Houston Political Blog

20 hours and 5 cups of coffee later...

... And you get to be an alternate delegate!  That's the experience of one regional convention goer this weekend.  For everyone else, we hope Monday morning means you are catching up on some sleep!

Tens of thousands of locals gave up their precious Saturdays to exercise their right to hang out in crowded gyms and conventions centers.   Depending on where you were, your experience was either relatively calm (but long) or extremely frustrating (and even longer.)

I had a friend who began the day at the GRB convention center at 9 in the morning.. and  that friend was still there at 4 a.m... the next day!  Talk about dedication! 

In Sugar Land, Clinton and Obama supporters were shouting at each other.. but most people made it home by dinner time.  The scene was different at Delmar Field House and at TSU, districts for Senators John Whitmire and Rodney Ellis, respectively.  Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee visited both conventions... and was booed loudly by the crowd.  Both districts went overwhelmingly for Obama, and supporters there didn't really like Jackson-Lee's high profile support of Sen. Clinton.  Jackson-Lee just shrugged off the not-too-friendly welcome.

Anyway, most of the frustrations were lodged against the process.. mainly because it was taking so long.  At one point, a frustrated convention worker at Delmar put up a sign stating:  "You Know What I Know."  That didn't win over too many fans, and that person got a talking to by Sen. Whitmire.

In the end.. we still don't know what the exact numbers will be, until June!  Good think the Burnt Orange guys are keeping things in check.

20 hours and 5 cups of coffee later...

... And you get to be an alternate delegate!  That's the experience of one regional convention goer this weekend.  For everyone else, we hope Monday morning means you are catching up on some sleep!

Tens of thousands of locals gave up their precious Saturdays to exercise their right to hang out in crowded gyms and conventions centers.   Depending on where you were, your experience was either relatively calm (but long) or extremely frustrating (and even longer.)

I had a friend who began the day at the GRB convention center at 9 in the morning.. and  that friend was still there at 4 a.m... the next day!  Talk about dedication! 

In Sugar Land, Clinton and Obama supporters were shouting at each other.. but most people made it home by dinner time.  The scene was different at Delmar Field House and at TSU, districts for Senators John Whitmire and Rodney Ellis, respectively.  Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee visited both conventions... and was booed loudly by the crowd.  Both districts went overwhelmingly for Obama, and supporters there didn't really like Jackson-Lee's high profile support of Sen. Clinton.  Jackson-Lee just shrugged off the not-too-friendly welcome.

Anyway, most of the frustrations were lodged against the process.. mainly because it was taking so long.  At one point, a frustrated convention worker at Delmar put up a sign stating:  "You Know What I Know."  That didn't win over too many fans, and that person got a talking to by Sen. Whitmire.

In the end.. we still don't know what the exact numbers will be, until June!  Good think the Burnt Orange guys are keeping things in check.

20 hours and 5 cups of coffee later...

... And you get to be an alternate delegate!  That's the experience of one regional convention goer this weekend.  For everyone else, we hope Monday morning means you are catching up on some sleep!

Tens of thousands of locals gave up their precious Saturdays to exercise their right to hang out in crowded gyms and conventions centers.   Depending on where you were, your experience was either relatively calm (but long) or extremely frustrating (and even longer.)

I had a friend who began the day at the GRB convention center at 9 in the morning.. and  that friend was still there at 4 a.m... the next day!  Talk about dedication! 

In Sugar Land, Clinton and Obama supporters were shouting at each other.. but most people made it home by dinner time.  The scene was different at Delmar Field House and at TSU, districts for Senators John Whitmire and Rodney Ellis, respectively.  Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee visited both conventions... and was booed loudly by the crowd.  Both districts went overwhelmingly for Obama, and supporters there didn't really like Jackson-Lee's high profile support of Sen. Clinton.  Jackson-Lee just shrugged off the not-too-friendly welcome.

Anyway, most of the frustrations were lodged against the process.. mainly because it was taking so long.  At one point, a frustrated convention worker at Delmar put up a sign stating:  "You Know What I Know."  That didn't win over too many fans, and that person got a talking to by Sen. Whitmire.

In the end.. we still don't know what the exact numbers will be, until June!  Good think the Burnt Orange guys are keeping things in check.

20 hours and 5 cups of coffee later...

... And you get to be an alternate delegate!  That's the experience of one regional convention goer this weekend.  For everyone else, we hope Monday morning means you are catching up on some sleep!

Tens of thousands of locals gave up their precious Saturdays to exercise their right to hang out in crowded gyms and conventions centers.   Depending on where you were, your experience was either relatively calm (but long) or extremely frustrating (and even longer.)

I had a friend who began the day at the GRB convention center at 9 in the morning.. and  that friend was still there at 4 a.m... the next day!  Talk about dedication! 

In Sugar Land, Clinton and Obama supporters were shouting at each other.. but most people made it home by dinner time.  The scene was different at Delmar Field House and at TSU, districts for Senators John Whitmire and Rodney Ellis, respectively.  Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee visited both conventions... and was booed loudly by the crowd.  Both districts went overwhelmingly for Obama, and supporters there didn't really like Jackson-Lee's high profile support of Sen. Clinton.  Jackson-Lee just shrugged off the not-too-friendly welcome.

Anyway, most of the frustrations were lodged against the process.. mainly because it was taking so long.  At one point, a frustrated convention worker at Delmar put up a sign stating:  "You Know What I Know."  That didn't win over too many fans, and that person got a talking to by Sen. Whitmire.

In the end.. we still don't know what the exact numbers will be, until June!  Good think the Burnt Orange guys are keeping things in check.

Obama Camp: We won!

Not all the senate district conventions have reported their numbers, but that's not stopping the Obama camp from releasing a statement saying their guy won:

AUSTIN - With more than 56% of the results tallied from today's 284 Democratic district conventions across Texas, Senator Barack Obama currently is projected to earn a 38-29 pledged delegate win in the Texas caucuses, exactly as projected on the day after the March 4th precinct caucuses.  The nine delegate margin in the  caucuses means Obama will gain a net margin of five pledged delegates from Texas because Senator Clinton narrowly won the Texas primary by only four delegates, 65-61.

"Despite the Clinton campaign's widespread attempts to prevent many Texans from participating in their district convention, the voters of Texas confirmed Senator Obama's important delegate win in the Lone Star State," said Obama spokesman Josh Earnest.  "Today's record-shattering turnout sends a clear message that the American people are ready for change in Washington and new leadership in the White House that will stand up for working families."

Obama Camp: We won!

Not all the senate district conventions have reported their numbers, but that's not stopping the Obama camp from releasing a statement saying their guy won:

AUSTIN - With more than 56% of the results tallied from today's 284 Democratic district conventions across Texas, Senator Barack Obama currently is projected to earn a 38-29 pledged delegate win in the Texas caucuses, exactly as projected on the day after the March 4th precinct caucuses.  The nine delegate margin in the  caucuses means Obama will gain a net margin of five pledged delegates from Texas because Senator Clinton narrowly won the Texas primary by only four delegates, 65-61.

"Despite the Clinton campaign's widespread attempts to prevent many Texans from participating in their district convention, the voters of Texas confirmed Senator Obama's important delegate win in the Lone Star State," said Obama spokesman Josh Earnest.  "Today's record-shattering turnout sends a clear message that the American people are ready for change in Washington and new leadership in the White House that will stand up for working families."

Obama Camp: We won!

Not all the senate district conventions have reported their numbers, but that's not stopping the Obama camp from releasing a statement saying their guy won:

AUSTIN - With more than 56% of the results tallied from today's 284 Democratic district conventions across Texas, Senator Barack Obama currently is projected to earn a 38-29 pledged delegate win in the Texas caucuses, exactly as projected on the day after the March 4th precinct caucuses.  The nine delegate margin in the  caucuses means Obama will gain a net margin of five pledged delegates from Texas because Senator Clinton narrowly won the Texas primary by only four delegates, 65-61.

"Despite the Clinton campaign's widespread attempts to prevent many Texans from participating in their district convention, the voters of Texas confirmed Senator Obama's important delegate win in the Lone Star State," said Obama spokesman Josh Earnest.  "Today's record-shattering turnout sends a clear message that the American people are ready for change in Washington and new leadership in the White House that will stand up for working families."

Obama Camp: We won!

Not all the senate district conventions have reported their numbers, but that's not stopping the Obama camp from releasing a statement saying their guy won:

AUSTIN - With more than 56% of the results tallied from today's 284 Democratic district conventions across Texas, Senator Barack Obama currently is projected to earn a 38-29 pledged delegate win in the Texas caucuses, exactly as projected on the day after the March 4th precinct caucuses.  The nine delegate margin in the  caucuses means Obama will gain a net margin of five pledged delegates from Texas because Senator Clinton narrowly won the Texas primary by only four delegates, 65-61.

"Despite the Clinton campaign's widespread attempts to prevent many Texans from participating in their district convention, the voters of Texas confirmed Senator Obama's important delegate win in the Lone Star State," said Obama spokesman Josh Earnest.  "Today's record-shattering turnout sends a clear message that the American people are ready for change in Washington and new leadership in the White House that will stand up for working families."

Drop out push hits web

Senator Hillary Clinton's been pushing back against a lot of "drop out" chatter.  Well, I came upon an interesting website that's been trying to push that idea.  As you can see from the  screen shot, there's not much to the website, other than urging Clinton to drop out... with an online petition and her Senate address posted. Still, interesting fodder.

Drop out push hits web

Senator Hillary Clinton's been pushing back against a lot of "drop out" chatter.  Well, I came upon an interesting website that's been trying to push that idea.  As you can see from the  screen shot, there's not much to the website, other than urging Clinton to drop out... with an online petition and her Senate address posted. Still, interesting fodder.

Drop out push hits web

Senator Hillary Clinton's been pushing back against a lot of "drop out" chatter.  Well, I came upon an interesting website that's been trying to push that idea.  As you can see from the  screen shot, there's not much to the website, other than urging Clinton to drop out... with an online petition and her Senate address posted. Still, interesting fodder.

Drop out push hits web

Senator Hillary Clinton's been pushing back against a lot of "drop out" chatter.  Well, I came upon an interesting website that's been trying to push that idea.  As you can see from the  screen shot, there's not much to the website, other than urging Clinton to drop out... with an online petition and her Senate address posted. Still, interesting fodder.

Pro-Tem Four Scandal ends in plea, dropped charges

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Two of the four people charged in the city hall bonus scandal reached a plea deal with prosecutors today, while the other two accused were cleared of all charges. Four people total were accused taking unauthorized bonuses while working for former City Councilwoman Carol Alvarado. The four employees were fired in 2006. Alvarado, the former mayor pro tem, who was not charged.

Three of the four people named in the criminal case were in court waiting to find out what was going to happen in each of their cases. Florence Watkins, Rosita Hernandez, Christopher Mays and Theresa Orta were all accused of taking unauthorized bonuses and raises totaling at least $200,000 while working at city hall. The judge accepted the plea from Watkins' of no contest. She is charged with theft by public servant. She received 350 hours of community service and restitution between $60,000 and $70,000. She will also have to apologize to Carol Alvarado and the city of Houston and be on probation for 10 years.

Watkins took the stand to make a statement and said Mays and Orta did not know the money was unauthorized. Hernandez's plea of no contest was also accepted. She received restitution over $77,000 and the money that is frozen in an account will be given to the city of Houston. She also received 10 years probation and will have to issue a letter of apology to Carol Alvarado and the city of Houston.

Hernandez stated in sworn statement that Orta and Mays did not know the raises and bonus were approved and they didn't know it was scheme. She said she and Watkins did not tell them it was unauthorized. Mays and Orta are free and the charges were dropped.

Pro-Tem Four Scandal ends in plea, dropped charges

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Two of the four people charged in the city hall bonus scandal reached a plea deal with prosecutors today, while the other two accused were cleared of all charges. Four people total were accused taking unauthorized bonuses while working for former City Councilwoman Carol Alvarado. The four employees were fired in 2006. Alvarado, the former mayor pro tem, who was not charged.

Three of the four people named in the criminal case were in court waiting to find out what was going to happen in each of their cases. Florence Watkins, Rosita Hernandez, Christopher Mays and Theresa Orta were all accused of taking unauthorized bonuses and raises totaling at least $200,000 while working at city hall. The judge accepted the plea from Watkins' of no contest. She is charged with theft by public servant. She received 350 hours of community service and restitution between $60,000 and $70,000. She will also have to apologize to Carol Alvarado and the city of Houston and be on probation for 10 years.

Watkins took the stand to make a statement and said Mays and Orta did not know the money was unauthorized. Hernandez's plea of no contest was also accepted. She received restitution over $77,000 and the money that is frozen in an account will be given to the city of Houston. She also received 10 years probation and will have to issue a letter of apology to Carol Alvarado and the city of Houston.

Hernandez stated in sworn statement that Orta and Mays did not know the raises and bonus were approved and they didn't know it was scheme. She said she and Watkins did not tell them it was unauthorized. Mays and Orta are free and the charges were dropped.

Pro-Tem Four Scandal ends in plea, dropped charges

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Two of the four people charged in the city hall bonus scandal reached a plea deal with prosecutors today, while the other two accused were cleared of all charges. Four people total were accused taking unauthorized bonuses while working for former City Councilwoman Carol Alvarado. The four employees were fired in 2006. Alvarado, the former mayor pro tem, who was not charged.

Three of the four people named in the criminal case were in court waiting to find out what was going to happen in each of their cases. Florence Watkins, Rosita Hernandez, Christopher Mays and Theresa Orta were all accused of taking unauthorized bonuses and raises totaling at least $200,000 while working at city hall. The judge accepted the plea from Watkins' of no contest. She is charged with theft by public servant. She received 350 hours of community service and restitution between $60,000 and $70,000. She will also have to apologize to Carol Alvarado and the city of Houston and be on probation for 10 years.

Watkins took the stand to make a statement and said Mays and Orta did not know the money was unauthorized. Hernandez's plea of no contest was also accepted. She received restitution over $77,000 and the money that is frozen in an account will be given to the city of Houston. She also received 10 years probation and will have to issue a letter of apology to Carol Alvarado and the city of Houston.

Hernandez stated in sworn statement that Orta and Mays did not know the raises and bonus were approved and they didn't know it was scheme. She said she and Watkins did not tell them it was unauthorized. Mays and Orta are free and the charges were dropped.

Pro-Tem Four Scandal ends in plea, dropped charges

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Two of the four people charged in the city hall bonus scandal reached a plea deal with prosecutors today, while the other two accused were cleared of all charges. Four people total were accused taking unauthorized bonuses while working for former City Councilwoman Carol Alvarado. The four employees were fired in 2006. Alvarado, the former mayor pro tem, who was not charged.

Three of the four people named in the criminal case were in court waiting to find out what was going to happen in each of their cases. Florence Watkins, Rosita Hernandez, Christopher Mays and Theresa Orta were all accused of taking unauthorized bonuses and raises totaling at least $200,000 while working at city hall. The judge accepted the plea from Watkins' of no contest. She is charged with theft by public servant. She received 350 hours of community service and restitution between $60,000 and $70,000. She will also have to apologize to Carol Alvarado and the city of Houston and be on probation for 10 years.

Watkins took the stand to make a statement and said Mays and Orta did not know the money was unauthorized. Hernandez's plea of no contest was also accepted. She received restitution over $77,000 and the money that is frozen in an account will be given to the city of Houston. She also received 10 years probation and will have to issue a letter of apology to Carol Alvarado and the city of Houston.

Hernandez stated in sworn statement that Orta and Mays did not know the raises and bonus were approved and they didn't know it was scheme. She said she and Watkins did not tell them it was unauthorized. Mays and Orta are free and the charges were dropped.

Culberson says he's Republican "Firewall"

So there I was, standing on the Beltway overpass above the Katy freeway, with the wind blustering about and the cars whizzing by below.  Rep. John Culberson couldn't be more proud.  I had asked to interview Culberson and challenger Michael Skelly for a story that aired on Thursday.  It was interesting to see the location Culberson chose.  He said it was part of his semi-regular checkup on the Katy project, a project that he says will be completed by August 31 of this year.  Culberson also points to the freeway as a project he's very proud of.. and as proof of why voters should send him back to Washington.

Not so fast.

Michael Skelly, having never run for public office before, is oh so serious about making Culberson work for every vote, and the maybe spring on a surprise anyway.  If Culberson chose a highway as an interview location, the ideal counterpoint for Skelly would have been the light rail line or something! Instead, we just met up at his campaign office.  The former Horizon Wind Energy executive is a bonafide multi-millionaire.  And, at a campaign event last week, he promised to put a million dollars of his own money into the campaign.

By the time the two of them report their fundraising dollars for March, expect a few eyebrows to rise.  Skelly is expected to report at least $750,000 cash on hand, and Culberson is targeting at least $260,000.  Can we say: let's make some ads!

One interesting note about Culberson, he is telling supporters that this is one of the toughest races he'll face.  In addition to an interesting letter to supporters online, he told me yesterday that he sees the District 7 race as a "Firewall" for county wide Republicans.  "I believe that if we don't get my re-election numbers into the 60s percentage, then every Republican in Harris County could lose."  Culberson says that's why the Democratic party is running such a rich guy, basically to beat him down.. and bring the Repub party along.  In essence, he says he can still win his seat, while Harris County repubs lose all of theirs.  He also says that if his winning percentage isn't high enough, John Cornyn could lose his Senate seat. So basically, in his view, the survival of the Republican ticket depends on re-electing him... and thus, donating money to make him competitive against Skelly.

What does Skelly say about the whole thing?  Interestingly, he doesn't disagree with a lot of what's written on Culberson's website, he seems flattered by the fact that he's being taken so seriously (considering he's never held elected office before.)  But then again, having a few zeros behind your name, and a nice cadre of  fellow Harvard alums to depend on isn't so bad.  Guess that's why he could afford to hire Mayor white's campaign consultant, Mustafa Tameez, who's pictured here with former Rep. Chris Bell.

Culberson says he's Republican "Firewall"

So there I was, standing on the Beltway overpass above the Katy freeway, with the wind blustering about and the cars whizzing by below.  Rep. John Culberson couldn't be more proud.  I had asked to interview Culberson and challenger Michael Skelly for a story that aired on Thursday.  It was interesting to see the location Culberson chose.  He said it was part of his semi-regular checkup on the Katy project, a project that he says will be completed by August 31 of this year.  Culberson also points to the freeway as a project he's very proud of.. and as proof of why voters should send him back to Washington.

Not so fast.

Michael Skelly, having never run for public office before, is oh so serious about making Culberson work for every vote, and the maybe spring on a surprise anyway.  If Culberson chose a highway as an interview location, the ideal counterpoint for Skelly would have been the light rail line or something! Instead, we just met up at his campaign office.  The former Horizon Wind Energy executive is a bonafide multi-millionaire.  And, at a campaign event last week, he promised to put a million dollars of his own money into the campaign.

By the time the two of them report their fundraising dollars for March, expect a few eyebrows to rise.  Skelly is expected to report at least $750,000 cash on hand, and Culberson is targeting at least $260,000.  Can we say: let's make some ads!

One interesting note about Culberson, he is telling supporters that this is one of the toughest races he'll face.  In addition to an interesting letter to supporters online, he told me yesterday that he sees the District 7 race as a "Firewall" for county wide Republicans.  "I believe that if we don't get my re-election numbers into the 60s percentage, then every Republican in Harris County could lose."  Culberson says that's why the Democratic party is running such a rich guy, basically to beat him down.. and bring the Repub party along.  In essence, he says he can still win his seat, while Harris County repubs lose all of theirs.  He also says that if his winning percentage isn't high enough, John Cornyn could lose his Senate seat. So basically, in his view, the survival of the Republican ticket depends on re-electing him... and thus, donating money to make him competitive against Skelly.

What does Skelly say about the whole thing?  Interestingly, he doesn't disagree with a lot of what's written on Culberson's website, he seems flattered by the fact that he's being taken so seriously (considering he's never held elected office before.)  But then again, having a few zeros behind your name, and a nice cadre of  fellow Harvard alums to depend on isn't so bad.  Guess that's why he could afford to hire Mayor white's campaign consultant, Mustafa Tameez, who's pictured here with former Rep. Chris Bell.

Culberson says he's Republican "Firewall"

So there I was, standing on the Beltway overpass above the Katy freeway, with the wind blustering about and the cars whizzing by below.  Rep. John Culberson couldn't be more proud.  I had asked to interview Culberson and challenger Michael Skelly for a story that aired on Thursday.  It was interesting to see the location Culberson chose.  He said it was part of his semi-regular checkup on the Katy project, a project that he says will be completed by August 31 of this year.  Culberson also points to the freeway as a project he's very proud of.. and as proof of why voters should send him back to Washington.

Not so fast.

Michael Skelly, having never run for public office before, is oh so serious about making Culberson work for every vote, and the maybe spring on a surprise anyway.  If Culberson chose a highway as an interview location, the ideal counterpoint for Skelly would have been the light rail line or something! Instead, we just met up at his campaign office.  The former Horizon Wind Energy executive is a bonafide multi-millionaire.  And, at a campaign event last week, he promised to put a million dollars of his own money into the campaign.

By the time the two of them report their fundraising dollars for March, expect a few eyebrows to rise.  Skelly is expected to report at least $750,000 cash on hand, and Culberson is targeting at least $260,000.  Can we say: let's make some ads!

One interesting note about Culberson, he is telling supporters that this is one of the toughest races he'll face.  In addition to an interesting letter to supporters online, he told me yesterday that he sees the District 7 race as a "Firewall" for county wide Republicans.  "I believe that if we don't get my re-election numbers into the 60s percentage, then every Republican in Harris County could lose."  Culberson says that's why the Democratic party is running such a rich guy, basically to beat him down.. and bring the Repub party along.  In essence, he says he can still win his seat, while Harris County repubs lose all of theirs.  He also says that if his winning percentage isn't high enough, John Cornyn could lose his Senate seat. So basically, in his view, the survival of the Republican ticket depends on re-electing him... and thus, donating money to make him competitive against Skelly.

What does Skelly say about the whole thing?  Interestingly, he doesn't disagree with a lot of what's written on Culberson's website, he seems flattered by the fact that he's being taken so seriously (considering he's never held elected office before.)  But then again, having a few zeros behind your name, and a nice cadre of  fellow Harvard alums to depend on isn't so bad.  Guess that's why he could afford to hire Mayor white's campaign consultant, Mustafa Tameez, who's pictured here with former Rep. Chris Bell.

Culberson says he's Republican "Firewall"

So there I was, standing on the Beltway overpass above the Katy freeway, with the wind blustering about and the cars whizzing by below.  Rep. John Culberson couldn't be more proud.  I had asked to interview Culberson and challenger Michael Skelly for a story that aired on Thursday.  It was interesting to see the location Culberson chose.  He said it was part of his semi-regular checkup on the Katy project, a project that he says will be completed by August 31 of this year.  Culberson also points to the freeway as a project he's very proud of.. and as proof of why voters should send him back to Washington.

Not so fast.

Michael Skelly, having never run for public office before, is oh so serious about making Culberson work for every vote, and the maybe spring on a surprise anyway.  If Culberson chose a highway as an interview location, the ideal counterpoint for Skelly would have been the light rail line or something! Instead, we just met up at his campaign office.  The former Horizon Wind Energy executive is a bonafide multi-millionaire.  And, at a campaign event last week, he promised to put a million dollars of his own money into the campaign.

By the time the two of them report their fundraising dollars for March, expect a few eyebrows to rise.  Skelly is expected to report at least $750,000 cash on hand, and Culberson is targeting at least $260,000.  Can we say: let's make some ads!

One interesting note about Culberson, he is telling supporters that this is one of the toughest races he'll face.  In addition to an interesting letter to supporters online, he told me yesterday that he sees the District 7 race as a "Firewall" for county wide Republicans.  "I believe that if we don't get my re-election numbers into the 60s percentage, then every Republican in Harris County could lose."  Culberson says that's why the Democratic party is running such a rich guy, basically to beat him down.. and bring the Repub party along.  In essence, he says he can still win his seat, while Harris County repubs lose all of theirs.  He also says that if his winning percentage isn't high enough, John Cornyn could lose his Senate seat. So basically, in his view, the survival of the Republican ticket depends on re-electing him... and thus, donating money to make him competitive against Skelly.

What does Skelly say about the whole thing?  Interestingly, he doesn't disagree with a lot of what's written on Culberson's website, he seems flattered by the fact that he's being taken so seriously (considering he's never held elected office before.)  But then again, having a few zeros behind your name, and a nice cadre of  fellow Harvard alums to depend on isn't so bad.  Guess that's why he could afford to hire Mayor white's campaign consultant, Mustafa Tameez, who's pictured here with former Rep. Chris Bell.

Former TSU Prez avoids prison, strikes deal

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Ex-TSU president Priscilla Slade has reportedly reached a plea deal in her legal battle. Slade, a former accounting professor who spent more than six years as president of the state's largest historically black university, is accused of using university money for her personal gain.
Slade had a mistrial in October 2007. She was facing a charge of misapplication of fiduciary property with a value over $200,000. If she had been convicted, she faced a possible prison sentence of life.
A second trial was set to begin in just a few days, but a deal was reached after much legal wrangling today. Slade will plea no contest. She has received 10 years deferred adjudication with no jail time. She will also have to pay $127,672.18 of restitution to Texas Southern University, and serve 400 hours of community service.

Former TSU Prez avoids prison, strikes deal

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Ex-TSU president Priscilla Slade has reportedly reached a plea deal in her legal battle. Slade, a former accounting professor who spent more than six years as president of the state's largest historically black university, is accused of using university money for her personal gain.
Slade had a mistrial in October 2007. She was facing a charge of misapplication of fiduciary property with a value over $200,000. If she had been convicted, she faced a possible prison sentence of life.
A second trial was set to begin in just a few days, but a deal was reached after much legal wrangling today. Slade will plea no contest. She has received 10 years deferred adjudication with no jail time. She will also have to pay $127,672.18 of restitution to Texas Southern University, and serve 400 hours of community service.

Former TSU Prez avoids prison, strikes deal

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Ex-TSU president Priscilla Slade has reportedly reached a plea deal in her legal battle. Slade, a former accounting professor who spent more than six years as president of the state's largest historically black university, is accused of using university money for her personal gain.
Slade had a mistrial in October 2007. She was facing a charge of misapplication of fiduciary property with a value over $200,000. If she had been convicted, she faced a possible prison sentence of life.
A second trial was set to begin in just a few days, but a deal was reached after much legal wrangling today. Slade will plea no contest. She has received 10 years deferred adjudication with no jail time. She will also have to pay $127,672.18 of restitution to Texas Southern University, and serve 400 hours of community service.

Former TSU Prez avoids prison, strikes deal

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Ex-TSU president Priscilla Slade has reportedly reached a plea deal in her legal battle. Slade, a former accounting professor who spent more than six years as president of the state's largest historically black university, is accused of using university money for her personal gain.
Slade had a mistrial in October 2007. She was facing a charge of misapplication of fiduciary property with a value over $200,000. If she had been convicted, she faced a possible prison sentence of life.
A second trial was set to begin in just a few days, but a deal was reached after much legal wrangling today. Slade will plea no contest. She has received 10 years deferred adjudication with no jail time. She will also have to pay $127,672.18 of restitution to Texas Southern University, and serve 400 hours of community service.

City Council passes new employee contract.

When the historic contract between the employee's Union and City Council came up for a vote today, Mayor Bill White asked the usual:  Any comments?  There was dead silence.. a rarity in City Council chambers.  So he asked again, and finally, council member Toni Lawrence spoke up.  After that, the flood gates opened, and every city council member spoke up about the employee contract.  In the audience, a group of city employees who spent months negotiating the contract stood beaming.  In the end, Lawrence and Mike Sullivan voted against the contract, and it passed overwhelmingly.

City Council passes new employee contract.

When the historic contract between the employee's Union and City Council came up for a vote today, Mayor Bill White asked the usual:  Any comments?  There was dead silence.. a rarity in City Council chambers.  So he asked again, and finally, council member Toni Lawrence spoke up.  After that, the flood gates opened, and every city council member spoke up about the employee contract.  In the audience, a group of city employees who spent months negotiating the contract stood beaming.  In the end, Lawrence and Mike Sullivan voted against the contract, and it passed overwhelmingly.

City Council passes new employee contract.

When the historic contract between the employee's Union and City Council came up for a vote today, Mayor Bill White asked the usual:  Any comments?  There was dead silence.. a rarity in City Council chambers.  So he asked again, and finally, council member Toni Lawrence spoke up.  After that, the flood gates opened, and every city council member spoke up about the employee contract.  In the audience, a group of city employees who spent months negotiating the contract stood beaming.  In the end, Lawrence and Mike Sullivan voted against the contract, and it passed overwhelmingly.

City Council passes new employee contract.

When the historic contract between the employee's Union and City Council came up for a vote today, Mayor Bill White asked the usual:  Any comments?  There was dead silence.. a rarity in City Council chambers.  So he asked again, and finally, council member Toni Lawrence spoke up.  After that, the flood gates opened, and every city council member spoke up about the employee contract.  In the audience, a group of city employees who spent months negotiating the contract stood beaming.  In the end, Lawrence and Mike Sullivan voted against the contract, and it passed overwhelmingly.

So... Did you double vote?

Yesterday, Harris County Clerk  Beverly Kaufman released some interesting numbers: more than 1100 people may have voted at least twice.  That includes people who may have voted during early voting and then voted in the general election, or people who have voted both in the Democratic and Republican primaries.  She's turned over the names to the new Harris Co. DA.  Here is a portion of the release, and I will write a little more on what I found on the other side:

So was there widespread voter fraud?  A quick glance of the lists would show that the "double votes" occurred in a variety of neighborhoods, with no specific concentration.  The County Clerk said that there are usually a handful of double votes on any election, but given this year's turnout, the numbers jumped.  I actually tracked down a few of the double voters.  One lady said she was told to sign in at one table, when she realized it was the Republican table, she moved to the Democratic side, with assurances from the precinct worker that her name would erased.  So even though she voted once, her name appears twice.  Another lady, however, admitted she voted twice.  She, like some others, were confused by the "Texas Two Step."  She voted early, but then couldn't figure out the whole caucus thing on election day.  She thought voting was caucusing. 

So... Did you double vote?

Yesterday, Harris County Clerk  Beverly Kaufman released some interesting numbers: more than 1100 people may have voted at least twice.  That includes people who may have voted during early voting and then voted in the general election, or people who have voted both in the Democratic and Republican primaries.  She's turned over the names to the new Harris Co. DA.  Here is a portion of the release, and I will write a little more on what I found on the other side:

So was there widespread voter fraud?  A quick glance of the lists would show that the "double votes" occurred in a variety of neighborhoods, with no specific concentration.  The County Clerk said that there are usually a handful of double votes on any election, but given this year's turnout, the numbers jumped.  I actually tracked down a few of the double voters.  One lady said she was told to sign in at one table, when she realized it was the Republican table, she moved to the Democratic side, with assurances from the precinct worker that her name would erased.  So even though she voted once, her name appears twice.  Another lady, however, admitted she voted twice.  She, like some others, were confused by the "Texas Two Step."  She voted early, but then couldn't figure out the whole caucus thing on election day.  She thought voting was caucusing. 

So... Did you double vote?

Yesterday, Harris County Clerk  Beverly Kaufman released some interesting numbers: more than 1100 people may have voted at least twice.  That includes people who may have voted during early voting and then voted in the general election, or people who have voted both in the Democratic and Republican primaries.  She's turned over the names to the new Harris Co. DA.  Here is a portion of the release, and I will write a little more on what I found on the other side:

So was there widespread voter fraud?  A quick glance of the lists would show that the "double votes" occurred in a variety of neighborhoods, with no specific concentration.  The County Clerk said that there are usually a handful of double votes on any election, but given this year's turnout, the numbers jumped.  I actually tracked down a few of the double voters.  One lady said she was told to sign in at one table, when she realized it was the Republican table, she moved to the Democratic side, with assurances from the precinct worker that her name would erased.  So even though she voted once, her name appears twice.  Another lady, however, admitted she voted twice.  She, like some others, were confused by the "Texas Two Step."  She voted early, but then couldn't figure out the whole caucus thing on election day.  She thought voting was caucusing. 

So... Did you double vote?

Yesterday, Harris County Clerk  Beverly Kaufman released some interesting numbers: more than 1100 people may have voted at least twice.  That includes people who may have voted during early voting and then voted in the general election, or people who have voted both in the Democratic and Republican primaries.  She's turned over the names to the new Harris Co. DA.  Here is a portion of the release, and I will write a little more on what I found on the other side:

So was there widespread voter fraud?  A quick glance of the lists would show that the "double votes" occurred in a variety of neighborhoods, with no specific concentration.  The County Clerk said that there are usually a handful of double votes on any election, but given this year's turnout, the numbers jumped.  I actually tracked down a few of the double voters.  One lady said she was told to sign in at one table, when she realized it was the Republican table, she moved to the Democratic side, with assurances from the precinct worker that her name would erased.  So even though she voted once, her name appears twice.  Another lady, however, admitted she voted twice.  She, like some others, were confused by the "Texas Two Step."  She voted early, but then couldn't figure out the whole caucus thing on election day.  She thought voting was caucusing. 

Parting with the Partnership

The Greater Houston Partnership will have to scramble and find someone else to serve as its top lobbyist.  Less than two years after being named the Senior VP of Public Policy for the GHP, Gerard Torres is leaving.  The former State Rep. and Reliant Gov. Affairs guy is moving to Austin! There, he will be doing basically the same thing that he has been doing for TXU Energy.  This is a pretty good coup for TXU, considering Torres already had a decent gig, and wasn't exactly looking to move.  However, one would suspect the leaner and meaner world of corporate lobbying is quite attractive.  Non profit organizations, no matter how well off (and the GHP is VERY well off) are never quite as competitive.  That being said, there will no doubt be a long line of folks clamoring for his job, kind of like what happened when he left Reliant.  Consider this blog post as your official permission slip to call Jeff Moseley and Tracye McDaniel.  Whether they call you back.. um.. good luck!

Parting with the Partnership

The Greater Houston Partnership will have to scramble and find someone else to serve as its top lobbyist.  Less than two years after being named the Senior VP of Public Policy for the GHP, Gerard Torres is leaving.  The former State Rep. and Reliant Gov. Affairs guy is moving to Austin! There, he will be doing basically the same thing that he has been doing for TXU Energy.  This is a pretty good coup for TXU, considering Torres already had a decent gig, and wasn't exactly looking to move.  However, one would suspect the leaner and meaner world of corporate lobbying is quite attractive.  Non profit organizations, no matter how well off (and the GHP is VERY well off) are never quite as competitive.  That being said, there will no doubt be a long line of folks clamoring for his job, kind of like what happened when he left Reliant.  Consider this blog post as your official permission slip to call Jeff Moseley and Tracye McDaniel.  Whether they call you back.. um.. good luck!

Parting with the Partnership

The Greater Houston Partnership will have to scramble and find someone else to serve as its top lobbyist.  Less than two years after being named the Senior VP of Public Policy for the GHP, Gerard Torres is leaving.  The former State Rep. and Reliant Gov. Affairs guy is moving to Austin! There, he will be doing basically the same thing that he has been doing for TXU Energy.  This is a pretty good coup for TXU, considering Torres already had a decent gig, and wasn't exactly looking to move.  However, one would suspect the leaner and meaner world of corporate lobbying is quite attractive.  Non profit organizations, no matter how well off (and the GHP is VERY well off) are never quite as competitive.  That being said, there will no doubt be a long line of folks clamoring for his job, kind of like what happened when he left Reliant.  Consider this blog post as your official permission slip to call Jeff Moseley and Tracye McDaniel.  Whether they call you back.. um.. good luck!

Parting with the Partnership

The Greater Houston Partnership will have to scramble and find someone else to serve as its top lobbyist.  Less than two years after being named the Senior VP of Public Policy for the GHP, Gerard Torres is leaving.  The former State Rep. and Reliant Gov. Affairs guy is moving to Austin! There, he will be doing basically the same thing that he has been doing for TXU Energy.  This is a pretty good coup for TXU, considering Torres already had a decent gig, and wasn't exactly looking to move.  However, one would suspect the leaner and meaner world of corporate lobbying is quite attractive.  Non profit organizations, no matter how well off (and the GHP is VERY well off) are never quite as competitive.  That being said, there will no doubt be a long line of folks clamoring for his job, kind of like what happened when he left Reliant.  Consider this blog post as your official permission slip to call Jeff Moseley and Tracye McDaniel.  Whether they call you back.. um.. good luck!

Andrea White debuts another novel

Houston's First Lady Andrea White has penned another book.  The book is not aimed at politicians or politicos of any sort... it's actually aimed at encouraging young adults (like her teenage son) to read more.  White's last book was also aimed at young adults, and it was published a few years ago.  Since we're always talking about the Mayor doing this, or that, I thought you might enjoy seeing what the his better half is up to:

About the book:

“Window Boy,” tells the poignant yet riveting story of Sam whose window on the world is looking outside his apartment, across a field, to the Junior High School and its enticing basketball court.  His wheel chair and his cerebral palsy seemingly restrain him from his dreams.  Sam’s determination to get onto that court and into the school are fed by the omniscient voice of his friendly advisor, Winston “Winnie” Churchill whose story is brought to life everyday when his British caretaker reads to him.

Here's some book signings:

April 1    Brazos Book Store 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

April 2    Blue Willow Book Shop 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

April 9    River Oaks Book Store 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Andrea White debuts another novel

Houston's First Lady Andrea White has penned another book.  The book is not aimed at politicians or politicos of any sort... it's actually aimed at encouraging young adults (like her teenage son) to read more.  White's last book was also aimed at young adults, and it was published a few years ago.  Since we're always talking about the Mayor doing this, or that, I thought you might enjoy seeing what the his better half is up to:

About the book:

“Window Boy,” tells the poignant yet riveting story of Sam whose window on the world is looking outside his apartment, across a field, to the Junior High School and its enticing basketball court.  His wheel chair and his cerebral palsy seemingly restrain him from his dreams.  Sam’s determination to get onto that court and into the school are fed by the omniscient voice of his friendly advisor, Winston “Winnie” Churchill whose story is brought to life everyday when his British caretaker reads to him.

Here's some book signings:

April 1    Brazos Book Store 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

April 2    Blue Willow Book Shop 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

April 9    River Oaks Book Store 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Andrea White debuts another novel

Houston's First Lady Andrea White has penned another book.  The book is not aimed at politicians or politicos of any sort... it's actually aimed at encouraging young adults (like her teenage son) to read more.  White's last book was also aimed at young adults, and it was published a few years ago.  Since we're always talking about the Mayor doing this, or that, I thought you might enjoy seeing what the his better half is up to:

About the book:

“Window Boy,” tells the poignant yet riveting story of Sam whose window on the world is looking outside his apartment, across a field, to the Junior High School and its enticing basketball court.  His wheel chair and his cerebral palsy seemingly restrain him from his dreams.  Sam’s determination to get onto that court and into the school are fed by the omniscient voice of his friendly advisor, Winston “Winnie” Churchill whose story is brought to life everyday when his British caretaker reads to him.

Here's some book signings:

April 1    Brazos Book Store 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

April 2    Blue Willow Book Shop 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

April 9    River Oaks Book Store 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Andrea White debuts another novel

Houston's First Lady Andrea White has penned another book.  The book is not aimed at politicians or politicos of any sort... it's actually aimed at encouraging young adults (like her teenage son) to read more.  White's last book was also aimed at young adults, and it was published a few years ago.  Since we're always talking about the Mayor doing this, or that, I thought you might enjoy seeing what the his better half is up to:

About the book:

“Window Boy,” tells the poignant yet riveting story of Sam whose window on the world is looking outside his apartment, across a field, to the Junior High School and its enticing basketball court.  His wheel chair and his cerebral palsy seemingly restrain him from his dreams.  Sam’s determination to get onto that court and into the school are fed by the omniscient voice of his friendly advisor, Winston “Winnie” Churchill whose story is brought to life everyday when his British caretaker reads to him.

Here's some book signings:

April 1    Brazos Book Store 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

April 2    Blue Willow Book Shop 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

April 9    River Oaks Book Store 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Harris Co. Dems release caucus numbers

See below for the release, I've highlighted the numbers portion.  Bottom line:  Obama wins caucuses in Harris County, not a big surprise, but here you go...

(Houston, TX) - A record number of Harris County voters -- nearly 120,000 -- attended their local March 4th Democratic precinct conventions according to tabulations released by the Harris County Democratic Party.  With 850 of the county's 874 precincts reporting, preliminary results show 114,648 people signed in to support their candidate and elect delegates to the upcoming Senate District Convention on March 29th. 

"The monumental turn out in both the primary election and precinct conventions are a testament to the energy and enthusiasm of Democrats in Harris County," said Harris County Democratic Party Chair Gerry Birnberg. 

At every precinct convention, delegates were elected based on the number of participants who signed in for each candidate.  Of the 114,648 caucus-goers in Harris County, 69% (79,113 people) indicated a preference for Senator Barack Obama for president, while 30.6% (35,123 people) signed in with a presidential preference for Senator Hillary Clinton. Another 412 attendees (0.4%) signed in as uncommitted or preferring some other presidential candidate. It is estimated that the 24 outstanding precincts account for approximately 5,000 more convention attendees.

Based on results from the 850 reporting precincts, Senator Obama would be entitled to 8,657 delegates (65.8%) to the Senate district conventions, Senator Clinton would be entitled to 4,469 delegates (34%) and 25 delegates (0.2% of the county total) would be uncommitted. There are approximately 385 delegate positions available in the 24 outstanding precincts.

Just like the precinct level, Senate district convention attendees will elect delegates to the State Convention in Austin based on the number of people who sign in for each candidate.  Delegates to the State Convention will then elect a total of 67 delegates to the National Convention in Denver based on the presidential preferences of delegates selected at the senatorial district conventions. 

All of the above figures are unofficial and preliminary. Credentials committees from the seven senatorial districts which are wholly or partially located within Harris County will determine the eligibility of precinct conventions attendees, which could slightly alter the allocation of delegates between presidential contenders.  It is also possible that some precinct conventions may not have elected the full complement of delegates authorized for that precinct.

In addition to the caucus process, Texas Democrats elect some national convention delegates based on the results of the primary election.   A record 410,908 people voted in the March 4th Democratic primary election in Harris County. Senator Obama received 55.7% (226,610 votes) in Harris County, entitling him to 17 national convention delegates (56.7% of the total).  Senator Clinton received 43.3% (176,268 votes) in this county, entitling her to 13 national convention delegates (43.3% of the total) from Harris County.

Harris Co. Dems release caucus numbers

See below for the release, I've highlighted the numbers portion.  Bottom line:  Obama wins caucuses in Harris County, not a big surprise, but here you go...

(Houston, TX) - A record number of Harris County voters -- nearly 120,000 -- attended their local March 4th Democratic precinct conventions according to tabulations released by the Harris County Democratic Party.  With 850 of the county's 874 precincts reporting, preliminary results show 114,648 people signed in to support their candidate and elect delegates to the upcoming Senate District Convention on March 29th. 

"The monumental turn out in both the primary election and precinct conventions are a testament to the energy and enthusiasm of Democrats in Harris County," said Harris County Democratic Party Chair Gerry Birnberg. 

At every precinct convention, delegates were elected based on the number of participants who signed in for each candidate.  Of the 114,648 caucus-goers in Harris County, 69% (79,113 people) indicated a preference for Senator Barack Obama for president, while 30.6% (35,123 people) signed in with a presidential preference for Senator Hillary Clinton. Another 412 attendees (0.4%) signed in as uncommitted or preferring some other presidential candidate. It is estimated that the 24 outstanding precincts account for approximately 5,000 more convention attendees.

Based on results from the 850 reporting precincts, Senator Obama would be entitled to 8,657 delegates (65.8%) to the Senate district conventions, Senator Clinton would be entitled to 4,469 delegates (34%) and 25 delegates (0.2% of the county total) would be uncommitted. There are approximately 385 delegate positions available in the 24 outstanding precincts.

Just like the precinct level, Senate district convention attendees will elect delegates to the State Convention in Austin based on the number of people who sign in for each candidate.  Delegates to the State Convention will then elect a total of 67 delegates to the National Convention in Denver based on the presidential preferences of delegates selected at the senatorial district conventions. 

All of the above figures are unofficial and preliminary. Credentials committees from the seven senatorial districts which are wholly or partially located within Harris County will determine the eligibility of precinct conventions attendees, which could slightly alter the allocation of delegates between presidential contenders.  It is also possible that some precinct conventions may not have elected the full complement of delegates authorized for that precinct.

In addition to the caucus process, Texas Democrats elect some national convention delegates based on the results of the primary election.   A record 410,908 people voted in the March 4th Democratic primary election in Harris County. Senator Obama received 55.7% (226,610 votes) in Harris County, entitling him to 17 national convention delegates (56.7% of the total).  Senator Clinton received 43.3% (176,268 votes) in this county, entitling her to 13 national convention delegates (43.3% of the total) from Harris County.

Harris Co. Dems release caucus numbers

See below for the release, I've highlighted the numbers portion.  Bottom line:  Obama wins caucuses in Harris County, not a big surprise, but here you go...

(Houston, TX) - A record number of Harris County voters -- nearly 120,000 -- attended their local March 4th Democratic precinct conventions according to tabulations released by the Harris County Democratic Party.  With 850 of the county's 874 precincts reporting, preliminary results show 114,648 people signed in to support their candidate and elect delegates to the upcoming Senate District Convention on March 29th. 

"The monumental turn out in both the primary election and precinct conventions are a testament to the energy and enthusiasm of Democrats in Harris County," said Harris County Democratic Party Chair Gerry Birnberg. 

At every precinct convention, delegates were elected based on the number of participants who signed in for each candidate.  Of the 114,648 caucus-goers in Harris County, 69% (79,113 people) indicated a preference for Senator Barack Obama for president, while 30.6% (35,123 people) signed in with a presidential preference for Senator Hillary Clinton. Another 412 attendees (0.4%) signed in as uncommitted or preferring some other presidential candidate. It is estimated that the 24 outstanding precincts account for approximately 5,000 more convention attendees.

Based on results from the 850 reporting precincts, Senator Obama would be entitled to 8,657 delegates (65.8%) to the Senate district conventions, Senator Clinton would be entitled to 4,469 delegates (34%) and 25 delegates (0.2% of the county total) would be uncommitted. There are approximately 385 delegate positions available in the 24 outstanding precincts.

Just like the precinct level, Senate district convention attendees will elect delegates to the State Convention in Austin based on the number of people who sign in for each candidate.  Delegates to the State Convention will then elect a total of 67 delegates to the National Convention in Denver based on the presidential preferences of delegates selected at the senatorial district conventions. 

All of the above figures are unofficial and preliminary. Credentials committees from the seven senatorial districts which are wholly or partially located within Harris County will determine the eligibility of precinct conventions attendees, which could slightly alter the allocation of delegates between presidential contenders.  It is also possible that some precinct conventions may not have elected the full complement of delegates authorized for that precinct.

In addition to the caucus process, Texas Democrats elect some national convention delegates based on the results of the primary election.   A record 410,908 people voted in the March 4th Democratic primary election in Harris County. Senator Obama received 55.7% (226,610 votes) in Harris County, entitling him to 17 national convention delegates (56.7% of the total).  Senator Clinton received 43.3% (176,268 votes) in this county, entitling her to 13 national convention delegates (43.3% of the total) from Harris County.

Harris Co. Dems release caucus numbers

See below for the release, I've highlighted the numbers portion.  Bottom line:  Obama wins caucuses in Harris County, not a big surprise, but here you go...

(Houston, TX) - A record number of Harris County voters -- nearly 120,000 -- attended their local March 4th Democratic precinct conventions according to tabulations released by the Harris County Democratic Party.  With 850 of the county's 874 precincts reporting, preliminary results show 114,648 people signed in to support their candidate and elect delegates to the upcoming Senate District Convention on March 29th. 

"The monumental turn out in both the primary election and precinct conventions are a testament to the energy and enthusiasm of Democrats in Harris County," said Harris County Democratic Party Chair Gerry Birnberg. 

At every precinct convention, delegates were elected based on the number of participants who signed in for each candidate.  Of the 114,648 caucus-goers in Harris County, 69% (79,113 people) indicated a preference for Senator Barack Obama for president, while 30.6% (35,123 people) signed in with a presidential preference for Senator Hillary Clinton. Another 412 attendees (0.4%) signed in as uncommitted or preferring some other presidential candidate. It is estimated that the 24 outstanding precincts account for approximately 5,000 more convention attendees.

Based on results from the 850 reporting precincts, Senator Obama would be entitled to 8,657 delegates (65.8%) to the Senate district conventions, Senator Clinton would be entitled to 4,469 delegates (34%) and 25 delegates (0.2% of the county total) would be uncommitted. There are approximately 385 delegate positions available in the 24 outstanding precincts.

Just like the precinct level, Senate district convention attendees will elect delegates to the State Convention in Austin based on the number of people who sign in for each candidate.  Delegates to the State Convention will then elect a total of 67 delegates to the National Convention in Denver based on the presidential preferences of delegates selected at the senatorial district conventions. 

All of the above figures are unofficial and preliminary. Credentials committees from the seven senatorial districts which are wholly or partially located within Harris County will determine the eligibility of precinct conventions attendees, which could slightly alter the allocation of delegates between presidential contenders.  It is also possible that some precinct conventions may not have elected the full complement of delegates authorized for that precinct.

In addition to the caucus process, Texas Democrats elect some national convention delegates based on the results of the primary election.   A record 410,908 people voted in the March 4th Democratic primary election in Harris County. Senator Obama received 55.7% (226,610 votes) in Harris County, entitling him to 17 national convention delegates (56.7% of the total).  Senator Clinton received 43.3% (176,268 votes) in this county, entitling her to 13 national convention delegates (43.3% of the total) from Harris County.

Texas Rep. Party attacks Houston Fashionista

Umm, I guess the Texas Republican Party is trying to be So Fierce ... or something!  Yesterday, the party sent out a press release accusing State Rep. Hubert Vo of accepting donations from Lot 8, the store run by the Chloe Dao, winner of Bravo's Project Runway.  But, it appears the Repub. Party forgot to use spell-check, among a few other things.  The email I got had this title:  " Vo Caught Excepting Corporate Contributions".  Excepting? you mean Accepting.. It goes on to complain about a fundraiser at the Dao sisters' boutique:

AUSTIN , TEXAS -  Today, the Republican Party of Texas called on both the Texas Ethics Commission and the Public Integrity Unit of the Harris County District Attorney's Office to investigate Democratic State Representative Hubert Vo of Houston for the illegal acceptance of corporate campaign contributions. 

Invitations and public documents obtained by the Republican Party of Texas show Rep. Vo accepted illegal in-kind corporate contributions from "LOT 8 SALON INC."  According to records provided by the Texas Secretary of State, "LOT 8 SALON INC." is a "For-Profit Texas Corporation".

Uh, right.. I'm sure the Harris Co. DA's office will get right on that.  Does giving fashion advice count as in-kind contributions?  For anyone who knows Chloe and Sydney Dao, they are not exactly political types... they'd rather show you how to Make It Work (as in your outfit.)  And in a town hungry for celebrities, Chloe is featured in the current My Houston campaign as a reason to visit Houston.  Watch the video produced by the Greater Houston CVB below and see if you think these ladies are worth attacking...

Texas Rep. Party attacks Houston Fashionista

Umm, I guess the Texas Republican Party is trying to be So Fierce ... or something!  Yesterday, the party sent out a press release accusing State Rep. Hubert Vo of accepting donations from Lot 8, the store run by the Chloe Dao, winner of Bravo's Project Runway.  But, it appears the Repub. Party forgot to use spell-check, among a few other things.  The email I got had this title:  " Vo Caught Excepting Corporate Contributions".  Excepting? you mean Accepting.. It goes on to complain about a fundraiser at the Dao sisters' boutique:

AUSTIN , TEXAS -  Today, the Republican Party of Texas called on both the Texas Ethics Commission and the Public Integrity Unit of the Harris County District Attorney's Office to investigate Democratic State Representative Hubert Vo of Houston for the illegal acceptance of corporate campaign contributions. 

Invitations and public documents obtained by the Republican Party of Texas show Rep. Vo accepted illegal in-kind corporate contributions from "LOT 8 SALON INC."  According to records provided by the Texas Secretary of State, "LOT 8 SALON INC." is a "For-Profit Texas Corporation".

Uh, right.. I'm sure the Harris Co. DA's office will get right on that.  Does giving fashion advice count as in-kind contributions?  For anyone who knows Chloe and Sydney Dao, they are not exactly political types... they'd rather show you how to Make It Work (as in your outfit.)  And in a town hungry for celebrities, Chloe is featured in the current My Houston campaign as a reason to visit Houston.  Watch the video produced by the Greater Houston CVB below and see if you think these ladies are worth attacking...

Texas Rep. Party attacks Houston Fashionista

Umm, I guess the Texas Republican Party is trying to be So Fierce ... or something!  Yesterday, the party sent out a press release accusing State Rep. Hubert Vo of accepting donations from Lot 8, the store run by the Chloe Dao, winner of Bravo's Project Runway.  But, it appears the Repub. Party forgot to use spell-check, among a few other things.  The email I got had this title:  " Vo Caught Excepting Corporate Contributions".  Excepting? you mean Accepting.. It goes on to complain about a fundraiser at the Dao sisters' boutique:

AUSTIN , TEXAS -  Today, the Republican Party of Texas called on both the Texas Ethics Commission and the Public Integrity Unit of the Harris County District Attorney's Office to investigate Democratic State Representative Hubert Vo of Houston for the illegal acceptance of corporate campaign contributions.