Ann Richards in Decision Points, by Pres. George W. Bush

On Education: 1993: Robin Hood redistribution from rich districts to poor

Karl and I didn't think she had actually accomplished much. Karl told me his analysis showed that many Texans--even some Democrats--would be open to a candidate with a serious program to improve the state. That was exactly what I had in mind.

In a spring 1993 special election, Richards placed a school funding measure on the ballot. Derisively dubbed "Robin Hood," her plan redistributed money from rich districts to poor ones. The voters defeated it by a healthy margin. In an interview, Richards was frustrated by the defeat of the school funding measure and said sarcastically, "We are all, boy, eagerly awaiting any suggestions and ideas that are realistic." I turned to Laura and said, "I have a suggestion. I might run for governor." She looked at me like I was crazy. "Are you joking?" she asked. I told her I was serious. I had the political bug again, and we both knew it.