Commentary in the Express-News from political columnist Peggy Fikac:
As Texas’ new education commissioner, Michael Williams faces a number of issues including a school finance lawsuit and a fracas over testing. He also faces some doubters. His appointment by Gov. Rick Perry drew praise from conservatives but also sharp comments like this one from Rep. Jessica Farrar of Houston, leader in the House Democratic Caucus: “I do not know what serving 12 years as Railroad Commissioner and two attempts at federal office have to do with knowledge about Texas public schools. But, I do know that being friends with Governor Perry seems to mean one is never out of a job for long. If I was starting up an oil and gas company in Texas, I might call Michael Williams to run it. But, I would never think to call Michael Williams to try to run Texas’ public schools.”
Williams on Twitter said he has received counsel from a friend as he takes on the challenge: “A friend just called w/ congratulations and advice — ‘buy stock in Maalox.'”
“How big of a bite will the Legislature take?”, Peggy Fikac, San Antonio Express-News, September 2, 2012.
A link to Michael Williams’s twitter.
