I think he'll be challenged,' said Ellis, who makes no secret of his interest in running in Senate District 7.Įllis said, though, that he is more inclined to run if Lindsay doesn't. 'I think you have to be a lot more aggressive, and that's not his personality. Houston City Councilman Mark Ellis says that was a different time and a different job than serving in the Senate as just one of 31 members. In those days, he was perhaps the most powerful person in county politics.

The senator said he believes he's been effective for his north Harris County district and now benefits from some seniority in the Senate.īut he also admits that he isn't moved by the political ambitions that drove him when he was younger. He said he will wait until after the legislative session ends May 30 to make up his mind, and definitely will decide by Dec. He quickly added that 'there's no reason for me not to run.' 'It's too early to make a final decision on that,' he said. No one has publicly owned up to commissioning the poll, but it's a sign of a quiet probing of Lindsay's political vulnerability - which even he acknowledges - as he contemplates whether to seek re-election next year. Some north Harris County residents received calls last month from pollsters asking about Lindsay. Others apparently want statistical evidence of his strength. 'I see no reason why he would not be re-elected or why he would be challenged,' said Senate colleague John Whitmire, a Houston Democrat who has known Lindsay for decades. One of the area's longest-tenured public servants, Lindsay has spent eight years in the Senate and spent 20 years as Harris County judge.

Detractors view that as a sign that constituent contact is not a priority. He didn't schedule any public appearances during a recent weekend visit to the district, and has none planned as the legislative session in Austin heats up during its final weeks. Some think he may be vulnerable to a GOP primary challenge. Some fellow Republicans, including a few who covet his seat, are wondering if he's relaxing too much. 'There's nothing more relaxing,' he said. Now nearing 70, the Republican state legislator has given up strenuous hobbies such as scuba diving and golf, but he's still building - a small bridge for his Crockett ranch, extensions on his Spring house - and clearing brush to make room for the construction.

Almost Grown by Tony Lindsay