Top Reads for Feb. 7: illegal immigration, Davis for open carry, and a cold welcome for Christi

Lieutenant governor candidates, in particular state Sen. Dan Patrick, R-Houston, have harsh words for undocumented immigrants coming to Texas. He has called it an “illegal invasion,” drawing ire from Hispanic Democrats and Republicans alike. Read the Texas Tribune story from Alexa Ura and Morgan Smith here.

The Houston Chronicle’s Peggy Fikac goes in-depth with reaction to the AP news that state Sen. Wendy Davis, D-Fort Worth, is friendly to “open carry.” Some see it as a break in the ranks, and some say it can’t hurt in gun-friendly Texas. Democratic lieutenant governor candidate state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte says, “This is one where Wendy and I are on a different page.” Story here.

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christi is getting a cold reception from top GOP leaders in Texas and Democrats alike as he came to the Metroplex to raise money for the Republican Governors Association. Claire Cardona writes at The Dallas Morning News Trail Blazers blog here.