Retiring Texas Congressman Ted Poe Misses The Camaraderie In The House

“I believe very strongly that the best legislation that’s passed out of the United States Congress is bipartisan legislation.”

By Michael MarksDecember 17, 2018 12:55 pm

Texas’ delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives will get a major makeover next year. Nine Texans are leaving the House, and we’ve asked each of them to talk with Texas Standard about their time in office.

Rep. Ted Poe is a Republican from the Houston area. In November 2017, he announced that he would not seek re-election. Poe has served in Congress since 2005.

On the many hats he’s worn:

“Texan” is my favorite title. I’ve enjoyed being in public service. I’ve been in public service all my life. … I especially liked being a judge in Houston.

On why he’s leaving Congress:

I don’t think that members of Congress, especially me, should make a career out of being in Congress. After 14 years, I feel like I’ve accomplished some things I wanted to accomplish, and it’s time to go back to Texas on a permanent basis.

On how Congress has changed:

I think there is less camaraderie between members of Congress. People don’t seem to get along with each other like I think the process needs. Not necessarily agreeing, just civility, I think, has diminished in the United States Congress. … It seems to me that part of the reason is that the folks in the community that elect us, they have a tendency now to elect people in both parties, in the primaries, with the understanding that they will not be working with the other side. … And I believe very strongly that the best legislation that’s passed out of the United States Congress is bipartisan legislation.

On his health status:

My health is good. Leukemia is a disease that you never get rid of, so I have it. But it’s under control.

Written by Shelly Brisbin.