The 2024 primary season has reached its halfway point with little change, aside from one U.S. House member being defeated and incumbents prevailing in state Capitols. However, the runoffs in Texas are serving as a test for two prominent Republicans: U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales and state House Speaker Dade Phelan. Both have faced challenges within their own party, with Gonzales breaking ranks on certain issues and Phelan angering hard-right conservatives over the impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. The battles to save their jobs have highlighted the risks of dissent within the GOP.
The Texas runoffs on Tuesday are gaining attention, with figures such as Katrina Pierson, a former spokeswoman for Donald Trump, running for a state House seat near Dallas. Additionally, GOP voters are selecting a challenger to Democratic U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, who was indicted this month on conspiracy and bribery charges. These elections are seen as crucial for the future direction of the Texas Republican Party and could potentially impact the balance of power in the state.
While only one House member, Republican Rep. Jerry Carl of Alabama, has been knocked out so far this year, the primaries in Texas have presented challenges for Gonzales and Phelan. Gonzales, who faced multiple challengers in March, is up against Brandon Herrera, a gun-rights YouTube creator, in a competitive race. The state party of Texas has shifted further to the right, creating a battle for the soul of the party in these primary showdowns.
Despite facing criticism from hardline Republicans, both Gonzales and Phelan have received support from party heavyweights like Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson. Gonzales, a 20-year Navy veteran, has defended his voting record, emphasizing his commitment to the Constitution. Meanwhile, Phelan, who has led the state House for two sessions, has faced backlash for his actions regarding the impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
The outcomes of these primary races in Texas will have significant implications for the future of the state’s Republican Party and its policy direction. A loss for Gonzales could potentially give Democrats an opportunity to flip a traditionally moderate district in the general election. Similarly, a change in Texas House leadership, with Phelan facing an uphill battle to secure the nomination, could push the state’s policymaking even further to the right. These races underscore the internal divisions within the GOP and the challenges faced by dissenting voices within the party.
