Dan Branch
R-Dallas, Attorney
Former campaign director for George W. Bush's gubernatorial campaigns in Dallas and national outreach leader and recount team member for Bush-Cheney in 2000. House sponsor of bill to require the pledge of allegiance in public schools followed by a minute of silence that can be used for prayer. Crafted an amendment that moved the execution date for the Robin Hood school finance system up a whole year from 2005 to 2004. The Texas Democratic Party endorsed his bill to move the primary election up a week to give the state a stronger voice in national elections. Summoned into action by Speaker Tom Craddick to represent House Republicans on national news shows during the walkout by Democrats in May.

Dan Flynn
R-Van, Banking & Publishing
East Texas newspaper owner with extensive banking experience played an instrumental role in the House Investigating Committee's probe of the Human Rights Commission and and other issues. Pushed for teeth in state regulation and licensing of credit bureaus. Passed bills to strengthen laws state activities involving mortgage brokers and lending practices. Led push to improve state funding process for regional planning commissions.

John Mabry
D-Waco, Attorney
Huge talent who has a triple whammy disadvantage of being a Democrat who's also a plaintiff lawyer who happens to work in the same law firm with House Democratic Caucus Chairman Jim Dunnam. Sponsored bill to protect confidentiality of information at family violence centers. Pushed for prompt payment for doctors by insurance companies, better conditions at nursing homes and other health care related issues. Led the successful floor fight against a bill to give DPS power to collect biometric data on driver's as terrorist prevention measure. Will be high on GOP hit list after role in Killer D walkout.

Larry Taylor
R-Friendswood, Insurance
Independent insurance agent helped lead the floor fight over regulations for homeowners' and auto insurance coverage - one of two issues declared as legislative emergencies for the session. Served on the conference committee that sparked controversy while the lead House negotiator was out of town by failing to include key provision on the use of management fees that drive premium costs up. Sponsored bill to allow insurance companies to sell health coverage that does not cover all state-mandated benefits. Passed FAIR plan to provide residential property Insurance for citizens in underserved areas of the state.