Chairman says Texas GOP State Convention to continue as in-person event at GRB despite Turners plea
HOUSTON The Texas GOP Convention planned at the George R. Brown Convention Center between July 16-18 will continue as planned, according to the Republican Party of Texas Chairman James Dickey. Dickeys statement Monday came after Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner called for the Texas GOPs executive committee to cancel the in-person event that is expected to see roughly 6,000 attendees. Turner asked that the event either be made virtual or that certain health protocols be put in place. Turners request for the convention to go virtual comes as Houston continues to be a hotspot for coronavirus in Texas. Last Thursday, the 64-member executive committee, which serves as the governing body of the state party, voted 40-20 to move forward with the in-person event.
Texas GOP convention will happen in person but Republican leaders will speak via video
James Dickey, Texas GOP Chairman is seen on a large video screen during the final afternoon of the 2018 Texas GOP Convention in San Antonio. Robin Jerstad for The Texas TribuneThe Republican Party of Texas is moving forward with its controversial in-person convention during the coronavirus pandemic but elected officials including Gov. As the state has seen a surge in coronavirus cases, calls have been growing over the past week for the party to cancel its event. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner on Monday asked the State Republican Executive Committee to cancel the gathering and warning that health inspectors would have the authority to shut down the event if certain guidelines are not followed. Shortly before Whatley made the announcement, Abbott was noncommittal in a TV interview when asked if he'd attend the convention in person.