In this episode of The Right Idea, co-hosts Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen sit down with Jill Tate, Vice President of Legislation for the Texas Federation of Republican Women and a powerhouse conservative activist. Jill shares her journey from a young Reagan supporter to a key player in Texas politics, diving into critical issues like school choice, property taxes, energy policy, and the fight against taxpayer-funded lobbying. They also discuss the resilience of Texas culture, the upcoming special session, and what’s next for the 90th Legislature.
05:13 – Jill Tate’s background as a Texas super activist and precinct chair
06:02 – How Jill got involved in conservative activism and politics
10:02 – Evolution of Texas politics and the shift to a conservative stronghold
14:39 – Texas cultural resilience and the significance of the Alamo
21:03 – Recap of the 89th Legislature: Successes in school choice, energy, and AI
23:31 – Jill’s personal story on school choice and its impact on her son
30:03 – Energy policy: Nuclear power and securing Texas’ grid
33:59 – SB 1283: Protecting seniors in retirement communities
37:24 – Special session priorities: Women’s Privacy Act and ending STAAR testing
42:30 – Looking ahead to the 90th Legislature: Energy and emerging issues
45:11 – Water issues in Texas: Balancing rural and urban needs
46:40 – Gambling in Texas: Concerns about social and economic impacts
49:33 – Reforming Texas’ committee process for better legislative hearings
1:05:11 – The fight to end taxpayer-funded lobbying in Texas