Dan Patrick Launches Strategy Firm After 6-Point Defeat
The former Texas lieutenant governor says his new venture will focus on conservative legislation and legislative rules.
By John Ferrari ·
Dan Patrick announced the creation of Patrick Strategies on Monday, marking his first major political move since losing his reelection bid in Texas. The former lieutenant governor conceded defeat to Democrat Vikki Goodwin by approximately six percentage points in the midterm elections held on November 3.
The new firm is designed to advocate for conservative and pro-business legislation within the Texas statehouse. Patrick stated that the organization will utilize his experience in the Texas House and Senate to influence the legislative process. The group's online presence claims that Patrick possesses a detailed understanding of chamber rules and budgetary mechanisms.
"Dan Patrick is a visionary Texas leader whose legislative initiatives have transformed Texas," the Patrick Strategies website stated. It further claimed that he is a master of Senate and House rules and knows where the money is in the budget.
Patrick discussed the transition on The Mark Davis Show, where he outlined his plan to remain active in politics without holding an elected office. "I'm going to announce Patrick Strategies today," he said. "That's how I will fight. That's what we're going to do."
The former state officer addressed the election results by noting that Democrats gained ground in rural areas of Texas. He argued that economic factors, rather than cultural issues, drove voter behavior in the November 3 vote. "They wanted change because they didn't have enough change in their pockets," Patrick said. He acknowledged that Republicans entered the election with a perceived ten point lead but failed to convert that advantage into wins.
Patrick suggested that Senate Republicans should adjust chamber rules to limit the authority of the new lieutenant governor. He stated that the position derives its power from the Senate and is legislatively the most powerful in the country. "I think the Senate should do that," he said. "Had I won.. I was going to begin to change those rules."
Goodwin responded to the suggestion, saying she supported Republicans standing up for their voters. Patrick maintained that even with losses in statewide offices, the Republican majority in the Senate should remain intact. "You're still the majority," he said.
The launch of Patrick Strategies occurs as Texas enters a new legislative session with a divided government. The former lieutenant governor plans to operate from outside the elected body while pushing for specific policy outcomes.
