Saturday Convention Recap

June 9, 2012

 
Saturday began with special music from Kelsey Lewis, singing a wonderful rendition of "America the Beautiful". Pastor Mark Gonzales then opened up the session with an opening prayer, and was followed by Representative Stefani Carter leading the Pledge of Allegiance, Representative Jim Keffer leading the pledge to the Texas flag, and the National Anthem by Gaye Arbuckle.

Our first speaker was U.S. Congressman Francisco "Quico" Canseco who had opening remarks about the failure of large government, and the harm it causes the lower class and the poor in our Country. Congressman Canseco then introduced our Saturday keynote speaker - U.S. Congressman Paul Ryan. Paul Ryan discussed the love of freedom that Texans share with the rest of America, and the issues that are defining this election in 2012. Ryan went on to point out that this love of freedom puts us at odds with the Welfare State that has been created by the Democrats. He criticized the Obama's administration lack of job creation and the dire need for Republican leadership to regain control of our federal government to liberate Americans from government dependence.

Also speaking on Saturday afternoon, Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples addressed the convention and thanked them for participating in the important work of the three-day event. He spoke at length about the importance of true Republican leaders and how the benefits of small government have kept Texas at the forefront of the national climate for job creation and quality of life.

Following Commissioner Staples, former Solicitor General Ted Cruz took the stage to speak about the radical nature of the Obama Administration and the need for true conservative fighters in Washington D.C. His speech was punctuated with several strong references to the values of Texas Republicans and how the U.S. Senate would benefit from an infusion of those values to counteract the damage done by Harry Reid and the liberals who have controlled that body.

After Cruz, Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson addressed the delegates and explained his love of the Republican Party in Texas and the conservative ideals that he has followed since his days in the Texas State Senate. He went on to address the culture war that is happening in our Country, especially in reference to the concealed handgun law and the fight against our 2nd Amendment rights by the left.

Following Commissioner Patterson, Lt. Governor David Dewhurst took the stage and talked about his pride for Texas conservative politics and the increasing job opportunities in Texas by the number of companies and manufacturers that have moved to the Lone Star State in the past several years. Dewhurst went on to explain the need to make a strong difference in Washington by repealing Obamacare, dramatically cutting government spending and slashing taxes for all Americans.

After these speeches, there was a short delay in the agenda as there were still a delay in the Congressional caucuses from two districts. Chairman Munisteri welcomed National Committeeman Bill Crocker to the podium for a farewell speech in which Crocker reiterated the need for the Republican Party of Texas to remain firm and courageous in its conviction and conservative principles.

Next on the agenda, Credentials Chairman Wade Emmert presented the last report of the Credentials Committee. National Nominations Committee Chairman Butch Davis then announced the results of the caucuses in the race for National Committeeman and National Committeewoman. At this point, Curt Nelson of San Antonio made a short speech thanking his supporters for their help in his race and conceded the victory to Dr. Robin Armstrong - the new Texas Republican National Committeeman. Borah Van Dormolen was unanimously re-elected to the position of National Committeewoman.

As the last order of business for the three-day convention, the delegates received and approved the report of the National Nominations Committee of the full list of Republican Presidential Electors and of the 155 delegates and 152 alternates to the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida on August 27-30, 2012. The Convention adjourned sine die.