Myra Crownover’s legacy

When state Rep. Ronny Crownover of Lake Dallas died tragically of leukemia during the 2000 election campaign, his wife, Myra, was the sentimental choice to fill his spot on the ballot.

Sometimes that works, and sometimes it doesn’t. Success depends on whether the surviving spouse has the same political convictions and devotion to public service and can adapt to the pressure at the center of the campaign.

Myra Crownover not only adapted, she thrived. In the 15 years since, she has become one of Denton County’s most prominent and powerful lawmakers ever.

Her announcement this week that she will not seek re-election is a sad day both for her constituents and for her fellow lawmakers, who have come to know her as a courageous conservative and a strong fighter for energy production and business success.

As chairwoman of the House Committee on Public Health in the last session, she helped expand lifesaving newborn screening and defended Denton’s ever-threatened State Supported Living Center for people with developmental disabilities, the former “state school.”

Denton County is predominantly Republican, so her House seat likely will be filled by the winner of the March 1 party primary. Voters should seek more leaders like Crownover.

This story was originally published August 6, 2015 at 5:51 PM with the headline "Myra Crownover’s legacy."