I initially talked to Mr. Schaefer at the Smith County Republican Party Convention in June of 2020 and briefly discussed two issues. One being the ongoing government over-reach by Governor Abbott in response to the pandemic. The other issue was the need for a referendum to determine the will of the people regarding Texas reasserting its status as an independent nation. I submitted resolutions concerning these two issues to the Convention and both were debated and passed.
When the legislative session began in 2021, I expected Mr. Schaefer to support his constituents on these issues and was encouraged when I learned of the filing of Representative Beidermann’s bill, HB1359, to give Texans the opportunity to debate and vote on this issue. I contacted Mr. Schaefer to encourage his support by calling and visiting his office in Tyler. He was illusive and non-commital but finally stated that he did not support the bill and said that he would issue a press release stating his position. No press release was ever issued.
Since Mr. Schafer was never in his Tyler office when I visited during the session and feeling that phone conversations gave only a limited opportunity to make my case, I resorted to pen and paper–or keyboard and printer–to present my case. This resulted in the exchange you have.
I have made my position on the issues very clear. I believe that Independence is the only solution to the situation we are now in. This issue was openly and honestly presented to the convention of representatives at the Republican Party Convention and I pledge to honor the wishes of the citizens of District 6 when I am elected to the Texas House of Representatives.
Charles W. Turner
