New Feature, Quick Roundup

Today we have a new feature from Hale County Democratic Party chairman James Belk, who examines how Joe Heflin managed to keep former Speaker Pete Laney's seat in the Democratic column in 2006.

In national news, usual NeoCon stomping ground Washington Times has an interesting article on a new conservative religious group which is getting in the middle of the immigration debate by being hawkish on border security and, believe it or not, offering amnesty to illegals already in the country. Families First On Immigration is all for incorporating "Christian teachings with the rule of law." At the very least, the development and their possible lobbying role should be of interest.

New Comptroller Susan Combs is set to release her first revenue forecast today, which will as usual shape a great deal of the policy discussion in the 80th session. The Chron also has a take on how the outcome of the Speaker race will affect lobby activities in Austin. The basic idea is that Craddick's stable of lobbyists stand to lose quite a bit, and the Leininger and Bob Perry would take significant hits if their man can't pull it together. I don't have to tell you that there are very real pocketbook implications for all Texans inherent in the race for Speaker, but it is worth remembering here on the eve of the new session.