Monthly Archives: July 2022

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers speaks at a campaign event outside the state Capitol Friday, May 27, 2022, in Madison, Wis. Scott Bauer/AP hide caption

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers speaks at a campaign event outside the state Capitol Friday, May 27, 2022, in Madison, Wis.

Rallies for abortion rights often are packed with young activists. At a recent rally in Kenosha, Wisc., Lorraine Terry was an exception.

"I'm Lorraine Terry, and I'm way too old for reproduction," is how she introduced herself. "But I've got children and granddaughters, and I cannot believe they are taking away a benefit we've had for 50 years."

Terry is 86 and remembers well what life was like before Roe v. Wade.

"I lived on the first floor where a woman in my apartment building couldn't carry a baby tried to abort her own baby with knitting needles and died," Terry said. "She had two young children. So, I saw that. I saw the pain that happens when you can't get an abortion when you need one."

All of which makes reelecting Democratic Gov. Tony Evers really important to her.

"We have to get Evers in in the state of Wisconsin. I mean, that's our saving grace: That if we have Republican legislators, that he has the veto power," Terry said.

Wisconsin's state legislative map is considered heavily gerrymandered in favor of Republicans. So, many Democrats see Evers as their one chance to stop whatever laws the legislature might pass.

That makes the governor's race one example of a truth some Democrats are confronting in this year's midterms: that if they score some hard-fought wins, the policy gains are uncertain and may simply amount to holding the line against further abortion restrictions after the Supreme Court overturned Roe.

That could make convincing outraged voters that it's worth it to vote for Democrats this fall a challenge. And the governor's race in Wisconsin could be a close one; it's currently rated a toss-up by the Cook Political Report.

Evers has been able to take some action already for example, he announced he would give clemency to abortion providers punished under the state's pre-Roe ban, enacted in 1849.

That matters to Hiroshi Kanno, who came out to see Evers speak in Portage.

"If he doesn't get reelected, the clemency is meaningless for health providers. And that's why I'm going to work extra hard for him," Kanno said. "I have six daughters, and one of them has had problems. And if you don't have that access, who knows what'll happen, you know?"

Evers continues to be emphatic about the importance of abortion rights, even though a lot of voters are focused on the economy.

"We can walk and chew gum at the same time, but I can tell you that when we start taking away rights from people, that does transcend inflation. You know, inflation is important. We got to take care of it. But when you're dealing with people's lives, that's really important," he said.

In Wisconsin's Senate race, the vibe is different, but similar different, because one senator doesn't have the policy influence a governor does. Similar, because in both cases, an electoral win means at best only modest, or potential, wins for abortion rights. A Senate win in Wisconsin wouldn't mean codifying Roe unless Democrats not only controlled the Senate, but had 51 Democratic votes to overturn the filibuster.

Lieutenant Gov. Mandela Barnes is a leading Democratic candidate for Senate, and spoke to NPR during a kickoff for campaign door-knockers earlier this month.

"I always tell people, yeah, of course I'll be one vote. And that's why we need 51 votes and we don't get to 51 if we don't start somewhere," he said. "And getting [Republican Senator] Ron Johnson out of the way is the key to getting us closer to 51 votes to codify the right to choose into law by getting rid of the filibuster."

Overturning the filibuster to protect abortion rights was a key part of the pitch that a Barnes doorknocker made that day. Voter Joelle Beth Timm, who answered her door, said the Dobbs decision would weigh heavily on her vote.

"I'm pretty angry, and I have some t-shirts that say 'Mind your own uterus,' so they're getting a lot of wear recently," she said. "So, yeah, it's absolutely an issue. Quite frankly, it's probably the number one issue that I've voted on in my life."

Many Democrats, like Timm, are furious at the Supreme Court. And many also are angry at party leaders like Joe Biden, believing that they haven't fought hard enough for abortion rights over the years.

Back at the Evers event, Dick Baker, chair of the Columbia County Democrats, pushed back against that frustration.

"We're working behind the scenes with our candidates and trying to turn the tide in our favor," he said. "And maybe we're often accused of being too nice, but I'd rather be too nice than the alternative."

Mayor Ann Groves Lloyd of Lodi, a town of 3,000, is much more upset with the party.

"I want the filibuster gone. You know damn well if the midterms swing the other way [to the Republicans], the filibuster will be gone in a heartbeat, and they're going to shove through a ton of conservative policies," she said. "I guess part of me just doesn't want us to be so nice anymore about what we're doing."

View original post here:

Democrats face hard truths on abortion rights in Wisconsin midterm races - NPR

The New York Times recently published a poll that marks an exclamation point on months of bad news for the rapidly faltering Biden presidency. Bidens meager 33% approval rating is in line with other polls, but the shocking and worrying number for the White House is that fully 64% of Democrats believe he should not run for another term in 2024. That number rises to an absurd 94% among Democrats under 30.

While younger voters have consistently given Biden lower marks than other cohorts this year, that number now stands at a miserable 19%. Young voters are not a group that can be ignored as flighty non-voters: they are the backbone of the Democratic partys recent wins. In 2020, the youth vote surged to record numbers, and young voters gave Biden a 24-point margin. Without both high turnout and high margins from young voters, Biden would have easily lost every swing state. Increased turnout among the young also provided much of the margin for Democrats in the 2018 midterms.

Bidens low approvals, especially among the young, have caused a crisis in confidence not seen in a sitting presidents party since at least Jimmy Carter. Should Biden step down in 2024? Unless the administration and the Democratic party radically change posture, he may need to retire to prevent the election of a man who only last year attempted a coup. Most importantly, though, he has within his power the chance to turn his presidency around.

Its clear to Americans of all political stripes that we are in a crisis. Many of the basic rights and principles of our democracy have been completely overruled by a party that hasnt won the popular vote in a presidential election in 18 years. There is a massive disconnect between the will of the people and the actions of the state. This is a situation unprecedented since the Civil Rights Era or potentially even Reconstruction, but the president has not treated it as such. Fundamentally, people, especially young people, want to feel like the president is fighting for them.

The Biden administration and the leadership of the federal Democratic party seem dedicated to broken and undemocratic institutions. Given the power these institutions are wielding, this feels hopelessly out of touch. The primary solution offered by the Administration has been to show up to vote in the midterms to potentially codify Roe, or more likely, stave off a federal abortion ban by the Republican party. None of the solutions proposed even come close to addressing the situation.

This is asymmetrical warfare, with the Democrats playing by an entirely different set of rules. While the Democrats remain dedicated to antiquated institutions and procedures, the Republican party has remade the state in its image without even commanding a majority of voters. The Republican party has long wanted to undermine many of Americas institutions: numerous serious presidential candidates, sitting senators, and sitting judges have proposed repealing the 14th amendment (the foundation of modern American law), the 16th amendment creating the income tax, the 17th amendment directly electing Senators, and more. Democrats have not seriously countered at all. They are dedicated to playing by the rules of a game everyone has long since stopped playing.

The primary response to the rollback of several fundamental rights has been vote and donate. Voting is of course necessary, and so are donations and all sorts of political activism. That doesnt make it less insulting. People have voted. The last two elections have seen record turnout for Democrats. The party has unified control of government, despite all the caveats. The problem is, in the current system, voting will not work, and people know that.

It would take decades of uninterrupted Democratic control of the presidency to flip the US supreme court. With the current coalitions and political structure, its effectively impossible for Democrats to ever win a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate. Even a simple governing majority requires a clear Democratic wave in the popular vote, and that majority would almost certainly require more red-state Democrats like Sinema and Manchin who would block legislation.

In short, just vote and using the current institutions is impossible, and voters recognize that. It is not possible to win back the right to abortion, basic environmental protection, schools free of religious indoctrination, basic regulation on guns, protect rights to contraception, marriage equality, and personal sexual activity without radical changes to the basic structure of American governance.

Winning elections doesnt hurt anything, but it is not enough in an anti-democratic system that has been gamed to truly absurd extents. Theres no winning in this system, and that is apparent to most Americans, and to the vast majority of young Americans who disapprove of Biden. To rescue his presidency, and mobilize a real force at the midterms and in the future, Biden needs to boldly champion radical democratic reforms, use his power and dare the supreme court and the Senate to stop him.

While in other times, disempowering institutions and taking unilateral action as a president may be unpopular, Americans recognize that our system is utterly broken. The supreme court has approval of only 25% of the populace, by far the lowest measured. This is an institution that can exercise power only so long as it has buy-in from the people. Supermajorities support serious reforms to the supreme court.

Young Americans in particular see their future collapsing before their eyes and understand the stakes. They know Biden cant unilaterally pack the court, or make any significant reforms to the legislative or judiciary. Thats beside the point, however; he needs to put this on the agenda. He has been faced with a crisis of legitimacy, where the vast majority of the people vocally oppose the order being imposed on them. He has to stand with the people and lead the charge for their rights. Theres no way through these rigged institutions. Only around. To save his presidency, this needs to be at the very forefront of his agenda.

Biden needs to reverse course and show aggression as soon as possible to counter the lackluster response to Dobbs that has damaged his standing among Democrats and the young. Americans know the president doesnt have this unilateral power, though they know he can do more. Most of all they want a fight. They want to know that the president recognizes the gravity of the crisis . Weve seen the most serious rollback in rights for American citizens since Plessy v Ferguson in 1896. The majority of Americans are under attack by a minority, and they need a president who recognizes this and will respond in kind.

Biden has the opportunity to change course and be a two-term president who righted the country in a crisis of democracy. If Biden cant do this, he will need to be replaced. Not only because its necessary, but because its the only way to recover his popularity and win reelection.

The Democratic party must reorient itself around radical democratic reforms and disempowering the supreme court, the Senate, and state governments. This is both necessary and inevitable. If Biden doesnt do it, the next Democrat will need to. If they dont, it will be impossible to exercise power of any sort, no matter the opinions of citizens.

Anti-democratic government institutions are fundamentally reshaping society and people have no recourse without a radical change. As a smaller and smaller minority exert more and more power, something has to come to a head. A state cannot operate so unmoored from popular sovereignty without a real rupture. Modern governments rely on at least some degree of consent of the governed.

There is no future where the Democratic party doesnt embrace serious reforms to the current constitutional order, because radical resistance to the anti-democratic onslaught is required for their continued existence as a party. If Biden wants to lead the country, he must take the lead. Without an aggressive and radical reposturing, he will be unable to recover his standing. Nearly all Americans understand the country is in a crisis that requires a radical reshaping of our institutions. The Republicans are leading it. Biden is a man out of step with the world around him unless he recognizes this and acts decisively.

See the original post here:

Democrats are facing asymmetrical warfare. Its time to wake up and fight back - The Guardian

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

The demographics of voters in both the Republican and Democratic parties are changing as the November midterm elections approach, according to recent polls.

Republicans are starting to attract more voters in the working class, while Democrats are gaining more votes from wealthier Americans as midterm candidates make their priorities clear in the last four months before the election.

The majority of voters consist of working-class citizens, a group that has historically leaned Democrat. Minority voters are likely to see inflation as the country's greatest concern, but the Democratic Party has made clear its main priorities approaching the midterms are abortion, gun laws and climate.

This type of agenda is likely to appeal more to wealthier, suburban voters.

ECONOMIST LAFFER SAYS RECESSION IMMINENT AS INFLATION HITS 40-YEAR-HIGH: WORST OF ALL POSSIBLE WORLDS

People shop in a supermarket as rising inflation affects prices in Los Angeles June 13, 2022. (REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson)

The two parties are neck and neck with Hispanic voters on the generic congressional ballot after a New York Times-Siena College poll discovered 41% said they would vote Democrat and 38% Republican.

During the 2018 midterm election cycle, Democrats had a 47-point advantage among Hispanic voters, a number that has significantly dropped since the election.

NBC News conducted a poll this spring that found Democratic support among women with college degrees is up 28 points since 2010, rising from 10 points to 38 over the past decade. The party did not see a rise in any other demographic.

With inflation on the rise and hitting a 40-year high of 9.1% in June, these middle-class voters are taking the hit and will be more likely to vote for a candidate this November who plans on making it a priority to tackle the issue.

An Associated Press-NORC poll released in early July affirmed that most Americans' biggest concern is inflation, despite Democratic candidates centering campaigns around abortion and gun laws.

INFLATION RANKS AS BIGGEST CONCERN TO AMERICANS OVER ABORTION, GUNS: NEW POLL

The poll also revealed the main priorities of most voters from each party. Republicans point to the economy and the rising cost of gas, while Democratic voters are most worried about gun laws.

Protesters shout as they join thousands marching around the Arizona Capitol after the Supreme Court decision to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade abortion decision June 24, 2022, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Hispanic and Latino voters will play a major role in this year's midterms. A Gallup poll released in April found that President Biden's approval rating has significantly dropped among Hispanic voters, from 73% to 52%, since his first few months as president in 2021.

The Biden administration has been making recent efforts to attract more votes from the community, with first lady Jill Biden calling it as "unique" as "breakfast tacos" Monday, a comment that received a lot of media attention and backlash from the Hispanic community.

REPUBLICANS EXPECTED TO CONTROL HOUSE AFTER 2022 MIDTERMS

According to the National Republican Congressional Committee, a record number of 81 African Americans are running for GOP seats in 72 congressional districts this midterm. This could potentially lead to more African Americans voting Republican at the polls this November.

A recent NYT-Siena College poll showed that African Americans believe crime and gun policies are the country's top issues, while White Americans believe abortion takes precedence.

The poll said Democrats are ahead of Republicans in attracting White, college-educated voters. Two-thirds of Democrats also say they do not want President Joe Biden to run for re-election in 2024.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

November 8 is approaching fast, leaving the candidates with only a few more months to push their campaigns, attract more votes and hope for a win this fall.

Aubrie Spady is a college associate for Fox News Digital.

View original post here:

Polls show Democrats becoming party of elites as working class and minorities shift toward Republicans - Fox News

Sign up for The Brief, our daily newsletter that keeps readers up to speed on the most essential Texas news.

As the nation continues to navigate the impact of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, several Texas Democrats and abortion advocates called on the Biden administration to take immediate and direct action to protect Texans access to abortion.

First on their list of requests in a letter to the White House was for President Joe Biden to declare a public health emergency to ensure telehealth providers can dispense abortion-inducing medication without interruption.

President Biden can provide a huge amount of support by making sure that you can see a health care provider, call them by phone, talk to them by telehealth, and then have medication abortion sent by mail into the state from a state where abortion is currently not banned, said Greg Casar, a Democratic candidate for Congress. He was part of a group that introduced the strategy in Dallas, where state Democrats were holding their convention. More than 50 state and federal lawmakers, candidates and abortion advocacy groups signed the letter to the White House.

Also included in that letter were requests to support abortion funds across the country, increase legal protections for reproductive health care providers, establish a program to increase distribution of abortion medication, and invoke the federal governments supremacy over state laws that conflict with the Food and Drug Administration-approved regimen for medically induced abortions.

Since the Supreme Courts ruling, Biden has talked about changes on the federal level to address abortion access. He has said he supports a change in the U.S. Senates rules on filibusters to help move legislation legalizing abortion rights. His administration has also provided guidance saying that doctors can perform abortions in emergencies that guidance is now the subject of a lawsuit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons office. On Friday, the U.S. House passed a bill that protected a persons right to interstate travel to seek an abortion.

Texas Republican lawmakers have said that even with Roe v. Wade overturned, they still have work to do. They have cited a stronger focus on improving the states adoption programs and preventing pregnant Texans from leaving the state for abortions.

In asking Biden to declare a public health emergency to protect providers who distribute abortion medication via telehealth, Texas Democrats and abortion rights advocates said that Biden could override the states ban of these treatments after 7 weeks of pregnancy by invoking the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act.

The letter also called for support of out-of-state abortion funds and telehealth organizations that can provide abortion medication to Texas residents. Democratic leaders pitched a program in which federal government employees could volunteer to dispense medication for abortions. Because they are federal employees or federal contractors, choosing to do this work, they would actually be immune from state lawsuits, Casar said Saturday.

The end of Roe v. Wade has left Texans in a state of uncertainty given the states tangled laws surrounding reproductive health care. The work of abortion funds, which help individuals pay for an abortion, has halted in and out of the state. Medical professionals have similarly expressed confusion over what care they can provide, which experts say could lead to patients being turned away or receiving delayed treatments.

Caroline Duble, the political director of Avow Texas, an abortion rights advocacy group, called on Bidens support for medication abortion as one of the last feasible tools for those who cant travel out of state. The people in Texas and across this country will continue to need and seek abortions, which under this political landscape will result in the criminalization and surveillance of pregnant people," she said. "Like all increased surveillance, this will fall hardest on Black and Indigenous people, undocumented folks, low-income families, young Texans and queer and trans people.

Join us at The Texas Tribune Festival, happening Sept. 22-24 in downtown Austin, and hear from 300+ speakers shaping the future of Texas including Joe Straus, Jen Psaki, Joaquin Castro, Mayra Flores and many others. See all speakers announced to date and buy tickets.

The rest is here:

Texas Democrats to Biden: Declare health emergency related to abortion access - The Texas Tribune

In the past couple of weeks, Congress Select Committee has presented persuasive, unrebutted evidence that Donald J. Trump, the duly-elected 45th President, refused to abide by the will of the People. He knew, full well, that he had lost both the popular vote and the determinative Electoral College vote, by a substantial margin, and that there was absolutely no evidence of even slight irregularities much less widespread fraud in the conduct of the election. His own Justice Department and faithful Attorney General told him so, in no uncertain terms.

And yet, Trump refused to do as every other unsuccessful presidential candidate had done since the founding of our nation he refused to peacefully transition power to the Peoples choice.

Buttressed by a relatively small group of loyal co-conspirators, Trump sought, quite literally, to overthrow the government of the United States and to install himself in office. Concerned that his scheme to install a set of fake electors from several swing states was not going to be carried out by Vice President Mike Pence, and informed that some of those marching to the U.S. Capitol on his orders were armed with military assault weapons, Trump told his minions that he wished the protest at the Capitol to proceed, and he urged removing the security scanners in place to detect firearms.Told that those whod overcome the Capitol Police by force were shouting Hang Mike Pence! as they ran through the corridors of the Capitol, Trump stated that perhaps Pence deserved that fate.

READ:Colorado Sun opinion columnists.

So committed was Trump to cling to power that he was willing to watch dozens, perhaps hundreds, of our fellow citizens, including members of Congress and the Vice President, die in the violent assault on the Capitol.

As an attorney, I know and believe that Trump and his co-conspirators are entitled to the presumption of innocence in courts of law, and can be found guilty of crimes only by a jury of ordinary U.S. citizens. Until a jury returns a verdict, likely years down the road (if he lives long enough to face trial), he cannot be imprisoned or otherwise punished by our government. In this great land, we dont allow the victors in political skirmishes to lock her up simply because she lost the election.

But what do we, American citizens, do now?

Look: Im a registered Democrat. I voted for Hillary, Gore, Dukakis, Mondale and Carter. If any of those losing candidates had sought, as Trump did, to overthrow our system of government, I would not support them. Indeed, I would actively denounce them and call for their prosecution. Its not about party affiliation, its about standing up for the rule of law, and the peaceful transition of power that is the hallmark of our democracy.

To my fellow U.S. citizens Republicans I respect you, I believe you have equal rights to vote, to protest, to advocate for your views and to support candidates who pledge to implement the public policies you prefer, whatever they may be. Please continue doing so, forcefully but peacefully, because a functioning democracy cannot survive without competing viewpoints on all matters of the day.

What I am urging my Republican friends and colleagues to do, now, immediately, is to publicly denounce Donald J. Trump and his co-conspirators. Only your voice will be heard by the Republican National Committee, which has officially described the deadly assault on the Capitol as legitimate political discourse. No matter how much you may share and support the espoused policies of Trump and his co-conspirators, you must stand and defend the very principles upon which this great nation was founded: We The People are the governors; those we elect to hold public office are our servants, responsible to us. No man is above the law. No person may defy the will of the people, support a violent overthrow of our democracy, and be allowed to hold public office ever again.

I urge you, please: Let your voice be heard. Standing idly by, in silence, in the hopes that the system will miraculously correct itself only perpetuates the status quo, where those who knowingly lied about the election and embraced violence as the means to retain power are permitted to continue participating in the political process.

Please, do the right thing, the patriotic thing speak out. Loudly. Repeatedly. Tell the leaders of the Republican Party that you will not support any candidate who has sought to overthrow our government. No political party should tolerate in its ranks anyone who commits such fundamentally anti-American acts.

Steven D. Zansberg is an attorney in private practice in Denver.

The Colorado Sun is a nonpartisan news organization, and the opinions of columnists and editorial writers do not reflect the opinions of the newsroom. Read our ethics policy for more on The Suns opinion policy and submit columns, suggested writers and more to opinion@coloradosun.com.

Follow Colorado Sun Opinion on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

We believe vital information needs to be seen by the people impacted, whether its a public health crisis, investigative reporting or keeping lawmakers accountable. This reporting depends on support from readers like you.

Continue reading here:

Opinion: This Democrat hopes for the restoration of a healthy Republican Party. - The Colorado Sun

CNN host John King claimed that critics need to go easier on Democrats over inflation.

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

On Friday, CNN Inside Politics host John King urged critics to give Democrats "some grace" because their jobs are "hard."

Kings urging for easier treatment of Democratic lawmakers came specifically in response to a Republican attack ad criticizing Senator Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., for his reckless spending and accusing him of contributing to the current inflation woes impacting the U.S.

The anchor stated, "It is much easier to be the opposition party give the Democrats some grace. Governing is hard, especially when you have tiny margins."

He added, "Butbut thats the challenge for Democrats, they need to get on the same page because the Republicans are just going to hammer with that."

TUCKER CARLSON: BIDEN IS COGNITIVELY UNABLE TO SERVE AND DEMOCRATS HAVE KNOWN THIS FOR YEARS

Inflation is currently at a 40-year high. (istock)

CNN Capitol Hill reporter Melanie Zanona agreed with King, warning that Republicans are "seizing" on high inflation and see political victory using the issue. "Republicans are really seizing on this. They have spent twice as much on campaign ads as Democrats have, really hammering Democrats over this issue."

Though Zanona claimed that the GOP "dont really have a specific answer" on inflation themselves, "privately they say we don't need to, we can just continuously beat Democrats over the head with this.'"

Kings comments appeared to be an attempt to stave off a wellspring of criticism thats been aimed at Democrats, particularly at President Joe Biden. Notably much of this criticism has come from Bidens own party.

Recently former Obama economic adviser Jason Furman stated, "My guess is that the negative views about inflation are so deeply baked in that nothing can change in the next few months to change them."

In addition, the general outlook for Democrats is bleak, and not just in Republican circles.

According to a recent New York Times-Siena College poll, 64% of Democrats would prefer a different presidential candidate for their party in 2024. In addition, it indicated that only 13% of Americans think the country is on the right track.

President Joe Biden has low approval even among members of his own political party. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The poll also revealed that only 1% of young voters "strongly approve" of Bidens leadership.

MEDIA SLAMS LATINA POLITICIANS AS HISPANICS FLEE DEMOCRATIC PARTY: CONCHA

Conservatives on Twitter remarked on Kings urging for soft treatment of Democrats. Chad Gilmartin, a communications staffer for House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., tweeted, "I look forward to the day CNN gives the Republican Majority some grace," reminding viewers that CNN would have never gone easy on the Trump administration.

Fellow McCarthy communications aide Michele Perez Exner agreed: "Yes, because CNN is known for giving Republicans the same grace they are quick to provide their Democrat allies..."

Republican pollster Logan Dobson observed: "I do not remember cable news being so full of grace in 2017-2018! What a nice development!"

Townhall.com columnist Mike LaChance tweeted the same point, asking, "Remember when CNN said to give Trump and Republicans a break? Neither does anyone else."

CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP

The Spectator contributing editor Stephen L. Miller shared the video to his account and commented a seemingly sarcastic "Ah," as though King was making a reasonable request even though inflation is at a 40-year-high.

The NewsBusters Twitter account wrote, "Now that Democrats are in power, CNN's John King suddenly believes in giving them a break because governing is hard. He had a very different opinion during the Trump era."

And NewsBusters executive editor Tim Graham replied to Kings statement with a GIF of SpongeBob SquarePants character Mr. Krabs playing the "worlds smallest violin," mocking King's appeal for sympathy for Democrats.

On Friday, even Congresswomen Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., slammed Democratic Party leaderships messaging on inflation, saying the party is putting a "spin" on things and that voters dont "like it."

U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., is one of several Democratic Party leaders who have criticized the White House's inflation narrative. (Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images)

Gabriel Hays is an associate editor at Fox News. Follow him on Twitter at @gabrieljhays.

Read the original post:

Amid soaring inflation, CNN's John King tells critics to give Democrats 'some grace': 'Governing is hard' - Fox News

U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson received a fond farewell at her final Texas Democratic Convention representing Dallas 30th Congressional District.

Johnson, who is retiring from the House at the end of her term, received a standing ovation as she took the stage.

Im retiring from Congress in January, but if the Lord lets me live, Im not retiring from the Democratic Party, she said.

Fellow Democrats presented the longtime Dallas leader with the Eddie Bernice Johnson Trailblazer Award.

Johnson, who has represented Dallas in Congress since 1993 and as a state representative before that, spoke about the legacy of former President Lyndon Baines Johnson. The late presidents daughter, Luci Baines Johnson, spoke earlier in the night.

That Democratic president was responsible for equal education, open housing, Medicare and Medicaid, voting rights, civil rights, Johnson said. There has been no greater president.

Its an insult to have anybody but a Democrat in charge of this state.

State Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Dallas won the Democratic runoff to replace Johnson and is heavily favored to win the district in November.

1/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke (right) listens to the Grandmother of Juneteenth, Opal Lee, at Jaxon Beer Garden in Downtown Dallas. Beto was taking photos with supporters following his speech at the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

2/99Grandmother of Juneteenth, Opal Lee (right) looks at Steve Foxs photos of his son at the Juneteenth memorial in Galveston during a convention after-party at Jaxon Beer Garden in Downtown Dallas. Lee was there with Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke who was taking photos with supporters following his speech at the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

3/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke delivers his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

4/99Luci Baines Johnson, daughter of President Lyndon Baines Johnson, cheers on Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke as he delivers his speech to delegates and guests at 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

5/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke walks on-stage to deliver his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

6/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke delivers his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

7/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke delivers his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

8/99Delegates and guests cheers on Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke as he delivers his speech during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

9/99Delegates and guests cheers on Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke as he delivers his speech during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

10/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke delivers his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

11/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke delivers his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

12/99A delegate throws up a sign to Fix the Damn Grid as Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke delivers his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

13/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke walks on-stage to deliver his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

14/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke delivers his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

15/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke gives his wife Amy a kiss after delivering his speech to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

16/99Outgoing U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson of Dallas (center) is recognized with the Texas Democrats Trailblazer Award by Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa before she spoke during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett (left) as U.S. Representative Al Green of Houston appeared on stage with them.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

17/99Outgoing U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson of Dallas (second from right) delivers her speech during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Joining her onstage is Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa (left) Democratic U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett, U.S. Representative Al Green of Houston and U.S. Representative Marc Veasey.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

18/99Outgoing U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson of Dallas (second from right) recognizes Democratic U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett (second from left) as she speaks during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa (left) and U.S. Representative Al Green of Houston appeared on stage with them.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

19/99U.S. House Texas District 32 Representative Colin Allred speaks to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

20/99U.S. House Texas District 32 Representative Colin Allred speaks to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

21/99U.S. House Texas District 32 Representative Colin Allred speaks to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

22/99Delegate Hazel Weathers and others cheer U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of Houston who recognized WNBA basketball player Brittney Griner during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Griner is jailed in Russia.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

23/99Delegates Hazel Weathers (center) and Sheena King (left) and others cheer U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of Houston who recognized WNBA basketball player Brittney Griner during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Griner is jailed in Russia.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

24/99Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner spoke after being recognized by Luci Baines Johnson (right) for leading Democrats out of Texas when voting rights were under attack in Austin. He spoke to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

25/99Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner speaks after being recognized for leading Democrats out of Texas when voting rights were under attack in Austin. He spoke to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

26/99Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner speaks after being recognized by Luci Baines Johnson for leading Democrats out of Texas when voting rights were under attack in Austin. He spoke to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

27/99Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner spoke after being recognized by Luci Baines Johnson (right) for leading Democrats out of Texas when voting rights were under attack in Austin. He spoke to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

28/99Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner (left) receives a hug from Luci Baines Johnson after being recognized for leading Democrats out of Texas when voting rights were under attack in Austin. He spoke to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

29/99Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner was recognized with the Texas Democrats President Lyndon B. Johnson Lifetime Service Award by Luci Baines Johnson. Turner led Democrats out of Texas when voting rights were under attack in Austin. He spoke to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

30/99Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner was recognized with the Texas Democrats President Lyndon B. Johnson Lifetime Service Award by Luci Baines Johnson. Turner led Democrats out of Texas when voting rights were under attack in Austin. He spoke to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

31/99Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins speaks to delegates and guests gathered for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

32/99Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins speaks to delegates and guests gathered for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

33/99(From lelt) Texas Young Democrats President & ECtor Co Chair Hannah Horick leads a panel discussion with former DNC Rural Council Chair Betty Richie, Midland Co Chair Cathy Broadrick and Bowie Co Chair Zebrina Robertson during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

34/99During a Q&A game, Democratic U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett (center) reacts with her answer after being asked if theyd ever cussed out a Republican during a panel discussion at the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention in the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. U.S. House Texas District 35 candidate Greg Casar (left) and U.S. House Texas District 15 candidate Michelle Vallejo (right) show their answers as well. Former presidential candidate Julin Castro moderated the kickoff-off reception event.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

35/99U.S. House Texas District 32 representative Colin Allred spoke to delegates and guests during the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

36/99Democratic U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett reacts during a panel discussion at the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention in the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

37/99Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa speaks to delegates and guests during the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

38/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke meets Ramona Torres of El Paso as he arrives to the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

39/99Wearing Ranchers for Beto cowboy hats, Sandy Emmons of Waxahachie, Texas and her husband Andy Don Emmons wait in line to meet Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke at his 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

40/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke listens to Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins (right) during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

41/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke and his wife Amy (second from right) cheers supporters they took photos with at their 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

42/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke said he needs more cowbell as he poses for photos with his staff at his 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

43/99Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins (left) gives Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa a hug as they visited with Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke (right) during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

44/99A cutout of Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke rises above the crowd gathered to see the candidate (right) during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

45/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke (right) is greeted by his supporters as he arrives to a rally at his booth during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

46/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke (right) visits with former presidential candidate Julin Castro during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

47/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke applauds his supporters as he took photos with them at the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

48/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke greets Monica Florence of Frost, Texas as he met with supporters at his 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

49/99A cutout of Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke rises above the crowd gathered to see the candidate (right) during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

50/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke (right) visits with former presidential candidate Julin Castro during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

51/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke listens to Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins (not pictured) during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

52/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke (left) and his wife Amy (second from right) posed for photos with Pro Abortion supporters at their 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

53/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke greets Vietnam War Army veteran Frank Gilmore of Copperas Cove, Texas as he met with supporters during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

54/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke huddles up his staff and cheers at his 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

55/99Wearing a Ranchers for Beto cowboy hat, Andy Don Emmons of Waxahachie, Texas waits in line to meet Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke at his 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

56/99Democratic gubernatorial challenger Beto O'Rourke cheers supporters as they took photos with them at their 2022 Texas Democratic Convention booth at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022. Beto is expected to be the main speaker during the general session later in the night.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

57/99Delegate Vickie Willoughby of San Antonio cheers alongside her husband David Willoughby and others during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

58/99State Senator Royce West speaks to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

59/99Delegate Frances Rizo of Duncanville bows her head in prayer as the invocation is delivered during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.S he is part of the Tejano Democrats.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

60/99State Senator Royce West speaks to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

61/99(From lelt) Texas Young Democrats President & ECtor Co Chair Hannah Horick leads a panel discussion with former DNC Rural Council Chair Betty Richie, Midland Co Chair Cathy Broadrick and Bowie Co Chair Zebrina Robertson during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

62/99Delegates and guests stand for the national anthem as the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention general session kicks off at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

63/99State Senator Royce West speaks to delegates and guests during the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 15, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

64/99During a Q&A game, Democratic U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett (center) reacts with her answer after being asked if theyd ever cussed out a Republican during a panel discussion at the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention in the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. U.S. House Texas District 35 candidate Greg Casar (left) and U.S. House Texas District 15 candidate Michelle Vallejo (right) show their answers as well. Former presidential candidate Julin Castro moderated the kickoff-off reception event.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

65/99During a Q&A game, Democratic U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett (center) reacts with her answer after being asked if theyd ever cussed out a Republican during a panel discussion at the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention in the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. U.S. House Texas District 35 candidate Greg Casar (left) and U.S. House Texas District 15 candidate Michelle Vallejo (right) show their answers as well. Former presidential candidate Julin Castro moderated the kickoff-off reception event.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

66/99John Denson of Pflugerville, Texas wore a campaign hat in the style of Abe Lincoln to a kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. He said he couldnt find a brim to go along with it.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

67/99A woman supporting the LGBTQ community wore a flag in her hair during the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

68/99Delegates and guests applaud as the kick-off reception wraps up on Day 1of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. Former presidential candidate Julin Castro moderated the kickoff-off forum.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

69/99Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa speaks to delegates and guests during the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

70/99Kim Olson (center), who is competing for the Texas Democratic Party Chair, visits with delegates and guests attending the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

71/99Delegates and guests gather to listen to U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett following her panel discussion at the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

72/99U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett (center) visited with delegates and guests during the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

73/99Former presidential candidate Julin Castro spoke to delegates and guests before moderating a panel discussion during the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

74/99Democratic U.S. House Texas District 30 candidate Jasmine Crockett participated in a panel discussion at the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention in the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

75/99Delegates and guests listen to U.S. House Texas District candidates at a kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. Former presidential candidate Julin Castro moderated the kickoff-off forum.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

76/99U.S. House Texas District 15 candidate Michelle Vallejo visits with delegates following the the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

77/99A delegate records a video of U.S. House Texas District candidates on a panel discussion at a kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. Former presidential candidate Julin Castro moderated the kickoff-off forum.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

78/99U.S. House Texas District 32 representative Colin Allred spoke to delegates and guests during the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

79/99Former presidential candidate Julin Castro spoke to delegates and guests before moderating a panel discussion during the kick-off reception for the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

80/99Mike Nichols of Tyler, Texas sports a cap full of Beto ORourke buttons during the SDEC (State Democratic Executive Committee) meeting on opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

81/99Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa (third from right) visits with delegates following the SDEC (State Democratic Executive Committee) meeting on opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

82/99Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa (left) and Adoneca Fortier listen to concerns voiced by those attending the SDEC (State Democratic Executive Committee) meeting during opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

83/99Steven Spainhouer (left) of McKinney, Texas takes a photo of his big voting sign he brought to the SDEC meeting on opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

84/99Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa (center) leads the SDEC (State Democratic Executive Committee) meeting in the pledge of allegiance during opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

85/99Reyes Garcia of Edinburg, Texas waves a cutout of former Texas Governor Ann Richards as he greets delegates on opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

86/99Reyes Garcia of Edinburg, Texas waves a cutout of former Texas Governor Ann Richards as he greets delegates on opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

87/99Delegates pick up their credentials during the opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

88/99Delegates stand and applaud during the SDEC (State Democratic Executive Committee) meeting on opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

89/99Staffer Chrissy Kleberg hangs up Beto For Texas t-shirts at his booth as the team set up on opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

90/99Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa (center, at podium) leads the SDEC (State Democratic Executive Committee) meeting with the Texas pledge during opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

91/99Steven Spainhouer brought a big voting sign to the opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

92/99Volunteers sell convention lanyards to delegates after theyve picked up their credentials during the opening day of the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, July 14, 2022. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer )

Link:

Eddie Bernice Johnson: an insult to not have Democrat running Texas - The Dallas Morning News

O'Rouke blasts incumbent Gov. Greg Abbott on border policies, tightening election laws, and outlawing abortions

Texas Democratic gubernatorial candidate Beto ORouke told fellow party members on Friday that his coffers are full and his poll numbers are up, giving his campaign a much-needed boost against Republican Gov. Greg Abbott.

ORouke, the keynote speaker at the Texas Democratic Convention in Dallas, said he raised $27.6 million from late February to June 30 and is up 10 points in the polls against Abbott, much to the delight of delegates.

Greg Abbott is chaos; he is corruption; he is cruelty, and he is incompetence, ORouke said during the convention.

The convention, which began July 14 in Dallas, will allow delegates across Texas to vote on the partys platform and elect party leadership. Democratic leaders at the convention focused on their plans of winning more state and national seats by running on progressive ideas. Democrats are also working to keep Latinos in South Texas voting blue.

While ORoukes fund-raising efforts broke a record, Abbott has nearly matched him by hauling in $24.9 million over the same period, according to his campaign.

Abbot had $45.7 million cash on hand as of June 30, while the ORourke campaign did not disclose their figure. Most polls estimate ORouke gaining ground on Abbott, with several showing Abbott with a mere 5- or 6-point lead.

ORourke opposed what he called voter suppression legislation supported by his opponent. He endorsed a policy platform for open borders, pushed expansion of government health care, and championed gun control, abortion rights, and transgender rights for children.

His position on gun control made him the darling of liberals in 2019 during his presidential bid. At the time, ORourke said: Hell yes, were going to take your AR-15, your AK-47.

In his speech to delegates, he accused Abbott of turning his back on police officers by allowing Texans to carry guns in the open under Constitutional carry.

More cops have been gunned down in this state than in any other, he said.

ORouke has also made it clear in the past that he favored defunding police and once praised Black Lives Matter for their efforts to do so.

ORouke is now also making the Texas electricity grid a campaign issue. He wants green energy to replace oil and gas in Texas.

During his speech, he blasted Abbot for the Texas electrical grids failure during Winter Storm Uri last February. His solution is to connect Texas independent grid to the national grid. He wants to transition to high-paying union jobs in green energy and eliminate Texas oil and gas jobs.

However, during the storm, part of the problem was caused by frozen wind turbines, which stopped producing power. Texas gets more than 20 percent of its energy from wind power.

ORouke also attacked Abbott on border stunts, such as using the states national guard to help secure the Texas border. He added that Texas is a state of immigrants who make the state a better place.

Hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants have overrun Texas and other border states after Biden eliminated former president Trumps stay-in-Mexico policy.

Abbotts campaign literature says his opponent wants to all but eliminate the detention of illegal immigrants and grant citizenship to those illegal immigrants who are already in the country. Republicans speculate that Bidens open border policy is designed to capture for the Democratic party more immigrant votes, mainly from Hispanics, as the partys policies more easily award migrants, including those who enter illegally, citizenship.

ORourke will be heading out on the campaign trail ahead of the November election. Abbott plans on hounding his opponent with the Beto Truth Response Unit, which was in Dallas during the Democratic Convention.

Follow

Follow this link:

Democrat Beto O'Rourke Pushes Progressive Platform, Polls Show Gap Closing in Texas Governor's Race - The Epoch Times