Democrats believe the GOP is now outside the mainstream of the Texas electorate. They will be tested to show that in November. Over time, they count on the state’s changing demographics either to bring them to power or to force the Republicans to shift back to the center.
Davis sought to make Abbott’s views an issue in their first debate Friday night. She went on offense, but Abbott parried effectively. Her hope now is to tap the energy around her candidacy to produce a bigger-than-expected turnout in November.
Meanwhile, the question is to what extent the Texas brand of conservatism is exportable in a national election. Perry and Cruz both are both considered possible 2016 candidates.
Perry’s platform would be built around the state’s economic gains and job growth during his tenure — a philosophy of low taxes, less regulation, fewer services and business incentives. Memories of his disastrous 2012 campaign stand as an obstacle in his path.
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