Controversies
In 1995, Ellis was featured in the PBS documentary "Vote for Me." He was filmed on the floor of the Senate during the 74th Legislative Session in 1995 with a live microphone, unknown to his fellow Senators. Ellis apologized to his colleagues for the breach of protocol.
In 2001, following George W. Bush's election to the presidency and Lieutenant Governor Rick Perry's promotion to Governor, Ellis — by virtue of serving as President Pro Tempore — became the official presiding officer of the Texas Senate. He drew fire from Texas media for ensuring the Senate vote to replace Perry was done with a secret ballot and without a record vote.
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