Tuesday morning, San Antonio millionaire trial lawyer Mikal Watts dropped the bombshell that he is ending his exploratory campaign for the U.S. Senate. Watts was preparing to use his substantial personal fortune to battle Houston state Rep. Rick Noriega in the Democratic primary this spring – on Oct. 15, he reported a campaign war chest of $8.3 million, of which $7.5 million came from his own pocket. Noriega, by contrast, reported only half a million. But in a statement, Watts said he was pulling out because, “[a]fter spending the last several months putting everything into this campaign, I have seen the toll this effort has taken on my young children. … I realize that my time now should be devoted to serving my children so they may grow up in a healthy environment with both parents at home to meet their needs.”
Of course, “more time with the family” always sparks speculation about the “real” reason: Almost immediately, the Quorum Report website noted Watts’ connections to Mauricio Celis, a Democratic contributor under investigation for both practicing law without a license and impersonating a peace officer. “[T]he low-talk in the political neighborhood is that it may spill over into the campaign,” said QR. Others posited that Watts was disappointed that Noriega pulled in more money in individual contributions, possibly showing stronger support among Democrats.
Watts’ explanation was good enough for Noriega, who now looks like the most likely challenger to incumbent John Cornyn, unless another Dem (possibly John Sharp?) decides to enter the fray. “Mikal Watts will always have my utmost respect for standing in the arena and highlighting how John Cornyn has let Texas down, placing political extremists and his financial contributors ahead of the people of Texas,” said Noriega in his own statement. “Today, Mikal made a very difficult and personal decision to put his family first. That’s a reflection of a strong character and a truly grounded leader.”
This article appears in Richard Suttle.