Fair Convention Goals
* A Fair Agenda
* A Fair Convention Chair
* Fair Credentials Hearings
* Fair Debate & Fair Votes
Achieving a Fair Convention
* Timeline & Current Status
* Nueces Convention Audio
* Credentials Challenges
RPT in Trouble
* State of the Party
* 2008 Biennial Report
* A Chairman's Perspective
The Law
* US Constitution
* Texas Election Code
* Robert's Rules or Order
* RPT Rules
* RPT Platform
* RNC Rules
* RNC Platform
Distributed by email, June 24th, 2008 and reprinted with permission.
Lest you feel I've crawled into a hole, I thought I had better provide some brief update on the legal proceedings. Please feel free to share the following with those who are interested in and/or supporting this effort:
1. While the Appeals Court affirmed the decision of the County Court at Law (that the County Court did not have jurisdiction in the matter), the plaintiffs, Debra Medina, et al, contrary to what is being reported by the RPT leadership ARE NOT responsible for paying attorney fees to the defendants. The Appeals Court ordered only that plaintiffs pay "all costs" which are, that is to say, "court costs" i.e., filing costs, court reporter costs etc. These "costs" were paid at the time the appeal was filed and no additional costs associated with the appeal are anticipated.
2. The matter will be re-filed in District Court, likely in Harris County SOON. Our legal team is reviewing the original pleadings as well as occurrences at this year's state convention. This case has always been about the adherence to the rule of law (the Texas Election Code). The law provides a framework that puts the convention in the hands of the delegates elected to political conventions. Current practice, however, in violation of the law, shifts a sizeable amount of control from the convention delegates to the prior term's leadership thus depriving the "people" of the right and ability to govern the affairs of their political party.
The legal team is reviewing pleadings and evidence in an effort to bring to trial an accurate and complete set of facts in order that the court may provide a decision that will result in restoring control to the delegates - not just a patch for our current frustration, but a decision that will secure for our posterity a voice in the political process, insuring a government of the people, by the people (whether it is for the people, then, of course, is up to the people).
If that team determines that punishment of those who have violated the law and abused their fellow citizens is appropriate under the law, then we also want to be sure that that is accomplished in this matter as well. Hence, your documented convention narratives will be beneficial in this regard - I believe Craig Young, Republican Party Chair in Hays Co. is collecting same.
3. Additional legal funds will be needed. We are anticipating a trial fund need of $20-25,000 and have approximately $4,000 towards that at this time. (I plan to provide a complete accounting of all funds received/expended in the very near future. Further, the Wharton County Republican Party files reports as required with the Texas Election Commission so that information will be documented there as well).
4. I am meeting with our bank this afternoon in an effort to set up an on-line contribution mechanism (Given problems others have experienced with Chip-in and Pay Pal accounts, I am exploring a few other options first, hence the delay in making this available.) I will make every effort to provide an on-line contribution solution by week's end.
5. I appreciate ALL of you and the wisdom that we collectively contribute. PLEASE chime in with suggestions and concerns. I am very grateful for your support and honored to carry your banner in this battle for liberty.
Sincerely,
Debra Medina
Chairman
Wharton Co. Republican Party
P O Box 831
Wharton, Tx 77488