Legislature Ends With Lt. Gov. Patrick Denying 2018 Plans

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AUSTIN (AP) — Texas lawmakers are shifting back into campaign mode now that the legislative session is over, but Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick says he's not among them.

The powerful Senate leader said Monday he won't challenge Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in 2018. His assurances came at the end of a 140-day legislative session in which Patrick's aggressive style led to speculation that he was already eyeing higher office.

Patrick is a tea party leader who pushed the Legislature further to the right over spending and border security. He says lieutenant governor will be "my last position."

The Texas Legislature is now adjourned until 2017.

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