Grand Prairie Rep. Chris Turner Tapped to Lead House Democrats

AUSTIN — Grand Prairie Rep. Chris Turner was elected chair of the House Democratic Caucus on Friday, putting him in position to lead members of the outnumbered party through the legislative session. "I am humbled by the responsibility my Democratic colleagues have entrusted with me," Turner said in a prepared statement. "As Caucus Chair, I look forward to working with all of my Democratic colleagues as we work to strengthen our public schools, create more economic opportunity for Texas families and stand up to the misguided policies coming from the Trump Administration."Democrats in the House have been looking for a leader to help bring the party out of the shadows and give them a larger role in a chamber dominated by Republicans. Turner was vying with Rep. Roberto Alonzo of Dallas for the top post.Turner plans to focus on increasing public school funding, addressing the ongoing foster care crisis and addressing racial and religious discrimination, according to a news release from Turner's office. "The House Democratic Caucus has a lot of work to get done this legislative session," Turner said. "By working together, I am confident we will protect the best interests of Texas families."Turner is serving his fourth term in the Texas House, where he has served on the General Investigating and Ethics, Ways and Means and Higher Education committees.  Continue reading...