26 Comments
User's avatar
Scott Buehner's avatar

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

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.

Dave Yell's avatar

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

Tracy Early's avatar

Ditto!

#BowDown 💜🏈💜

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?

David Court's avatar

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

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.

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.😏

JA's avatar

Ted Cruz is the height of grossness!

John Kelly's avatar

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

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.

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%.

JA's avatar

Supported him six months ago! Allread is a keeper!

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.

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.

PEB's avatar

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

Tai's avatar

From your lips to God’s ears.

Sheri Smith's avatar

Does he ever take a shower?

Beth's avatar

Or, at minimum, wash his hair?

Dave Yell's avatar

Maybe when he goes to the Caribean

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.

Amanda's avatar

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

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…

Victoria Brown's avatar

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

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?

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