Republicans Upset That Craddick Is Hoarding $2.3 Million In His Own Campaign Account

Texas House Republicans are upset with Texas House Speaker Tom Craddick (R-Midland) for hoarding more than $2 million in his campaign account while Republicans in races across the state are struggling to raise money to compete with Democrats in districts once thought not to be competitive.

State Rep. Jim Keffer, R-Eastland, one of the House members challenging Craddick’s re-election as speaker, said it is typical of Craddick to hold on to the bulk of the money he has raised rather than directing it toward the campaigns of his allies. Craddick supporters should be wondering why he is not doing more to help them win office, he said.

“If I’m in a tight race and I’m a Craddick guy, I’d be asking that question,” Keffer said. But Craddick has done much to help other Republicans, Craddick spokeswoman Alexis DeLee said. Craddick has transferred more than $1.1 million from his campaign account to his Stars Over Texas political action committee to help GOP candidates.

“The speaker has spent a great deal of time traveling around the state to attend fundraisers and help incumbents raise money,” DeLee said.

He also is trying to fend off Democratic challenger Bill Dingus in his own Midland district. Craddick has spent about $600,000 on his own race, compared to $400,000 for Dingus, ac campaign finance reports show.

Kelly Fero speculates on why Craddick is holding out:

“Craddick sees the handwriting on the wall and will retire with a great big war chest to allow him to continue to be a player, because he will have millions of dollars to contribute (to future candidates),” Fero speculated.

And then, there is always speculation that Craddick’s ego will require him to make an ill-fated run for higher office.

Tweet This Post   Ping This Post

Bookmark It