PonyFans.com

JasonB wrote: Baylor wants...

Greenwich Pony wrote:Houston makes sense, Cincy doesn't unless in a group of four. B12's long term outlook just not good.

Comet wrote:I really don't think SMU is in the picture even if they invite 4

Comet wrote:I really don't think SMU is in the picture even if they invite 4

Greenwich Pony wrote:Houston makes sense, Cincy doesn't unless in a group of four. B12's long term outlook just not good.

UH officials saw an opening, but had to be careful about openly courting a spot because they didn’t want to anger their current American Athletic Conference. So while administrators worked behind the scenes to build up their sports programs, most of the political push was left to the university’s most powerful supporters.

The UH PAC, which is known for aggressively pursuing the university’s interests, has been key. Wilson said the group identified Big 12 membership as one of its top priorities about two years ago. Ever since, its leaders have lobbied more than 50 lawmakers to support their bid.

The group has the power of the purse behind it. According to campaign finance records, it has made more than $800,000 worth of political expenditures since 2012. Those include donations totaling $38,500 to Abbott, $32,500 to Patrick and more than $40,000 to state Sen. Kel Seliger, R-Amarillo, chairman of the Senate Higher Education Committee.

Perhaps even more important, the UH System’s billionaire board chairman has made his own push. Tilman Fertitta, who owns numerous chain restaurants and casinos, is a powerful figure in the state, having donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to Texas politicians, including more than $350,000 to Abbott and more than $130,000 to Patrick. In October, Fertitta will host a fundraiser for Patrick.