TAFPPAC-endorsed candidates win elections

On the heels of an historic election, TAFP is well-positioned to work for improvements in the physician practice environment of Texas during next year’s legislative session. Of the 152 candidates endorsed by the TAFP Political Action Committee, all but four won their races. These candidates were selected by TAFPPAC because they support policies that will strengthen family medicine and help Texas’ patients.

Problems with the U.S. health care system took center stage in national and statewide races, inspiring debate about the primary care workforce, the shortcomings of the health insurance market, and the growing ranks of uninsured and underinsured patients. TAFP hopes to build on that momentum in preparation for the 81st Texas Legislature, which begins on Jan. 13, 2009.

Democrats picked up one seat in the Texas Senate and have a chance to win a second. Democrat Chris Bell and Republican Joan Huffman will face a runoff in December for Senate District 17 in Houston. Republicans currently hold 20 of the 31 seats in the Senate.

With two races still too close to call, the Texas House appears to be split down the middle with Republicans holding a one- or two-seat majority. “The balance of power in the House means that we’ll be working across party lines as we always do to implement reforms that are good for patients and their physicians during the next legislative session,” said TAFP CEO Tom Banning.