Mike Collier on Running as an Independent for Texas Lieutenant Governor

The Case for an Independent Candidacy

• 🎯 The current two-party system is failing, leading to dysfunction and policies that don't align with Texans' desires, such as great public schools.
• 💡 An independent candidate like Collier offers a path to break free from partisan gridlock and address issues Texans care about.
• 🚀 Collier believes there's a white-hot issue motivating voters, including dissatisfaction with policies from Austin and the current leadership.

Key Issues for Texas Voters

• 📚 Public education is a top concern, with voters unhappy about voucher situations and wanting a say in statewide votes.
• 💰 Property taxes are too high and continue to rise, with current relief being marginal at best.
• ⚖️ Common sense reproductive rights are an area where current policy is not supported by Texans, regardless of party affiliation.
• 🌿 Discussions around THC and cannabis reveal a desire for Texans to have a vote on the issue, rather than a total ban.
• 🎰 Casino resorts are proposed as a solution to fund public education and reduce property taxes, with Texans currently funding other states.

Collier's Political Journey and Strategy

• 📊 Collier, a CPA, emphasizes his policy-oriented and analytical approach, stating he is not a partisan creature.
• 🤝 He has previously run as a Republican and Democrat but now sees the partisan warfare as off the charts, making an independent run natural.
• 💰 While acknowledging the financial challenges and the need for significant funding (tens of millions), Collier is confident in his ability to raise the necessary money.
• 🗣️ Running as an independent allows him to call issues exactly as he sees them, without concern for alienating specific groups.

The Role of Lieutenant Governor

• 🏛️ The Texas Lieutenant Governor is a powerful lawmaker, serving as the President of the Senate, not a figurehead like the Vice President.
• ✨ An independent holding this office could inject new thinking into Texas politics and have a profound impact.
• 🤝 Collier believes voters are more open-minded than often assumed and are tired of partisan fighting, seeking leaders concerned about the community.