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AUSTIN Democrats in the Legislature, still recovering from what one called the gut punch of the November elections, vowed Tuesday that they would not be cowed by their small numbers and diminished influence.

Leading House and Senate Democrats promised that they would find ways to make their constituents voices heard on important issues. After all, they noted, many Democrats have years of experience of shaping legislation while serving in the minority.

And they pledged that though Republicans appear poised to take additional steps to curb Democrats power in the Senate, in particular the GOP wouldnt be able to pass any bill it wants.

But months after enthusiasm spiked over the prospect of a Democratic revival in Texas, the partys defensive posture served reminder of its long-running minority status. Some Democrats acknowledged Tuesday that the party needs to regroup.

Elections have consequences, said Sen. Royce West, D-Dallas. The platform that we talked about didnt resonate with people. So we have to make a decision about whether to change our message or change our methods.

The party lost one Senate seat and three House seats, and its candidates were blown out in every statewide race.

In the Senate, firebrand Republican Dan Patrick will preside as lieutenant governor. He pledged on the campaign trail to remove Democrats from key committee leadership posts. And hes also backing a rule change in the upper chamber that would limit Democrats ability to block some legislation.

Rep. Yvonne Davis, a Dallas Democrat who led the partys House caucus two years ago, said Democrats could help themselves by advocating for a different vision on education, health care and other issues.

We are going to approach it like we always have, which is to provide alternative approaches and present ideas that will reflect the values of our constituents, Davis said.

And while Republicans have a big majority, Democrats still have some tools and strategies at their disposal.

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Texas Democrats, once again in the minority, vow to be heard