Abbott’s Voucher Texts Flood GOP House Districts, Phelan Says He’s Undecided

Gov. Greg Abbott’s campaign is blanketing Republican primary voters across Texas with text messages urging them to pressure their state representatives into supporting school vouchers, according to Quorum Report’s Scott Braddock.

Despite Abbott’s repeated claims that he has the votes needed to pass his “school choice” plan, the aggressive push has triggered a wave of constituent calls to lawmakers, including former House Speaker Dade Phelan. In a written statement, Phelan clarified that he has not committed to supporting or opposing any voucher proposal at this time.

“Right now, my focus is on listening to my constituents, understanding the potential impact on our communities, and ensuring that any decision I make reflects the best interests of families and students in our district,” Phelan said.

One of the texts, posted on X by Senior Reporter & Managing Editor of The Texan, Brad Johnson, reads:  

“This is Governor Greg Abbott. Please contact your State Representative Janis Holt to thank her for supporting my school choice plan. My plan empowers parents to choose the best pathway for their child’s education.”

Recipients are then encouraged to call and email their representative. Similar messages have been sent in districts represented by Mike Olcott, Dade Phelan, and others.

Phelan’s district office, inundated with calls from voters opposed to vouchers, pushed back on the assumption that he is backing the initiative. He also noted that no House version of the proposal has been filed yet, “there is no specific legislation for me to take a position on at this time.”