House Leadership Kills Rep. Gallego’s Open Government Amendment
April 15th, 2007
AUSTIN — State Representative Pete P. Gallego (D-Alpine) proposed an amendment that would require Texas Supreme Court justices to reveal campaign contributions in a timely fashion. The amendment would have required that justices list their contributions 15 days after the deadline for accepting such contributions.
The issue arose after Justice Nathan Hecht of the Texas Supreme Court raised $340,000 this past year from political donors to cover personal legal expenses incurred in helping the White House defend his friend, U.S. Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers. Justice Hecht has refused to identify his donors until his next campaign filing — which comes in July.
“It is always important to know who gives what to who - especially where judges are concerned. Transparency must be part of the process if people are to have faith in our system. Judges must avoid even the appearance of impropriety. It makes no sense to require the public to wait months to review public information that can be made available now.”
Many special interests have matters now pending before the Court, and it is important to know whether or not these interests have contributed. According to Texas Watch, a non-partisan group, major corporate interests like Perry Homes have landmark matters before the Court, as do telecommunications conglomerates, insurance companies and financial interests.
“Years ago, Texans were appalled at a TV investigative report that left everyone wondering whether justice was for sale in Texas. There is no need to return to those days. Texans must trust the integrity of the justice system. Openness builds that trust,” said Representative Gallego. Sunshine and transparency make for good public policy - that question was decided long ago when the “60 Minutes” episode featuring the Court was televised.”
Representative Gallego’s amendment was supported by a majority of the House. A motion by Representative Leo Berman (R-Tyler) to table the Gallego amendment failed by record vote of 83 Nays and 61 Yeas; more than enough support to pass the amendment. Despite the support of the House, Speaker Tom Craddick (R-Midland), did not support the amendment and chose to strike it down on a technicality.
