Interview: Sen. Paul Bettencourt on Property Tax Deal, Negotiation Process, Harris County Elections Office

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Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) joined The Texan’s senior reporter Brad Johnson to discuss the passage of the property tax relief compromise agreed to by the Texas House and Senate last week. 

Bettencourt served as a chief negotiator for the Senate during the tense standoff between Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, House Speaker Dade Phelan, and Gov. Greg Abbott. 

“It’s quite frankly a joy to be able to be involved in a process that gives $18 billion of tax relief back to the citizens of Texas,” said Bettencourt. 

During the interview, Bettencourt discussed the details of the plan, how the final deal evolved from the start of the legislative session in January, and the process of negotiating with the House. 

Bettencourt also talked about his criticisms of the Harris County election administrator and efforts to provide more oversight and accountability in elections. 

“If you don’t have an election process that people have faith in, you’ve got nothing,” said Bettencourt. “Harris County, while it isn’t too big to fail, it’s too big to ignore.” 

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