Governor Richard Perry may have put a quick damper on the victory celebration, but not on the determination of pro-choice supporters who intend to kill the bill. Sadly, in the meantime, Perry will waste America's time, energy and tax dollars on his anti-women/anti-choice agenda - all of which could be used to help people in need.
One thing is for sure. Perry's call for a second session on SB5 cannot touch the amazing accomplishment of Wendy Davis’ filibuster, nor stifle the sound of the people - which rang out loud and clear Tuesday night.
Here is Wendy Davis' response to Perry's call:
Senator Wendy Davis:
“Misplaced priorities of legislative leaders squandered a tremendous opportunity to make much needed improvements in our transportation infrastructure and help create good jobs and bring businesses to Texas. Despite urging by responsible members of the Senate to bring up the matter of transportation, Lt. Governor David Dewhurst derailed as much as much as $1 billion per year in transportation funding by stubbornly pushing divisive, failed legislation attacking women’s health care options.
If leaders are serious about using this second called special session to improve the lives of Texans by repairing and expanding our transportation networks, they will find no greater ally than me. If they intend to keep pushing their extreme personal political agenda ahead of the interests of Texas families, I will not back off of my duty to fight on their behalf.”
Many of us look forward to seeing, what kind of political future is in store for Davis. Her fierce perseverance and no BS attitude, is a breath of fresh air. Here is a Davis interview, with Chris Hayes (text included), summarizing the filibuster, and discussing the possibilities of her running for TX Governor: http://video.msnbc.msn.com/...
Update #1: June 27, 9 am ETD: Just received this new petition from Markos Moulitsas (Founder of Daily Kos) via Daily Kos emails regarding Senator Davis.
Update #2: June 27, 1:52 pm EDT: Perry attacks Davis at a National Right To Life conference:
Governor Rick Perry:
"Even the woman who filibustered the Senate the other day was born into difficult circumstances. She was the daughter of as single woman, she was a teenage mother herself. She managed to eventually graduate from Harvard Law School and serve in the Texas senate. It's just unfortunate that she hasn't learned from her own example that every life must be given a chance to realize its full potential and that every life matters."
In the same remarks, Perry added,
"The louder they scream, the more we know that we are getting something done."
Update #3: June 27, 7:30 pm EDT: Davis's reply to Perry's insults:
Senator Wendy Davis:
"Rick Perry's statement is without dignity and tarnishes the high office he holds. They are small words that reflect a dark and negative point of view. Our governor should reflect our Texas values. Sadly, Gov. Perry fails that test." (Ouch to the Govna!)
Update#4: June 27, 8:30 pm EDT - Davis confirms the GOP's violated vote by deliberately changing clock. It's not under investigation. (Video)
I'd say the day's win, and the week's win, both went to Davis.
(Thanks Kimberly Johnson, Samuel Warde and The Bear)