What does a United States Vice President have to do with the Texas state flower?

In the case of John Nance Garner (November 22, 1868 – November 7, 1967) the 32nd U.S., Vice President, his support for the prickly pear cactus earned him the lasting nickname, "Cactus Jack."

At the start of the 20th century, Texas decided it should adopt a state flower. After the cotton was rejected, a group of legislators, including Garner, argued that the cactus was a symbol of Texan hardiness and strength.

In the end, the ladies of Texas — specifically representatives from the National Society of Colonial Dames of America — were successful, and the more attractive bluebonnet was chosen in 1901. As for Cactus Jack Garner, he went on to enjoy a lengthy political career, serving as Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd U.S. President, Vice President from 1933 to 1941.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org