Texas’ two U.S. senators are undermining the state’s role as a leader in revamping overly harsh sentencing laws and reducing mass incarceration. [Opinion]

“Not long ago, Texas was viewed as a leading state on criminal justice reform. Former Gov. Rick Perry signed legislation that reduced the prison population and was regarded as a model for the country — embodying both compassionate and fiscal conservatism. Our state’s efforts were then embraced by federal leaders, with Texas Sens. Ted Cruz and John Cornyn championing legislation to reduce harsh federal sentences for drug offenses. But now Cruz and Cornyn have become the face of opposition to sentencing reform, and without their support, our state began losing its leadership role on this critical issue.“

Houston Chronicle

October 6, 2018