Governor’s Appointments Being Scrutinized By Some

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Conservatives are taking aim at Republican Gov. Greg Abbott's first appointments to the University of Texas System Board of Regents.

The Senate Nominations Committee has scheduled a Thursday hearing on the appointments of new board members David Beck and Sara Martinez Tucker. Regent Steve Hicks has also been appointed to a new term.

Far-right groups have attacked Martinez Tucker for her support of Common Core, an education initiative that has been criticized by conservatives. Beck is a Houston trial attorney who has been a strong supporter of embattled UT Austin President Bill Powers.

Hicks is in line to eventually become board chairman and also has been a strong supporter of Powers, who was pressured to resign and leaves in June.

Any nominations approved will be sent to the full Senate.