Friends,

In less than a week, Texas voters will begin casting ballots in the Spring Primary Elections. The Early Voting period runs from February 17-27, and Election Day is on Tuesday, March 3rd. As you prepare to cast your ballots, we are taking a look at some of the issues that are top of mind for voters.

The clear message is that business leaders should drive local engagement to ensure pro-business, pro-tort-reform candidates are elected to the legislature and local courts. The decisions made in March have lasting consequences, especially as advocacy organizations begin to develop policy priorities for the upcoming 90th Texas Legislature.

This week, a new poll from the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs highlighted some shifting voter sentiments ahead of the March 3rd Primary Elections. While the poll focused primarily on the top races on the Republican and Democratic ballots, it also highlighted the issues driving voters as they look ahead to the November elections.

Not surprisingly, affordability was named the top issue by all likely voters, with Republicans and Independents naming it their top priority overall. Cost of living and inflation are top of mind as Texans see costs rising at the grocery store, gas pump, and pharmacy. It’s estimated the hidden tort tax costs each Texan about $2,400 more for goods & services each year.

As voters prepare to head to the polls, there will be plenty of reminders of how much the tort tax is draining their wallets. Frivolous lawsuits drive up costs for everything from insurance and health care to transportation services and fuel. With a year left until lawmakers head back to Austin, voters are also watching as states like Florida, Georgia, and others reap the benefits of passing tort reform policies into law.

Republican voters in Texas are particularly interested in other factors also driving kitchen table issues at the ballot box. While Democrats list “threats to democracy” as the top issue, Republicans and Independents are looking elsewhere to find solutions on affordability, public safety, and general prosperity.

Fortunately, a strong slate of conservative candidates who support pro-business, pro-tort reform policies to improve affordability across Texas are on the ballot this March. Candidates are looking for additional support in the home stretch as Early Voting is set to start on Tuesday, February 17th.