LWVTX-VG-2024-03-ENG.indd

VOTERS GUIDE

TEXAS PRIMARY ELECTION MARCH 5, 2024

EARLY VOTING: Feb. 20–Mar. 1, 2024 ELECTION DAY: March 5, 2024. Polls open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

» ABOUT THIS VOTERS GUIDE

 is Voters Guide is funded and published by the League of Women Voters

of Texas.  e League does not support or oppose any political party or any

candidate.

» EMPOWERING VOTERS.

DEFENDING DEMOCRACY.

» VOTERS GUIDE CONTENTS

Be a Texas Voter! 2

Voter ID—What to take to thePolls 2

Helpful Contacts and Websites 2

U.S. President 3

U.S. Senate 3

Railroad Commission 6

Texas Supreme Court 8

Texas Court of Criminal Appeals 10

State Board of Education 12

Courts of Appeals 15

Voters Guide Sponsors and

Supporters 16

Voters Guide Policy 16

Texas Local Leagues 16

U.S. President U.S. Senate Railroad Commission Texas Supreme Court

Texas Court of Criminal Appeals

State Board of Education Court of Appeals

» VOTING IN TEXAS

 e upcoming Primary Election is extremely important for Texas!

Primary Elections: Texas has open primaries, which means all Texas voters

can participate in either the Republican or Democratic primaries, or the Libertar-

ian or Green party conventions.  e primary elections include this Primary Elec-

tion, to be held on March 5th, and the Runo Election, to be held on May 28th.

•  e Republican and Democratic parties each choose their candidates in pri-

mary elections.

•  e Libertarian and Green parties each choose their candidates in a party

convention.

Since many districts in Texas heavily favor one party over the other, the primary

elections o en determine the winner of the General Election! Even if you do not

strongly identify with any political party, you can and should carefully consider

the candidate choices and participate in one of the primaries or conventions.

Note: Once you have voted in one party primary election or convention, you can-

not vote in another party’s primary or convention. You can only vote in that same

party’s runo election.

General Election: Voting in one party’s primary election, convention or runo

election does NOT commit you to vote for a particular party or candidate in the

November General Election. You can still vote for any candidate of your choice,

regardless of party, in the General Election.

» VOTE411

 e online, interactive version of the Voters Guide is at VOTE.org. By entering

your address, you can view races and candidates on your ballot, compare candi-

date responses to unbiased questions posed by the League and create a print-out

of your choices to take to the polls. If there is a local League in your community,

you may also  nd information on any local races.

VOTER ID: WHAT TO

TAKE TO THE POLLS

You may use one of seven forms of photo ID, listed below.

• Texas Driver License

• Texas Election Identi cation Certi cate

• Texas Personal Identi cation Card issued by the Department of Public

Safety(DPS)

• Texas Handgun License issued by DPS

• US Military Identi cation card containing your photograph

• US Citizenship Certi cate containing your photograph

• US Passport (book or card)

Note:

• IDs may have expired up to four years.

• Persons 70 years or older may use an expired ID, regardless of expiration date.

• ID address does not have to match the voter registration address.

•  e name on the photo ID should match the name on the list of registered vot-

ers or be “substantially similar”. If your name doesn’t match exactly, you can

still vote but will need to sign a form stating you are the person on the list of

registered voters.

If you are registered but do not have a photo ID and cannot reasonably obtain

one, you may sign a form and present alternative documentation. Learn more at

lwvtexas.org/voterid.

» VOTER HARASSMENT

• Election o cials cannot question a voter about the use of an ID type.

• Poll watchers may never question a voter about Voter ID issues.

• If you are harassed, call or text Election Protection at 866-687-8683!

BE A TEXAS VOTER!

Your vote is your voice ... below are the ways to exercise your right to vote.

Whichever way you choose to vote, be sure you are registered by checking at

VoteTexas.gov. You must be registered before you can vote!

» VOTE BY MAIL

• You can vote by mail if you are:

• 65 years or older

• Sick or disabled

• Out of the county during early voting and on Election Day

• Expecting to give birth within 3 weeks before or a er Election Day

• In jail, but otherwise eligible to vote.

• To vote by mail in Texas, you must apply every year! Go to lwvtexas.org

/votebymail for a vote-by-mail application and easy-to-understand instruc-

tions on voting by mail.

• Track your ballot at VoteTexas.gov. If there is an error in your vote-by-mail

application or ballot, your county election o ce is required to notify you and

instruct you how to  x it either by mail, in person or via the online tracker.

» VOTE IN PERSON

• During early voting, you may vote at any polling place.

• On Election Day:

• In some counties, you can vote at any polling place.

• In other counties, you can vote only at your precinct.

• Find polling places on your county election website or at VOTE.org.

• If you have a disability, you may request to move ahead of other voters in line.

• If in line before the poll closing time, you must be allowed to cast a ballot.

» VOTE IN PERSON USING CURBSIDE VOTING

• If you are physically unable to enter the polling place without personal assis-

tance or likelihood of injuring your health, you may park at the curbside vot-

ing parking space and call the number that is posted to ask that an election

o cer bring a ballot to your car.

• A er you mark your ballot, give it to the election o cer or hand it to a com-

panion to deposit in the ballot box for you.

» VOTE EVEN IF YOU ARE A SUSPENDED VOTER

You can still vote if your voter registration is in suspense as long as you are regis-

tered in your county. “Suspense” means that your county voter registrar needs to

con rm your voting address.

» VOTE A LIMITED BALLOT

If you have moved to a new county and have not registered in that county by the

registration deadline, you may be eligible to vote a limited ballot in your new

county. A limited ballot is one that allows you to vote on candidates and mea-

sures that are on the ballot for both your former county and your new county,

such as statewide and national races.

• Note: Voting a limited ballot is only available during early voting at your

county’s main early voting polling place.

» HELPFUL CONTACTS AND WEBSITES

League of Women Voters of Texas Secretary of State

lwvtexas.org VoteTexas.gov

Your County Election Website

https://www.sos.texas.gov/elections/voter/links.shtml#County

Election Protection

OURVOTE.org

Voter Hotlines!

• English: 866-OUR-VOTE or 866-687-8683

• Spanish: 888-Ve-Y-Vota or 888- 839-8682

• Asian: 888-API-VOTE or 888-274-8683

• Arabic: 844-YALLA-US or 844-925-5297

• Disability Rights TX: 888-796-VOTE or 888-796-8683

Republican Party Democratic Party

texasgop.org txdemocrats.org

Libertarian Party Green Party

lptexas.org txgreens.org

» REPUBLICAN PARTY

» Ryan L. Binkley

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES

Qualiﬁ cations: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for

this position?

Democracy: What, if anything, needs to be done to protect our democracy and

restore faith in our institutions?

Immigration: What policy changes are needed so the U.S immigration system

is both e ective and humane?

» See VOTE411.org to compare candidates for President.

*Withdrew from the race prior to the time of publication.

» DEMOCRATIC PARTY

» Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

» Star Locke

» Frankie Lozada

» Armando “Mando”

Perez- Serrato

International Relations: What is the role of the U.S. in protecting democ-

racy across the world and how do we balance that position against our economic

interests?

Climate Change: What measures, if any, need to be taken at the federal level to

address the impacts of climate change?

U.S. PRESIDENT

Four-year term. The President is: the head of state of the United States of America; the

Chief Executive Ofﬁ cer; and, the Commander in Chief of all military forces. The powers

of the President are prescribed in the Constitution and federal law. The President

appoints the members of the Cabinet, ambassadors to other nations and the United

Nations, Supreme Court Justices, and federal judges, subject to Senate approval. The

President, along with the Cabinet and its agencies, is responsible for carrying out and

enforcing the laws of the United States. The President may also recommend legislation

to the United States Congress.Current annual salary: $400,000 per year.

U.S. SENATOR

Six-year term. One of two members of the U.S. Senate from Texas. With the U.S. House, the

Senate makes laws; raises revenues, appropriates federal funds and manages the federal

debt; regulates commerce among states and with other nations; declares war and maintains

and regulates the military; establishes the federal court system and deﬁ nes federal crimes;

and directs the census every ten years. The Senate has the exclusive power to advise and

consent on presidential nominations to executive and judicial ofﬁ ces, to ratify U.S. treaties,

and to try impeachments. Current annual salary: $174,000

» Ted Cruz (R)

No response received

» Holland ‘Redd’ Gibson (R)

No response received

» R.E. (Rufus) Lopez (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: I am an Attorney with 59 years in the prac-

tice before all Federal and State courts. I am a 4/5th genera-

tion Texan, born and raised in south Texas and an avid rancher,

farmer and hunter.

Democracy:  e government needs to quit meddling in the

individual lives of our citizens.  e 10th Amendment is very clear: “ e rights

not given to the Federal Government are reserved to the states” Our Democracy

is as strong as its citizens; I have not lost faith in our country, but the members of

Congress must be retired; they are the root of the problem.

Immigration: We have not had an Immigration plan in 37 years. We must look

back to the plans considered over the years and expand on those and complete

one that will allow Seasonal workers, and those that can be sponsored by citizens

and who can contribute to the growth of this country. We must prohibit mar-

riages of convenience and allow a gradual increase of immigrants who can prove

that they can contribute

International Relations: We are the greatest country on earth and to those

that much is given, much is expected. Protecting and encouraging democracy as

the best form of government should be the central feature of our foreign policy.

Encouraging economic trade is crucial to our growth while prohibiting foreign

ownership of our lands. Ukraine is a true democracy and for once we are sup-

porting one that mirrors ours.

Climate Change: Encourage the oil and gas industry to contribute to the en-

deavor.  ey too live in our environment and are e ected by the development of

the industry. A strong partnership with the industry must be developed such as

we are seeing in the wind farms and o shore drilling.

» Ron DeSantis*

» Donald J. Trump

» Nikki Haley

» David Stuckenberg

» Chris Christie*

» Vivek Ramaswamy*

» Asa Hutchinson*

» Dean Phillips

» Marianne Williamson

» Gabriel A. Cornejo

» Cenk Uygur

» Meri Gomez (D)

No response received

» Roland Gutierrez (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: San Antonio City Council member (2005-

2008); Texas State Representative (2008- 2021); Texas State Senator

(since 2021) Find out more at: https://rolandfortexas.com/about/

Democracy: For too long, people feel like they have been shut

out of government without a voice.  erefore, we must ensure

that every voter will cast a meaningful vote and that special interests have far less

in uence to a ect policymaking. I would seek several changes, including cam-

paign  nance reform that provides greater transparency to voters, and a ban on

gerrymandering for congressional districts.

Immigration: We must: 1) provide a pathway to normalcy for undocumented

workers; 2) provide DREAMers immediate citizenship; 3) create a new work pro-

gram for arriving immigrants that meets the needs of our economy; 4)  x and

streamline dysfunctional visa program; and 5) end human tra cking and stop

drug cartels.

Find out more at: https://rolandfortexas.com/immigration/

» Mark Gonzalez (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: Tattoos. Motorcycle riding. Reformer DA.

Vaquero. Father of  ve and attorney. I know what it’s like to

meet a payroll, get the kids to a dance recital on time, and cas-

trate a steer at the ranch.

Democracy: As District Attorney, I got to see how people

worked to undermine faith in our justice system. It was one of the reasons I ran

for DA in the  rst place. An elected o cial has a duty to uphold their oath, but

they also have the opportunity to lead by example. Senators should work for con-

stituents rather than  nding ways to trend on social media.

Immigration: Stop using people as props and  x the problem. Rhetoric around

mass deportations hurts any reasonable and bipartisan e ort to achieve legisla-

tion.  is must include a pathway to citizenship for those here and protections

for DREAMers and their families. More can be done to protect farm workers and

hold individuals accountable for taking advantage of immigrant workers.

International Relations:  e U.S. must be a leader in the World promoting

and protecting democracies. We must be for free and fair elections at home and

abroad. For too long, our economic interests have lead the U.S. to undermine

elected leaders throughout the developing world. Speci cally, we should use our

global economic power to demand trade partners that also value and promote

self- representation.

Climate Change: I worry every day about the environmental legacy that my

generation has le for our children. We must incentivize a robust renewable in-

dustry that will reduce carbon and provide jobs to Texans. In addition, our coun-

try should seek multi- national agreements to lower the amount of greenhouse gas

consumption.

Find out more: https://rolandfortexas.com/issues-energy-and-the-environment/

Campaign website: rolandfortexas.com

International Relations: We have a moral obligation to protect freedom and

promote peace around the world.  at does not mean forgetting about problems

at home, however. We should champion democracy globally, but do it through di-

plomacy, international cooperation, and fair economic policies. We can promote

a world that respects democratic values while safeguarding our economic inter-

ests and national security.

Climate Change: We should be concerned about the global warming of our

planet and its impact on water, farming and employment. When we talk about

climate, we need to talk about how to protect, expand jobs. Democrats cannot ig-

nore the impact on jobs in Texas when talking about climate change.  at’s an

opportunity to grow solar and wind power manufacturing jobs and ultimately

obtain a net- zero emissions economy.

Campaign website: www.markagonzalez.com

U.S. SENATOR

(continued)

» Colin Allred (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I’ve spent my three terms in Congress work-

ing with folks in both parties to get things done. Texans can’t

a ord 6 more years of extreme politicians. We need a Senator

we can count on.

Democracy: As a voting rights lawyer and a member of the

Foreign A airs Committee, I have worked to protect our democracy. I’ve cham-

pioned reforms to root out corruption, get big money out of politics, end gerry-

mandering, and ensure every eligible voter can easily exercise their constitutional

right to vote. I have also championed modernizing the Voting Rights Act to pro-

tect the right to vote.

Immigration: My mother was raised in Brownsville and I o en spent summers

visiting my grandmother in the Rio Grande Valley. Our current immigration sys-

tem is broken and I support comprehensive reform that includes securing our

borders, protecting Dreamers, and providing a pathway to earned citizenship for

those who are working hard and obeying the law. I will work with both parties to

get this done.

International Relations: I have served on the Foreign A airs Committee, and

I believe a strong national defense is critical to protecting America and our in-

terests around the world. We must defend democracy and democratic values. It’s

why I support Ukraine and its e ort to defend its democracy against Russian ag-

gression. I also believe we must deter Chinese aggression and stand by our part-

ner Taiwan.

Climate Change: We need action to address the climate crisis, and an all- of-

the- above energy strategy that keeps costs low, keeps jobs in Texas and creates a

more reliable electric grid. Texas is an energy leader and I will continue to sup-

port responsible oil and gas production and build on the historic investments we

made in reducing pollution and growing wind, solar, hydrogen and other forms

of clean energy.

Campaign website: colinallred.com

» Steven J. Keough (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: Steve is a retired Navy Captain. He has a

Master’s Degree in Congressional Studies and a law degree. He

was appointed by Presidents Clinton and GW Bush to the Na-

tional Nuclear  reat Assessment team.

Democracy: It is important that US Senators hold themselves

to higher standard of accountability. Accuracy and transparency are paramount.

A key role of Senators is their oversight function. Judicial oversight over Su-

preme Court nominees and Justices needs to be restored. Oversight over how our

friends overseas use our foreign aid also needs to be restored.

Immigration:  e border wall is a failed US policy. In a modern world, there

are more e ective uses of the tax dollars to achieve a better result. It is unaccept-

able to use razor wire on the border. It is also unacceptable to misuse the Na-

tional Guard the way Operation Lone Star is using them. It is important to create

an easy to understand legal pathway to citizenship.

International Relations: Steve has decades of experience of working in the

area of International diplomacy and democracy building.  ree hot spots to

watch: Taiwan vs. China (Steve speaks Chinese) He has experience in working in

Asia. US vs. Putin- Steve worked in former Soviet states to build democracy. Mid-

dle East- Steve commanded a unit in Bahrain, spent time in Iran and Israel, and

understands the area.

Climate Change: Federal regulation over how the oil and gas industry cleans

up a er itself will be important going forward. Alternative energy subsidies

should continue and should be encouraged. Cities need to be given more help to

grow with climate science in mind. For example,  ood mitigation, accessibility to

water sources, and better handing of waste management.

Campaign website: www.keoughforsenate.com

» Heli Rodriguez Prilliman (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: As a Tejana from rural Texas, I’m proud to

have helped build multiple successful tech startups over the

past decade. I’m also a mom exhausted with our country’s lack

of childcare and health care.

Democracy: We need to comprehensively reform our cam-

paign  nance laws to get billionaire and corporate money out of politics. Today,

unless you come from wealth and powerful connections, it’s almost impossible

to run for o ce. Ideas: Publicly funded elections, launch civics and media liter-

acy initiatives, regulate online attention economy, vote- by- mail, term limits, and

holding accountable the bad actors.

Immigration: Give immigrants a fair and humane path to citizenship. If you’re

here and want to work, we should make it easy: get them social security numbers

so they can work and start paying taxes. If they keep a clean record, let them be-

come citizens. We need to  x the visa processing bottlenecks, address the gaps

that allow child migrant workers, and force a culture reset by forming a new

agency.

International Relations: When it comes to protecting democracy around

the world, our role should involve less aggressive posturing (end the unaccount-

able funding of weapons and war) and more focused on promoting global educa-

tion and diplomacy. Honestly, our economic interests would work themselves out

if we adequately funded childcare, healthcare, education, and mental health care

for the American people instead of wars.

Climate Change: With aquifers and wells dwindling from climate change and

multinational corporate overuse, the federal government must review all water

rights laws so vulnerable communities don’t run out of water. Prioritize weath-

erization of electrical grids and housing insulation. Train and transition workers

to the clean energy industry as we continue to invest in solar, wind, nuclear, and

other renewables.

Campaign website: www.helifortexas.com

U.S. SENATOR

(continued)

» A. “Robert” Hassan (D)

Qualiﬁ cations:  e Senate must be able to communicate ef-

fectively with a variety of people, including colleagues, sta ,

constituents, and the media. I am most capable of working well

under pressure.

Democracy: American democracy is at a dangerous in ection

point.  e moment requires a step- change in strategy and support. Without such

momentum, the country faces a democratic setback. Many Americans view this

moment with concern with worthy measure. America’s system is creaky, but the

world’s oldest democracy has strong institutions and will pull through.

Immigration: Since the end of the Cold War, most democratic failure globally

has been caused by elected governments using legal methods, such technical rule

changes, to derail democracy.  eir destructions of their own democracies have

been supported by pluralities or majorities of their citizenries, whose polarization

leads them to back policies that harm democracy to ensure their side prevails.

International Relations: Many of the laws that form institutional guardrails

were written poorly in the a ermath of the Civil War, with loopholes that are eas-

ily challenged given a lack of precedent. Moreover, the country’s age means that

much of what are presumed to be laws and institutions are, in fact, simply norms.

 ese norms are eroding quickly.

Climate Change: In America, many states have been  ooded with laws to alter

voting.  e worst of these maneuvers have occurred in a dozen states that have

passed laws transferring power to more partisan electoral bodies and/or crimi-

nalizing their election administrations.  ese antidemocratic legal moves cannot

be overcome by turnout. In turn, e ecting all climate change policy measures.

Campaign website: hassanfortexas.org/

» Carl Oscar Sherman (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I have a background as a city manager, busi-

nessman, mayor, member of the Texas House of Representa-

tives, and pastor.  ese help me understand the challenges

faced by rural, suburban, and urban Texans.

Democracy: Our main focus should be on bipartisanship and

addressing the needs of everyday Americans, regardless of their political a lia-

tion. We must also provide protection for voters. Poor turnout in elections is due

in large part to gerrymandering, discriminatory voter ID laws, lack of access to

polls, and prejudice towards formerly incarcerated Texans.

Immigration: We must conduct investigations on unfair conditions in deten-

tion facilities, oppose private immigration centers, and provide additional judi-

cial resources, translators, and social workers at our borders. It is also important

to provide more pathways to citizenship and education to immigrants about their

rights so they can also be their own advocates in an unfair system.

U.S. SENATOR

(continued)

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES

Qualiﬁ cations: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for

this position?

Natural Gas Facility Weatherization: What further changes, if any, are needed

to ensure that Texas has su cient power in times of extreme weather conditions?

Emissions: What impact does  aring from oil and gas wells have on climate

change, and what is the role of the Railroad Commission in reducing the amount

of  ared gas from oil and gas wells in Texas?

Seismic Activity: How can the Railroad Commission reduce the risk of

seismic activity or earthquakes caused by water disposal from oil and gas

drilling?

Ethics: Since candidates for Railroad Commission o en raise money and re-

ceiveincome from the oil and gas industry, how can citizens be assured that

those donations and income will not in uence how commissioners regulate the

industry?

RAILROAD

COMMISSIONER

Six- year term. The Railroad Commissioner is one of the three- member Railroad Com-

mission of Texas. The commission regulates the oil and gas industry, gas utilities,

pipeline safety, safety in the liqueﬁ ed petroleum gas industry and surface coal and

uranium mining. It has no regulatory authority concerning railroads. Current annual

salary: $140,937

» Christie Clark (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: I am proud that I grew up in a small town and

have small town values. As an attorney, I have represented large

companies, small businesses and most importantly ordinary folks.

Natural Gas Facility Weatherization: All industries need

to work together and  nd common sense solutions. Texas has

the best and brightest minds, let’s work together.

» Christi Craddick (R)

No response received

Emissions:  e Railroad Commission has all of the regulations necessary to

ensure safe  aring.  e regulations just need to be enforced.

Seismic Activity: A task force of industry professionals should be established

to study and recommend changes necessary to ensure continued production

while maintaining the environment and the safety of citizens.

Ethics: I am not a politician and have never received donations from indus-

try.  e current commissioners need to be audited and held accountable for their

corruption.

» Corey Howell (R)

No response received

» Thierry Tchenko (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I’m a lifelong public servant who has worked in

local & federal government as well as the nonpro t sector. I have

devoted my life to serving working families & everyday people.

Democracy: To restore faith in our institutions, we must hold

elected o cials accountable for their actions. Talking points

while you’re campaigning is not enough. Our politicians must work on behalf of

their constituents- by introducing and passing legislation. In order to protect our

democracy, we must continue to  ght voter suppression at every turn.

Immigration: Immigration changes needed among others: Place undocu-

mented immigrants in U.S. without criminal record on a path to citizenship in-

cluding Dreamers, pass a state- based guest- worker program, hire more immigra-

tion judges to address backlog of cases, establish processing centers in Central &

South America to reduce activity at border, upgrade cameras and sensors at bor-

der to assist Border Patrol.

International Relations:  e United States should be playing an active role in

protecting democracy across the world primarily through diplomacy. Every deci-

sion that U.S. makes from a foreign policy standpoint should be guided by the objec-

tive of protecting our nation’s interests and security. Aid and support should be eval-

uated on a continuous basis to ensure our domestic needs are also being addressed.

Climate Change: Climate change is an issue that greatly a ects Texas. I will

support legislation to reduce carbon emissions and invest in Texas’s renewable

energy in order to ensure that our communities sustain themselves.

Campaign website: www.tchenkofortexas.com

» Carl Oscar Sherman (D) (continued)

International Relations: Take a strong role in cultivating democracy helps en-

sure a peaceful world in which both human dignity and trade are facilitated and

protected. But it can’t be a policy of words without action. While it is important

to collaborate and partner with other countries, democracy must start at home,

which allows us to be a role model for others

Climate Change:  e federal government can establish protected areas and

support small agricultural producers.  ey can also implement carbon taxes to

the largest producers of greenhouse gas and use the money to invest in small

farmers, sustainable tech, and support organizations to combat climate change.

Since global problems require global solutions, we must also collaborate with the

international community.

Campaign website: www.carlsherman.com

RAILROAD COMMISSIONER

(continued)

» Katherine Culbert (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I am a Process Safety Engineer who helps Oil

& Gas companies operate safely to protect communities and

workers and follow regulations. I care about my fellow Texans

and want everyone to thrive here.

Natural Gas Facility Weatherization: Lawmakers need to

adopt better energy e ciency rules to help Texans use less energy to save money

and reduce demand. Preventing pipeline companies from owning the gas trans-

ported in their lines to stop monopolies and having a transparent gas market so

the public can see the pro ts of pipeline operators during extreme weather would

also help to address the gas supply issues.

Emissions: Flaring releases methane (natural gas) and other hazardous air pol-

lutants and contributes to ground- level ozone. RRC needs to update Rule 32 to

de ne when a  aring permit should be granted, remove  aring applications from

the consent agenda, and hold companies accountable for the environmental dam-

» Petra Reyes (R)

No response received

» James ‘Jim’ Matlock (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: A er serving with an anti- terrorist unit in

the United States Marine Corps, I began an 18 year career in the

oil and gas industry, where I noticed the vulnerability of our

energy sector.

Natural Gas Facility Weatherization: Contrary to pop-

ular belief, I don’t agree with the  nal ruling.  ere were power plants that were

not operating during the snow storms of 2021. Some of the biomass plants were

not prepared to be operational.  is information comes from those that worked

for these facilities. Can we make improvements? Absolutely.

Emissions: Let’s look beyond climate change. Flaring natural gas is not good

stewardship of our resources. Flaring has been done since the 1930’s.  ere have

been countless technological advancements in the past 100 years that would use

age they are doing to all of us.  ey have only denied 44 out of >8000 permits

since May ’21.

Seismic Activity:  e limits the RRC are putting on the injection wells are not

working. We need to further limit the number of injection wells and the locations

by not injecting disposal water near natural fault lines. Additionally, we need to

hold the companies accountable for treating the waste water so it is not toxic and

can be reused elsewhere.

Ethics:  ere is a di erence between receiving income from working in an in-

dustry and making windfall pro ts from corporate investments with the compa-

nies you are regulating, having your actions directly increase your pro ts. Many

agencies prohibit investments in companies that are a ected by agency actions

and Texas needs to implement the same rules.

Industry experience is an asset for regulators.

Campaign website: www.katherine4texas.com

that wasted product to help keep electric and fuel a ordable for the general public.

It’s time we put technology to work for the people and reduce the amount of waste.

Seismic Activity: We need to reduce the amount of water being pushed into

formations not capable of producing hydrocarbons.  ese formations should not

have that kind of pressure added. With that being said, there’s technology that

could repurpose 80%- 90% of the 14 million barrels of waste water produced daily

in Texas for future completion jobs or even irrigation of land and crops.

Ethics:  is is a major concern within politics all together. Politicians should be

able to tell the public where they stand. I am pro oil and gas. I think we can pro-

duce it cleaner and do a better job of reducing/eliminating the waste. By elimi-

nating the waste, we will be creating more a ordable energy for all Texans. I am

not invested in the industry. I spent 18 years trying to clean up the industry.

Campaign website: matlock4rrc.com

» Bill Burch (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I’ve been in the business 23 years, 65 coun-

tries as an oilwell  re ghter and engineer. I’m a globally recog-

nized subject matter expert, US patent holder, and I am trust-

worthy and reliable.

Natural Gas Facility Weatherization: Semi annual re-

views of the identi ed critical infrastructure and con rmation by independent

auditors of accuracy and veri cation of  ndings. Yearly review of new equip-

ment/facilities as networks expand to con rm there’s adequate protection. Invest-

ment in public dashboard technology to provide reliable data for supply to whole-

sale markets for public con dence in TRRC doing its job correctly.

Emissions: Methane has a massive impact on climate change when  are stacks

fail to maintain ignition. Flaring is a waste of resources not only from a monetary

bene t for the State of Texas but for the royalty owners and society’s bene t for

use. Flaring should be only as needed in emergency exemption. RRC is fully re-

sponsible for reducing all  aring from the oil elds.

Seismic Activity: RRC has failed to monitor and manage toxic radioactive iso-

topy laden produced water disposal everywhere in Texas. We must determine

which SWD wells must be highly limited due to extreme risk and implement

strict limits on volumes per section to let pressures decline. We must properly

plug old wells nearby SWDs to prevent zombie wells. We must invest in fresh wa-

ter recycling technologies.

Ethics: By being fully transparent with campaign  nance documents and re-

cusing oneself if rulings or actions present a perceived con ict of interest. Com-

missioners should also fully disclose in detail any royalties or working interest in

companies or wells or projects that are under the jurisdiction of the RRC.  e key

is transparency and disclosure.

Campaign website: burch4trrc.com

» DaSean Jones (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I have a reputation for being fair and impar-

tial. In addition, I have over 5 years as a district judge. Over

22years of military service. Worked as lead counsel in civil and

criminal trials.

Ethics: As an Army veteran the ideals principle to fundamen-

tal fairness are what I based my service upon. For this reason, I cannot be swayed

by interest groups or money—nor have I ever been. Voters can check my donor

history. To date, as a sitting judge I have never been recused.

Separation of Powers:  e court is charged with the interpretation and applica-

tion of the law.  e judiciary must ensure the laws march in step with the Constitu-

tions of the United States and the State of Texas as well as all applicable statutes.  e

court is the proverbial umpire poised to settle legal disputes—fairly and impartially.

Equity: As an African- American male navigating the legal landscape in Texas,

the journey has not always been met with a welcoming embrace from the Bar. As

such, I continue to mentor and build with those who are deemed underserved.

Providing meaningful interactions as well as opportunities is key in regard to

progress within our legal community.

Other Issues: Currently, the Texas Supreme Court is exclusively composed of

individuals from a single political party, yet their decisions impact a broad spec-

trum of Texans beyond their preferred a liations. Achieving equilibrium in

the Texas Supreme Court is key. Justices address critical matters such as abor-

tion, workers’, and voting rights. Every Texan’s perspective is invaluable in these

determinations.

Campaign website: www.daseanfortexas.com

» Randy Sarosdy (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I have 30 years of civil trial and appellate ex-

perience and 15 years of experience teaching judges throughout

Texas. I am a hard worker, good listener and strive to under-

stand both sides of any issue.

Ethics: I have subscribed to the Code of Fair Campaign Prac-

tices, and any campaign donations that I receive will be reported on a campaign  -

nance report. If elected, I will never base a decision on a campaign donation but will

apply the law fairly and impartially, without political in uence or partisan consid-

eration, and do my best to ensure that all parties are treated equally under the law.

Separation of Powers:  e courts are sometimes referred to as the “third”

branch of government, but they are in fact an independent and co- equal branch

with the executive and legislative branches. It is imperative to the functioning of

» PLACE 2

» Jimmy Blacklock (R)

Unopposed

Campaign website: www.jimmyblacklock.com/

» PLACE 4

» John Devine (R)

No response received

a healthy democracy that courts continue to serve this vital role as an indepen-

dent and e ective arbiter and guardian of fundamental rights.

Equity: First, it is important to provide better resources to self- represented liti-

gants as the Justice Court Training Center has done for persons appearing in Jus-

tice Court. Second, we need to make sure persons are able to readily locate counsel

through the Texas Bar or Legal Aid Services.  ird, we need to continue to support

the good work of the Texas Bar Foundation and the Indigent Defense Commission.

Other Issues: I believe the most pressing issues for the Texas Supreme Court

currently relate to ensuring that the fundamental rights of Texans as guaranteed

by the Texas and U.S. Constitutions are fully protected and safeguarded. I also

believe the Texas Supreme Court must be vigilant in ensuring the preservation of

our democratic institutions, many of which have recently come under attack.

Campaign website: www.randyforjudge.org

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES

Qualiﬁ cations: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for

this position?

Ethics: Since judicial candidates solicit donations and raise money to be elected,

how can voters be assured that campaign donations will not impact how judges

interpret the law and/or review lower court decisions?

Separation of Powers: What is your view of the role of courts relative to the

other branches of government?

Equity: What can be done to improve access to justice for all, including persons

or groups who may be underserved?

Other Issues: What issues do you believe will be the most pressing for the

Texas Supreme Court?

JUSTICE, TEXAS

SUPREME COURT

Six- year term. The Texas Supreme Court is the court of last resort for civil matters

in Texas. This Court includes a Chief Justice and eight justices, each of which is

elected by voters of the entire state. This court issues ﬁ nal decisions on civil and

juvenile appeals; issues certain orders to governmental ofﬁ cials to act and individu-

als to appear before the court; and has jurisdiction over orders or judgments of trial

courts if the Supreme Court determines them important to the Texas legal system.

Current annual salary range: $168,000 to $201,600

» Brian Walker (R)

No response received

» Christine Vinh Weems (D)

Unopposed

Campaign website: www.weemsforjudge.com/

» Bonnie Lee Goldstein (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: A 33 year varied civil and municpal law prac-

tice; 20 years judicial experience: 11 years as a municipal judge,

6 years as a civil district trial judge and 3 years as intermediate

appellate justice.

Ethics: Transparency through the Campaign Finance Reports

detailed disclosure requirements, updated periodically according to the reporting

schedule, along with stringent limitations imposed upon campaign contributions

for judicial races, help safeguard against the appearance of impropriety and pro-

tect the integrity and independence of the judiciary.

Separation of Powers:  e courts serve as an essential, independent and

equal third branch of government to preserve and protect our constitution.  e

judiciary applies the law to the facts of a particular case and appellate review pro-

» PLACE 6

» Jane Bland (R)

Unopposed

Campaign website: www.justicejanebland.com/

vides clarity, meaning, and consistency to the interpretation of the laws as en-

acted by the legislative branch, in accordance with constitutional parameters.

Equity: Prioritize continued vigilance to identify the underserved, and the re-

sources necessary to improve access to justice. Update and adapt pandemic- tested

solutions for improved access through increased use of technology, virtual plat-

forms and hybrid proceedings, as well as the development of user- friendly infor-

mational or instructional materials to help navigate the judicial system.

Other Issues: As a judicial candidate for the Texas Supreme Court, I cannot com-

ment on issues that may come before me.  e Canons prohibit a judge from being

“swayed by partisan interests, public clamor, or fear of criticism” therefore trans-

parency in judgment, clarity and consistency of opinions, are critical to preserve

and protect the constitution, the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.

Campaign website: judgegoldstein.com

VOTING FOR JUDGES IN TEXAS

Although in some states, judges are appointed, in Texas most judges are elected.

Judges make decisions about fundamental issues impacting family life, education,

health care, housing, employment,  nances, discrimination, civil rights, public

safety, and government actions.

 e Texas court system is made up of a statewide network of trial courts and

courts of appeal. In trial courts, judges and/or juries evaluate the facts and the

law and make a decision in a civil or criminal legal dispute.

When decisions in most trial courts are appealed, they are

sent to a court of appeal where judges consider what happened at the trial court,

evaluate legal arguments, and then decide if a mistake was made.

See https://www.txcourts.gov/media/about-texas-courts/ for more information.

JUSTICE, TEXAS SUPREME COURT

(continued)

» Joe Pool (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I am now serving as the 428th Judicial Dis-

trict Judge of Texas. Before that I was protecting and defending

property rights and other civil rights of clients under our con-

stitutions, Texas and U.S..

Ethics: Our Texas Founders answered this concern by stating

in our Texas Constitution,  e right of trial by jury shall remain inviolate. Art 1.

Sec 15. Unfortunately powerful political organizations have groomed judges and

justices to violate Art. 1. Sec. 15. with summary judgements found by judges, not

jurors and the Texas Supreme Court has redecided facts when facts are conclusive

at the 14 COA’s.

Separation of Powers:  e Texas and U.S. Constitution establish three sep-

arate but equal branches of government.  e legislative branch is charged with

making laws.  e executive branch is charged with enforcing laws.  e judicial

branch is charged with interpreting the law. It is illogical and undermines our

rule of law when a 50 year precedent is overturned. Any changes to the precedent

should be made by Congress.

Equity:  e major obstacle to improving access to justice for all is costs. Many

property rights of low income individuals are simply given up because they can-

not a ord an attorney. Texas counties provide criminal defence costs, if you

areindigent, but not in civil matters.  is causes problems and ine ciencies

when it involves families & others. More civil law cases should be provided free

legal.

Other Issues:  e Texas Abortion Law will be the most pressing issue for the

Texas Supreme Court until Congress revives Roe v Wade or enacts laws standard-

izing access to abortions.  e civilian enforcement of the Texas Abortion Law is

reminiscent of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 that allowed deputisation of private

citizens to aid in the capture of runaway slaves. It gives new meaning to Neigh-

borhood Watch.

Campaign website: poolforjustice.com

» PRESIDING JUDGE

» Sharon Keller (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: My experience. I am the longest- serving Pre-

siding Judge in the Court’s history. On top of a full caseload, I

have been the administrative head of the Court since 2001.

Ethics: Voters can look at a judge’s record. I have a proven rec-

ord of following the Constitutions.

Separation of Powers: Separation of powers is critical to a properly function-

ing government. In my opinion for the Court in the criminal prosecution of Gov-

ernor Rick Perry, I wrote that separation of powers required that the prosecution

be dismissed.

Equity: I have been Chair of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission since it’s

inception in 2002. We have transformed the indigent defense system in Texas,

and each year more people receive counsel than ever before. We are also meet-

ing the challenge of providing counsel for people arrested under Operation

Lone Star. Cooperation with local jurisdictions has led to innovation and better

outcomes.

Philosophy: I follow the Constitutions as written.

Campaign website: sharonkeller.com

JUDGE, TEXAS COURT

OF CRIMINAL APPEALS

Six- year term. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals is Texas’ highest

court for criminal cases. The Court includes a Presiding Judge and

eight Judges, each of which is elected by voters of the entire state.

The court must review all cases in which the death penalty is as-

sessed. It also exercises discretionary review in other criminal cases

and issues rulings about wrongful imprisonment. Current annual

salary range: $168,000 to $201,600

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES

Qualiﬁ cations: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for

this position?

Ethics: Since judicial candidates solicit donations and raise money to be elected,

how can voters be assured that campaign donations will not impact how judges

interpret the law and/or review lower court decisions?

Separation of Powers: What is your view of the role of courts relative to the

other branches of government?

Equity: What can be done to improve access to justice for all, including persons

or groups who may be underserved?

Philosophy: What is your judicial philosophy?

» David J. Schenck (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: I clerked for the Chief Judge of the 5th Cir.,

served for 8 years on the state’s largest appellate court (civil and

criminal matters), chaired the State Conduct Comm., gradu-

ated 1st in class at Baylor

Ethics: Sadly, they aren’t as yet. I have argued this issue to the

U.S. Sup. Ct. and have repeatedly proposed reforms that have been approved by the

Supreme Court and exist elsewhere. Judges (1) should not sit in cases where they’ve

received large contribution from either side (by direct or indirect means), (2) should

not be contacting parties for $, and disclosure should be direct and immediate.

Separation of Powers: Courts are passive players with the vital role of as-

suring  delity to the operative constitutional assurances that constrain all three

branches. Courts must arrogating power onto themselves—without a clear tex-

» Holly Taylor (D)

Unopposed

» JUDGE, PLACE 7

» Barbara Parker Hervey (R)

No response received

tual mandate—or allowing other branches to encroach on each other.  ey are

not empowered to impose their policy preferences on legislative choices assigned

to the legislature.

Equity: I received the State bar’s highest award for pro bono service in secur-

ing access to the pro bono or low cost representation through representation of

the state before the U.S. Supreme Court. In criminal cases indigent parties are as-

sured counsel. Defendants in death penalty cases should not be receiving lawyers

who have been sanctioned or suspended, as has happened in recent years.

Philosophy: I am a constitutionalist. I believe the judiciary has one job: assure

public con dence in the rule of law and the constitution by providing a forum

that is independent of in uence from other branches, transparently fair among

the parties and competent. I believe the Texas Constitution assures this and my

time as a judge and in the Conduct Commission tells me that we have come up

short on this

» JUDGE, PLACE 7 (continued)

» Gina Parker (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: Worked as Assistant County Attorney, Assis-

tant District Attorney, and currently practicing defense attor-

ney. Served as a commissioner & Chair of TX Dept of Licensing

& Regulation hearing admin appeals

Ethics: A personal commitment to the Constitution and the

rule of law. Also, the legislature might review the amount lawyers are allowed to

donate to a court they practice before.

Separation of Powers:  ere are 3 separate branches of government with dis-

tinct roles.  e judicial branch is charged with upholding the US Constitution,

the State Constitution, and the laws not in violation of these documents. Judges

should not legislate from the bench but uphold the rule of law.

Equity:  e rule of law is undermined when defendants cannot a ord coun-

sel.  e Fair Defense Act was established to administer appropriations and pol-

icies tohelp counties with indigent defense programs. Also, transparency

and accountability at the local level will ensure fairness and eliminate con-

 icts of interest andcronyism. Pro bono work is a way to provide counsel to the

underserved.

Philosophy: Above all other duties, judges should uphold the rule of law. Ad-

ditionally, they should be independent and impartial, should demonstrate ap-

propriate temperament by respecting all parties to a case, and should have good

character/integrity.

Campaign website: www.ginaparkercampaign.com

JUDGE, TEXAS COURT

OF CRIMINAL APPEALS

(continued)

» PLACE 8

» Lee Finley (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: I have 20+ years of criminal defense experi-

ence in multiple state and federal jurisdictions. I have repre-

sented hundreds of indigent defendants in Texas Courts.

Ethics: Citizen trust in the Judiciary, and the legal system as a

whole, is essential to an ordered society under the rule of law.

Maximum transparency in campaign  nance and Court procedures promotes

con dence in the system.

Separation of Powers:  e separation of powers doctrine is important to pre-

vent the concentration and abuse of power. However, judges must not be permit-

ted to use the separation of powers doctrine as a shield for judicial activism.

» Nancy Mulder (D)

Unopposed

Campaign website: judgemulder.com

» Michelle Slaughter (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Jan. 1, 2019

- Present. Judge, 405th District Court, Jan. 1, 2013 - Dec. 31,

2018. See www.JudgeMichelleSlaughter.com for more.

Ethics: I can only speak for myself - I have never allowed

campaign donations to a ect my judicial decisions. I always

strictlyinterpret the Constitution and laws as written and as originally intended

regardless of whether I agree with the outcome and regardless of any outside

in uences.

Separation of Powers:  e judicial branch is the weakest branch. Judges can-

not make law, they may only interpret it. Further, judges must strictly construe

the Constitution and laws and interpret them as originally intended. Yet, the ju-

dicial branch serves as a critical check and balance on the other branches to en-

» Chika Anyiam (D)

Unopposed

Campaign website: https://judgechikaanyiam.com

Equity: Increasing the predictability and consistency of the judicial system, for

all citizens, regardless of cultural, ethnic or socio- economic background, in-

creases the trust of the citizens in the Courts, and increases the utilization of the

system by those who have been historically underserved.

Philosophy: Maximum Justice with Minimal Interference. Individual rights:

local government: State government: Federal government: in that order.  e more

we can link the consequences of decisions, to those making the decisions, the bet-

ter quality of decisions we will get.

Campaign website: glee nley.com/

sure that their actions are in compliance with the will of the people as set forth in

our Constitution.

Equity: Texas Access to Legal Services published a report on Dec. 5, 2023

(https://www.texasatj.org/sites/default/ les/2023.12.05%20Final%20Report.pdf).

In this report, there is a recommendation to “allow quali ed paraprofessionals to

provide limited legal services directly to low- income Texans.”  is is an excellent

recommendation and a step in the right direction, though more needs to be done.

Philosophy: I am a constitutional conservative and originalist.  e Constitu-

tion and laws must be strictly construed and interpreted in the way they were

originally intended. “ e Constitution is the repository of the people’s will. Its

provisions are  xed as of the date of its adoption.  ese provisions are the same at

all times therea er.  ey are superior to all laws enacted thereunder.”

Campaign website: www.JudgeMichelleSlaughter.com

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES

Qualiﬁ cations: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for

this position?

Charter Schools: What educational standards should be required for approval

of new independent charter schools in Texas?

History Education: As the developer of Texas public school curriculum, how

would you ensure students are taught a comprehensive and accurate history of

our state and country?

Teacher Certiﬁ cation: Should teachers who are not certi ed be allowed to

teach in Texas classrooms? Why or why not?

Other Issues: What other issues do you believe will be the most pressing for

the State Board of Education

STATE BOARD

OF EDUCATION

Four- year term. The ﬁ fteen- member board decides curriculum, standards, student testing,

special education programs, and textbooks for Texas public schools. It also oversees the

Permanent School Fund. Current annual salary: Members of the Board do not receive pay,

but are reimbursed for expenses to attend meetings.

» DISTRICT 1

» Michael (Travis) Stevens (R)

Unopposed

Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/stevensfortxsboe1/

» Gustavo Reveles (D)

Unopposed

» DISTRICT 3

» Marisa Perez- Diaz (D)

Unopposed

Campaign website: marisabperez.com

» DISTRICT 4

» Staci Childs (D)

Unopposed

» DC Caldwell I (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I care about kids, have four years of military

leadership development training, 11 content area teaching certi-

 cations (more than any other candidate or member of the cur-

rent SBoE), and a law degree.

Charter Schools: Standards are now in place which new

schools should be expected to meet. However, I am more concerned about the

standards for ALL schools in Texas, not just the less- than- ten percent seeking to

provide an alternative. Many parents have good reason to perceive many schools

as merely wanting their support, when the schools exist to support the students

and their families, not the other way around.

History Education: I want to empower students to  nd information. My focus

is not to  ll kids’ heads with information that might be regarded as trivia, but to

teach students skills which they will then actually apply. I believe bans on books

are bad public policy, and that this question addresses that controversial issue. I

regard the proper response to speech that you disagree with, even lies, to be more

speech.

Teacher Certiﬁ cation: Yes, in short. Why? Because we have teacher shortages.

In my experience, the shortage is not primarily due to teacher pay, but instead is

due to barriers to entry into the profession. Substitute teachers and assistants are

o en not certi ed teachers but are nevertheless assigned to  ll those roles on a

temporary basis because of real- time needs that are a human resources and sta -

ing problem.

Other Issues:  e Texas education academic goals as found in Education Code

Chapter 4, and the TEKS based thereon, are outdated, misguided, and badly writ-

ten. We need to redirect from college- ready to career- ready to prepare students

for life a er school. I do not trust the incumbents to make improvements, becom-

ing career politicians and failing at the duty of leaders to mentor protégés to re-

place themselves.

Campaign website: dcaldwelltexas.square.site/

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION

(continued)

» DISTRICT 10

» Mary Bone (R)

No response received

» DC Caldwell I (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: I care about kids, have four years of military

leadership development training, 11 content area teaching certi-

 cations (more than any other candidate or member of the cur-

rent SBoE) and a law degree.

Charter Schools: Standards are now in place which new

schools should be expected to meet. However, I am more concerned about the

standards for ALL schools in Texas, not just the less- than- ten percent seeking to

provide an alternative. Many parents have good reason to perceive many schools

as merely wanting their support, when the schools exist to support the students

and their families, not the other way around.

History Education: I believe bans on books are bad public policy, and that

this question addresses that controversial issue. I regard the proper response to

speech that you disagree with, even lies, to be more speech. I want to empower

students to  nd information. My focus is not to  ll kids’ heads with information

that might be regarded as trivia, but to teach students skills which they will then

actually apply.

Teacher Certiﬁ cation: Yes, in short. Why? Because we have teacher shortages.

In my experience, the shortage is not primarily due to teacher pay, but instead is

due to barriers to entry into the profession. Substitute teachers and assistants are

o en not certi ed teachers but are nevertheless assigned to  ll those roles on a

temporary basis because of real- time needs that are a human resources and sta -

ing problem.

Other Issues: Incumbents have become career politicians and failed at the

duty of leaders to mentor protégés to replace themselves, inspiring my vote of no

con dence.

 e Texas education academic goals as found in Education Code Chapter 4, and

the TEKS based thereon, are outdated, misguided, and badly written. We need to

redirect from college- ready to career- ready to prepare students for life a er school.

Campaign website: dcaldwelltexas.square.site/

» Tom Maynard (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: Christian, educator, former executive. I have

served on the SBOE since 2013. I am a recognized leader who

 ghts for change, winning conservative victories on the board

and in the Legislature.

Charter Schools: Charter schools are public schools and are

held to the same educational standards as traditional ISD’s. However, there are

certain items that require scrutiny in the application process. Among these are

compliance with all state laws, special education, adherence to open enrollment

procedures,  delity to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, governance,

transportation and food service.

History Education:  e overarching mission of education is captured in

our state constitution: “ e general di usion of knowledge being essential for

the preservation of the liberties and rights of the people...”’ In a 180- day school

year,students must be taught the foundations of our state and American his-

tory.I will continue to ensure that woke agendas are not part of our history

education.

Teacher Certiﬁ cation: As a certi ed teacher, I believe that having quail ed

teachers is important. Most in Texas classrooms are either certi ed or working

toward a certi cation.  e simple pipeline through college- based teacher prepa-

ration programs is not today’s reality. Half of all teachers are alternatively certi-

 ed. Eliminating local discretion could exacerbate teacher shortages.

Other Issues: Completion and implementation of:

Review and revision of social studies curriculum standards, set to begin in 2025.

Completion of the implementation of the Permanent School Fund’s transition to

a governmental corporation. Within that, strategic planning, asset allocation and

internal controls.

HB1605 is the most signi cant law related to instructional material and still re-

quires implementation.

Campaign website: http://maynardfortexas.com

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION

(continued)

» DISTRICT 11

» Brandon Hall (R) No response received

» Pat (Patricia) Hardy (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: A er 30 years as a classroom teacher, I spent

17 years in the curriculum department. As a teacher I was ac-

tive in academic organizations which provided both enrich-

ment and leadership opportunities.

Charter Schools: When I am reviewing charter schools I

look for total  delity to the TEKS as charters are responsible for upholding the

same standards as the traditional public schools.

History Education:  e SBOE is responsible for creating the standards from

which the curriculum is developed. Social Studies is my area of expertise in both

undergrad and graduate work as well as classroom experience.  e Board must

develop comprehensive and accurate standards but it is up to the local district to

ensure that those standards are taught.

» DISTRICT 12

» Chad Green (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: I have been in the education marketplace for

25 years developing solutions and school improvement projects.

I have also been a District Trustee in McKinney  ghting porno-

graphic materials.

Charter Schools: Currently there are no additions I would

make to this.  e process is rigorous looking into the  nancial and educational

quali cations of the leadership.  is has resulted in fewer charters failing over

the last ten years.

History Education: I would eliminate current TEKS standards and classes

that don’t provide accurate history or scienti c method. I am also a proponent

» Rayna Glasser (D) Unopposed

Campaign website: www.facebook.com/raynaglasser/

Teacher Certiﬁ cation: I do not think uncerti ed teachers should be teach-

ing in the Texas classroom, unless it is a specialized Career Tech course where the

teacher has a speci c  eld expertise. Even then I think that such teachers should

work toward becoming certi ed. It is unfair for some teachers to complete the

rigor needed for certi cation and others not. Students should have highly quali-

 ed instructors.

Other Issues: Most pressing would be updating the already existing standards

(TEKS) and assuring high quality instructional materials are made available for

the classroom. All students must attain a strong foundation in the elementary

grades. I would like to see the state o er mandatory and compensated math acad-

emies to ensure that math professional development is provided to all elementary

teachers.

Campaign website: hardyforeducation.com

of Texas creating its own comprehensive curriculum that will guarantee that no

publisher will be adding their own agendas into our materials.

Teacher Certiﬁ cation:  is is a very broad question. If you make it law, you

will be taking an unprecedented position requiring both private school teachers,

charter school teachers and home school parents to be certi ed. I would not be

for this. Ultimately their performance is evaluated not only yearly but on an on-

going basis by the systems they employ to measure e ectiveness.

Other Issues: Curriculum, setting policies and evaluating materials the TEA

provides for evaluation.

Campaign website: www.chadgreenfortexas.com

» DISTRICT 10 (continued)

» Raquel Saenz Ortiz (D)

Qualiﬁ cations: I taught middle and high school Social Stud-

ies for ten years, as well as held school leadership positions. I

have a PhD in Education and currently prepare future teachers

at a university.

Charter Schools: Charter schools should be able to dem-

onstrate a rigorous curriculum, as well as community accountability standards.

Charter schools should also be required to meet special education needs of all

students, as well as the needs of emergent bilingual students.

History Education: I would recommend the Social Studies standards TEKS be

revised. In the previous revision, the SBOE voted to reject the recommendations

of content advisors and not update the TEKS. State standards should be revised

on a regular basis, with the input from teachers and content experts to ensure

that content is accurate, rigorous, and promotes critical thinking.

Teacher Certiﬁ cation: Currently, teachers can teach with an emergency certi-

 cation in some cases while pursuing their certi cation. If teachers possess a de-

gree in their content area, emergency certi cation should continue to be allowed.

 is is particularly important in a time when many people are leaving the profes-

sion and schools are struggling to ensure that positions are  lled.

Other Issues: Instructional materials are adopted by the SBOE. It is impor-

tant that these materials provide (scienti cally and historically) accurate content,

as well as content that promotes critical thinking. It is also important to allow

teacher agency in choosing resources and materials for their classroom, which

connect to students’ real world experiences.

Campaign website: www.drsofortexas.com/

» DISTRICT 12 (continued)

» Jamie Kohlmann (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: I’ve testi ed to the Texas House, Senate &

SBOE about curriculum, charter schools and parental empow-

erment. I am intimately involved in the education of my three

elementary aged children.

Charter Schools: Charter schools are critical to providing

opportunity for students in every part of Texas. A successful charter school appli-

cation should inspire con dence in its leadership team’s ability to hit the ground

running while maintaining high standards and delivering distinctive outcomes.

History Education: Texas’s history is rich and complex. Students must have a

comprehensive understanding of our state and national history, ensuring lessons

from the past are absorbed to drive individual and societal  ourishing in the fu-

ture. Ultimately, the SBOE is not responsible for developing public school curric-

ulum, but I look forward to partnering with the TEA and Commissioner to ac-

complish these goals.

Teacher Certiﬁ cation:  is question is likely rooted in the current teacher

shortage across Texas public schools. We should support and elevate the teach-

ing profession to encourage more of the best, brightest and most quali ed to en-

ter the classroom. Certi cation should ensure a high bar while also being  exi-

ble to attract and equip out- of- state talent and professionals with non- traditional

backgrounds.

Other Issues: 1) Improve student outcomes, 2) Empower parents, and 3) Sup-

port teachers.

Campaign website: www.jamiefortx.com

» Pam Little (R)

Qualiﬁ cations: Served on SBOE for 5 years, the last 3 as Vice

Chair of the Board. I had a 20 year career in educational pub-

lishing where I worked with the SBOE in developing materials

to meet the TEKS.

Charter Schools: Charter Schools should be required to

meet the same educational standards as the Independent School Districts.

History Education: By teaching students what really happened. Making sure

the standards are comprehensive and not watered down.

Teacher Certiﬁ cation: Ideally teachers should be certi ed.  ere might be

some instances in the career and technology area where experience is more im-

portant than an education certi cate.

Other Issues: Developing the rules to implement HB 1605 which drastically

changed the process of instructional material selection.  e updating of the math

and social studies standards.

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION

(continued)

» Matt Rostami (R)

No response received

» George King (D)

Unopposed

» DISTRICT 15

» Aaron Kinsey (R)

Unopposed

Campaign website: kinseyfortexas.com

» Morgan Kirkpatrick (D)

Unopposed

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AND JUSTICE,

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