AUSTIN, Texas – Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has expressed concern about the Republican Party’s ability to maintain its majority in the Texas House during the upcoming November elections. Currently, Republicans occupy 88 out of the 150 seats in the chamber, meaning Democrats would need to flip 14 seats to take control.
Speaking at the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s annual conference, Patrick emphasized that voter support for the eventual Republican Senate runoff winner, either Ken Paxton or John Cornyn, is crucial. He warned of potential repercussions down the ballot if either candidate fails to rally their supporters.
“If Cornyn doesn’t support Paxton or Paxton doesn’t support Cornyn, and around 10 to 15 percent of their voters stay home, we risk losing the Senate seat, which could lead to losing the Senate altogether,” Patrick stated.
He highlighted that a victory for Democrat James Talarico in the Senate race could jeopardize Republican control of the U.S. Senate, while asserting confidence in the stability of the Texas Senate. “We’re going to have a tough time holding the Texas House,” Patrick remarked, adding, “I think our Senate’s in good shape. We should not take anything for granted, but I believe our Senate is secure.”
Having held the Texas House since 2003, Republicans face a significant challenge ahead. During President Donald Trump’s first term in 2018, Democrats successfully flipped 12 seats in the state House.
Patrick’s remarks elicited mixed reactions across the political spectrum. House Speaker Dustin Burrows was adamant that Republicans would retain their majority. “We will fight to keep every Republican seat,” Burrows declared. “I look forward to the fall campaign where we can highlight Texas’ prosperity under Republican leadership, and I have faith that Texas voters will continue to support conservative governance.”
On the Democratic side, some expressed agreement with Patrick’s assessment. Representative Joe Moody commented, “Not often do I agree with the Lt. Gov. But when he’s right, he’s right.” Meanwhile, Democratic Party chair Kendall Scudder shared a simple gif in response to Patrick’s statement.
The Texas House Democratic Campaign Committee added, “Dan Patrick is warning Republicans that they are in trouble this November, and for once, he is telling the truth. In November, we will hold Dan Patrick and every corrupt Republican in the Texas Legislature accountable. We’ve never been closer, and we are not slowing down.”
These discussions reflect the heightened stakes as the November elections approach, with both parties gearing up for a competitive battle in Texas.
