LSL06 - Closing the Primaries: Protecting the GOP Voice in Texas - Lone Star Ladies

In this episode of Lone Star Ladies, co-hosts Sheree Rose, Darlene Howell, and Brandie Kennedy welcome David Wiley, longtime grassroots leader and current SREC member, to tackle one of the most pressing debates inside the Republican Party of Texas: whether to close the primaries.
The conversation begins with local updates—Texas Liberty Tour, Tan Parker’s Fall Fiesta, and Brandon Gill’s upcoming barbecue fundraiser—before diving into the heart of the issue: the Republican Party of Texas lawsuit against Secretary of State Jane Nelson to close primaries.
David explains what “closed primaries” really mean: only registered Republicans voting in Republican primaries, instead of today’s open system where any registered voter can choose which party’s ballot to cast. The Ladies and their guest break down why many conservatives believe the current system allows moderates—and even Democrats—to influence Republican nominations, weakening the party’s platform and sending less conservative candidates to Austin.
Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at:
Why the state convention delegates pushed for this change.
How previous bills in the legislature failed, forcing the issue into the courts.
The constitutional right of association that allows political parties to set their own membership rules.
Why nearly 20 other states already operate with closed primaries.
The timeline for possible implementation before the March 2026 primary.
The discussion also highlights the political realities: Governor Abbott and Secretary Nelson resisting the change, the cost of legal battles (funded by taxpayers), and how party affiliation affects everything from runoffs to convention participation. David emphasizes that stronger conservative leadership in Texas depends on ensuring Republicans—not outside voters—choose Republican candidates.
The Ladies close with a call to action: Denton County voters can make their voices heard by contacting the Governor’s office and the Secretary of State, insisting that Republican primaries belong to Republican voters.

Direct, insightful, and rooted in grassroots experience, this episode equips listeners with the knowledge and urgency to understand why closing primaries could reshape the future of Texas politics.

Categories: Politics & Civics

Starring: Sheree Rose, Darlene Howell, Brandie Kennedy