A run for statewide office by Republican Party of Texas Chairman Allen West appears likely with his sudden announcement that he is resigning from his current position.
West submitted his resignation to the RPT Officials Committee Friday morning. “It has been my distinct honor to serve as Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas,” said West. “I pray Godspeed for this governing body.”
West touted the Texas Legislature’s passage of Constitutional Carry and the Heartbeat Bill and the Republican Party’s gains in South Texas as RPT successes under his leadership.
A former U.S. Congressman from Florida, West moved to Texas and unseated incumbent RPT Chairman James Dickey at the 2020 convention. West is leaving the post after less than a year.
West has been widely rumored to be considering a primary challenge against Governor Greg Abbott. His resignation seems to make such an announcement imminent.
If West does decide to challenge the incumbent governor, he will face an uphill climb. Abbott recently pick up the endorsement of former president Donald Trump and sits atop a massive war chest of campaign cash.
The GOP primary could nonetheless be crowded. The current field of candidates challenging Abbott includes former state senator Don Huffines and entertainer Chad Prather. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has hinted at a gubernatorial run as well.
It is possible that West could be running for a different statewide office. Land Commissioner has opened up with the current holder of that office, George P. Bush, now running for Attorney General. Agriculture Commissioner could be open to if Miller runs for governor.
West’s replacement as RPT Chair will be selected by the State Republican Executive Committee. He will technically remain chairman until a meeting is held to appoint his successor.
Texas Citizen Journal 