More Boots on the Ground(s of the U.S. Capitol)

By Danielle Allen, Senior Vice President, Austin and Sarah Hogeboom, Vice President, Austin

Though there is no longer a Texan in the White House, thanks to the 2010 Census, there will be four more at the U.S. Capitol. Over the last ten years, Texas’ population increased more than 20 percent, largely fueled by growth in our state’s Hispanic community. Living up to our reputation of growing everything bigger, Texas’ population surge means we’ll officially have added clout in Washington, gaining more congressional seats than any other state.

So what does this mean for business and politics in Texas? How will this impact how our clients communicate with their stakeholders?

As more people flock to our great state, we’re feeling some big growing pains. This legislative session we’re facing historic budget gaps—more than $25 billion by some estimates. In a state constitutionally required to a balance its budget and whose leadership has pledged no new taxes, legislators are facing some tough decisions.

Among the list of considerations are removing limits on classroom size, halting the diversion of gas tax funds to non-transportation uses to improve and build new roads, and potential cuts to Medicaid. Simultaneously, lawmakers will be figuring out how to draw the lines for our newly added congressional seats.

Oh yeah, and we’ll do it in 140 days. A Texas-sized feat to be sure.

Beyond the legislative session, Texans will have a bigger say in Washington on issues from energy to immigration, healthcare to taxes. As our clients consider the impact of these debates on their business, outreach to policymakers and their influencers will continue to play a major role. Stay tuned for our next blog post about the Capital Staffer’s Index, Edelman’s research about how best to reach Members and staff on Capitol Hill…especially now that there are more boots there.