Best Republican Houston 2013 - State Sen. Dan Patrick
There are few politicians, regardless of level, who can provide the emotive range of state Sen. Dan Patrick, who represents northwest Houston. Whether he's ripping into pro-choice advocates in a public hearing or choking up when discussing students eligible for his neo-vouchers, Patrick serves his deep-red district with enough artistic aplomb to make any televangelist jealous. And while he's seemingly content manning the Senate Education Committee, don't be surprised if Patrick soon reveals that his sights are set on higher office. His tears deserve a larger audience, anyway.