26 Comments

Rafael is bad luck for Texas and the nation as a whole, not just his favored sports teams.

Expand full comment
founding

Normally I get rather depressed after reading your brilliant reports. But I was utterly delighted by your tidbit on the Ted Cruz curse. I am speaking as a proud Washington husky.

Expand full comment
founding

Ted Cruz and the Texas mascot have a a this in common; a lot of bull.(couldn't resist)

Expand full comment

Ditto!

#BowDown 💜🏈💜

Expand full comment

Welcome back, Joe. I hope you had a lovely break and are well fortified for what's likely ahead in 2024.

Speaking of betting, any odds on the current speaker of the House lasting until the November election?

Expand full comment
founding

Lasting as Speaker or lasting in the House? Of course, Kraven Kevin did not manage either one.

Expand full comment

I meant lasting as Speaker, as that isn't solely in his control. Since he believes he was called by god to the Speakership, I doubt he'd take the My Kevin way out of the House.

That said, I welcome hearing odds for either or both events.

Expand full comment
founding

Well, if he is fired despite god's help and desire, then he could leave the house, claiming that the devil made him do it.😏

Expand full comment

Ted Cruz is the height of grossness!

Expand full comment

I think Colin Allred is the centrist with what it takes to beat him.

Expand full comment

Very impressive young man! Would be wonderful Senator but you know Texas?

Incumbents are tough to beat or get out of office.

Expand full comment

This is true, but (relatively) far-left Beto held Cruz to within two(no, THREE) points. Allred is far more successful with moderates and independents. I'm not saying I think it's a lock, but I do think Allred has a much better chance than someone who got 48.3%.

Expand full comment

Supported him six months ago! Allread is a keeper!

Expand full comment
founding

I consider Aldred as a rising star to keep your eye.He is one of the Democrats deep bench in the future.

Expand full comment

Beto was a great shot in the arm to the Texas Democratic party. Every election, they get a few more voters registered or less active voters back to the polls. It will take a while, but I think it's trending purple.

Expand full comment

I agree and as a Texan I will crawl thru glass to vote for Colin preferably or anyone else.

Expand full comment
founding

From your lips to God’s ears.

Expand full comment
founding

Does he ever take a shower?

Expand full comment

Or, at minimum, wash his hair?

Expand full comment
founding

Maybe when he goes to the Caribean

Expand full comment
founding

maybe cruz can retire and start a business where people pay him to attend games of their choice. Or just retire. That would be great.

Expand full comment

Joe P., I sincerely hope there's a book project in your future.

Expand full comment

Just started reading “Starter Villain” by Scalzi, and somehow I’m hearing the first part of this newsletter in his (literary) voice…

Expand full comment

Happy New Year, Joe. Going to be interesting for sure.

Expand full comment

Great stuff as usual Joe. Two followup questions:

1. Can you share any details on the difference between 'Military Construction' and 'Defense' as spending categories?

2. Does...does Cruz have a mullet now?

Expand full comment

I'm not Joe, but I'm voting "yes" to your second question. You don't think it makes him look younger? lololol

Expand full comment