The political landscape in Texas has been roiled by an escalating feud between Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dade Phelan. This internal discord reached a pivotal moment when the State Republican Executive Committee (SREC) approved a resolution seeking Phelan’s resignation. While this may appear as a mere internal squabble within the Texas GOP, it holds significant implications for the Texas Nationalist Movement (TNM) and the broader quest for Texas independence.
The SREC Resolution
The SREC resolution against Phelan was approved by a 58-2 vote and cited multiple reasons for his ouster. These include an inability to pass GOP legislative priorities and giving Democrats undue influence in the lower chamber. The resolution comes at a time when the state is preparing for an anticipated special session in October, making its impact even more significant.
The March 2024 Primaries: A Battlefield for Pro-TEXIT Candidates
This division within the Texas GOP is not just a temporary fissure; it will likely play out in the March 2024 primaries. The discord provides pro-TEXIT candidates with a unique opportunity to challenge incumbents who were once considered invulnerable. The TNM, as the third-largest advocacy organization in Texas, could find itself in the role of “kingmaker” in these hotly contested and likely close primaries.
The TEXIT Referendum: A Game-Changer for Voter Turnout
Putting the TEXIT referendum on the March 2024 ballot could serve as a catalyst for driving pro-Texas voters to the polls. Many of these voters might otherwise abstain from participating due to their dissatisfaction with the political status quo. The referendum could thus become a strategic tool for mobilizing a large voter base that is aligned with the goals of the Texas independence movement.
The Legislative Landscape: A Window of Opportunity for TEXIT
Neither the Senate nor the House has been particularly receptive to the calls for a TEXIT vote. This internal division within the GOP opens a clear and broad window of opportunity for TEXIT supporters. House leadership has been openly hostile to pro-TEXIT voters, and the upcoming election cycle provides an opportunity to “return the favor” by supporting candidates who are aligned with the independence movement.
The Role of the TNM: From Advocate to Kingmaker
As the third-largest advocacy organization in Texas, the Texas Nationalist Movement (TNM) has a unique opportunity to influence the outcome of the upcoming primaries. With the GOP divided, the TNM could act as a “kingmaker,” endorsing candidates who are committed to the cause of Texas independence. Such endorsements could tip the scales in favor of pro-TEXIT candidates in what are expected to be closely contested primaries.
The Impact of House Leadership on the TEXIT Movement
The hostility from the current House leadership towards pro-TEXIT voters has been palpable. This election cycle offers a golden opportunity to “return the favor” by rallying behind candidates open to Texas independence. The SREC resolution against Phelan is a clear indicator that change is on the horizon, and it could very well begin with a shift in House leadership.
The Long-Term Implications: Setting the Stage for a TEXIT Vote
The internal divisions within the Texas GOP and the upcoming March 2024 primaries are not just isolated events but setting the stage for a potential TEXIT vote. If pro-TEXIT candidates can secure key positions in the House and Senate, the likelihood of a TEXIT referendum being put on the ballot increases substantially. This could be the momentum shift the independence movement has been waiting for.
The Road Ahead: Seizing the Opportunity
The feud between Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dade Phelan has created a volatile political environment, but it’s ripe with opportunities for the Texas Nationalist Movement. By strategically positioning itself in the upcoming primaries, endorsing pro-TEXIT candidates, and pushing for the TEXIT referendum, the TNM can seize this moment to advance the cause of Texas independence.
The divisions within the Texas GOP have opened a window of opportunity that the Texas Nationalist Movement is well-positioned to capitalize on. As the state prepares for an anticipated special session and looks ahead to the March 2024 primaries, the TNM must remain vigilant and adaptive, ready to seize opportunities and mitigate challenges in this evolving political landscape.
