any odds on the current speaker of the House lasting until the November election?

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David Court's avatar

Lasting as Speaker or lasting in the House? Of course, Kraven Kevin did not manage either one.

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Jackie Ralston's avatar

I meant lasting as Speaker, as that isn't solely in his control. Since he believes he was called by god to the Speakership, I doubt he'd take the My Kevin way out of the House.

That said, I welcome hearing odds for either or both events.

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David Court's avatar

Well, if he is fired despite god's help and desire, then he could leave the house, claiming that the devil made him do it.😏

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JA's avatar

Ted Cruz is the height of grossness!

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John Kelly's avatar

I think Colin Allred is the centrist with what it takes to beat him.

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JA's avatar

Very impressive young man! Would be wonderful Senator but you know Texas?

Incumbents are tough to beat or get out of office.

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John Kelly's avatar

This is true, but (relatively) far-left Beto held Cruz to within two(no, THREE) points. Allred is far more successful with moderates and independents. I'm not saying I think it's a lock, but I do think Allred has a much better chance than someone who got 48.3%.

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JA's avatar

Supported him six months ago! Allread is a keeper!

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Dave Yell's avatar

I consider Aldred as a rising star to keep your eye.He is one of the Democrats deep bench in the future.

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Sko Hayes's avatar

Beto was a great shot in the arm to the Texas Democratic party. Every election, they get a few more voters registered or less active voters back to the polls. It will take a while, but I think it's trending purple.

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PEB's avatar

I agree and as a Texan I will crawl thru glass to vote for Colin preferably or anyone else.

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Tai's avatar

From your lips to God’s ears.

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Sheri Smith's avatar

Does he ever take a shower?

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Beth's avatar

Or, at minimum, wash his hair?

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Dave Yell's avatar

Maybe when he goes to the Caribean

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Holly Berkley Fletcher's avatar

maybe cruz can retire and start a business where people pay him to attend games of their choice. Or just retire. That would be great.

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Amanda's avatar

Joe P., I sincerely hope there's a book project in your future.

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wiredog's avatar

Just started reading “Starter Villain” by Scalzi, and somehow I’m hearing the first part of this newsletter in his (literary) voice…

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Victoria Brown's avatar

Happy New Year, Joe. Going to be interesting for sure.

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Matt H's avatar

Great stuff as usual Joe. Two followup questions:

1. Can you share any details on the difference between 'Military Construction' and 'Defense' as spending categories?

2. Does...does Cruz have a mullet now?

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Beth's avatar

I'm not Joe, but I'm voting "yes" to your second question. You don't think it makes him look younger? lololol

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