The legislative session in the Texas House has ended. Despite infighting from Texas Republicans over controversial measures, some GOP lawmakers are looking past the conflict and highlighting legislative wins. State Rep. Tony Tinderholt (R) took to the House floor to praise the work completed done, but he also announced his retirement, saying it’s “time to go home.”
After six legislative sessions and over a decade in the Texas House, state Rep. Tinderholt announced his retirement, delivering a heartfelt speech on the House floor reflecting on his time in public service.
“There have been ups, there have been downs, amendments, points of order, disagreements, and achievements,” he said. “It’s been one of the highlights of my life.”
State Rep. Tinderholt, known for his staunch conservative views and willingness to challenge his own party, has served 12 years in the Texas House. Before that, he dedicated 21 years to military service, including 11 years in the Air Force participating in counter-drug missions across Latin America and a decade in the Army with multiple deployments to combat zones following 9/11.
However, he shared that the 12 years as a member of the Texas House “have been one of the more difficult combat zones I’ve had the pleasure of serving in,” which drew laughter from his colleagues.
The Texas Republican reflected on the friendships formed during his final term and celebrated the arrival of what he called “the most conservative group of freshmen legislators this body’s ever seen.”
Though proud of the conservative wins achieved, he acknowledged unfinished business. “There were still missed opportunities and so much left to do – just like both sides have said every session,” he commented.
Addressing his Democratic colleagues, he said, “I hope you know that I’ve always tried to treat you with respect that you deserve as members of this body who are chosen by your districts to fight for the values that you hold.”
State Rep. Tinderholt concluded his remarks by challenging his conservative colleagues, saying, “my absence next session will not remove in any way the pressure to deliver real conservative results for the people of Texas.”
Though he won’t be a member in the next legislative session, the state rep. signaled that he’s looking forward to the next stage of his life.
“It’s time to go home,” he simply said, surrounded by his conservative colleagues.
