New Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick trimmed down the number of Senate committees from 18 to 14 as one of his first acts to establish control of the chamber. Patrick axed panels on open government, jurisprudence, economic development and government organization.

Open Government – Clearly there is no commitment to this as Patrick will rely on a so-called citizens’ committee comprised primarily of big money Republican donors.  No need for the common folk to see what is going on behind the smoke and mirrors.

Jurisprudence – Why have a committee that might actually oppose further restrictions on the rights of ordinary folks to sue?

Economic Development –  Not interested in anything beyond more tax breaks for big business.  No committee needed for that.

Government Organization –  We want our government to be as disorganized as possible.