Texas has a reputation for being a big conservative state. In terms of population, more here hold conservative viewpoints than many other states in the union. But do voters here really care about slashing taxes on business, deregulation, cutting welfare benefits and so on? or are they motivated to vote because of something else?
I'm here to theorize that most conservatives in Texas are social/cultural conservatives and they vote with the team (political party) that champions those social/cultural conservative viewpoints. I'm not saying people vote exclusively because of social/cultural conservative issues, but I believe it's the main factor that motivates many. Being a strong social conservative still wins the hearts and minds (and votes) of the majority of Texans than being someone who simply runs on the platform of cutting taxes and regulation. Just ask our good friend Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (who is currently positioning himself to do exactly that)
Texas used to vote exclusively Democratic during the days Democrats were the socially conservative party, but starting in the 1970s, the GOP began taking the mantle. Hence, Texas became a state that voted almost exclusively Republican in the coming decades.
In an alternate universe, if the Democratic party today suddenly started becoming a socially conservative party, I believe Texas would go blue in a heartbeat (as it was before the 1970s)
This is just my opinion and observation. Comments are welcome! Feel free to agree or disagree.
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