Texas cities shift from defense to partnership with Democratic state control

Who's involved

• Austin Mayor Kirk Watsonlocal official commenting on election outcome
• Fort Worth Mayor Mattie ParkerRepublican mayor commenting on state partnership
• Travis County Judge Andy Brownlocal official discussing state partnership potential

The facts

• Democrats won statewide office and a majority in the Texas House of Representatives.^{1 2} Stated by 2 sources
• During prior Republican control, the state Legislature made fracking bans illegal for cities.^{1 2} Stated by 2 sources
• During prior Republican control, Gov. Abbott overruled local mask mandates during COVID-19.^{1 2} Stated by 2 sources
• Austin voters voted to raise property taxes to build the city's first light-rail line.^{1 2} Stated by 2 sources
• Local officials said state lawmakers will convene in January.^{1 2} Stated by 2 sources

Who said what

These are statements and claims made by the people involved. They are reported, not verified.

• Austin Mayor Kirk Watson Cities no longer need to be on the defensive as they have been in the past.^{1 2}
• Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker The number one ask right now is partnership.^{1 2}
• Travis County Judge Andy Brown Efforts to help middle-class and working Texans will be easier with a state partner focused on policy rather than partisan angles.^{1 2}