As Trump administration takes shape, Texas takes a back seat

 For generations, Texans have become dominant figures in Washington influencing national politics. Despite the state sending more Republicans to Congress than any other state following this year’s election, Texans so far have made little inroads when it comes to President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet and high-level staff appointments. 

Trump has tapped several allies from Florida for top appointments like the secretary of state and attorney general. So far, Texas has seen only one major appointment: John Ratcliffe, the former Texas congressman who is Trump’s pick for CIA director.

“I don't think it's a conscious decision to exclude Texas or to give Texans short shrift or anything like that,” said Southern Methodist University political science professor Matthew Wilson. “I think it's largely driven by personalities. There have not been as many Texans as there have been Floridians in Trump's inner circle. Since Trump does seem to put such a premium on loyalty and personal relationships, that means that the Florida folks were more natural picks.”

Trump does have close allies in Texas like Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who was a putative contender for U.S. attorney general. Last week, Trump selected former Florida representative Matt Gaetz, whom Paxton praised. 

U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson of Amarillo also was seen as a top contender for Veterans Affairs secretary and was nominated for it during Trump’s first term. However, he had his appointment withdrawn over allegations of improper and hostile conduct while serving as the White House physician. 

At the congressional level, Texans’ influence is shrinking due to the retirements of  U.S. Reps. Kay Granger and Michael Burgess, who are ceding control of powerful committee posts. U.S. Sen. John Cornyn also recently lost his bid for Senate majority leader to Sen. John Thune of South Dakota. 

Among remaining Texan contenders for Trump’s Cabinet and high-level appointments is state Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, an early Trump loyalist, who said he was in early talks to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture before Trump’s 2020 loss.

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