Watson Wire

Let’s Draw Some Maps

July 2, 2019

In the past few days, I’ve read more than a few lines on a map as I rode my motorcycle to the edge of what was once the Republic of Texas— to Taos, the Enchanted Circle and other beautiful spots in Ne...

Good, good, good. And really good.

June 25, 2019

Yep, the legislative session is over. That’s a good thing. And now the period in which the Governor can veto bills is over, too. That’s another good thing. I got out of there with only two bills...

Sine Dead

May 28, 2019

My reign as President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate for the 86th Legislative Session has come to an end with the Senate adjourning "sine die" (that's fancy talk for "adjourned with no set date to co...

A Big Step in the Right Direction

May 7, 2019

With less than three weeks left in the 86th Legislature, the clock is ticking on an incredibly important school finance bill. After a slow start, the Senate finally approved its version of House Bi...

The “Victim” is the Perpetrator

April 16, 2019

Yesterday, the Texas Senate passed property tax legislation under duress and over objections. The Legislature must take action to address rapidly rising property taxes. No question. But Senate Bill 2...

Please Join Me in a Day of Service

March 18, 2019

April 6, 2019. Mark your calendar and plan to be part of a special day. During the 86th Legislature, I’m honored by my colleagues to serve as the President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate, which pu...