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Craddick: "You can't please everyone."

Former House Speaker sits down with KXAN

Updated: Wednesday, 14 Jan 2009, 6:17 PM CST
Published : Wednesday, 14 Jan 2009, 11:47 AM CST

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Rep. Tom Craddick (R-Midland) gave KXAN Austin News his first one-on-one interview after dropping out of the Speaker's race. The 40-year veteran of the House said being Speaker had always been his dream since he joined the House as part of a minority coalition of nine Republicans.

In respnse to some of the members' claims that he ruled with an iron fist, Craddick said: "You can't please everyone."

In times when the economy is ailing, Craddick said cutbacks are almost certain, which is unpopular. He also said there was never retribution for committee chairs who did not fall in line with his own priorities. Instead, Craddick cited the positive impact during his time as Speaker.

"I appointed more minorities and women to leadership positions than ever before," said Craddick.

Craddick also takes credit for rebuilding and recruiting for the Republican party.

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