Texas state representative Gary Gates (a Republican) is being compared to Ted Cruz after it was revealed he left the state for Florida during the winter storms that shut down power for millions of Texas residents.
Gates Flew To Orlando, Florida On His Private Jet. “After losing power Tuesday, Gates left his home via his private jet Wednesday night and traveled to Orlando, Fla., sparking outrage among many who believe the freshman lawmaker should have remained in his district.” [Texas Tribune]
Gates Blamed Bursting Pipes In His House. “Gates, a Republican, said he made the decision after his pipes burst, 30 percent of his home flooded and he began to see mold. “My wife is still recovering from an illness she has been battling for two weeks, and the room of my adult daughter, who is mentally handicapped and still lives with us, flooded,” Gates said.” [Daily Beast]
Gates Is Being Criticized By Texans. “The trip isn’t sitting well with Cynthia Ginyard, chairwoman of the Fort Bend County Democrats. “So many of the constituents were in the same predicament and they did not have the chance to take a flight and leave town,” Ginyard said.” [Click 2 Houston]
One of the first political bloggers in the world, Oliver Willis has operated OliverWillis.com since 2000. Contributor at Media Matters for America and The American Independent. Follow on Twitter at @owillis. Full bio.