Darby: Absent Democrats Are Wasting Texans' Time & Money

AUSTIN – San Angelo's State Representative Drew Darby Tuesday evening responded to House Democrats fleeing the state to stall election integrity legislation.  

Darby was measured in his response.  

Below is Rep. Darby's social media post:  

"When the Texas House of Representatives convened this morning for the sixth day of the 30-day special session, I was in Austin ready to work on behalf of the people of the Concho Valley and West Texas, as you elected me to do and in a role I am honored to hold. Governor Greg Abbott directed the Legislature to meet in a special session to address a robust agenda, and today nearly all of my Democrat colleagues chose to deny us the opportunity to work on important policy issues when they strategically did not show up for work out of opposition to specific legislation. Instead, these Democrats chartered a private plane and flew to Washington, D.C. to cheer on federal election legislation before the U.S. Congress. Without a quorum of members of the Texas House, we cannot conduct business and Texas taxpayers are left to foot the bill for time wasted. Much is at stake for Texans during this special session. We committed to passing additional benefits for our retired teachers, providing property tax relief, and increasing funding for children in foster care. Throughout my service in the Legislature, I have seen policy proposals that do not advance the values of rural Texas, and I showed up to fight against these bills, as you elected and encouraged me to do. I never abandoned the responsibilities with which you entrusted me because I am elected by and serve you, not a volunteer to entertain fundraising and photo opportunities. Lawmakers can and should have sincere debates on substantive issues, but it is a great disservice to taxpayers to stop the entire legislative process when disagreements arise. My message to my Democrat colleagues: return to Texas and let’s get back to work for Texans."