Straus calls for end to straight-ticket voting in Texas

Texas Speaker of the House Joe Straus, R-San Antonio, presides over the opening of the 85th Texas Legislative session in the house chambers at the Texas State Capitol, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) less Texas Speaker of the House Joe Straus, R-San Antonio, presides over the opening of the 85th Texas Legislative session in the house chambers at the Texas State Capitol, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, in Austin, Texas. ... more Photo: Eric Gay, STF Photo: Eric Gay, STF Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Straus calls for end to straight-ticket voting in Texas 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

AUSTIN -- Texas House Speaker Joe Straus on Wednesday called on his fellow lawmakers to end straight-ticket voting.

Straus, R-San Antonio, issued the call in a news release following a speech in which Texas State Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht said Texas should end the option for judicial elections.

"I agree with Chief Justice Hecht that we should end straight ticket voting in judicial elections, but we shouldn't stop there," said Straus, noting that 40 other states do not have the option in any elections. "This change would encourage voters to learn more about individual candidates, their platforms and their qualifications."

It was a rare public pronouncement from Straus, who tends to defer to his colleagues. But the issue is one that has been on his mind for awhile. In 2008, before he became speaker, he filed legislation to end straight-ticket voting.

Like others, his motivation is in part due to seeing friends and allies in down-ballot offices -- especially judicial offices -- being voted out.

The proposal has stalled in the past but could move in this legislative session.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who does not often agree with Straus on high-profile issues, previously has endorsed a move to end straight ticket voting in judicial elections.

In the House, state Rep. Ron Simmons, R-Carrollton, has already filed legislation to end the option for all elections.

Now, the bill is poised to become a priority.