Top 5 reasons why Vikki Goodwin’s tenure should end
In the corridors of the Texas State House, where decisions that shape the future of millions are made, one might expect their elected representatives to be paragons of legislative productivity, integrity, and alignment with the values of their constituents. However, the record of Texas House District 47 Representative Vikki Goodwin paints a rather different picture, suggesting that her tenure might be more about maintaining a seat than serving effectively.
Here are the Top 5 reasons why Goodwin should be replaced:
1. A Lack of Legislative Success
The most glaring statistic in Goodwin's legislative career is her abysmal bill passage rate. With only 6.1% of her authored bills becoming law, Goodwin stands out for her inefficacy. Of those few successful bills, only seven were solely penned by her, and these laws have affected only a miniscule fraction of her constituents, focusing on niche issues like swimming pool safety at summer camps or the election of utility district members. This raises a critical question: what has Goodwin truly done for Texas?
2. Ideological Extremism and Misalignment
Goodwin's ranking as one of the most liberal members of the Texas House, especially in a state known for its conservative leanings, indicates a profound disconnect with a significant portion of her electorate. Her legislative pursuits often lean towards national liberal narratives rather than addressing the immediate needs of her district, showcasing a lack of representative governance.
3. Ethical and Financial Concerns
The acceptance of substantial financial contributions from entities like Texas Sands PAC, a pro-gambling group associated with a right-wing billionaire, alongside significant backing from the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, suggests a pattern of political financing that might influence her legislative decisions away from public interest and towards special interest groups.
4. Legislative Missteps and Public Safety
Goodwin's stance on issues like gun control, transgender student athletics, and puberty blockers for minors has not only been controversial but also largely unsuccessful, with none of her gun-related bills passing. Her opposition to bills enhancing public safety, like the ban on DEI programs at universities or the creation of a state border police force, indicates a prioritization of ideology over practical public safety and educational standards.
5. Economic Irresponsibility
Proposals like the 25% 'flare tax' on natural gas or a 150% increase in longevity pay for state employees without fiscal analysis reflect a lack of economic prudence. These bills, if passed, could have led to significant increases in costs for consumers and taxpayers, potentially destabilizing Texas's economic stability.
Vikki Goodwin's legislative track record is marked by inefficiency, ideological extremes, and a concerning reliance on special interest funding. Her focus seems more on advancing a particular political narrative rather than addressing the needs of her district or the state at large. For Texas to move forward, it needs representatives who are not only effective legislators but also in tune with the diverse needs and values of their constituents. It's time for constituents to consider whether Goodwin truly represents their interests or if her seat would be better served by someone with a demonstrated commitment to legislative productivity, fiscal responsibility, and alignment with Texas values.
GOODWIN QUICK FACTS
· Part of the Far Left- She ranked as the 4th most liberal of the 64 Texas House Democrats.
· A "do nothing legislator"- Goodwin has a career bill passage rate is 6%, and even those bills related to summer camps, acupuncturist training, and the election of members to the Texas food system security planning council.
· Received an ‘F” for fiscal responsibility- Goodwin has a spending problem receiving a failing grade for all three of her terms by the Texans for Fiscal Responsibility.
· Abandoned Lost Creek- In 2021, Goodwin killed the Lost Creek disannexation bill, going against the wishes of her constituents she is supposed to be fighting for.
· Fails to protect our children- In May 2023, Vikki Goodwin opposed Senate Bill 14, which banned minor children under 18 from receiving puberty blockers and hormone therapy to change their gender. The bill also banned transition-related genital surgeries on minors.
· Ignores the border- Goodwin voted against House Bill 7, which created a new state border law enforcement agency and make it a state crime for migrants to enter the state anywhere but a port of entry.
· Takes everyone’s money- Goodwin’s donors include $10,000 from Texas Sands PAC, the state political fundraising arm of billionaire Republican megadonor and Trump supporter Miliam Adelson and her Las Vegas Sands corporation.