The Takeaway

Politics with Amy Walter: Texodus: Can Democrats Turn the Lone Star State Blue?

08.16.2019 - By WNYC and PRXPlay

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A number of Republicans in the House have announced their retirements... and turns out many are in suburban districts, where the GOP’s support has been dwindling. In June, we saw one of the more high-profile Republican retirements when Congresswoman Susan Brooks, who represents Indiana’s 5th congressional district, announced that she would not seek reelection.

In fact, 4 of the 11 retirements are Congressman in Texas. This on top of 5 Texas Republican retirements in 2018 and two districts where Democrats flipped the seat. Could this turn Texas -- a historically red state -- blue, or at least purple?

This week, we break down these Republican retirements.

Guests:

Brendan Buck is a partner at Seven Letter Communications and the former chief communications advisor and counselor to Speaker Paul Ryan.

Susan Brooks (R), represents Indiana’s 5th congressional district. 

Pete Sessions (R), former Congressman from Texas.

Cal Jillson, professor of political science at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.

Manny Garcia, executive director of the Texas Democratic Party.

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