On Friday, February 10th, 2012, the Texas Tribune published an article entitled, "Slow Redistricting Lowers Clout of Texas Voters," written by Ross Ramsey. Mr. Ramsey chronicles how Texas would have been a major player in the March 6th Super Tuesday primaries if Texas had an approved redistricting plan. In fact, according to Mr. Ramsey, Texas would have been the most coveted prize among 10 other states on that day, both in terms of convention delegates and fundraising. Further, all candidates on the ballot as of late December would have remained on the ballot. Rick Perry might have had to face a reality check back home.
Due to the redistricting battle being played out in courts and law offices, the earliest Texas can hold a Presidential primary is April. By then, the Republican challenger will likely have been informally anointed, relegating Texas' primary to a formality. The trickle down effects of this cheapening of Texas' big day are highlighted by the almost certain blow to voter turnout. This year, Texas has races for a U.S. Senate Seat, Congressional seats, judgeships, state legislators, and every other facet of state and local government. Reduced voter turnout could lessen the representative nature of these races.
I find this article interesting for its wistful tone. Mr. Ramsey seems forlorn at the prospect of Texas being somewhat of a sideshow in the primary process. I think this article dovetails nicely into our discussion on Texas exceptionalism.
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