State Rep. Dan Branch Announces Run for Texas Attorney General

Texas State Rep. Dan Branch (R- Dallas) officially announced his candidacy for Texas Attorney General on Tuesday. Branch’s announcement came at SMU's Dedman School of Law.

“After much time spent in thoughtful reflection and prayer, and because I believe Texans need someone to defend our state, to fight for us, and to get results, I am asking for your vote to be the next Attorney General of the great state of Texas,” Branch said. “I’m running for Attorney General to fight against an overreaching federal government, to fight for open and accountable government, and to preserve limited government in Texas.”

As far as why he should be elected as attorney general, Branch said, "Over the last decade, I've helped lead the fight in the legislature to reform our civil justice system and place a choke hold on frivolous lawsuits. While some talked about it, I actually cast the tough votes to make it happen. And the results are in – our economy has expanded dramatically as a result of lawsuit reform,” Branch said. “As your Attorney General, I will fight just as hard to preserve a regulatory climate that creates jobs and clears our courts of junk lawsuits, protects our property rights, and preserves our economic liberties.”

Branch has served as a state representative since 2003. He is also a graduate of the SMU Dedman School of Law.

Branch will be running against Railroad Commissioner Barry Smitherman (R) in the 2014 Republican Primary. Sitting, Attorney General, Greg Abbott (R) is running for governor in the 2014 GOP Primary.