(TEXAS) – Today, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick introduced his plan to eliminate tenure and include the teaching of “Critical Race Theory” as a justification of cause for review of employment at public colleges and universities in Texas.

Texas House Democratic Caucus First Vice Chair Toni Rose (D-Dallas) issued the following statement in response:

“Today was just the latest series of attacks by Texas Republicans on our educators and students. Throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, public schools have faced some of the most difficult years in the history of education. For Lt. Gov. Patrick to add to that burden for the sake of his own personal culture war against the teaching of what he refers to as ‘Critical Race Theory’ is unconscionable. 

“Our public universities are the keystone of Texas’ economic prowess. As Republicans like Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick make it their mission to undermine public trust in our education system, they will chase away the best and brightest students and educators our state needs to remain great.

“Our Republican leadership must stop making major policy decisions based on what’s politically convenient for them, and instead put Texas educators, students and families first.”

The Texas House Democratic Caucus, which is composed of all Democrats in the Texas House, serves as the group’s membership services and logistical arm, and works to support House Democrats with communications, policy, and legal resources. Chaired by Rep. Chris Turner (D – Grand Prairie), the Caucus is focused on fighting for real solutions for all Texans.

For questions regarding the information in this release, please contact press@texashousedems.com.