For my next column to describe the important statewide races on the November 8 ballot and the Democratic vision for that office, I’ll review the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA).
The CPA basically serves as the state’s accounting office. As Texas’ chief tax collector, accountant, revenue estimator, treasurer and purchasing manager, the CPA is responsible for writing the checks and keeping the books for the multi-billion-dollar business of state government. As the state’s sole accountant, the comptroller has the “ bully pulpit” in how Texas taxes are handled.
Democrats will use this office to strongly advocate for Texas public education, its teachers and their retirement savings. Public schools provide every child equal opportunity. High- quality teachers are the backbone of an excellent education, and Texas needs to recruit and retain the best and the brightest. With COVID-19, Texas teachers taught virtually over the internet. Texas children need access to virtual learning through broadband internet infrastructure. Texas schools must continue to prioritize safety for our teachers and our children. Democrats will protect our schools from state funding cuts.
