Jul
12
Written by:
William Lutz
7/12/2011 5:47 PM
U.S. Rep. Ron Paul (R-Surfside Beach) announced he will not seek re-election today. Paul's announcement was made to The Facts today. LSR has received several statements and announcements from distinguisted Texans and potential candidates. We reprint below:
Rep. Larry Taylor (R-Friendswood): “Congressman Paul’s announcement today not to seek re-election has created a rare opportunity for public service at the national level. I have received encouragement from conservative leaders across Texas this afternoon. It is an opportunity that I will consider very seriously in the coming weeks."
Former U.S. Rep. Steve Stockman (R-Friendswood): (email statement sent to friends): "Congressman Paul, from district 14 is not running for reelection. This offers a great opportunity to serve our great nation once again. I want to thank you for the many calls/emails. In the last few hours we already have been endorsed by former SREC [member] Mark McCaig, state school board member David Bradley, activist Michael Franks, Clair Worthington of Galveston and more.The new district encompasses much of the old district I represented before. "
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn: “Ron has served Texans in Congress with distinction for nearly 24 years as a fierce advocate for a more limited government. His steadfast devotion to his core beliefs has earned him the respect and loyalty from Texans and Americans of all walks of life. I congratulate Ron on his remarkable congressional career, and wish him and Carol the very best in their future endeavors.”
Kirsten Gray, Texas Democratic Party: “Ron Paul has long been an unorthodox politician – someone who’s defied GOP politicians as well as Democrats. He’s likely to carry that quality into the GOP presidential field where he could cause problems for Rick Perry and other Republicans by calling them out for the hypocrisy and inconsistency within their party. One thing is clear from the announcement: Ron Paul doesn’t think much of Rick Perry’s record or his qualifications for President."