Texas GOP Chair Accused of Ethical Violations

Texas Republican State Rep. Cody Harris has filed an ethics complaint against GOP Chairman Abraham George, accusing him of illegally threatening lawmakers who do not support George's preferred candidate for House speaker, David Cook. Harris alleges that George's threats to censure those backing Rep. Dustin Burrows and to send negative mailers amount to bribery under Texas law. Burrows claims to have bipartisan support, which has frustrated George and prompted a pressure campaign against him. George, in response, has dismissed the complaint as baseless and accused Harris of trying to imprison him, emphasizing his commitment to party rules. This internal strife reflects broader tensions within the Texas GOP as they rally around their chosen candidate. The situation has escalated with threats of censure against members who do not align with the party's stance, showcasing the ongoing divisiveness within the party ahead of the legislative session.