The Brazos County Republican Party has formally condemned Bryan Mayor Pro Tem James Edge for endorsing Democrat James Talarico in the U.S. Senate race. The resolution says Edge used the Republican name to back a Democrat over the party's nominee, Ken Paxton. It adds that the "Republican" title belongs to party members and should not be used to confuse voters. The party said Edge's decision was especially confusing given his long history with the GOP.
Party Chairman Russ Ford said the local party will no longer stay silent. He said everyone has a right to vote as they choose, but the party will speak out when it believes a statement does not make sense to most Republicans.
Edge said he has not changed parties or principles. He said he used his right to decide who should represent Texas in the Senate. He also criticized the local party's approach, saying that pushing people out would not help it grow. Edge is scheduled to speak at Talarico's campaign event Friday night at Aggie Park on the Texas A&M campus. He said his political views do not reflect those of the City of Bryan.