In Texas, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick's drive to ban legal THC shows hypocrisy and power struggles as detractors question his objectives and legislative failures mount.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick pushed for a controversial THC ban in the 89th Texas Legislature. Critics have cited hypocrisy and legislative flaws in his acts.
At a press conference to ban legal THC products, including cannabis gummies and beverages, a $8 billion industry employing 53,000 Texans, Patrick strongly opposed not regulating THC like alcohol. He asked, “Are you out of your mind?” THC could “disrupt mental states” and “lead to death.”
Critics have quickly pointed out that weapons, not THC, kill most Texas children. Patrick has always opposed gun control, allowing unlicensed and untrained people to carry firearms openly and concealed. Parents of school shooting victims have repeatedly called for gun regulation, but Patrick has ignored them.
The fight against THC is sponsored by Christian nationalist funders who have funded Patrick's far-right activities. Patrick controls legislation as Senate leader, choosing which proposals to vote on. He can encourage Republicans to support his plan, which might lead to political isolation for those who disagree.
Patrick used his $33 million to replace rebel House Republicans with loyalists in 2024. This approach led to problematic legislation, including restrictions on gender-affirming care and public record gender definitions.
Early signs of a decline. Patrick adjourned the Senate without recess, derailing various far-right initiatives. Patrick, formerly a parliamentary procedural maestro, is now dependent on his staff and has lost his anger with critics.
Patrick's influence on Texas politics is waning, fueling concerns about Texans' rights and freedoms.
