But the relationship Dallas pediatric cardiologist Lee Ann
Pearse, MD, and other physicians from Collin and Dallas coun- ties developed over the years with Mr. Branch’s rival and victor, state Sen. Ken Paxton (R-McKinney), kept open the lines of communication with the winner heading into the November general election. It was the local doctors’ vote of confidence in Senator Pax- ton and his willingness to work with TMA and TEXPAC that ultimately led to the board’s decision to back him in the gen- eral election, Dr. Hunsaker says. Dr. Pearse admits she preferred that TEXPAC back Senator
Paxton at the outset, and although both candidates had strong ties to medicine, she remained vocal about her choice.
“But the bottom line is, having those individual relationships can give another side of the story you don’t see in a campaign,” she said. “It’s critically important for all voices to be heard, and TEXPAC is working hard to reflect the voices of every area, not just Austin. But to do that, physicians have to get involved at the local level and say something.” More recently, medicine’s voice and influence have resound- ed to such a level that candidates now knock on TEXPAC’s door looking to work with TMA and earn PAC endorsement, Dr. Weltge adds. Last December, candidates in the statewide attorney general and comptroller races eagerly sought TMA’s invitation to speak to members at TMA’s Winter Conference held in February.
TALKS MONEY
Membership Cost Basic
$125 300 Club $300 Capitol Club $1,000 Benefits
Biweekly newsletter, political activities update, election guide, access to all TEXPAC Board meetings
Basic Membership benefits plus invitation to 300 Club receptions with elected officials
300 Club benefits plus priority seating at TEXPAC Board meetings, Capitol Club apparel, and special recognition at TexMed
Patrons Club $5,000 first year $2,500 annual renewal
Capitol Club benefits plus Patrons Club winter jacket, priority ranking for attendance at political events,
free admission to any TEXPAC-hosted fundraiser, and annual Patrons Club Dinner with an elected official
For more information, contact TEXPAC Director Clayton Stewart by phone at (800) 880-1300, ext. 1365, or (512) 370-1365; or by email,
clayton.stewart@
texmed.org.
September 2014 TEXAS MEDICINE 23
Recent changes to TEXPAC’s giving structure ensure medicine remains a heavy hitter, says TEXPAC Membership Chair Brad Holland, MD. “Whether physicians can join at the $125 level
or $10,000 level, they can be part of TEXPAC, and they can make a difference because they have a seat at the political table, and they get a voice in the process,” he said. Discounted membership rates are available
for medical students and residents. Here’s how membership breaks down:
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