Press Release: Efforts to Move Dallas Elections from May to November Stall in Texas House
A key bill aimed at shifting Dallas city elections from May to November in odd years has encountered significant challenges in the Texas House. State Rep. Rafael Anchia, D-Dallas, who authored the bill, expressed his disappointment that it has not advanced despite strong bipartisan support during committee hearings.
Matt Shaheen, R-Prosper and chairman of the House Elections Committee, stated, “We gave it a hearing, but we’re not voting it out. I don’t think it has the support.” This comes after the recent May 3 elections saw an alarming voter turnout of just 7%, with only 47,083 of 663,875 eligible voters participating in the process.
The proposed bill aligns with a referendum approved by 66% of Dallas voters last November, who recognized the need to boost electoral engagement in a city where municipal leaders are often decided by a mere fraction of the population. Advocates argue that moving elections to November would lead to greater voter turnout and alleviate election fatigue associated with spring elections.
Anchia remains puzzled by the house’s hesitation, noting that there was no opposition during the hearings, prompting speculation about hidden interests that may prefer low-turnout elections. “Political consultants who like to keep turnout small… are working against the bill,” he claimed.
Meanwhile, concerns have surfaced that shifting elections could increase the costs for local entities like the Dallas Independent School District and Dallas College, which also hold May elections. Shaheen acknowledged these financial concerns but emphasized the potential savings for the city.
Supporters, including state Sen. Nathan Johnson, underscore the importance of allowing local governments to dictate their electoral calendars. As pressure mounts to move the bill forward before the legislative session concludes, leaders from various sectors of Dallas are advocating for the shift to enhance voter participation and ease election costs.
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