The nation’s largest state Republican Party has a new leader. Allen West was elected chairman of the Republican Party of Texas in the early hours of Monday during a virtual vote among the organization’s membership.
The retired U.S. Army officer and former presidential hopeful has already taken on the responsibilities of the role and begin to “implement his strategy to hold Texas,” according to his campaign — which means a return to traditional conservatism for Lone Star Republicans.
“I am honored and privileged that Republicans of Texas have selected me to Chair their party and to be at the helm during this coming election cycle. We need to focus on maintaining the conservative policies that made Texas strong and drive voter outreach across the state,” Mr. West said in a statement.
“By electing Allen West, the Republican Party of Texas has shown that a new direction is here. The grassroots will no longer let watered-down conservatism be the guiding light. The focus on conservative principles and expanding the tent of the party is the future,” the campaign said.
Mr. West defeated the current chairman, James Dickey, who conceded about 3:30 a.m. Monday.
President Trump took immediate notice.
“Congratulations Allen, great job!” he tweeted after Mr. West’s victory went public.
• Jennifer Harper can be reached at jharper@washingtontimes.com.
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