1. law, govt and politics
2. immigration

League of Woman Voters
of the San Antonio Area
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A non
An impartial guide to
help voters make informed decisions
in the November 4, 2014 general election
This Voters Guide is funded and published by the League of Women Voters of Texas Education Fund. For more than 90
years, helping voters cast an informed vote when they go to the polls has been the primary goal of the League of Women
Voters. As a nonpartisan organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, the League
believes that all of us are stakeholders in Making Democracy Work. Neither the League nor the Education Fund supports
or opposes any political party or candidate. Questionnaires were sent to candidates in races that are contested within
the same party.
Candidate replies are printed without editing or verification. Due to space restrictions, candidates were given strict
word limits. Replies exceeding the word limit are indicated by slashes (///). Candidates were also asked to avoid references to their opponents. Candidates appearing with no photo failed to submit one.
This Voters Guide is organized by office, with candidates listed by party and state ballot order where available. Ballot
order may vary from county to county. The names of unopposed candidates are also listed.
EARLY VOTING STARTS OCT 20, POLLS OPEN 7 AM TO 7 PM ON ELECTION DAY
US Senator
Six-year term. Must be at least 30 years old, a resident of the United States for at least nine years, and
a resident of Texas. One of 100 members of the U.S.
Senate which has specific powers to advise and
consent to presidential appointments and treaties
and to try impeachments. Powers the Senate shares
with U.S. House of Representatives include the
power to levy taxes, borrow money, regulate interstate commerce, and declare war. Current annual
salary: $174,000
Questions for Candidates
Immigration: The Senate passed a comprehensive bill last year
that would have bolstered border security, made legal worker
programs and offered a path to citizenship to the estimated 11.5
million people now living here illegally. What specific changes,
if any, would you propose to the bill so that it can eventually be
adopted as a law?
Environment: According to the National Climate Assessment
report, climate change effects are happening here and now. What
steps, if any, should the Senate take to establish environmental
regulations to curb the effects of climate change?
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most important, and how would you address them?
John Cornyn (REP) No Response
David M. Alameel (DEM)
Immigration: The Bill contains all the elements I stand for and
will advance should I be elected. It is a question of how much
in funds is allotted to border security and to what areas, as well
as timing in the implementation of each of these components.
I favor a concurrent implementation, and a comprehensive approach to immigration reform.
Environment: I stand for a leveled, global implementation
of mutually agreed upon standards, that impact all emitting
countries fairly and not the current formulas that unfairly ‘tax’
the United States and other industrialized nations, while being
more lenient on countries that are also
huge greenhouse gas emitters.
Other Issues: Texas has more vacancies in
the federal judiciary than any other state.
We need to address this. The hostile environment in Texas towards Planned Parenthood and other providers of women’s
health services is of deep concern to me.
Medicare and Social Security are promises
made to our seniors. I will never vote for cuts in this programs.
Education: Doctorate of Dental Surgery, University of Texas
Health Science Center
Experience: I’m an Army veteran, and a proud husband and
father. Starting from scratch, I built a successful multi-million
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a year business. I have been active in civic and charitable work
and programs to improve education opportunities for young
people.
Rebecca Paddock (LIB)
Immigration: Art 1 Sect 8 of the Constitution authorizes/
tasks Congress to both secure the borders and create a uniform
rule of naturalization. Congress needs to secure the borders. A
uniform rule of naturalization (path to citizenship) is already in
place. Those who wish to legally immigrate are welcome. Those
who have broken the law should be returned to their country
of origin.
Environment: Article 1 Section 8 of the Constitution does not
include “climate change mitigation” or “environmental regulations.” As such, Congress would be overstepping its bounds
should any action be taken. Any other issues regarding environmental destruction/damage should be handled at the state
level.
Other Issues: Government overstepping its Constitutional limits. Actions to address include: 1) Vote against any unconstitutional bill, 2) Remove second amendment
infringements on law abiding citizens,
and 3) Consolidate intelligence agencies
& create proper oversight. No spying on
US citizens. Determine cause of/address
Veteran suicide rate of 22/day + 1/day for
active duty military.
Education: BS awarded in 1986 from
Southeastern Oklahoma State University.
MS awarded in 1987 from North Texas State University. Additional graduate level Engineering courses completed at Texas
Tech University and Southern Methodist University.
Experience: Held positions including: Electrical Engineer, Program Manager, Capture Manager, Engineering Manager, and
Regional Manager. Management includes oversight of thousands of engineers and successfully developing several billion
dollars worth of products.
Emily “Spicybrown” Sanchez (GRN) No Response
US Representative
Each representative serves a two year term, must
be at least 25 years old, and must be a resident
of Texas and a US citizen for at least seven years.
Constitutionally delegated powers of the house
are origination of revenues bills, initiation of
impeachment proceedings, and authorization to
elect the president when a tie or lack of majority
exists in the electoral college.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education, motivation and experience qualifies you for the office.
(50 words)
Immigration: What specific changes, if any, would you propose to the current immigration policy? Please explain.
Voting Rights: The recent Supreme Court decision in Shelby
v. Holder struck down parts of the Voting Rights Act. What
tools would you use to prevent discrimination in voting and
to secure the ballot?
Infrastructure: What do you propose to address the current
condition of transportation infrastructure, such as bridges,
rail, highways, and pipelines?
Foreign Policy: With the Middle East and other countries in
turmoil, what should America’s role be in foreign policy?
District 20
Joaquin Castro (DEM)
Background: Congressman Joaquin Castro was born and
raised in San Antonio. He graduated from Stanford University and Harvard Law School and served ten years in the State
Legislature before being elected to the 20th Congressional
District in 2012. Joaquin currently serves on the House Foreign Affairs and House Armed Services Committees.
Immigration: Congress has failed to do its job and pass a
comprehensive immigration bill. This bill should ensure our
border is secure, streamline our legal immigration system,
and provide an earned pathway to citizenship for the more
than 11 million undocumented immigrants currently working and living in our country. I also believe any comprehensive immigration policy should include the DREAM Act.
Voting Rights: The Voting Rights Act was one of our country’s greatest achievements in ensuring everyone’s right to
vote. I believe we need to be expanding access to the polls,
not limiting it. As the Representative for Texas’s 20th Congressional District, I have already vowed to protect minorities, students, the elderly, and other groups whose voting
rights are infringed by onerous Voter ID laws and other
measures designed to make casting a ballot more difficult.
Infrastructure: The United States once
had the best highway system and infrastructure in the world, but a lack of
funding and attention has left much of
our system in outdated and dilapidated
condition. While I was proud to recently
help pass a short-term transportation bill
that includes much-needed funding, we
must have a long-term solution that will ensure the safety and
reliability of our roads and highways for generations to come.
Foreign Policy: Recent events have tested our resolve and
challenged us to reevaluate our nation’s role in the world. I
believe the United States should continue to be a leader in
advocating for the democratic rights of all people so they
may chart their own destiny. We also have a responsibility to
protect and defend the American people at home and abroad,
particularly from violent and dangerous terrorists who seek
to do us harm.
Jeffrey C. Blunt (LIB)
Background: I am not a professional politician. I am an engineer and veteran who believes that citizen legislators such
as myself will do a better than the career politicians who are
currently doing such a poor job in Washington.
Immigration: Political freedom and escape from tyranny
demand that individuals not be unreasonably constrained
by government in the crossing of political boundaries.
Economic freedom demands the unrestricted movement of
human as well as financial capital across national borders.
However, I support control over the entry into our country
of foreign nationals who pose a credible threat to security,
health or property.
Voting Rights: All citizens of the USA should equal ability
to vote, regardless of race, religion, sexual preference, or
ethnicity. The State and citizens of Texas should have the
same voting rights as people living in any other state. The
provisions of the Voting Rights Act that treated Texans and
those living in certain other states, as “lesser” citizens were
wrong, and were rightfully struck down.
Infrastructure: Much of the infrastructure maintenance in the USA is
the responsibility of State and local
governments. I propose reducing size of
the Federal infrastructure bureaucracy
(Department of Transportation) and
sending money back to the states where
it can be more efficiently utilized to
maintain our roads and bridges in a way that will keep us
safe.
Foreign Policy: American foreign policy should seek
an America at peace with the world. Our foreign policy
should emphasize defense against attack from abroad and
enhance the likelihood of peace by avoiding foreign entanglements. As an Army veteran, I support a strong national
defense, but do not support our current interventionalist
foreign policy.
District 21
Lamar Smith (REP)
Background: After graduating from high school in San
Antonio and then Yale University, I earned a law degree
at Southern Methodist University. I have served as a state
representative and county commissioner. I now chair the
Science, Space and Technology Committee. I stay in touch
with my constituency.
Immigration: The US has a tried and proven pathway to
citizenship. Our nation admits one million people every
year - as many as all other countries combined. The right
way to enter America is to play by the rules and wait your
turn as generations have done before. If current immigration policies were enforced and the border secured, illegal
immigration would be reduced.
Voting Rights: The Voting Rights Act no longer treats states
differently, as should be the case. And provisions to stop
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alleged voting irregularities have been upheld by the courts.
Texas, in requiring its voters to show a photo ID when
casting ballots at polling places, has significantly strengthened the level of ballot security and election integrity. More
people should be encouraged to register
to vote and then make their voice heard
on election day.
Infrastructure: America’s roads, railways and bridges are essential to our
prosperity. Investing in the maintenance
and expansion of transportation infrastructure is imperative for the socioeconomic health of the nation. This also
is true of pipelines. The President could help the country
become energy independent by approving the XL extension
of the Keystone pipeline from Canada to Houston. It’s beyond time for the US to take advantage of this opportunity.
Foreign Policy: For the sake of our nation and the safety of
our people, America should return to being a strong leader
in foreign policy rather than displaying a weakness that invites various acts of aggression and terrorism at home and
abroad. A cohesive, coherent foreign policy is vital to domestic tranquility and productivity. Such a policy requires
strategic planning, which are largely lacking today.
Ryan Shields (LIB)
Background: Texas A&M San Antonio, History/Political Science Head of many private organizations and civic
groups, and an avid community activist.
Immigration: Our immigration policy should be in direct
correlation with our economic needs. If our economy is
booming and we have more jobs than
workers; our immigration policy should
reflect such needs. As for the opposite,
which is what we are going through
now, where we have more workers than
jobs our immigration and tax system
should try to make it easier for job
creators to move their businesses to the
United States from other countries.
Voting Rights: Preventing discrimination and securing
the ballot is a very important issue that strikes at the very
heart of our democracy. These problems involve a lot of
very complex situations that are not easily solved overnight.
However, I believe, very stringent background checks on
polling officers need to be enacted across the board, to ensure all those who can vote are allowed to vote.
Infrastructure: I would cut programs and departments that
are not necessary from the budget in order to fund needed
infrastructure repairs and developments. For example: The
bureau of land management, the department of education,
EPA, and the IRS. Each of the entities have state agency
counterparts that do the same job, so having a duplicate in
Washington D.C. makes very little sense, and costs the tax
payers billions.
Foreign Policy: The most involvement, I would like to see
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is sending foreign ambassadors to seek peace talks. Aside
from a country or countries seeking to conquer our allies,
the use of military force is irresponsible.
Antonio Diaz (GRN)
Background: Associate Degree C.B.M. Electronic Tech.
Texas A&AM Electronic Engineering Ext. St. Philips College Nursing Program
Retail Sales Management Nursing Transportation Service
Industry
Immigration: Immigration Reform should include a path
to citizenship. Of the 11 million already here after all their
contributions such as tax paid into existing infrastructures
then either give credit or apply a fee to them, then move on
to legalize their Immigration status. Of the 500,000 Dreamers their status should be legalized . Of the current influx
of Unaccompanied Children, a majority should qualify as
Refugees due to fleeing economic violence.
Voting Rights: A: Article 5 offered the most protection for
inclusive voting rights of all eligible voters. Now all we have
as protection is Article 2. Federal guidelines should be the
standard for all 50 States. Political bias should not rule over
voters right to vote. Jim Crow type of prerequisite limiting
voters participation should be a reminder of a racist past
history and not a current political evil of today.
Infrastructure: All these issues offer employment opportunities for large segments of our underemployed worker
population. Also it opens opportunities to protect our Natural Resources by rerouting highways, railways, or pipelines
that are polluting our water or that are destroying habitats
needed by pollinating insects, such as Bees and Butterfly.
We must think of quality of life for our future generations.
A vibrant economy doesn’t`have to come at such a high cost
Foreign Policy: Look internally 1st, how does this government deal with Indigenous People. Historically this government has dealt in extreme harshness in all fields towards
it`s Indigenous People. Middle East people are struggling
against the Colonial Systems imposed upon them for hundreds of years. All these Nations are Sovereign and should
be treated with that respect. If all we want are their Natural
Resources then we can disregard their right to self govern.
District 23
Will Hurd (REP) No response
Pete P. Gallego (DEM)
Background: I was born and raised in Texas. In my first
term in Congress, I’ve made it my goal to do what I did for
over twenty years in the state legislature – put politics aside
and get things done by always being willing to work with
both Republicans and Democrats.
Immigration: I am a strong supporter of comprehensive
immigration reform, which includes improving border
security to keep criminals out and a path to citizenship for
undocumented immigrants already in the country who
pay a fine, pay back taxes and stand in line. Comprehensive
immigration reform will not only make our country safer, it
will also make our economy stronger.
Voting Rights: I oppose legislation that seeks to restrict
voting and strongly support the Voting Rights Act and efforts to make voting easier and more accessible.
Infrastructure: There are some parts of
the district I represent that, even today,
do not have access to running water or
proper sewage services. I was able to
provide 171 families with running water
in the El Paso colonias and will continue
to fight for badly needed infrastructure
funding.
Foreign Policy: I believe that the
standard for America to engage in any conflict with other
countries should be that we possess a clear objective and
have the full support of our allies. I know that we cannot do
these things by ourselves or with just a couple of countries
behind us, we need to lead but we shouldn’t go at it alone if
no one else believes in what we’re doing.
Ruben Corvalan (LIB) No response
District 28
Henry Cuellar (DEM) No Response
Will Aikens (LIB) No Response
Michael D. Cary (GRN) No Response
District 35
Susan Narvaiz (REP)
Background: Leadership Training Institute Certificate,
Public Policy 2002 – 2005 Universidad Nacional Autónoma
de México Spanish. Three-term mayor of San Marcos, small
business owner who balances budgets, meets payroll, and
provides leadership that produces positive results.
Immigration: Gaining operational control of all of our borders, (land, sea and air) must be our first priority. It is the
Federal government’s responsibility to protect all Americans from the influx of drug cartels and gang members.
Securing the border comes first and after that I am open to
immigration reforms. We should begin
those reforms by streamlining our legal
immigration process.
Voting Rights: The Supreme Court
ruling that you cite supports that all
50 States should be treated the same to
ensure that we do all we can to prevent
discrimination in voting and secure the
ballot. I agree with this as I believe that
voting is a privilege and should be protected equally under
the law. I applaud efforts made across the country that
provide identification, free of charge, to all those that are
qualified by federal law to vote.
Infrastructure: States should have the responsibility and
discretion to allocate more of their own dollars towards improvement of aging infrastructure. State and local officials
are better aware the condition and the urgency of repairing
or reconstruction of critical transportation structures in
their own cities and towns. I would vote to return more of
Texas’ share of their gas tax dollars.
Foreign Policy: We need to have an all of the above Foreign
Policy that includes Strong Defense and Effective Diplomacy that is based on ‚”Peace through Strength”. We need to
Honor our Volunteer Armed Forces by providing the best
and most effective resources available, bolster our Missile
defense Program, stand with our Allies such as Israel and
never apologize for taking steps to defend our freedom, our
borders and our principles at home and abroad.
Lloyd Doggett (DEM)
Background: BA Business, JD, University of Texas at Austin. As a life-long Texan, I have served in the State Senate
(1973-85), Texas State Supreme Court (1989-94) and U.S
House of Representatives (1995-present)
Immigration: To grow our economy, to prevent families from being torn asunder, to accord opportunity to
DREAMer students, I support comprehensive, bipartisan
immigration reform such as that endorsed by the Chamber
of Commerce, LULAC and others. As Ranking Subcommittee Democrat concerned with all forms of child abuse/
neglect, I strongly oppose undermining due process protection for children fleeing violence. Not asking for amnesty,
only a little humanity.
Voting Rights: Democracy thrives when all citizens can
voice their concerns. I am a sponsor of legislation to correct
the Supreme Court’s undermining of
the Voting Rights Act. Texas was found
guilty of intentional discrimination
with too many of our officials seeking to
suppress voting, rather than expanding
access to the polls. Voter ID laws unconstitutionally create hurdles for too many
Americans. We should be making voting
easier, not harder.
Infrastructure: We are failing to make the required investment in repairing roads and bridges to ensure safety, boost
our economy, cut commute times, and create jobs. We need
a 5-year transportation bill of the type that previously enjoyed bipartisan support to permit reasonable planning and
funding of our roadways and public transportation needs.
Delay costs us dollars and lives.
Foreign Policy: To lead but not take on the entire cost in
blood and treasure of seeking order. Bush launching costly,
unnecessary Iraq war left our families less safe. We must
respond to terrorists without being entrapped in ground
wars. We must rely not only on our military but upon our
other strengths to reduce conflict. Congressional approval
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 4
needed before any broad military action. Also must seek
negotiated reduction of Iranian nuclear capability.
Cory W. Bruner (LIB) No Response
kat swift (GRN)
Background: School of Trial by Fire. CoChair Green Party
of Texas, Ballot Access Coordinator, Spokesperson National
Women’s Caucus, 15 years of electoral activism in TX
Immigration: The immigration policy is too convoluted
and full of problems that probably the
best thing to do is to start over from
scratch. Reduce or eliminate the cause(s)
that lead to the need for people to illegally immigrate and simplify the process
to legally immigrate. The policy needs to
be based on the health of the nation as a
whole and done in a humanitarian way.
As a first-world nation, we should strive
to have fair and just system.
Voting Rights: Implement democracy: Vote at any poll
on Election Day; Make Election Day a statutory Holiday;
Switch to hand-counted paper ballots, using Approval Voting, counted in poll location, with live video streaming of
entire process; Same day voter registration; ‘NOTA’ option;
Remove corporate funding of campaigns, elections, and
lobbyists; Money is not Free Speech; Implement guaranteed
income for all Citizens to enable public participation in
democracy
Infrastructure: Redirect funding from the Military &
Prison Industrial Complexes to our basic needs of infrastructure, which would also create sustainable jobs. Pipelines are not an environmentally reliable safe transportation
mode and need to be phased out. Rail needs to be upgraded
such that people can travel around the country easily and
quickly - hours not days; and we need to restructure cities
such that transportation is less car dependent.
Foreign Policy: Our role in foreign policy should be “We
apologize for our part in the imperialist destabilization we
have imposed on the rest of the world and our own nation. These practices have created much of the problems
and poverty around the world. We will stop overthrowing
govts, funding the militaries of other countries, and invading countries for their natural resources. We have much to
do in our own country to provide food, water, and housing
to all.”
Governor
Four-year term. Must be at least 30 years old,
a U.S. citizen, and a Texas resident for the five
years immediately preceding the election. Among
duties: executes all laws and conducts all business with other states and the federal government; fills appointive offices; fills vacancies in
state or district elected offices by appointment;
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calls special sessions of the Legislature and sets
their agenda; signs or vetoes bills passed by the
Legislature. Current annual salary: $150,000
Questions for Candidates
Health Care: According to the Texas Health and Human
Services Commission, about 1 million uninsured U.S. citizen adults below the poverty line in Texas do not qualify for
affordable coverage through either Medicaid or the health
insurance marketplace. Would you consider negotiating with
federal Medicaid officials to pursue a Texas solution to close
the coverage gap? Why or why not?
Infrastructure: Texas is the fastest growing state in the nation. The annual 12% population growth is placing a strain
on water, energy, schools and transportation. What measures
do you support to meet our growing infrastructure needs
while continuing to grow a business-friendly state?
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most
important, and how would you address them?
Greg Abbott (REP)
Health Care: Our healthcare system must be regulated at
the state level, free of federal intervention; this includes
repealing Obamacare and block-granting Medicaid. Texas
provides an extraordinary network of access to health care,
including local hospital districts. My ideas would enhance
health care for women, the disabled, and veterans, and keep
Texas a leader in medical research.
Infrastructure: I would increase funding for transportation
by more than $4 billion annually without new debt, taxes,
fees, or tolls. We must continue to improve water infrastructure, including by reducing regulations, speeding up
permitting process, and working at the regional level. I supported Prop. 6 (2013) financing water projects, and support
Prop. 1 (2014) funding transportation.
Other Issues: 1. To protect individual
liberty & prosperity by preventing big
government policies from running Texans’ lives. 2. To make public education in
Texas top-ranked in the country by empowering parents, teachers, & principals
by restoring genuine local control. 3. To
keep Texans safe by securing our border
and curtailing spillover crime caused by
international gangs & cartels.
Education: Duncanville High School, Class of 1976. Undergraduate B.B.A. in Finance from the University of Texas,
1981. JD from Vanderbilt University, 1984.
Experience: Attorney General of Texas, 2002-Present. Supreme Court of Texas Justice, 1996-2001. Judge of the 129th
District Court, 1993-95. Attorney, Butler and Binion, LLP,
1984-92.
Wendy R. Davis (DEM)
Health Care: Yes. Texas has some of the best doctors and
hospitals in the country and every Texan should be able to
access that care. We need to keep 100 billion of our tax dollars here in Texas to improve the health of our hardworking
citizens and create 3 million jobs across the state over the
next 10 years. It makes no sense to allow our tax dollars to
be spent in other states.
Infrastructure: Texas’ energy industry fuels the world and
deserves a world-class infrastructure to match. I helped
pass a landmark water plan last year; we can begin to
address our transportation needs by supporting Prop. 1
in November. Developing our Texas workforce through
career-technical and higher education
will help Texas remain a top job creator
and economic competitor.
Other Issues: Invest in our schools and
teachers. Make college more accessible
and affordable. Sign the Texas Equal
Pay Act. Fight to increase the minimum
wage. Close tax loopholes and eliminate
wasteful spending. Implement comprehensive immigration reform. Hardworking Texas families
are the key to our economic success and to grow our communities, we need to empower them.
Education: I am a graduate of North Richland Hills High
School in Tarrant County. After two years at Tarrant County College, I transferred to TCU where I graduated first in
my class. I continued on to Harvard Law School where I
graduated with honors.
Experience: Fort Worth City Council 1999-2007; Economic Development Committee, Chair Texas State Senator,
2009-present; Senate Committee on Economic Development, Senate Committee on Transpiration, Veteran Affairs
and Military Installations Committee
Kathie Glass (LIB)
Health Care: NO! Medicaid is over 25% of our budget. The
federal government dictates the terms. We must opt out
of Medicaid, using the savings to craft a made-for-Texas
program, resulting in better services at lower cost. This is
part of my Plan for Texas Independence (not secession!)
so Texas stands on our own two feet, strong and free,
sovereign and independent. See kathieglass.org.
Infrastructure: Nullify unconstitutional federal acts
-- Obamacare, EPA, etc. etc. Use line item veto to cut
budget 50%. No taxpayer-funded
services for non-citizens. Opt out of
Medicaid, replace with Texas plan. End
property taxes, toll roads, occupational
licensing. End cronyism. Stop funding
projects with debts. Serious educational
overhaul. For details, see kathieglass.org.
Other Issues: I want to be Texas
Governor to unite Texans to resist
tyranny from Washington and cronyism in Austin, to
reclaim our ability to act as the sovereign state we are, such
as securing our border-- ourselves. I’m the only one in this
race with a vision of the coming collapse, a plan for how
Texas stays strong and free when that time comes, and the
guts to see it through.
Education: B.A. English, University of Georgia 1974; J.D.,
University of Georgia School of Law 1977
Experience: Successful trial lawyer while raising family
with husband Tom Glass. Nominations: Governor 2010;
Atty.Gen. 1982. LULAC Woman of Distinction 2014.
Open Carry Texas. Disabled American Vets. League of
Independent Voters. Nix Prop 6 Coalition.
Brandon Parmer (GRN) No response
Lieutenant Governor
Four-year term. Must be at least 30 years old,
a U.S. citizen, and a Texas resident for the five
years immediately preceding the election. Among
duties as part of both the Executive and Legislative branches: assumes powers of Governor
when Governor is absent or unable to serve; acts
as President of the Senate; by statute, is a member of several Legislative branch boards and committees. The salary is that of a state senator when
serving as President of the Texas Senate and that
of the Governor when serving as Governor.
Questions for Candidates
Transportation: What measures do you support for Texas to
meet its growing transportation needs?
Education: An educated workforce is one of the building
blocks of responsible job growth. What measures do you support to improve our public education systems?
Health Care: According to the Texas Health and Human
Services Commission, about 1 million uninsured U.S. citizen adults below the poverty line in Texas do not qualify for
affordable coverage through either Medicaid or the health
insurance marketplace. Would you consider negotiating with
federal Medicaid officials to pursue a Texas solution to close
the coverage gap? Why or why not?
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most
important, and how would you address them?
Dan Patrick (REP)
Transportation: Texas has increasingly relied on debt to
fund our roads. Since 2004, the state’s outstanding debt has
more than doubled to $41.3 billion and debt per Texan has
grown to $1,584 from $865. I will move back to a pay as
you go structure by ending the diversion of gas taxes and
dedicating vehicle sales tax dollars to fund roads.
Education: As the chairman of the Senate Education committee, I led the charge on reducing standardized testing and
reforming schools to better prepare our kids for college and
career. I will continue to identify ways to link the local business community with public and higher education to ensure
our students can pursue the college or career of their choice.
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 6
Health Care: I am a strong proponent of the 10th amendment and allowing states to implement the health and education programs that reflect their circumstances and values.
I also believe that medicaid is a sinking ship drowning
under the weight of government. I support seeking a block
grant from the federal government and allowing Texas to
design a sustainable health care system.
Other Issues: Our increasing property taxes are hurting our
business climate and punishing families.
I am committed to passing property tax
relief that will protect against rapidly
growing taxes. I’m also committed to
securing the border. We must protect
Texas from the drug cartels and potential terrorists. We need Washington to
pass immigration reform that does not
include amnesty.
Education: University of Maryland-Baltimore
Experience: I have been an entrepreneur my whole life. I
started working as a TV sports anchor in Scranton, PA. and
landed in Houston. I worked as an anchor for several years
and eventually purchased several radio stations.
Leticia Van de Putte (DEM)
Transportation: I voted for SJR 1 during the 83rd 3rd
Called Special Session proposing a constitutional amendment providing an estimated $1.4 B of funds in the first
year for road and bridge projects. As Lieutenant Governor, I
will work with our legislature and local and state leaders to
find a sustainable and long-term solution to our transportation issues.
Education: I will create an education system where teachers
are free to teach and students are free to learn. Starting with
getting high-stakes testing off the backs of our children. We
will utilize widely accepted sampling procedures to gather
school or district data. It would also save taxpayers millions
in testing costs that we should reinvest in our classrooms.
Health Care: I will negotiate with federal Medicaid officials
to pursue a Texas solution to close the coverage gap. 1 of
every 4 Texans lacks health insurance. Because of Governor
Perry’s decision to reject Medicaid expansion, Texas will
lose approximately $79 B in federal matching funds over
the next 10 years. That system is unsustainable, bad for
business, and bad for Texas families.
Other Issues: As Lt. Governor, I will
continue to work on policies that keep
Texas the #1 state for veterans, servicemembers and their families. I will lead
the fight against human trafficking, in
making the investments in water and
roads that our state economy needs to
thrive and ensuring our children and
grandchildren receive an education that prepares them for a
global workforce.
Education: 1993 Harvard University, John F. Kennedy
School of Government 1978-1979 University of Texas
7 LWVSAA Voters Guide
at Austin, College of Pharmacy 1976-1977 University of
Houston, College of Pharmacy 1975 University of Houston
1973-1974 St. Mary’s University
Experience: 1999 – Present, Texas State Senate District 26
1991 – 1999, Texas House of Representatives District 115
Robert D. Butler (LIB)
Transportation: We need to encourage new technologies
like Google’s driverless cars and Tesla’s electric cars with
their free refueling stations. The private sector has the answers to the future of transportation if only the government
would get out of the way. We need to allow the direct sales
of these new vehicles to the public without the outmoded
car dealership monopoly.
Education: Public education is guaranteed by the Texas
constitution. We need to streamline the funding process according to the financial need of the students. Parents should
be able to choose which school their children attend. State
money should follow those students to their school of
choice. Schools should choose their own books & lesson
plans without state interference.
Health Care: Our goal should be effective and affordable
healthcare for everyone. We can accomplish this goal by ending the excessive federal and state regulations that
currently burden our system. Hospitals
& doctors are spending more of their
time & money on paperwork and less
on patient care. We also need to end the
AMA’s cap on the number of residents
who become doctors.
Other Issues: We need to legalize immigration by creating
a rational process for people who wish to work in the US.
We need to end the war on drugs because it hasn’t stopped
drug abuse and enforcement kills & injures more people
than the actual drugs. We need to end illegal searches without warrants including local police, the NSA, and TSA. We
need to end civil asset forfeitures.
Education: I studied International Relations at the George
Washington University, and Political Management at the
George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management. I was also certified to teach English as a
Foreign Language in Mexico.
Experience: I first started as the Military and Veterans Affairs intern for US Senator Connie Mack as a high school
student in Florida. I have worked with various public officials over the years and have assisted in crafting state and
federal legislation.
Chandrakantha Courtney (GRN)
Transportation: Increase spending for state infrastructure.
Education: Texas record on education is abysmal. We need
to: 1) Increase spending for education. 2) Have a fact-based
rather than agenda-based orientation towards state approved curricula and their related textbooks. This means
reining in the State Board of Education which has become
the laughing stock of the US.
Health Care: Definitely. Texas needs to get on board with
this. Aside from the federal funds which are available, it is
simply the right thing to do.
Other Issues: 1) Immigration - It is not the business of
state and local agencies to be involved in
Immigration policies. 2) Prison Reform
- Texas has one of the largest incarceration rates in the US. This must change.
3) Texas needs to get out of the “War
on Drugs”. 4) Women need unfettered
access to abortions without interference
from the state.
Education: Government College of
Music and Dance, Vijaywada, AP, India
Experience: State Executive Committee, Texas State Green
Party
Attorney General
Four-year term. Must be at least 18 years old,
a U.S. citizen, and a Texas resident for at least
12 months. Among duties: lawyer for the state;
defends the laws and Constitution of the state;
represents the state in litigation; approves public
bond issues; enforces health, safety and consumer regulations; collects court-ordered child support; administers Crime Victims’ Compensation
Fund. Current annual salary: $150,000
Questions for Candidates
State/Federal: The Attorney General’s Office has been actively involved in questions of state and federal jurisdiction.
What do you see as the role of the Attorney General in these
issues?
Responsibilities: Which advisory and enforcement responsibilities of the Attorney General’s office will need the most attention and resources in the next four years, and how would
you address them?
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most
important, and how would you address them?
Ken Paxton (REP)
State/Federal: The Attorney General’s primary role is to
defend the state in court. This includes defending state
laws when the state is party to a suit and when a federal
law conflicts with state law. The U.S. Constitution must be
interpreted in the manner in which our Founding Fathers
intended. I will defend the Constitution which I am sworn
to protect and advance its principles.
Responsibilities: Border security and stopping human
trafficking are major priorities. Crimes by individuals and
gangs will be investigated and prosecuted. I will investigate and prosecute Medicaid fraud, waste, and abuse. I will
promote a pro-job, pro-business regulatory environment.
Child support collections will continue to grow as they have
under General Abbott.
Other Issues: Protecting personal privacy and prosecuting
identity theft is another area of importance. The Attorney
General should work to protect individual liberties from
government interference. I will continue to oppose the Affordable Care Act mandates and regulations that threaten
individual liberties and intrastate commerce.
Education: Baylor University, B.A. (Psychology), Baylor
University, M.B.A., Virginia University, J.D.
Experience: Attorney, Partner in a law firm, State Senator,
SD 8: January 2013 - current, State Representative, HD 70:
January 2003 to January 2013.
Sam Houston (DEM)
State/Federal: The Attorney General of Texas represents
the state and must protect the rights of all citizens. I will be
a strong advocate for Texas, but often a lawsuit is not the
best solution for all Texans. I will remove politics from the
office and work to resolve issues without spending unnecessary time and taxpayer dollars on lawsuits that drag on for
years.
Responsibilities: I will work to improve many responsibilities of the office, including the open records division,
the child support division, and the consumer and environmental protection divisions to name a few. I will take an
active role to insure that the office issues proper and timely
opinions.
Other Issues: The single most important issue in the race
for Attorney General is the issue of trust
and integrity. As Attorney General I
will come to work everyday and apply
Texas values to meet the challenges of
our great state. I pledge to the people of
Texas to be an Attorney General they
can trust -- an Attorney General with
professional integrity.
Education: 1984, BBA, University of
Texas at Austin; 1987, JD, Baylor Law School
Experience: 26 years as a practicing attorney. Partner in my
own firm—Shepherd, Scott, Clawater & Houston
Jamie Balagia (LIB)
State/Federal: Doing the job assigned by the Statutes and
the Texas Constitution without political party interference. Favoring the citizens of Texas first and then the State
of Texas next. There are times that the State of Texas must
resist Federal overreaching without political grandstanding.
There are also times that Federal Law trumps State Law and
I am thankful for that.
Responsibilities: Those involving the Energy Industry,
Transportation, Population Growth and Water resources. I
also believe that we must protect individual freedoms and
the State and Federal Constitutional Rights of our citizens.
We have a lot of intelligent people in this state that are not
controlled by the political parties or corporations. These are
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 8
the resources we need to utilize.
Other Issues: The legalization of marijuana and body camera video taping of all police/citizen encounters will bring
down the animosity that is increasing between law enforcement and our citizens. We need to demilitarization of our police departments
while understanding that in extreme
situations specialized response teams are
necessary. We need to bring “to protect
and to serve” back.
Education: 1976, AA Degree, Law Enforcement, Blinn College; 1978, BS Degree, Criminal Justice, SWTSU (Texas
State University); 1992, Doctor of Jurisprudence, University
of Texas School of Law; 1956-current, Hard Knocks Degree,
School of Hard Knocks.
Experience: 1978, Texas Peace Officer, Brenham Police
Department 1979 - 1990, Texas Peace Officer, Austin Police
Department 1992 - current, Texas Criminal Defense Attorney 1993 - current, Federally Licensed Attorney
Jamar Osborne (GRN)
State/Federal: I support limited government both at the
federal levels. Big government is usually much more intrusive at the state level. The government’s role is not to act as
an adult babysitter. The Attorney General’s office should
prevent mob rule from trampling over individual freedom.
The AG should protect free markets and the freedom to
contract.
Responsibilities: The process for requesting public records
should be simplified. Secondly, the process for requesting
Attorney General opinions should be accessible to the public by broadening the definition of “authorized requestors.”
I also would like to a get a statute passed, making the AG’s
office the designated agent for accepting service of process
on behalf of the State.
Other Issues: I would fight to deregulate the legal profession so that all citizens would have equal access to legal
services. I would fight to impose strict regulations over
attorneys fees and to allow citizens the
freedom to contract with the counsel
of their own choosing, irrespective of
whether or not the chosen counsel is a
licensed attorney.
Education: Juris Doctorate (law degree)
Masters Degree in Public Affairs Bachelors of Arts (Political Science)
Experience: I graduated law school;
however, I am not a member of any bar association. I have
represented myself in lawsuits and have helped others to do
the same.
Comptroller of Public Accounts
Four-year term. Must be at least 18 years old, a
U.S. citizen, and a Texas resident for at least 12
9 LWVSAA Voters Guide
months. Among duties: collects taxes and fees
owed the state; reports the state’s financial condition to the Legislature at the end of each fiscal
year and provides estimates of revenue for the
coming year; provides economic development
assistance to local governments and businesses;
audits the performance of Texas schools. Current
annual salary: $150,000
Questions for Candidates
Responsibilities: The comptroller is the chief steward of the
state’s finances. What measures do you support to ensure wise
use of state money?
Immigration: Do you support updating the 2006 study on
the economic impact of illegal immigration in Texas? Why or
why not?
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most
important, and how would you address them?
Glenn Heger (REP)
Responsibilities: I will continue the Comptroller’s legacy
of increasing transparency. Also, I would like to implement
zero-based budgeting, a method of budgeting in which all
expenses must be justified each new budget cycle. Finally,
we need to end the practice of diverting fees that were collected for a specific purpose in order to balance the state’s
budget.
Immigration: Yes. Texans deserve to know how much illegal immigration costs the taxpayers each year. In order for
Texas to truly understand the costs of illegal immigration to
our state, we need updated numbers.
Other Issues: The current system of taxation is inefficient, unfair, and relies too
heavily on an antiquated system of property tax collection. Other components of
our tax system that need to be reformed
are the appraisal process and the state’s
margin tax. Both are too burdensome
and need significant reform.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree, Texas
A&M University; Law Degree, St. Mary’s University; Masters Degree, St. Mary’s University
Experience: Small business owner, former State Rep. (20032008), current State Senator, served on both House Appropriations & Senate Finance Committees, Chairman of
Senate Subcommittee on Fiscal Matters, former Chairman
of the Sunset Advisory Commission
Mike Collier (DEM)
Responsibilities: 1. Implement quarterly revenue forecasting to provide Legislature with more accurate, more
timely revenue information; 2. strengthen financial controls
including ethics, compliance and enforcement upgrade; 3.
reform fund accounting to eliminate diversions and other
“shell games”; 4. restore Performance Reviews to Comptrol-
ler’s Office and rename them Accountability Audits.
Immigration: I support any study that enhances our understanding of the facts underlying important policy decisions.
If we have reason to believe the 2006 study is obsolete,
it should be updated. As an independent Comptroller, I
would be very happy to lead that effort and offer an unbiased point of view if asked to do so by the Legislature.
Other Issues: On tax administration, reform is needed to
ease the burden of compliance on businesses. Comptroller
should also form an independent point of view based solely
on the facts as to the vital decisions confronting the legislature.
Education: I hold a BBA in Petroleum
Land Management and an MBA from
the University of Texas at Austin. I graduated from Georgetown High School in
Georgetown, Texas.
Experience: Landman at Exxon, 1984 1996, Houston Price Waterhouse (PwC),
1988-2011 (Austin, Dallas, New York, and Houston) (spent
11 months as Controller of Scientific Measurement Systems
in 1992) PwC partner 2001-2011 CFO, Layline Petroleum,
2011-2013
Ben Sanders (LIB)
Responsibilities: As I have said countless times we first
have to fully understand what it is we are spending our
money on and why. Once we have a clear understanding
of that, then we can move to reducing our budget. After
we’ve reduced our collective expenditures in the budget
we can move to reduce taxes for everyone. (http://tribtalk.
org/2014/07/06/a-libertarians-take-on-property-taxes/)
Immigration: As Comptroller I will not waste the
taxpayer’s money on reports and studies that are best suited
by the academic departments of the State’s already funded
Universities. This questions was recently updated and
answered in March of 2014 by UTEP and NCBSI. (http://
ncbsi.utep.edu/documents/UAC%20Project%20Site%20
Visits/UTEP%20NCBSI%20Final%20Report%20March%20
20%202014.pdf)
Other Issues: The Local and State pensions have
an unfunded liability of $53,849,110,848. As Texas
Comptroller I would strongly advocate
that all government employees be given
the same right to influence their future
and retirement as any other citizen
through the implementation of 401k
or IRA systems. (read more web on my
web site http://www.vote4sanders.com/
issues )
Education: Bachelors of Science Chemistry; Master of Science - Computer Science; Doctor
of Business Administration - Applied Computer Science;
Certified Contracting Officer’s Representative - Defense
Acquisition University; Certified Records Manager - NARA
Experience: I’ve trained my entire life for this position.
During my years at NASA and the US Army, I honed my
skills in leadership, through fairness, integrity, and honor
and will instill those values in the eighteen Field Offices
across Texas. (on website)
Deb Shafto (GRN)
Responsibilities: The comptroller must support and work
with staff to insure accuracy in reporting and must use
those accurate reports to advise the legislature of the financial impact of proposed bills. Of greatest importance is the
duty to inform the public about the financial ramifications
of proposed legislation.
Immigration: Yes, the study needs to be both current and
accurate to allow us to plan responsibly for the future. The
2006 study was indicative of needs and the realities of the
time, but does not account for the recent influx of immigrants fleeing violence to the south.
Other Issues: Fair taxation and distribution of resources where needed. The
needs of the people must be considered
ahead of personal or corporate profits.
Our schools must be adequately funded
to ensure a capable citizenry. Also of
great importance is the provision for
adequate water resources for the future.
We must start now.
Education: I have an undergraduate BS and a Master’s Degree from the University of Houston
Experience: I have worked in service jobs, worked for a
state agency helping adolescents move to successful adulthood, and taught early childhood education for 16 years. I
owned and operated a small business (15 to 35 employees)
for many years.
Commissioner General Land Office
Four-year term. Must be at least 18 years old, a
U.S. citizen, and a Texas resident for at least 12
months. Among duties: management of state
lands and mineral-right properties totaling 20.3
million acres and providing revenues for the
Permanent School Fund; repository of state land
documents; responsible for the prevention of and
response to oil spills that occur on “submerged”
lands out to 10.3 miles in the Gulf of Mexico. The
Commissioner also serves as a chairman of seven state boards, including the School Land Board,
the Veterans Land Board, and the Coastal Coordination Council. Current annual salary: $137,500
Questions for Candidates
Coastal Lands: Texas is among the five states receiving
federal funding through the Restore Act passed by the Senate in 2011. How should this funding be used to improve the
existing threats to Texas coastal lands?
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 10
Wetlands: Much emphasis is being placed by ecologists and
environmental groups on restoring and protecting the coastal
wetlands to alleviate damage from major storms; however,
developers and home owners want to build in these areas.
How would you address the concerns of these divergent interest groups?
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most
important, and how would you address them?
George P. Bush (REP)
Coastal Lands: We should focus on regional solutions that
have benefits to water quality & habitat restoration as well
as enhanced public recreation activities (fishing, boating,
beaches). Protecting the ecological resources in turn assists
in protecting our coastal economic resources, by slowing
storm surge to reduce damage and improving habitats for
our fishing and sporting industries.
Wetlands: I believe we can do both. Texans have proven
that we can manage our natural resources effectively while
fostering a vibrant and strong coastal economy. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure we have a
bright future for the Texas coast.
Other Issues: As Land Commissioner, I will use the influence that the GLO has over public schools due to the
Permanent School Fund to push for improvement in
education, including more choice, more
flexibility for schools and more results
for students. I will also work to promote
more energy jobs and to help our veterans as they return to civilian life after
having served us in combat.
Education: Born in Houston, George P.
received his undergraduate degree from
Rice University. In 2000, he attended
The University of Texas School of Law, where he earned his
Juris Doctorate.
Experience: Former inner city public high school teacher.
Past Chairman of Uplift Education. Entrepreneur in real
estate investment and energy sector. Officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve. Served in Afghanistan. For more information:
www.GeorgePforTexas.org/about
John Cook (DEM)
Coastal Lands: The historic funds exist in two categories
the Direct Component and the Centers of Excellence component. The funds are available through grant programs
and can be used to make improvements to the ecosystem or
for economic recovery. Our grant requests should be to assist the industries impacted, including the fishing, shrimping, and crabbing industries and eco-tourism.
Wetlands: The beaches of Texas have always belonged to
the people of Texas. We need to keep it that way for future
generations of Texans. I believe we should focus on protecting and restoring coastal areas. This includes restrictions on
development. Developers must partner to keep tradition in
mind on their projects thereby allowing development yet
11 LWVSAA Voters Guide
maintaining public access.
Other Issues: Set standards for Fracking that: 1 Protect
our water resources, 2 Protect the health of populations 3
Respect adjacent property owners right to preserve their
quality of life. 4 Maximize the royalties paid to fund Public
Education. History records oil booms & busts. . Let’s be
careful not to destroy while we build our future on energy
independence
Education: Immaculata High School, NYC, NY, St Francis
Colllege, Brooklyn, NY, El Paso Community College, El
Paso, TX, University of Texas at El Paso,
BBA, Mktg/Mgmt, University of Texas
at El Paso,Teaching Certification
Experience: 1965-1974 Western Electric
Company Installer 1967-1970 United
States Army Soldier 1975-1983 Mountain Bell Manager 1983-1990 Southwestern Bell Manager 1992-1993 EPISD
Teacher 1994-1995 Hoang Foods VP
Mktg 1999-2005 City Council 2005-2013 Mayor
Justin Knight (LIB) No response
Valerie Alessi (GRN)
Coastal Lands: The fact that this is still a question four
years after the BP oil spill is ludicrous. It is evident that the
current leadership does not care for the environment, as the
board that was appointed to address these problems did not
even meet for the first time until October of 2013 and only
unveiled a website in July 2014. Restoration needs to begin
immediately.
Wetlands: It is without question that environmental devastation contributes to climate change, and negatively impacts
the world that we pass to our children. I cannot imagine
having to tell future generations that property rights were
more important than a sustainable environment, so I fully
intend to always put the well-being of the environment
above the needs of the landed gentry.
Other Issues: For too long the state of Texas has put the
needs of industry before the sustainability of the environment, and that must stop. I fully intend to take a strong
position in favor of the good of the environment.
Education: No response.
Experience: No response.
Commissioner of Agriculture
Four-year term. Must be at least 18 years old, a
U.S. citizen, and a Texas resident for at least 12
months. Among duties: regulates fuel pumps and
weights and measures devices; regulates pesticide use and application; certifies organically
produced products; facilitates trade and market
development of agricultural commodities. Current
annual salary: $137,500
Questions for Candidates
Environment: How do you propose to grow a businessfriendly state while maintaining the environment?
Water: what measures do you support to address the future
water needs of Texas?
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most
important, and how would you address them?
Sid Miller (REP)
Environment: I believe the best stewards of the land are
those who earn their living from it. While Texans should be
concerned about preserving our environmental resources,
we should not over regulate to the point that we kill jobs
& economic opportunity. Today, Texas provides the safest,
most cost effective food supply in the world while creating
jobs and opportunities in agriculture.
Water: Protecting our precious water resources is a top
priority and will be a focus of the Texas Department of
Agriculture. We must maintain the rule of capture, create
desalinization plants, make water infrastructure improvements, and encourage conservation, including removing
restrictions to allow rainwater harvesting.
Other Issues: We must protect our private property rights
and fight back against overzealous &, oftentimes, abusive
federal government overreach by the EPA, BLM, & USDA.
We must preserve our unique Texas
heritage and defend our constitutional
freedoms, including our 2nd Amendment rights to keep and bear arms. We
must secure our border and protect the
farmers and ranchers who live there.
Education: AA - Cisco Junior College
- Graduated with Honors Vocational
Agriculture, B.S. - Tarleton State University - Graduated with Honors
Experience: As an eighth generation Texas farmer and
rancher, I raise crops, cattle, horses, & nursery stock. I am
a former vocational agriculture teacher and served twelve
years in the Texas House where I was Chairman of the Livestock & Agriculture Committee.
Jim Hogan (DEM)
Environment: Sustainable agriculture is a goal that we must
reach for. Young farmers is must. An environment that allows farmers to succeed. Land availability is right up there.
Work with univeristies to have safer alternatives for herbicides and pesticides.
Water: Desalination is definitely on the
horizon. The cost has got to be worked
on.
Other Issues: To be a farmer. You need
land, capital, markets, and water. All will
be prioritized.
Education: I graduated from Mansfield
High School in 1969 and I attended college at Tarleton State
University.
Experience: I have spent 32 years in the dairy business and
in farming.
David (Rocky) Palmquist (LIB)
Environment: The worst thing a farmer or rancher can
hear is “I am from the government and I’m here to help
you” What the government does least is what’s best. With
continuing drought we must look to new crops such as
industrial hemp. Many states have already legalized this and
as Texans we should be the leader in this eco-friendly crop
of many uses.
Water: The Texas Department of Agriculture really has little to do with our
water resources. I would strongly encourage proper soil erosion prevention,
rain water collection resulting in a tax
break, and drought tolerant crops such
a hemp. Some studies suggest irrigation
water will be gone in 15 years in parts of
Texas. We must begin the transformation now.
Other Issues: Marijuana Legalization needs to become a
reality in Texas. We are losing millions of dollars to states
like Colorado just as we have been losing gambling money
to Louisiana and New Mexico. Let’s legalize, regulate, tax,
and then begin dismantling the state property tax. It can
be done. Don’t let politicians tell you otherwise. After all,
they’ve been lying to us forever!
Education: High School Austin Community College
Experience: I have been involved in agriculture since the
age of 16 when I started my own plant business out of
my back yard, thus carrying on 11 generations of family
involvement in agriculture. I have been involved in many
civic organizations.
Kenneth Kendrick (GRN)
Environment: I want Texas to be known as the safest place
to buy agriculture Products, thus causing major producers
to want to buy from Texas and have the Texas label. I want
food from China marked as such given the problems they
have caused. I GMO marked as such as consumers have the
right to know. The pesticide division must enforce what is
their, and chemical used must have been on ///
Water: Water conservation districts have to be there. Fracking is a killer in that takes water and contaminates. We must
progress in how we handle this. I know the aquifer that my
area uses starts in Colorado, we can not let some dry it up
from the northwest and then leave the rest of use bone dry.
Like cities, we may have to implement a state wide restriction process also.
Other Issues: I am proud to be Running for Texas Commissioner of Agriculture, my main issues: 1) Make Texas Food
the Safest in the nation and that be known nationwide. 2)
water be safe to drink. As a Former Pest Control Technician
I know the way we must make sure our drinking water safe.
3)3) Corporate Accountability- After Blowing the Whistle
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 12
on Peanut Corp of America, it was discovered ///
Education: My Wife serves on our school Board
here in Wilson and I have a web page that shows
my passion for teachers https://www.facebook.com/
WilsonISDconcernedcitizens?ref_type=bookmark in my
local district. Even though I am running for Agriculture
Commission ///
Experience: As it relates to Agriculture Commissioner :
Even though known as a Whistle Blower against the Peanut
Company, I also have worked as a lab tech in the food
industry, The peanut Plant, and a Pest Control Tech (all
within Dept of AG) 5 year advocate ///
Railroad Commissioner
Six-year term (on a three-person commission).
Must be at least 25 years old, a U.S. citizen, and
a Texas resident and registered voter. Among duties: regulation of the oil and natural gas industry,
including drilling production and environmental
protection; natural gas utilities; natural gas and
hazardous liquids pipeline safety; surface mining
of coal, uranium, and iron ore gravel, including
land reclamation; transportation and storage of
liquefied petroleum gas, compressed natural gas,
and liquefied natural gas; encourages the use
of clean-burning propane and researches new
technologies for its use. Current annual salary:
$137,500
Questions for Candidates
Fracking: Drilling rules were written to increase well productivity. What types of fracking rules are needed and how
should they be enforced?
Commission Structure: The Railroad Commission no longer
allows staff members access to news media. How would you
increase transparency of the Railroad Commission?
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most
important, and how would you address them?
Ryan Sitton (REP)
Fracking: All of the commission’s rules should be based
on sound science and data and properly balance the safety
and health of communities with our need to responsibly
produce as much energy as possible. Fracking is a proven,
reliable and safe drilling technique that has allowed for
tremendous growth in energy production. The current rules
related to fracking are sufficient.
Commission Structure: I don’t believe this question is accurate. My understanding is that staff members are made
available to the media in certain situations. I will encourage
more access to the staff, but my way of increasing transparency will be to make myself available to the public and
media to answer their questions about what actions the
commission is taking and why.
Other Issues: I think it is critically important for the citi13 LWVSAA Voters Guide
zens of Texas to feel confident in the way that our natural
resources are being produced. I plan to spend a great deal
of time answering people’s questions about what the commission does and why we do it. We have important challenges facing us including water issues,
seismicity, municipal jurisdiction and
others.
Education: Cistercian Preparatory
School - Irving, Texas; Texas A&M University, B.S. Mechanical Engineering
Experience: In 2006 my wife Jennifer and I founded PinnacleAIS, an
engineering and technology company
focused on reliability and integrity programs for the oil, gas,
and petrochemical industries. I have over fifteen years of
energy industry experience.
Steve Brown (DEM)
Fracking: Rules should be established to ensure that
landowners and key stakeholders are properly notified
about permit applications. I would also support establishing a baseline of environmental factors through geological
surveys and water tests to determine how drilling might
impact an area. Finally, violators must be penalized decisively to deter future transgressions.
Commission Structure: Texans deserve an accountable and
transparent Railroad Commission. It is critical that the media have access to agency experts like petroleum engineers
who understand the quality of work being done as Texas’ oil
and gas production booms. Repealing the media access rule
would be a good first step in regaining the public’s trust.
Other Issues: The voices of Texas taxpayers are buried in an
avalanche of campaign cash. The public has lost trust in the
fairness of the regulatory process. I would change the name
to the Energy Resources Commission, shorten the fundraising period to one month per year for Commissioners not
up for reelection, and prohibit donations from businesses
with contested RRC matters.
Education: North Carolina A&T State
University B.A. Political Science Minor
Economics
Experience: My career spans well over
15 years of legislative, political, and advocacy experience. I began my career at
The White House as an intern for President Bill Clinton. I have since worked
at the state, local and federal levels of
government.
Mark A. Miller (LIB)
Fracking: The Commission has rules to satisfy many
purposes, e.g., prevention of waste, protection of mineral
rights, water resources, and public safety. Fracking, per se,
requires few additional rules. However, the fracking boom
requires consideration of rules related to such things as
waste water injection, discharge of natural gas, and protec-
tion of surface owner rights.
Commission Structure: I oppose the current Railroad
Commission policy and will work to revise it. Until I am
able to do so, I will make myself readily and regularly available to the media and the public. As a knowledgeable expert
in oil and gas, I will easily be in a position to adequately
explain the Commission’s policies, rule-making activities,
and findings on important specific issues.
Other Issues: The oil and gas industry believes the Commission to be a fair arbiter of its “inside baseball” conflicts.
The Commission must earn the same trust with the public
by having highly-qualified Commissioners whose focus will
be protecting public safety, natural resources, and the rights
of all property owners, along with the right to engage in
free and prosperous commerce.
Education: BS Engineering, Harvey
Mudd College, 1972; PhD Petroleum
Engineering, Stanford U., 1983
Experience: 42 years as a practicing
petroleum engineer, 18 of which were
spent on the petroleum engineering faculty at UT Austin. Currently CEO and
CTO of a small company that develops
software for the oil and gas industry.
Martina Salinas (GRN)
Fracking: The railroad commission needs to implement
regulations that protect the quality of life that Texas citizens
have come to expect. No one should have to worry whether
their air is safe to breathe, or if their water is safe to drink.
The commission also needs to be more vigilant in that only
safe and reputable energy companies are allowed to operate
in Texas.
Commission Structure: I hope to amend the policy to at
least allow technical staff to explain technical issues and
provide technical information through the news media in
order to provide public information.
Other Issues: As a public agency the Railroad Commissions only duty should be to the citizens of Texas. Industry
interest should not be held more important then the rights
of Texas citizens. Eminent domain and common carrier
policy need to be reformed. Disposal
well construction needs to be standardized and should have more inspections
performed.
Education: Bachelor’s of Science in Civil
Technology-Construction ManagementUniversity of Houston
Experience: Have worked the past 8
years in the construction industry working on city and state road construction projects.
Supreme Court
Chief Justice
Six-year term. Must be at least 35 years old, a
U.S. citizen, and a Texas resident. Must have
been a practicing lawyer for at least 10 years or
a lawyer and a judge of a court of record for at
least 10 years. Serves as a member of the court of
final appellate jurisdiction in civil matters in the
state; has the power to issue writs of mandamus,
and preside over proceedings for removal of
judges; regulates and licenses lawyers; manages
the Basic Civil Legal Services Program for the
poor. Annual authorized salary: $152,500 (Chief
Justice), $150,000 (Justice)
Questions for Candidates
Public Protection: The Texas Supreme Court oversees and
controls rules and standards for the legal profession. What
changes, if any, are needed to provide better protection to the
public?
Impartiality: Do you believe changes in the current election
process are needed to improve or maintain impartiality, given
the need to raise funds from political campaign contributors?
Nathan Hecht (REP)
Public Protection: Attorney ethics rules should be revised
to prohibit unreasonable fees, better protect client confidentiality, prohibit improper intimate relationships with clients,
ensure lawyer loyalty, and provide for fair but strict discipline of violators. The Texas Supreme Court has supported
rules revisions to provide high ethical standards for lawyers
and protect the public.
Impartiality: Texans want to elect their judges, and campaigning is expensive, but from my first
race for the Texas Supreme Court, I
helped pioneer contribution limits that
have since become law. I have tried to
raise broad support from many people
and avoid any appearance of impropriety. I am always mindful of my solemn
oath to faithfully execute the duties of
my office.
Education: J.D., SMU Law School cum laude; B.A., Yale
University (Honors in Philosophy)
Experience: Texas Supreme Court (elected Justice 1988,
re-elected 1994, 2000, 2006; appointed Chief Justice 2013);
Fifth Court of Appeals (1986-1988); 95th District Court
(1981-1986); lawyer and shareholder, Locke firm (19761981); Lieutenant, USNR, JAG Corps
William Moody (DEM)
Public Protection: None
Impartiality: Yes
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 14
Education: B.A. Political Science UTEP J.D. Texas Tech
University
Experience: 28 years as District Judge
Tom Oxford (LIB)
Public Protection: While no system is perfect Texas has
a working and effective grievance process. Lawyers are
suspended or disbarred every month for ethical lapses. Our
problems involve access to justice and the courts. This is
where we should focus our efforts.
Impartiality: I do not have an easy answer to the lack of
impartiality in many of our courts. No one has that answer.
If the public continues to allow thirty second TV ads to
govern their vote candidates will continue to be beholden to
the wealthy. Going to a non partisan election system would
do nothing to change the need for large cash contributions.
Voters must get beyond the ads.
Education: Undergraduate degree in Political Science from
The University of Texas. Doctor of Jurisprudence from The
University of Houston.
Experience: Managing Attorney for the firm of Waldman
and Smallwood P.C. for the past fifteen years. Managing
Attorney for a non-profit legal aid office in Southeast Texas
for the preceding ten years.
Justice, Place 6 Unexpired Term
Jeff Brown (REP)
Public Protection: The Court works diligently to responsibly oversee and administer the legal profession. I’m
honored to serve as the Court’s liaison to the Grievance
Oversight Committee, which reviews the attorney-client
grievance process and makes recommendations to the Court. The Court is
constantly working to assure that the
profession is responsive to the needs of
the public.
Impartiality: I believe judges should
be accountable to the voters. Currently
judges must run for office and must
raise money to fund those campaigns.
Though I do not believe that Texas judges allow contributions to affect their impartiality, I understand that some
may disagree. I am open to the idea of adopting retention
elections to dampen the influence of money in judicial elections.
Education: I have a BA in English from the University of
Texas and a law degree, with high honors, from the University of Houston. I’m also board-certified in civil trial law by
the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Experience: I have almost 13 years of judicial experience—6 years as a trial judge, 6 years as a court-of-appeals
judge, and 11 months as a Supreme Court justice. I’ve won
3 judge-of-the-year awards. Before taking the bench, I practiced at Baker Botts in Houston
15 LWVSAA Voters Guide
Lawrence Edward Meyers (DEM)
Public Protection: I do not see the need for any changes at
this time.
Impartiality: Yes.
Education: B.A. in history & chemistry from Southern
Methodist University in 1970 J.D. from the University of
Kansas School of Law in 1973 L.L.M. from the University of
Virginia School of Law in 1998 Board Certified in Criminal
Law and Criminal Appellate Law
Experience: 1973-1974 Assistant District Attorney, Montgomery County, Kansas 1975-1988 practiced civil, criminal,
and appellate law in Fort Worth 1989-1992 Associate Justice, Second Court of Appeals in Fort Worth 1992-present
Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals
Mark Ash (LIB)
Public Protection: The Texas Supreme Court should approve standard forms that can be accessed by both lawyers
and the persons who represent themselves without a lawyer
(pro se). These forms should be available online and in all
civil courts throughout the state. These
forms should be suggested-forms only
and not be considered legal advice or a
substitute for competent counsel.
Impartiality: Impartiality can be difficult to maintain if a judicial candidate
accepts political campaign contributions. I will not accept campaign contributions from anyone in excess of $50.00.
However, judicial candidates should be free to accept any
contribution amount so long as the contribution amount is
a matter of public record.
Education: Las Cruces High School, Las Cruces, New
Mexico, High School Diploma, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, Associates in Arts University
of Texas at El Paso, Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, South Texas College of Law, JD
Experience: Practice of Criminal and Civil Law in the State
of Texas for over 20 years, I have represented individuals
and small businesses in all federal and state courts in both
criminal and civil matters.
Justice, Place 7
Jeff Boyd (REP)
Public Protection: Our profession’s greatest current challenge is finding ways to make it easier,
more efficient, and less expensive for
people to seek justice in the justice
system. We have implemented e-filing,
expedited trial rules, & Access to Justice
programs around the state, and we need
to improve these innovative changes to
make courts more “user-friendly.”
Impartiality: Changes in the current
system could help, but many changes bring problems of
their own. I have committed to not take a position on any
current proposed changes until I have personally been
through this election cycle as a candidate. The vast majority of Texans want to keep ELECTING their judges, and my
general view is that we should be hesitant to take away that
right.
Education: Justice Boyd graduated summa cum laude (second in his class) from Pepperdine University School of Law
in 1991. Before attending law school, he graduated cum
laude with a degree in Biblical Studies from Abilene Christian University, in 1983.
Experience: Justice, Texas Supreme Court (2012-present)
Chief of Staff & General Counsel, Office of the Texas Governor (2011-12) Attorney, Thompson & Knight (1992-2000,
2003-2010) Deputy Attorney General (2000-2003) Youth &
Family Minister (1983-2000)
Gina Benavides (DEM)
Public Protection: While the legal profession is a self-regulating profession, we should also be mindful of the needs
of the public at-large and how our profession affects the
public. One of those needs includes ensuring that the everyone has continued
access to our justice system. Since my
appointment to the TAJC by the Texas
Supreme Court in 2010, I have work
hard to ensure that right.
Impartiality: As a judge who has sat
through two elections and participated
in an appointment-selection process,
I support the election of judges. Until we have a system
which is void of politics and money, our current system
at least gives the citizens of the State of Texas the right to
choose their judges. As a judge for 7 years, I do not allowed
politics enter into my decisions.
Education: JD University of Houston Law Center 1988
BAA University of Texas at Austin 1985
Experience: Appellate Justice, Chair Texas Center for Judiciary, Board of Texas Access for Justice Commission, Board
of Judicial Section, 2014 Judge of the Year, 2007 Latina
Judge NHBA, Minority Director of SBOT, President MABA
Texas, Regional VP TADC, many more
Don Fulton (LIB)
Public Protection: They need to set better standards for
themselves and the courts of appealpass a rule of appellate procedure which
prohibits justices from seeing or learning the name of the lawyer submitting
petitions or briefs. Make a decision on
the merits and not on who the lawyer is.
Enforce that rule with ethical sanctions
for violation by attorneys or parties,
recusal for justices.
Impartiality: The proposed rule above will do more than
all the campaign finance rules. Once put in place a lot of the
funds would dry up. There are now plenty of free sources
for judicial candidates to get their message out for little of
no cost, and any contribution would be legitimate, rather
than an attempt to buy influence. I have refused to solicit or
accept any campaign funds.
Education: High School Diploma Arlington High School,
Arlington, Texas (with honors) 1968 B. A. Economics 1972
(with honors) from U. T. A. Army Officer’s Basic Course
1972 Juris Doctor S. M. U. School of Law 1976 Arl\my Officer’s Advanced Course (App 1978)
Experience: Private practice of law for 37 yrs in the courts
of at least 35 counties around the state, along with: U.S.
Sup. Court, U S Court of App., 5th Cir, Sup. Court of Texas,
Court of Criminal Appeals, 3 Courts of App, FC ND TX,
BIA and Imm. Court
Charles E. Waterbury (GRN)
Public Protection: I believe the rules and standards of the
legal profession I believe provide significant protection to
the public.
Impartiality: The judicial election process has been utterly corrupted by the
need to raise massive amounts of money
in order to run a viable campaign.
This requirement was put in place and
maintained by both the Democrat and
Republican party. The corrupting influence of huge amounts of cash ensures
that both the Democrat and Republican
candidate are beholden to special interests.
Education: Baylor University School of Law, 1992 Juris
Doctor Texas Christian University, 1989 Bachelor of Science, Cum Laude
Experience: Practicing law since November of 1992. I have
practiced in my own firm since February 1996. The focus of
my practice is personal injury and immigration cases.
Justice, Place 8
Phil Johnson (REP) No response
RS Roberto Koelsch (LIB) No response
Jim Chisolm (GRN) No response
Court of Criminal Appeals
Six-year term. Must be at least 35 years old, a U.S.
citizen, and a Texas resident. Must have been a
practicing lawyer for at least 10 years or a lawyer
and a judge of a court of record for at least 10
years. Serves as a member of the court of final
appellate jurisdiction in criminal matters, including death penalty cases, in the state; has the
power to issue writs of habeas corpus for felons;
administers publicly funded judicial and lawyer
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 16
education. Annual authorized salary: $152,500
(Presiding Judge), $150,000 (Judge)
Questions for Candidates
Access to Justice: The traditional funding source for legal
aid for the poor and for indigent defense has been shrinking
because of low interest rates. How can Texas improve access
to justice in criminal cases?
Obligations: What are the most important obligations of a
Court of Criminal Appeals judge and why?
Judge, Place 3
Bert Richardson (REP)
Access to Justice: I have presided in 40 counties in the last
5 years. When counties have funding available for a Public Defender’s Office that works best,
in conjunction with judges appointing
qualified lawyers from a list approved
by the courts when the PD is conflicted.
I have participated in 2 significant pro
bono projects in my career and also
believe local lawyers should do that.
Obligations: First, to write opinions that
lawyers easily understand that clearly
follow the constitution and legislative intent of statutes.
To show up for work and work hard, issuing opinions in a
timely manner. As an elected judge in Bexar County I was
consistently ranked at the top of local Bar Polls for knowledge of the law, work ethic and judicial demeanor.
Education: J.D., St. Mary’s University School of Law JD,
B.S., Brigham Young University, High School – Judson,
Converse, Texas, Board Certified in Criminal Law, Fluent
in Spanish
Experience: I am a 25 year lawyer that has served as a State
and Federal prosecutor. I currently preside throughout the
State as a Senior Judge. I have tried and presided over hundreds of trials, including capital murders and written over
50 appellate briefs.
John Granberg (DEM)
Access to Justice: There are many ways the source of funding for indigent can be improved. The screening process
can be improved so that truly needy people receive indigent
defense representation. Another source, would be to have a
set percentage rate of taxes set by statute so that the various
counties across the state will have a stable and predictable
fund to draw upon.
Obligations: The most important obligations are to review
death penalty case and writs of habeas corpus. The justices
need to be fair, impartial and accessible to last minute stays
of execution. With the state empowered to take a life, the
judiciary needs to do its part to administer justice as openly,
transparently, and as quickly as possible. Justice delayed is
often justice denied
17 LWVSAA Voters Guide
Education: 1998 Texas Tech University Dual Bachelors in
Philosophy and Communication Studies with Honors 2001
Texas Tech University School of Law JD
Experience: Solo Practitioner, Granberg Law Office, El
Paso, Texas 2005---Present General Practice with an emphasis on criminal and immigration law. Licensed in the
State of Texas and New Mexico, State and Federal Court.
Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Mark W. Bennett (LIB) No response
Judge, Place 4
Kevin Patrick Yeary (REP)
Access to Justice: Indigent criminal defendants are entitled
to free, constitutionally effective counsel, both at trial and
on direct appeal. Some counties use public defender offices.
In other counties, the courts appoint counsel. I have some
other ideas, but any solution must balance the need for
quality representation of indigent defendants against the
reality of scarce resources.
Obligations: The Court of Criminal Appeals (CCA) is our
state’s high criminal court. A CCA Judge must work with
the other CCA Judges to ensure our laws are enforced appropriately in all the trial and appellate courts in Texas. A
CCA Judge should also always seek justice and should help
to communicate the role of the Court and of other courts in
our system to lawyers and the public.
Education: St. Mary’s University B.A.
English Communication Arts - 1988.
St. Mary’s University Law School J.D. 1991.
Experience: Licensed attorney for nearly
23 years Former briefing attorney at the
Court of Criminal Appeals – 1991-1992
Former civil litigator/criminal defense
attorney 19 year appellate prosecutor Commissioner for
Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Quanah Parker (LIB)
Access to Justice: Since the supreme court implemented
mandatory court appointments for folks that meet guidelines it’s better. If we eliminated surcharges on drivers
license mandatory license suspensions and decriminalized
pot it would make for a lot less poor
criminals who wouldn’t need access to
justice because they already got it.
Obligations: Judges shouldn’t care about
the popular thing, but the right thing to
do. Judges should be independent and
not just a rubber stamp for the state.
Judges should never go with the flow but
stand up for the people and their right
to pursue life liberty and happiness. My dad said it best
“The government should collect the taxes pave the roads
defend the shores & leave us alone”
Education: Attended school in Norman Oklahoma through
sophomore year, Abilene High. Abilene Christian University UT Law School, US Army M.P. officer basic course,
Texas District Attorney’s Association basic course and the
school of hard knocks.
Experience: Had 3 jobs Bible Salesman Soldier Lawyer.
Sold bibles 9 yrs 4 Southwestern Company 2 put myself
through school. Lead Army M.P. platoon & 40 yrs defended
the rights of the crippled, downtrodden & damned in
wrecks divorces and accused.
Judith Sanders-Castro (GRN)
Access to Justice:: The funding problems of legal aid for the
poor and legal defense for the indigent accused of criminal offenses are two different matters. The state legislature
could address both problems by providing funding to
support legal services programs for civil law problems and
creating a non-partisan entity to distribute funding by
numbers of indigents accused in each county.
Obligations: As the court of last resort for people who have
been adjudicated in the Texas criminal system, judges on
this court must not only follow the law but must insure that
both the letter and the spirit of the law are objectively and
fairly followed. Additionally, the Court of Criminal Appeals
must be a fair arbiter of convictions possibly based on erroneous evidence.
Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts, University of Texas in
Austin Juris Doctorate, St. Mary’s University School of Law
Experience: 33 years of civil litigation in civil rights, personal injury, family law, consumer law and special education, with some criminal litigation.
Judge, Place 9
David Newell (REP)
Access to Justice: Harris County has increased representation of the indigent through its Public Defender’s Office.
For counties that can’t afford such an
office, devoting a portion of asset forfeiture funds to indigent defense could
provide additional revenue. Private
organizations such as Fort Bend Lawyers
Care, which my wife and I have volunteered with, can also provide assistance.
Obligations: To fairly, impartially, and
consistently interpret the law as written. Serving as a small group worship leader has shown me
the need for humility in all aspects of my life. My extensive
work on the editorial board for The Texas Prosecutor demonstrates my commitment to consistent application of the
law for a more transparent, predictable, and fair criminal
justice system.
Education: B.A. - English with concentration in creative
writing, magna cum laude - University of Houston, 1993
J.D. - University of Texas School of Law, 1997
Experience: I have over sixteen years of experience han-
dling criminal appeals including death penalty appeals. I
have written several articles and lectured extensively across
the state on the CCA. I am Board Certified in Criminal Law
and Criminal Appellate Law
William Bryan Strange, III (LIB)
Access to Justice: Texas should fund a robust system of
public defenders.
Obligations: A Judge of the Court of Criminal Appeals
must stand detached from outside influences such as campaign contributors
and political parties. In addition, a Judge
must apply strict standards to avoid
abuse of power by the State.
Education: I hold the following degrees:
BA in political science (SMU); Juris
Doctor (George Washington University)
and Science Masters (MIT).
Experience: I served as a Naval Officer and am a combat
veteran of the Vietnam War. I have over 35 years experience
as an attorney and business manager.
George Joseph Altgelt (GRN) No response
Member, State Board of Ed.
Four-year term. Must be at least 26 years old,
a U.S. citizen, a Texas resident for at least 12
months, a district resident for at least 12 months,
and a registered Texas voter. Composed of 15
members elected from roughly equally populous
districts, the Board adopts rules and establishes
policies that govern a wide range of educational
programs and services provided by Texas public
schools. Among duties: establishes goals for the
public school system; adopts and promotes fouryear plans for meeting those goals; and oversees
investment of the Permanent School Fund. Annual authorized salary: none
District 3
Questions for Candidates
Curriculum: Do you support involving practicing Texas professionals in writing the state curriculum? Why or why not?
Funding: What changes, if any, would you make to current
investment policies for the Permanent School Fund and to
distributions for public schools? Please explain.
Other Issues: What other issues do you consider the most
important, and how would you address them?
Education
Experience
Dave Mundy (REP)
Curriculum: If we’re speaking of the education bureaucraLWVSAA Voters Guide Page18
cy, they should be involved, but should NOT be in charge.
The professional education bureaucracy’s 45 years of failure
with outcomes-based methodology is a major reason we
have high school honor graduates taking remedial English
and math in college. Texas’ education standards should
reflect the input and will of parents.
Funding:: I think most Texas taxpayers
are very satisfied with how the PSF is
currently managed. I would look closely
at those investments to ensure they do
not support corporations or entities with
political agendas which are clearly to the
detriment of Texans.
Other Issues: We must stop Common
Core by delineating clear state standards
which remain knowledge-based, not subjective. Public
schools exist to create responsible citizens, not to “train a
workforce.” If we want politics out of education, then we
need to remove the progressive bias currently in the system.
Education: Attended University of Houston Distinguished
honor graduate, Defense Information School
Experience: More than 30 years in the newspaper business
as a writer, editor and photographer. Began specializing
in education issues in the mid-1990s and authored a book
on politics involved in the 1996-98 rewrite of Texas’ state
standards.
Marisa B. Perez (DEM)
Curriculum: I fully support involving these individuals in
writing state curriculum standards. It is the responsibility of the State Board to ensure that we set standards that
are challenging, attainable and relevant to the classroom
experience & career & college readiness! We need representatives on curriculum committees that
will speak to true educational and career
needs of TX.
Funding: I will continue to work at and
support setting the the highest percentage distribution for the PSF, so that our
districts will be allocated the most funding possible to support the purchase
of Instructional Materials. I will also
continue to work diligently with our State Representatives
so that the distribution of the PSF funds are more timely for
our school districts.
Other Issues: One of the most important charges of the
Board is ensuring that we have a thorough, fair & transparent review process for adoption of instructional materials
& curriculum standards. I will continue to work hard &
advocate for this transparency, as well as continue to have
an open-door policy with all stakeholders so I may best
represent the needs of District 3 & all Texans
Education: I am a product of the San Antonio Independent
School District, having graduated from Health Professions
High School at Edison. I graduated from the University of
Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a
19 LWVSAA Voters Guide
Minor in Psychology
Experience: Professional experience began at Child Protective Services. I now work for the San Antonio Independent
School District in Governmental & Community Relations. I
have served as SBOE member representing District 3 since
January of 2013.
Josh Morales (LIB)
Curriculum: There is no reason not to include as much input as possible from all different perspectives when it comes
to education, and special credence should be given to those
who are in the trenches, who do this for a living, every day
in a live classroom setting; they are the most important
voices we have.
Funding: Distribution of moneys to schools should be
based on need, not strictly attendance. Schools should be
empowered to define their monetary needs for specific
goals, rather than tallying a total based on how many students they can keep coming to school every day. Transparency in how the money is allocated to those goals is crucial
to ensuring complete funding.
Other Issues: The actual teachers are the most important
assets in the entire school system, yet are the least empowered to influence the decisions that affect their classrooms
All decisions should be not just open for input, but rather
fully influenced by the voice of our educators. Implementing a system to gather actionable feedback on every decision is crucial.
Education: Magna Cum Laude graduate with a BS in Computer Science from the University of Texas Pan American
Experience: Although my professional experience is mostly
technical, it is always interlaced with education. From my
many years spent as a tutor through my roles in writing and
presenting documentation and support to improve understanding, I’m always teaching.
State Senator
State Senators are elected for four-year terms
of office. One-half of the Senate membership is
elected every two years. They must be a citizen fo
the United States, a qualified Texas voter, and at
least 26 years old. He or she must also have been
a resident of the state for five years and a resident
of the district for one year immediately predeging
the election in which he or she was chosen. The
Texas Senate, lie the U.S. Senate, has “advise and
consent” powers. This means they are required to
approve certain executive actions.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education, motivation and experience qualifies you for the office.
(50 words)
Immigration: What specific changes, if any, would you pro-
pose to the current immigration policy? Please explain.
Voting Rights: The recent Supreme Court decision in Shelby
v. Holder struck down parts of the Voting Rights Act. What
tools would you use to prevent discrimination in voting and
to secure the ballot?
Infrastructure: What do you propose to address the current
condition of transportation infrastructure, such as bridges,
rail, highways, and pipelines?
Foreign Policy: With the Middle East and other countries in
turmoil, what should America’s role be in foreign policy?
District 25
Donna Campbell (REP)
Background: B.S. Central State University; M.N. Texas
Woman’s University; M.D. Texas Tech Health Science Center; General Surgical Internship, Methodist Hospital Sen.
Donna Campbell was first elected in 2012. She sits on Education and Veterans Affairs Committees,
and received a Courageous Defense of
Life Award.
Health Care: As a doctor, I have seen
the broken Medicaid system firsthand.
The expansion of it will cost taxpayers billions without providing access
to quality care that more Texans need.
Due to government burdens on doctors, emergency rooms are already being overcrowded with
non-emergencies, and Obamacare is driving health care
costs up. Medicaid expansion will make the problem worse.
A better solution is block grants and mobile clinics for
indigent care.
Water: With the Texas population increasing and persistent drought conditions affecting the state, it is imperative
we invest in the necessary infrastructure to keep up with
this growth and keep our economy strong. The $2 billion
voters approved last November to set up an evergreen loan
for key water projects across the state will have a dramatic
impact. Now our duty as lawmakers is to oversee that these
tax dollars are spent wisely and efficiently.
Voting Rights: Discrimination at the ballot box is illegal
and I will make sure any allegation of unlawful discrimination is fully investigated. Fortunately, this has nothing to do
with parts of the Voting Rights Act that the U.S. Supreme
Court struck down. That ruling simply gave Texas lawmakers the right to set our own congressional districts like
other states are allowed to do without having to go through
the Obama Administration or federal government first.
Redistricting: States that have attempted to put independent commissions in charge of redistricting have generally
failed to draw lines considerably different from the overall
outcome achieved by elected lawmakers. Even more concerning, because these commissions are not accountable to
the voters, they are more subsceptible to outside influences.
I believe the process is most transparent when conducted
by elected officials acting in their legislative duties.
Daniel Boone (DEM)
Background: MA 1968 & BA 65, UTexas; PhD Experimental Psychology, U Wyoming 75; Internship, Baylor/Waco
VA Hospital 76; PhD Clinical Psychology & Licensed 1978,
6 years Military - Enlisted, LtCol USAF Ret; Research, Test
& Evaluation, Contract Mgt, Hospital Clinical, Adjunct
Univ. Prof, Business Owner, Rancher
Health Care: I strongly support the expansion of Medicaid,
especially with 100% of the cost being borne by the Federal
Government for the first years and 90% thereafter. With
the new AHC, Affordable Health Care, a different solution
is not necessary when Medicaid provides care for those
ineligible for AHC coverage and Chip
covering the balance of uninsured children. Texans need health care; it is both
humane and cost saving.
Water: Water is not a commodity to be
bought and sold to the highest bidder.
We must work to develop a multi-state,
integrated, fifty-year water plan that
assures adequate supplies of water to
urban areas, agricultural needs and industrial requirements.
Both ground water and surface water must be assessed to
insure water rights for every Texan. Pollution of water must
stop; the quality of our water is also of utmost importance.
Voting Rights: Americans have fought long and hard and
died to secure voting rights for all citizens. We must not
allow that right to be taken for political gain. If the U.S.
Congress fails to revise Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act,
the Texas legislature must work to amend the Texas Constitution either on its own or by referendum to be voted on by
the people of Texas. Like redistricting, voting rights must
easily be available to every citizen.
Redistricting: I support the use of an independent citizens
commission to fairly draw congressional and state legislative districts. This will assure an appropriate balance in
our legislature, important for fair representation and avoid
times consuming expensive litigation, all the way to the
U.S. Supreme Court. Additional discussion welcome on all
issues.
Brandin P. Lea (LIB)
Background: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University MBA Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - BS Aeronautics Park University - BS CIS/M US Army - CaPM
and PMP. Project Manager, Defense Contractor, Business
Owner, Community Activist, Volunteer,
Military Veteran
Health Care: It is no mystery that
comprehensive healthcare is very important to most citizens of the United
States and Texas is no exception to that
understanding. It should also be noted
that government meddling in healthcare along with any other aspect of our
individual lives has been disastrous to the state of Texas as a
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 20
whole. I do not support the expansion of Medicaid, Medicare or any other government sanctions on the individual
right to choice.
Water: Water is the key to life, and without it Texas would
cease to exist. We stand at a point in history were the planet
is undergoing change, whether by natural causes or human
intervention. The people of Texas need to own their choices
of water use, not the government. Therefor I do not support
government involvement in the uses of Texas water supplies. It drives up cost of living and taxes for no reason. Free
market and educated choices prevail.
Voting Rights: We are at a point that our innovative and
technological prowess can overcome the needs for restrictive or abusive laws that inhibit voting or even cause voting
fraud. The electoral college must remain intact and any laws
requiring specific types of identification must be done away
with. Putting together a non-government commission to
review the technologies available, ensuring non partisan
involvement, will begin to alleviate concerns.
Redistricting: No, doing this is how popular vote democracies begin to surface. When this happens abuses of individuals constitutional rights begin to occur. No one group
of people should have any power or authority over another,
regardless of size or numbers. The districting as it is causes
problems enough as they are laid out because of dense city
centers swinging votes.
State Representative
State representatives are elected for a two-year
term. They must be a citizen of the United States,
a qualified Texas voter, and at least 21 years old.
He or she must also have been a resident of the
state for two years and a resident of the district
for one year immediately preceding the election
in which he or she was chosen. All bills that increase taxes or raise revenue for the state originate in the House of Representatives.
Questions for candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education, motivation and experience qualifies you for the office.
(50 words)
Health care: Texas has the most citizens without health
insurance than any other state. Do you support the expansion of Medicaid or have another solution for those millions
of Texans. Please explain.
Water: What is your position on a long-term policy for making sure all Texas citizens have adequate water?
Voting Rights: The Supreme Court decision in Shelby v.
Holder struck down parts of the Voting Rights Act. What
tools would you use to prevent discrimination in voting and
to secure the ballot?
Redistricting: Would you support the use of an independent
citizens redistricting commission to draw the Congressional
21 LWVSAA Voters Guide
and State Legislative districts? Why or Why not? Please
explain.
District 116
Trey Martinez Fischer (DEM) Unopposed
District 117
Rick Galindo (REP)
Background: I’m a son of the Southside who wants to serve
my neighbors and my community. I want to fight for better
schools, good new jobs and lower property taxes. I’m running because we need ethical and effective leadership – a
leader who is present and fighting for our community.
Health care: I share concerns about the high number of uninsured in Texas, but both the current and next Governor
are clear that Medicaid expansion is off
the table. As health care policy continues to be in flux around the nation, we
must explore effective, efficient ways to
insure more Texans.
Water: Overhaul the burdensome bureaucratic water regulatory system, promote conservation, identify new water
sources and explore new technologies,
including desalination, to meet our water needs today and
long into the future.
Voting Rights: All current laws against voter discrimination should be enforced to ensure Texans trust that elections are fair, free and honest.
Redistricting: I support the Texas Legislature redistricting and drawing Congressional and Legislative districts, as
mandated by Article III, Section 28 of the Texas Constitution. Elected representatives are directly accountable to the
people while those appointed to serve on a commission
would not be.
Philip Cortez (DEM)
Background: As a lifelong resident of District 117, I care
deeply about the issues affecting our community. I served
two terms as the District 4 City Councilman, where I
fought to improve infrastructure in our neighborhoods and
increased public safety. I currently serve as a Captain in the
Air Force Reserve.
Health care: I support the expansion
of Medicaid for those Texans living
without health insurance. During the
last legislative session, I supported
legislation which decreased unnecessary burdens on senior citizens receiving
Medicaid. If re-elected, I will support
legislation that increases access to health
insurance.
Water: With the Texas population expected to double
within 40 years, ensuring access to adequate water should
be a priority for state legislators. I supported the November
2013 election which increased funding for state-wide water
projects. I will continue to support future legislation to
ensure that we have adequate water.
Voting Rights: Voting provides our citizens with access to
impact issues facing our community. The recent Shelby v.
Holder decision gutted the Voting Rights Act. One way to
prevent discrimination in voting is to apply pre-clearance to
states that pass maps which discriminate against minorities
electing their own representatives.
Redistricting: I would support the use of an independent
citizens redistricting commission to draw the congressional
and state legislative districts. Unfortunately, Texas has a history of adopting maps that discriminate against minorities.
An independent citizens panel can help remove some of the
partisanship involved in the current system.
District 118
Joe Farias (DEM) Unopposed
District 119
Roland Gutierrez (DEM) Unopposed
District 120
Ruth Jones McClendon (DEM) No response
Gilberto Villela (LIB) No response
District 121
Joe Straus (REP) No response
Jeff Carruthers (LIB)
Background: I am a married 60 year old college graduate
(UTSA), business owner, taxpayer, homeowner and concerned citizen. I will listen to the concerns of all constituents and work to find practical solutions
to any of my districts problems or concerns.
Health care: Health care was far more
affordable before the government got involved. I suggest allowing people to opt
out of Medicaid and allow consumers
and their doctors to pull themselves out
of the system through medical savings
accounts. People should be free to purchase health care
across state lines, which increases competition and reduces
costs to the consumer.
Water: I would improve water catchment, educate people to
change their lifestyle and consumption, invent new technologies and review policy. However, I think too much government involvement will raise prices drastically (which it
already has in my district) and it has yet to be proven how
much water is available or not. Voting Rights: I would propose a state voter ID, paper ballots and restore voting rights to non violent felons.
Redistricting: Empower civil servants to draw the districts
maps, allowing them to take into account population
figures only. It would require the drawing of districts using
only political neutral criteria, such as avoiding splitting
up counties and cities, ensuring compact districts with
the shortest boundary lines possible, and minimizing
population differences between districts.
District 122
Lyle Larson (REP)
Background: As a lifelong resident of Bexar County, I
understand the issues affecting residents of District 122. My
background as a small business owner for the last 28 years
and as a public servant in local and state government for
two decades has given me the experience to continue to develop solutions to issues most important
to Bexar County and all Texans.
Health care: In determining how to
ensure all Texans have adequate health
care, the Legislature is presented with a
great challenge in reconciling a political decision with a business one. While
we recognize the federal government is
broke, we are working to develop a longterm solution to address our health care delivery challenges.
Other options include expanding health insurance coverage to low-income adults through requesting block grants
without cumbersome federal regulation.
Water: The historic drought of 2011, the worst in Texas history, proved that Texans are headed for a frightening future
if we continue to take a passive role in water planning.
In order to secure our water future, Texas needs a multipronged approach including the use of brackish desalination, aquifer storage and recovery, expanded reuse and
conservation strategies, and creating a 5-state water council
to facilitate interstate water transfers.
Voting Rights: The formula for preclearance in the Voting
Rights Act was developed several decades ago and relied
on voter data at the time. Since that time, voter turnout has
changed drastically and Texas has made much progress in
working to end discriminatory voting practices. Congress
has been instructed to develop a new preclearance formula,
and there are still a number of tools that can and will be
used to prevent discrimination and uphold integrity in our
state’s voting process.
Redistricting: Replacing the current method of redistricting with a nonpartisan citizen commission seems to be a
worthwhile idea. Some argue that the allowing the legislature to control the redistricting process is too political and
that a citizen commission may produce more equitable
results. This is certainly an idea worth looking into.
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 22
James M. Holland (LIB)
Background: What qualifies me are my ideas for improving
the lives of Texans by decreasing the size and power of our
state government by cutting taxes AND spending, legalizing medical marijuana, supporting school choice vouchers,
and advocating for Approval Voting to improve our voting
system. See facebook.com/JMHCC3
Health care: Health insurance isn’t the answer; it’s the
problem. I recommend a Singapore style system with
personal Health Saving Accounts (HSAs). Texans could pay
for health insurance and deductibles from this account if
desired. Contributions to it could be a mandatory percentage of income or voluntary - no upper limit. Employees and
employers could both contribute. Transfers from one HSA
to another would also be allowed. Funds would accumulate
annually and could be transferred as inheritance.
Water: The water issue is complex, and there is no simple
answer. As the drought decreases the water supply, and as
population growth increases demand, prices will rise. As
prices rise, consumers will find ways to reduce water usage,
and new technologies will be produced to increase supply.
My focus will be removing unnecessary regulations that
stop companies from developing the new technologies we
will need to solve this issue.
Voting Rights: The biggest problem
with our voting system is that you are
only allowed to vote for a single candidate. This is both unnecessary and
harmful. The vote for only one limitation causes the spoiler problem (i.e.
Ralph Nader 2000 and Ross Perot 1992).
Approval Voting is a simple fix to this
major problem. Just let voters choose
one or more if we want! For more information see www.
electology.org
Redistricting: In the end, the only way to end the practice
of unfair redistricting is to vote against those who do it.
Instead of an independent commission, I would support a
nongovernment-funded, nonpartisan organization focused
on fair and rational redistricting. They should submit a
number of fair plans based on various criteria. Then, they
campaign against all candidates that vote for other unfair
redistricting plans. Any questions? jamesmholland1@gmail.
com
District 123
Mike Villarreal (DEM)
Background: I was born and raised in San Antonio by
parents who instilled in me their aspiration for a better life
through hard work and education. I earned an economics
degree at Texas A&M University and a master’s in public
policy from Harvard. I worked for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System in Washington, D.C.
and went on to work for several top public finance firms.I
have served in the Texas Legislature for 15 years. I suc23 LWVSAA Voters Guide
cessfully fought to expand TEXAS Grants, our state’s most
significant college financial aid. I helped reduce our state’s
overemphasis on standardized testing, and advance quality
modern career and technical training in our high schools.
Health care: There are more than 6.3 million Texans who
do not have health insurance, including 1.2 million children. Texas also leads the nation in uninsured veterans with
200,000 veterans and spouses who lack coverage. Medicaid
expansion would go a long way to addressing this critical need, allowing an estimated 1 million Texans to gain
health care coverage. Across the state Texans will benefit
economically and in terms of improved health outcomes if
our state expands Medicaid or adopts a Texas alternative to
expand coverage to low-income individuals. Medicaid expansion in Texas
would create an estimated 200,000 new
jobs, while also reducing the strain on
local property taxes created by taxpayerfunded health care for the uninsured.
By expanding Medicaid, our state also
stands to gain $6 billion per year in new
federal health care funding that we are
currently allowing to be diverted to other states.
Water: Ensuring that Texas residents have access to clean,
safe drinking water is crucial as our state continues to
grow. We must make strategic decisions to ensure that
our natural resources support our quality of life as well as
the economic dynamism that has fueled our community’s
steady growth. In the Legislature, I’ve voted to support state
funding for local projects to conserve and reuse water, build
new reservoirs, and expand groundwater development. I’ve
also fought to protect our local water supply in San Antonio.
Voting Rights: It’s important that our laws encourage the
broadest participation possible in the democratic process
and that local governments administer our election process
with integrity.
As a result of the Shelby ruling, the state is no longer
required to seek “preclearance” from the Justice Department for redistricting maps and laws regarding voting. This
process had previously been in place to prevent discrimination from happening. As a result of the ruling, it is more
important than ever that local communities stay vigilant
about potential discrimination and seek legal recourse in
the event that discrimination in voting has occurred. Additionally, laws such as our state’s new voter identification requirements tend to disproportionately impact low-income
and minority voters. That is why it is important that we
ensure that all citizens are aware that they are required to
show identification when they vote, and inform voters who
do not have identification that they can obtain an Election
Identification Certificate at no charge.
Redistricting: I support the use of a redistricting commission in order to reduce the partisan nature of the redistricting process. Such a process would help to limit gerrymandering – the manipulation of the redistricting process for a
partisan or political outcome. It would also limit the ability
of incumbents to manipulate the process in a way that allows them to retain their elected office, and make elections
more competitive.
Paul Ingmundson (GRN)
Background: I am a PhD clinical psychologist with 30 years
experience in providing and managing health care services for our community. I have been active in progressive
politics and promoting the development of clean energy
resources for the past 10 years.
Health care: I support Medicaid expansion. Failure to
adopt Medicaid expansion has left from 935,000 to 1.9 million Texans uninsured. This makes no sense, either in terms
of fiscal policy or health care policy. For every $1 Texas
spends on the expansion of Medicaid benefits the federal
match is $9. Texas is leaving billions of dollars in federal
funds on the table. Working Texans who cannot afford access to health care are suffering needlessly as a result.
Water: Water management in Texas needs a regulatory
framework that places a priority on ecological sustainability. Regulatory practices need to be reformed to treat
stormwater as an important source for aquifer recharge. The
preservation of landscape and natural
retention and biofiltration features can
be elements of a comprehensive plan for
stormwater management that, together
with regulations limiting impervious
cover and development density, will preserve aquifers and assure the continuing availability and integrity of water
resources.
Voting Rights: Congress should act quickly to pass the
Voting Rights Amendment Act (VRAA). Legislation should
mandate disclosure of the effects of changes in district
boundaries, voting hours, and voter qualifications for local,
state and federal elections. In jurisdictions where photo ID
laws have been passed, strong measures should be implemented to facilitate access to facilities where photo ID
documents are issued, to assure access to the ballot for all
eligible voters.
Redistricting: I strongly support legislation to create
independent nonpartisan citizens commissions for drawing boundaries for Congressional and State Legislative
Districts. Current gerrymandering practices allow elected
officials to choose their voters, rather than allowing voters
to choose their officials. Gerrymandering distorts representative democracy, reduces accountability, and encourages voter apathy. The current system for drawing district
boundaries preserves the interests of incumbents, amplifies
partisan differences, and reduces incentives for consensus
building and cooperation in solving society’s problems.
District 124
José Menéndez (DEM) Unopposed
District 125
Justin Rodriguez (DEM)
Background: My background includes experience as a lawyer and former prosecutor, a small business owner, as well
as a neighborhood association leader, school board trustee,
and city council member. I have a proven track record of
hard work, accessibility, consensus- building and delivering
results for our community.
Health care: I support Medicaid expansion. We had the opportunity to provide over 1 million Texans with health care
coverage, if we expanded Medicaid.
Water: I proudly supported Proposition 6 during the last
election. The people agreed with the
measure that the legislature passed in
2013. In doing so, we made progress in
funding the 50-year water plan. Investing in our infrastructure is vital to our
state’s continued prosperity.
Voting Rights: Three things that I
would do would be to urge Congress to
pass the Voting Rights Amendment Act
to restore preclearance protection to Texas and other states
with a history of discrimination, repeal the restrictive Texas
photo voter ID law, and to support online voter registration.
Redistricting: I support redistricting efforts that are fair
and non-discriminatory. It would be a welcome change
from the recent redistricting process, which is still in the
court system.
Daniel Behrman (LIB)
Background: I am a software engineer who has worked
with several successful startup companies. I know what it
means to run an efficient organization and make big budget
cuts without losing resources. This same mentality would
save a lot of Tax dollars by suggesting more efficient ways to
run our current systems.
Health care: I do not support the expansion of government health care. While most people are arguing over
HOW to pay for their Health care, not many people stop
to ask WHY it’s so expensive in the first
place. Government regulations help to
inflate the cost of Health care. Without
this government assisted price increase,
Health care would be affordable, even to
those who are uninsured.
Water: Let the market do it’s job. As the
availability of water increases, so will the
cost of the water. This is economic law
that can not be changed. If we attempt to subsidize the water supply and quell the price and the problem, we simply
invite more people to use more water. A higher price would
incentivize the conservation of water, as well as the private
investment into rain collection systems. The technology
also exists where a privately owned solar coil can extract
enough clean water from the humidity in the air to supply
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 24
homeowners with enough water to live without the need for
municipal water.
Voting Rights: The most important part of the voting
system is accountability. Until we have accountability in
the process itself, it doesn’t matter who votes. The entire
outcome can be tampered with because we have absolutely
no record or method of performing a recount because of
the electronic systems we use. What would make better use
of our time is to implement a more secure electronic voting
system with an encrypted public ledger, where the total vote
count can be measured by any member of the public, and
every individual vote can be verified by the voter. Once we
have a system like this where we can trust the votes have
been counted accurately, then we can advance the discussion to making sure that every citizen is able to get his vote
into that system.
Redistricting: If it’s not broken, why fix it? I have not heard
any compelling argument to suggest that the current districts give any party a particular advantage.
Chief Justice, 4th Ct. of Appeals
Six-year term. Must be at least 35 years old, a U.S.
citizen, a Texas resident and a district resident.
Must have been a practicing lawyer or a lawyer
and a judge of a court of record for a total of 10
years or more. Each Court of Appeals has intermediate appellate jurisdiction in both civil and
criminal cases appealed from district or county
courts in its district. Current annual salary:
$140,000 (Chief Justice), $137,500 (Justice)
Questions for Candidates
Access to Justice: The traditional funding source for legal
aid for the poor and for indigent defense has been shrinking
because of low interest rates. How can Texas improve access
to justice in criminal cases?
Obligations: What are the most important obligations of a
Court of Criminal Appeals judge and why?
Sandee Bryan Marion (REP)
Access to Justice: In civil cases we should work to recruit
more volunteer lawyers to the Just Take One Community
Justice Program that provides mentors
to work with lawyers who agree to take 1
pro bono civil case each year. For criminal cases there should be an appellate
public defender’s office, as the 4th Court
district has, to give indigent defendants
quality and efficient representation.
Obligations: As the last resort for most
litigants appellate courts are obligated
to uphold juries’ rights to judge the credibility of witnesses
and to uphold the constitution and Texas law. Appellate
judges must write clear, well-reasoned opinions, as deci25 LWVSAA Voters Guide
sions also affect future litigants with similar legal issues.
Opinions should be timely, as justice delayed is often justice
denied
Education: University of Texas at Austin-BA, Spanish,
1977, graduated with Honors in 3 years; St. Mary’s University School of Law- JD, 1980
Experience: Justice, 4th Court of Appeals, 2002-present;
Judge, Bexar County Probate Court No. 2, 1992-2001;
Partner, Goode, Casseb & Jones, formerly Sawtelle, Goode,
Davidson & Troilo, 1986-1992; Hollon & Marion, Boerne,
Tx. 1980-1986
Irene Rios (DEM)
Access to Justice: The San Antonio Bar Assn. with Texas
RioGrande Legal Aid provides free legal services to eligible
individuals through the Community Justice Program--a
successful, volunteer-driven program. Texas needs more.
We need more pro bono services, improved access to legal
resources for pro se litigants, and incentives for law students/graduates to work in underserved communities.
Obligations: Our obligation is to work hard, follow the law,
be fair, and strive for justice in every decision/opinion, because our decisions impact many lives.
Justices should respect each other, work
well together, and model high standards
of integrity and professionalism at all
times. We should build consensus and
consider the best interest of the court,
when necessary.
Education: Graduated from Texas Tech
University with a B.B.A. in Accounting.
Received Doctor of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s University School of Law in 1990 and have been licensed to practice
law 24 years, 14 of which I served as a trial judge.
Experience: As judge, I presided over consumer/contract/
employment/tort/landlord-tenant cases, reviewed appeals
of Administrative Law/Municipal Court decisions, reviewed appeals from Justice of the Peace Courts, served as
Administrative Judge for 12 courts.
District Judge
District courts have original jurisdiction in all felony criminal cases, divorce cases, cases involving
title to land, election contest cases, civil matters
in which the amount in controversy (the amount of
money or damages involved) is $200 or more, and
any matters in which jurisdiction is not placed in
another trial court. While most district courts try
both criminal and civil cases, in the more densely
populated counties the courts may specialize in
civil, criminal, juvenile, or family law matters.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of educa-
tion, motivation and experience qualifies you for the office.
(50 words)
Administration: What would you do to make your court
(or the court you are running for) more efficient? (75 words)
45th Judicial District
Stephani Walsh (REP)
Background: With twenty–eight years of legal practice,
my Board Certification in Family Law, emergency room
nursing background, civil trial and CPS experience and
mediation training I have the capability to assess a case,
knowledge of the law and the ability to render a decision
efficiently and respectfully.
Administration: Our current civil court
system operates efficiently however
could use some improvement in the
manner in which it meets the needs of
the family law litigants and their counsel with management of the docket and
availability of courts. Requiring a more
uniform structure to the presentation of
cases for temporary orders hearings and utilization of available mediation resources will facilitate the quick disposition
and reduce the number of contested hearings.
John Bustamante (DEM)
Background: Bexar County deserves a judiciary prepared for
21st Century cases. With degrees from M.I.T. and UT Law,
I have tried cases throughout the United States, from family
law to complex, multi-billion dollar civil litigation, a range
paralleled by the jurisdiction of the 45th District Court.
Administration: Under the presiding
court system, parties often spend more
time arguing tangential issues rather than
the ultimate question to be adjudicated. I
would propose a general order that parties identify, prior to arriving in court, the
issue to be resolved, the applicable standards, the relevant burdens and a brief
summary of the litigation. This order
would alleviate many inefficiencies in the current presiding
court system.
144th Judicial District
Lorina Rummel (REP)
Background: A 1992 Baylor graduate, I
have over 22 years criminal trial experience as a Judge, Prosecutor and Defense
Attorney. Having tried hundreds of jury
trials and handling thousands of felonies, I bring depth of experience to the
144th It has been my pleasure to serve
Bexar county in this fashion.
Administration: Due to the resignation
of the prior judge, my court has a high number of defendants in jail awaiting trial. Holding dockets earlier than
most courts, enables me to bring many attorneys to the
144th in the early morning hours. This gives the prosecution and defense the opportunity to confer on cases, negotiate pleas and ultimately try the cases needing jury trials.
By holding all parties accountable, we are able to move this
court’s docket.
Paul Vasquez (DEM)
Background: I was the first in my family to graduate from
college. At an early age, I knew what it meant to push beyond the limits that surround you and strive to accomplish
something more. I used the strength and support from my
parents and moved on to achieve what no one else in my
family had before. After college graduation, I moved on to
law school, with an eye toward public service. Administration: As a former assistant district attorney and currently a
criminal defense lawyer, I am the only
candidate with the perspective necessary
to ensure that all citizens are protected. This unique insight will act as a daily
reminder of who I am called on to serve. It will keep me true to the oath I will be
given upon taking the bench. It will allow me to faithfully pledge to the citizens of Bexar County,
that voting for me will be a vote for integrity.
150th Judicial District
Renée McElhaney (REP)
Background: I am the only candidate for the 150th Court
with judicial and family law experience, 23 years of legal
expertise, 300+ publications, and board certification in
Civil Appellate Law. I have a servant’s heart as a former
teacher and now as an advocate for protecting children and
strengthening families. Administration: When I was a judge, I worked with my
colleagues to draft the new Standing
Order, which streamlines many family
law cases. I also implemented internal
procedure to expedite the docket. For
example, I scheduled hearings at 7:30
a.m. to enter orders. That way, orders
were entered sooner, concluding cases
expeditiously and at a lower cost to
clients, while enabling me to be available
to hear cases from Presiding Court when it opened at 8:30.
Edna Elizondo (DEM) No response
186th Judicial District
Jefferson Moore (REP)
Background: During my 23-year legal career I have pracLWVSAA Voters Guide Page 26
ticed in two different states, Federal Court, and the military courts. My experience in four different jurisdictions
provides me a broad array of knowledge
and understanding of the law that I will
use while sitting on the bench. Administration: I ran a legal office
at Fort Sam Houston which won the
American Bar Association award for
being the best legal assistance office
world-wide for the entire US military. I
will apply those winning administrative
skills to make the court more efficient. Administrative
leadership is crucial and I have established that I have that
skill. I will assemble all of the stakeholders and use their
expertise to improve the efficiency of the court. Mary T. Green (DEM)
Background: Almost twenty eight years spent in the
courtroom evaluating, preparing and trying criminal cases
to verdict gives me unparalleled expertise in the very type of cases I would
be handling if elected. I have extensive
knowledge of legal principles coupled
with real world experience and a desire
for continued public service.
Administration: A judge must be available and communicate clearly what the
expectations for docket management
will entail. Cases with three or more settings will be ripe for
trial. I would concentrate on the older cases particularly if
the accused is incarcerated. This does not preclude flexibility for complex trials or special circumstances (out of town
witnesses, etc.). I strive to insure adherence to constitutional protections and the rule of law.
Stephanie R. Boyd (DEM)
Background: I have a B.A., MBA, and J.D. from St. Mary’s
University School of Law. I have 16 years of felony trial
experience, extensive experience working with the mentally
ill, child abuse, our elderly, felony drug
court, youth in schools, and victims of
sex trafficking.
Administration: The Texas Code of
Judicial Conduct requires that “a judge
shall be faithful to the law and maintain
professional competence in it, and shall
not be swayed by partisan interests, public clamor, or fear of criticism”. As judge
I will work a full schedule: Monday-Friday, from 8:30a.m.
- 5:00p.m. All attorneys will be professional and appear on
time. Cases will be heard so that justice may be done. I ask
for your support and vote.
224th Judicial District
Cathleen “Cathy” Stryker (REP)
187th Judicial District
Background: I have over 20 years of litigation experience and am a certified mediator. Most of the cases that
come before the 224th involve family law. My upbringing
involved many of the issues I see in court. My legal experience and background allow me to
compassionately and effectively handle
these cases.
Administration: I keep the 224th Civil
District Court running efficiently by
issuing rulings in a timely manner;
disposing of cases that lack legal merit,
and by working hard to hear as many
matters as possible. I intend to continue
serving Bexar County in this way if I am re-elected for a
second term as the Judge of the 224th District Court.
Steve Hilbig (REP)
Lauro Bustamante (DEM)
Background: I have 37 years legal experience and recognized expertise in criminal law. I hold two certifications
from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization -- Criminal
Law and Criminal Appellate Law. I served six years as appellate court judge deciding criminal
appeals and eight years as Bexar County
Criminal District Attorney.
Administration: My background
includes service as the Bexar County
Criminal District Attorney, Justice on
the Fourth Court of Appeals, federal
prosecutor, and criminal defense attorney. I have worked in a variety of legal
systems and witnessed what has worked. Although a court
must use its time efficiently, justice and fairness should be
our ultimate goal. If elected, I will work diligently to resolve
cases in a timely manner yet treat all with respect and dignity.
27 LWVSAA Voters Guide
Background: My education is Doctorate of Jurisprudence
& thirty three years legal experience. I’m on the Edwards
Aquifer Authority & past member of the San Antonio Community Development Advisory Committee 2009. My motivation is serving
the public and serving those in need. I’m
married with 10 children and 9 grandchildren.
Administration: Simplifying the legal
system & educating the public, beginning in our schools, on how the legal
system functions would improve efficiency. We could do Skype & phone conferencing in the
courtroom to allow attorneys & witnesses to be present
electronically.
225th Judicial District
Peter Sakai (DEM) Unopposed
226th Judicial District
Sid Harle (REP) Unopposed
227th Judicial District
Kevin M. O’Connell (REP)
Background: I am running for the 227th District court
which is a court of felony criminal jurisdiction. I have
been an assistant District attorney for
almost 24 years and have handled over
7000 felony cases. In addition in the last
several years I have handled hundreds
of murder cases and have tried several
Capital murder death penalty cases.
Administration: Efficiency is one of
the problems at the courthouse. State
jail felony cases, many of which require
automatic probation, clog the trial dockets. These cases are
less serious and require much less heavy litigation. I will
create a docket that is comprised of just these less serious
cases and move them through the system at unprecedented
speed. This will allow the court to focus on the more serious cases involving child witnesses and victims, the elderly
and more complex litigation. Tony Jimenez (DEM) No response
285th Judicial District
Richard Price (REP)
Background: I have a law degree and Master of Business
Administration. Have practiced law for
over 25 years. Served as a Judge for over
5 years, I was rated in 2014 SA Scene
Judicial Report Card with an “A” grade. I
am hard working, will listen and I care.
Administration: Each citizen deserves
their fair day in Court. I arrive to work
early and stay late if necessary to accommodate each case that comes before me.
Being knowledgeable and prepared to address each case
based on the law helps streamline the administration and
efficiency of the Court system. I believe a Judge should be
honest, fair, someone who listens, allows people to be heard
and treats each person with respect and dignity.
Raymond A. Villareal (DEM)
Background: I have an undergraduate degree from Texas
A&M University and a law degree from the University of
Texas School of Law. I have over 20 years of legal experience. I am the best candidate based upon the quality of my
education and experience in the law.
Administration: Four years ago my
opponent wrote that he wanted to start
an after hours docket for people who
can’t miss work in order to attend court
through no fault of their own. He has
done nothing to further this idea. I will
start an after hours uncontested court
docket for hard working citizens for
Bexar County which will allow the court
to operate more efficiently.
District Judge, 288th Judicial District
288h Judicial District
Sol Casseb (REP)
Background: I have been a District Judge for six years. I
previously served as a Mediator and Arbitrator for 15 years, and as a Chairman
of the State Bar Grievance Committee
for Bexar County, all of which gives me
a broad base of experience to continue
to serve as a District Judge.
Administration: I personally make myself available for uncontested matters in
the early morning and immediately after
lunch. Also, I would propose to the other Civil Judges that
we institute two other dockets; one for shorter family law
hearings (two hours or less), and an additional docket for
uncontested matters in the Presiding Court. Because Bexar
County has a Presiding Court system, changes in the Civil
District Courts require a majority vote of the judges.
James A. Rickerson (DEM)
Background: I graduated from St. Mary’s School of Law
and have been practicing law for the past 17 years. My main
area of practice is Family Law, primarily
divorces and child custody cases. I am
deeply committed to representing those
litigants who have limited funds and access to our legal system. Administration: There is a tremendous
waste of time when there are several witnesses whose testimony is substantially
the same. Before a hearing or trial, the
Judge should be given a brief synopsis of the subject matter
of a witness’s testimony. If testimony is substantially the
same, or adds nothing new, to another witness’s testimony
then that testimony shouldn’t be allowed. Doing so will
save time and will not adversely affect a party’s case before
the court. 289th Judicial District
Daphne Previti Austin (REP)
Background: I am the only candidate with legal experience
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 28
of our community as a prosecutor and defense attorney, the
hope that I can make a difference motivated me. My experience and love of our community best
qualifies me for this office.
Administration: Creating a restitution
center is a start to financial efficiency.
This allows defendants to work off fines,
court costs, and restitution owed to
victims instead of being sent to prison
because they could not afford probation.
Secondly, having a good rapport with
the State, Defense Bar, and Probation is essential. An efficient and effective judge needs everyone’s input, especially
if the goal is justice and not numbers.
in all three courtroom perspectives: prosecution, defense
and judicial. Additionally, I am one of only seven Juvenile
Law Board Certified Attorneys in Bexar
County, and I have been recognized as a
Best Lawyer of San Antonio 2014 by SA
Scene Magazine.
Administration: This court needs a
fresh outlook and I have energy and the
desire to improve its performance. I
have managed my own law practice and I know the value of time with respect
to efficiency and earnings. Shorter wait times and prompt,
decisive rulings allow the parents of the juveniles that appear in court with their children to miss less work. I pledge
to work hard and treat everyone that enters the Court with
respect.
436th Judicial District
Carmen Kelsey (DEM)
Lisa Jarrett (REP)
Background: District Judge of the 289th District Court
since 1993. Serving for over 21 years. Appointed by Governor Ann Richards. Elected 1994, 1998,
2002, 2006 and 2010. Board certified in
Juvenile law since 2002. Received law
degree from University of Texas at Austin. Juvenile Prosecutor for 7 years. Administration: Disposed of over
46,000 cases with only 9 cases overturned. Hearing juvenile cases from
truancy to Capital Murder. The court
runs efficiently under the current system. Jurys are tried on
Monday. Special settings are on Friday. Small daily dockets
conducted Monday and Thursday. Future settings are set
based on the Defense attorney’s schedule to ensure their
presence. The docket is very efficient as it currently runs.
290th Judicial District
Background: Presiding Judge of the 436th Judicial District
Court (a Juvenile Law Court) since its creation in 2009.
Licensed for over 20 years and acknowledged for exhibiting the highest legal
ability and ethical standards. Former
Bexar County Juvenile Law Referee and
Defense Attorney. Former Assistant
District Attorney and Criminal Defense
Attorney.
Administration: Since taking the bench,
I started a Family Enrichment Docket,
focused on rehabilitating juvenile offenders who come from
homes with a history of family violence. I also started a
Crossover Docket, which consolidates cases in the Juvenile
System with those that involve Child Protective Services.
While working to rehabilitate those juveniles who can be
helped, I do not hesitate to remove those juveniles from our
streets who pose a danger to our community.
Melisa Skinner (REP)
Eddie Bravenec (DEM) No response
Background: I served as an Assistant Criminal District Attorney for almost 15 years, as the Judge
of this court for almost 4 years and have
a total of 21 years experience practicing
Criminal Law. I have handled thousands
of criminal cases in my career and remain dedicated to pursuing justice.
Administration: The 290th District
Court is one of the most efficient courts
in Bexar County. Therefore, I will continue to work as diligently as I have done to maintain this
standard while continuing to strive for excellence in the
pursuit of justice. I have worked hard and will continue to
work hard to insure efficiency.
Jennifer Peña (DEM)
Background: Whether it was becoming the first college student in my family, attending law school, or being the voice
29 LWVSAA Voters Guide
37th Judicial District
Lori I. Valenzuela (REP) Unopposed
Criminal Disttict Attorney
The main duty of both the county attorney and the
district attorney is to represent the state in criminal cases. Both work with law enforcement officers in the investigation and preparation of cases
to be heard before the criminal courts.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education, motivation and experience qualifies you for the office.
(50 words)
Plea bargaining: Is the plea bargaining system working in
Bexar County or would you suggest changes? Please explain.
(75 words)
Susan D. Reed (REP)
Background: Twelve Judicial, sixteen DA years, leadership
positions in National and State Prosecutor Associations, advising three governors on criminal justice, the Department
of Justice on Violence against Women,
testifying before state and federal legislatures, I developed gang injunctions,
victim programs, elder fraud, DWI, internet, and human trafficking taskforces.
Proven experience.
Plea bargaining: Plea bargaining is how
55,000 new cases a year are handled by
a mere 24 courts. I insist my 160 prosecutors notify the crime victims of the case status. Victims
have input into the resolution of their case. I believe serious crimes deserve tough sentences. Restitution must be
sought. I’ve helped develop specialty courts providing
special supervision for youthful offenders, mental illness,
addiction and veteran issues. When appropriate, alternative
to incarceration programs are used.
Nicholas “Nico” LaHood (DEM)
Background: I have the diverse experiences of being a
prosecutor, defender and magistrate
judge. I have also trained law
enforcement officers as well as law
students. Unfortunately my family has
also been victimized by violent crime;
but it is that experience that motivates
me to ensure justice is sought for others.
Plea bargaining: Absolutely not. The
prosecutors in the courtrooms are not
allowed the discretion to make plea bargains that they believe fit the case. Currently the administration dictates the
plea bargains being made with little specific factual knowledge of these cases. The solution lies in properly training
the prosecutors who are actually in the courtroom so that
they can be trusted with the autonomy to effectively evaluate cases and make plea offers accordingly on a case-by-case
basis.
County Judge
The Texas Constitution vests broad judicial and
administrative powers in the position of county
judge, who presides over a five-member commissioners court, which has budgetary and administrative authority over county government operations. The county judge handles such widely
varying matters as hearings for beer and wine
license applications, hearing on admittance to
state hospitals for the mentally ill and mentally
retarded, juvenile work permits and temporary
guardianships for special purposes. The judge
is also responsible for calling elections, posting
election notices and for receiving and canvassing
the election returns. The county judge may perform marriages
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education, motivation and experience qualifies you for the office.
(50 words)
Range of responsibilities: County commissioners’ responsibilities range from rural, unincorporated areas to the highly
populated city of San Antonio. How will you balance spending between these two divergent areas? (75 words)
Carlton Soules (REP)
Background: I graduated from SMU, am a 6th generation
conservative Texan, successful business owner and was twice elected to San
Antonio City Council. I have worked
on many regional initiatives that impact
the county including transportation,
planning, and regional flood control. My
focus is improving basic county services.
Range of responsibilities: Much of the
county’s spending goes to county wide
service like the court system, the jail, and record keeping
of which San Antonio residents are the largest users. With
1,200 square miles and 24 cities capital dollars must be
spent wisely across the entire county and cannot be concentrated on limited areas. Bexar County has the highest per
capita debt ($1.9 billion) of all urban counties in Texas. I
will bring fiscal sanity to Bexar County.
Nelson W. Wolff (DEM)
Background: Having served in many capacities, as State
Representative, Senator, City Councilman, Mayor, and
County Judge, I am motivated by a desire to enhance our
community. I have brought good paying jobs, added parks
and community venues, improved drainage and transportation infrastructure, and invested smartly
in Health care and public safety facilities.
Range of Responsibilities: Rural areas
of Bexar are equally as important as the
suburban and urban core of San Antonio. Investments we make in public
safety, flood control and transportation
projects transcend municipal boundaries and improve security and mobility for all. Similarly,
parks like the Mission Reach, facilities like Bibliotech and
the University Health System, and venues like The Tobin
Center and 13 amateur sports facilities uplift the quality of
life for citizens throughout the County.
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 30
Rhett Rosenquest Smith (LIB)
Background: B.A. - 1973 Accounting Major- UT Austin;
Auditor, Texas Dept. Human Services 1973 -1977; US Navy
1979 -1983; American Legion, Post 2; SA-Branch NAACP,
Education committee; Board member– Americans United
for Separation of Church/ State; LULAC;
San Antonio Feminists-NOW; Buddhist Dharma Center – SA; San Antonio
Coalition for Life
Range of responsibilities: Outreaching,
providing internet access to commissioners court/public meetings. Resources securing, protecting residents in their
homes from crime. Communication
interactive transportation systems. Good roads. Improved
flood control. Our rural county and urban city are not two
divergent areas, as 2013 Mayoral candidate ( second to
Castro) I understand the most important responsibility of
Bexar county Judge is representing, advocating, presenting
our culture and our heritage.We all play a pivotal role building a better America.
Paul Pipkin (GRN)
Background: Once a labor representative (play-like lawyer) for Bexar employees, I learned some ropes during an
unwholesome number of hours in the shadow of a Texas
courthouse. County government, a subset of the State, should be able to plan, as
business cannot, even in principle.
Range of responsibilities: I would not
stifle the rural tax base by tax abatement
giveaways to so-called “corporate citizens”. Any abatement I might approve
must generate a substantial number of
living-wage jobs for local people--not
automated commodity production. In town, I would not
waste tens of millions in County money to seed gentrification scams by developer clients of preferred lobbyists who
drive people from their homes. No more “urban removal”!
County Court at Law
The civil jurisdiction of most county courts at law
varies, but is usually more than that of the justice
of the peace courts and less than that of the district courts. County courts at law usually have appellate jurisdiction incases appealed from justice
of the peace and municipal courts.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education, motivation and experience qualifies you for the office.
(50 words)
Administration: What would you do to make your court (or
the court you are running for) more efficient? (75 words)
31 LWVSAA Voters Guide
Court No. 1
John D. Fleming (REP) No response
Al Alonso (DEM)
Background: My law career spans over 45 years, (16 years
as a Bexar County Judge.)I am Board Certified in Criminal
Law and have a Master’s Degree in Judicial Studies from the
National Judicial College. I founded the
first Drug Court and led the initiative
for five additional Drug Courts.
Administration: As Judge Presiding of
County Court No. 1, we ran the most
efficient and productive court, always
ranked #1 or # 2 in collection of fees and
restitution; collected the most money for
the County; and maintained the lowest
backlog of cases. I presided over a Night Court, founded the
“Courts in Schools” program and the Therapeutic Justice
Foundation.
Returning to the bench, I would continue to initiate innovative programs that improve our judicial system.
Court No. 2
Jason Wolff (REP)
Background: As a former prosecutor elected in 2010, I’ve
worked to streamline the County’s biggest backlogged
court. Reducing the docket by 2000 cases and trial settings
by 90%, Court 2 has gone from “worst to
first.” No one will wait for justice again. I
ask for your vote.
Administration: Running an efficient
court is a team effort. I will continue
to listen to and work with the clerks,
coordinator, and attorneys to set a pace
that keeps the docket moving while also
considering the rights of the parties
involved. Hard work and dedication steadily moved County
Court 2’s docket from “worst to first,” within a year and a
half of taking the bench. It worked then and it will work in
the future.
Jeanette Burney Sullivan (DEM)
Background: Educated by UT Austin-Plan II Honors, I
paid it forward by teaching high school
for 18 years. After studying law at the
University of Houston Law Center, I
currently serve my community in criminal defense. I offer my excellent education and real world experience to serve
as a County Court judge.
Administration: Some judges try to
speed up decisions by state and defense,
such as counting the first appearance as trial and penalizing
those who announce “Not Ready” twice. Some delay ruling
on pretrial motions because they take time. An efficient
court can provide a speedy trial, but fast results are not
always fair results. I would hear motions in the open afternoons and stay later on Fridays to accommodate parties
who need to be heard.
Court No. 3
Art Rossi (REP)
Background: I am an experienced attorney-mediator,
Board Certified (Family), and a CPA. I
serve on professional boards, am active in the community, and have been
awarded a peer review rating of A-V
Preeminent® on Martindale.com. I believe my collegial temperament, dedication, energy, enthusiasm and history of
service qualifies me to serve you.
Administration: Bexar County Court
No. 3 is assigned to the Civil Division of the Bexar County
Courts. One way to make the court more efficient is for
the judge to refer cases to early mediation for a negotiated
resolution, especially for small business and collection
cases, where available funds would be more efficiently spent
resolving a dispute than funding litigation. Bexar County
has an excellent resource for mediation in the Bexar County
Dispute Resolution Center. David J. Rodriguez (DEM)
Background: I was first elected in 2002, and re-elected
in 2006 and 2010. I am very proud to
have been consistently rated number 2
among all County Court at Law judges
in the seven judicial polls that have been
conducted in the eleven years in which
I have been on the bench of County
Court at Law #3. Administration: Based on my judicial
experience, the efficiency of the court,
the validation through judicial polls of the bar and my
continuing desire to serve the people of Bexar County, I feel
that I have served the court well. As I hope that the vast
majority of the lawyers that practice in county court will
tell you, we strive to create an environment that lends itself
to having a good court experience while maintaining that
dispensing justice is paramount. Court No. 4
Jason R. Garrahan (REP)
Background: Texas A&M 1997. From 1997-2009 operated
my own business. St. Mary’s Law 2004 and passed the State
Bar 2004. Bexar County prosecutor 9 years. I have private
business experience that taught me how to operate efficiently and effectively. I have over 85 jury trials and have dealt
with thousands of criminal cases.
Administration: I will apply real business sense to the
court. Show up on time and work. Simple and to the point.
A business sense in operations, I ran my
own small restaurant, Hungry Farmer
on Blanco Road 1997-2009, and I was
responsible for all operations. I learned
and applied my knowledge to my business and was successful and I believe
and know that this knowledge is unique
and is used in running an efficient and
effective business, and can be applied
to court operations. As an attorney have one rule: seek
justice and as a judge you follow the laws and constitution
and seek justice.
Alfredo Ximenez (DEM)
Background: I have been born raised and fully educated
here in San Antonio. I understand the needs the citizens of
Bexar County. Having resided here my entire life and witnessing the current judiciary go through
changes I know its time to institute policies that will benefit our community as
a whole.
Administration: My plan for efficient
court administration shall include
instituting a “No Bluff ” policy on trial
settings. Once counsel has announced
ready, State or Defense, the case will go
trial immediately. No unnecessary resets shall be given in
order to “Bluff ” the opposing side. If a plea or dismissal is
negotiated, it must be completed prior to any trial announcement. This eliminates the need for preparation for
trial wasting either side’s time and money.
Court No. 5
Jason Pulliam (REP) No response
Brenda Levenstein (DEM)
Background: In 25 years as a lawyer, I have Prosecution, Defense and Judicial experience. I worked at the
Bexar County District Attorney›s Office for the first 10
years. Since then I›ve practiced Criminal Defense. 10 years ago I was appointed Referee in the 186th Juvenile Court,
which is a judicial position.
Administration: County Court at Law
#5 has a daily docket of 20-30 criminal
misdemeanors cases. I intend to begin
court proceedings promptly and to
resolve cases in an expeditious manner
throughout each day so as not to develop a backlog. However, the dispensation of justice to each person accused,
as well as to every victim, is of primary importance. That
requires that each case be given due consideration, however
long that takes. LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 32
Court No. 6
Wayne Christian (REP)
Background: I have been a criminal trial lawyer for (35)
years and a criminal Texas State Judge for (10). My proven
record of judicial efficiency, criminal
justice and concern for public safety is
unmatched.
Administration: During the (10) years I
have been a Texas State Judge, my courts
have disposed of more criminal cases,
tried more jury trials, and regained
more restitution for victims than any
other courts in Bexar County history.
Currently, my court has disposed of 42% more cases than
the court-wide average and our cost per disposition is
(MINUS) - $18.37, compared to the court-wide average of
$88.27.
Rochelle Acevedo (DEM)
Background: I come from a long line of a working class
family which derived from our own terminal market here
is San Antonio. All of my childhood memories are of my
own parents grocery store where I saw their interaction
with our community, their love of our neighbors and all the
effort and labor they exerted in building
and maintaining a business. My only
time away from San Antonio was spent
at the University of Texas at Austin for
my undergrad and law school studies.
I have been practicing for over 11 years
focusing primarily on criminal law matters, including participating in specialty
courts. I have the experience and the
commitment to run this court.
Administration: I would work full time and hold dockets 5 days a week, which the current administration does
not. I would mend the relationships that keep our courts
running efficiently. I would try to resolve this courts high
jail population upon commencement of my term. I would
follow the law and best practices in our specialty courts and
work hard to salvage our Veterans Treatment Court. My
judicial demeanor would alleviate the troubles this court is
currently facing.
Court No. 7
Eugenia “Genie” Wright (REP)
Background: As an attorney who practiced family and
criminal law I was attracted to this unique court, the domestic violence court, because it combines these two areas
of law. I have been a teacher, I am a mother of three and
married for almost 42 years as well as actively involved in
every community in which I have lived. Furthermore, I
am the current judge of this court. I have taken the most
disorganized of our county courts and turned it into one ef33 LWVSAA Voters Guide
ficiently run and respectful of all who appear before it.
Administration: My purview as the judge of Bexar County
Court #7 includes setting the docket, managing that docket,
presiding over pleas and trials and supervising probationers from this court.
I have monitored these areas closely so
that the court works as smoothly and
efficiently as possible. This will continue. Staying current with domestic violence laws and our community resources
that deal with domestic violence is a
priority with me. I am a fair and impartial jurist. Each case, each person is unique and will be
treated in that manner. I never forget that I am dealing with
families. Michael De Leon (DEM)
Background: Protecting children and families as a prosecutor with the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office for
the past 10 years, I have tried over 130 jury trials, handled
over 1000 felony domestic violence cases, and routinely
train police officers. I have the experience to deal with domestic violence as a
judge. Administration: A domestic violence
court has dynamics very different than
a drug court or DWI court. Defendants
in jail would be given court appointed
attorneys much sooner and given
priority to have their jury trials heard,
thus saving taxpayer dollars. Since I have spent the last 10
years dealing with domestic violence, I will run an efficient
docket while recognizing the complex cycle of violence that
accompanies victims of domestic violence.
Court No. 8
Celeste Brown (REP) No response
Liza Rodriguez (DEM)
Background: Because County Court #8 is an extremely
busy trial court, it is imperative that the judge who sits on
this bench have actual trial experience. With almost a hundred cases tried to jury verdict over tenyears as an Assistant District Attorney,
and over a hundred trials as a judge, my
extensive trial record speaks for itself.
Administration: I am very proud that
since I took office, almost four years ago,
I can say with confidence that CC#8
runs extremely efficiently. Cases are no
longer re-set indefinitely, which is costly
to tax payers and those with cases pending in the court.
Each case setting now has a purpose. Court begins promptly at 9 a.m. every day and I am available until 5 p.m. daily in
order to serve the citizens of my community.
Court No. 9
I feel it is unnecessary. Further, I intend
to implement an afternoon docket for
probation related matters to help facilitate
a reduction in the number of cases on
the crowded morning dockets. I want to
revive the Courts In Schools Program to
help fight recidivism by giving students a
first-hand experience with the Criminal
Justice System. Walden Shelton (REP) No Response
Carlos Quezada (DEM) No Response
Court No. 10
Karen Crouch (REP)
Background: Karen Crouch is a native Texan. Karen is a
graduate of Baylor University and St. Mary’s School of Law.
Karen entered the private practice of
law where she tried cases in all levels
of courts. She tried over 150 jury trials
before being elected as a County Court
at Law Judge. Karen presided over more
than 480 jury trials and hundreds of thousands of non-jury matters. Experience
Matters.
Administration: Experience will improve
the efficiency of this court. Karen Crouch has no learning
curve –she can step right in and get the job done with over
twenty years judicial service. This court needs someone who
can expedite matters, who can use efficient docket management practices and who does not just hear cases, but listens to
people.
Tina Torres (DEM)
Background: Before becoming Presiding Judge in County
Court at Law No. 10, my law practice of 17 years revolved
around the same types of cases I hear in County Court 10
-- a civil court -- every day. These cases
involve consumer, personal injury, construction, employment, landlord/tenant,
and family law issues. Administration: County Court 10
utilizes a presiding system, ensuring our
dockets run efficiently. However, issues
sometimes arise. For example, if a case
is set for a jury trial on a Monday and
the court doesn’t get to that particular setting, we “specially
set” it to ensure the parties try their case as soon thereafter as
possible. To date, we have accommodated all trials since the
beginning of the year and have no backlog in our docket.
Court No. 11
Tommy Stolhandske (REP)
Background: I graduated from St. Mary’s School of Law and
Texas Lutheran University.
I have experience in the District Attorney’s Office, as an
intern, and I have handled hundreds of criminal, civil, family
and probate cases during my career. I am a successful small
business owner and run my own law practice.
Administration: In an effort to make County Court #11
more efficient, I plan to eliminate the trial call docket because
Carlo Key (DEM)
Background: After putting myself through college at Texas
A&M University and Baylor Law School, I have spent over
the last decade dedicating myself to our local criminal justice
system. As your Judge, I have prided myself on fairness and
ensuring the everyone is treated equally under the law. Also, I
have a perfect record on the law, as I have never been overturned.
Due to an error by the League, Carl Key
was given a question other than that
provided to other candidates for County
Court at Law contests. It was too late
to correct the error before the printing
deadline so we are offering his response
to this question:
Administrative responsibilities: Because
the responsibilities of the district (county) clerk are mostly
administrative, do you think that clerks should be appointed
rather than elected? Please explain.
The county clerk’s office is a vital and necessary support
branch of our county courts at law. Currently, the position is
elected and has allowed the county clerk to disregard direct
recommendations and requests of the entire county court at
law judiciary. The fact that the position remains an elected
position, requires the administration of our courts to be determined by a popular election, rather than a fully informed
determination by the judiciary which the position is meant to
support.
Court No. 12
Scott Roberts (REP)
Background: I have been a lawyer for twenty-five (25)
years and for the past four (4) years I have been the Judge of
County Court at Law #12. I was a Briefing Attorney at the Supreme Court of
Texas, and the Fourth Court of Appeals. I
worked as an Assistant Criminal District
Attorney for twelve years prior to my
term as Judge.
Administration: I have been Judge of
County Court at Law #12 for four years
and during that time I have reduced the
active pending caseload by over 400 cases. I have presided
over more than seventy-five (75) trials. I have disposed of
several thousand cases. I have also expanded the Mental
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 34
Health Court which is a part of County Court 12. Along with
the other county court judges, we reformed the methods for
appointing defense attorneys in indigent cases and reformed
the fee schedule saving Bexar County hundreds of thousands
of dollars. I will continue to look for ways to provide justice
to the citizens of Bexar County in the most efficient and fair
manner possible.
John A. Longoria (DEM)
Background: I have a law degree from St. Mary’s University
(J.D.). I have practiced law forforty (40)
years, primarily in criminal (~65%) and
family law (~35%). I have also held public
office during twenty-five (25) of these
years. I have an extensive record of service
to church and community.
Administration: I would hold more pretrial hearings that allow state and defense
the opportunity to bring cases to a close
without full trials. Work daily at a minimum from 8 a.m. to 5
p.m. Conduct more jury trials and lead a push for more nonjury trials. The district attorney’s office has a general policy of
requiring all trials to be jury trials. That results in fewer trials
and adds to the “clogged dockets.”
Court No. 13
Crystal Chandler (REP)
Background: This serious criminal court deserves a judge
with serious criminal law experience. As
a prosecutor fighting for justice for 15
years, I have prosecuted criminal child
abuse and domestic violence cases before
the trial and appellate courts. I teach
other lawyers criminal law and co-founded an anti-human trafficking non-profit
organization.
Administration: Justice should be fair
and swift. I will aid, in whatever way possible, a domestic
violence fugitive round-up to resolve old cases sitting dormant while the accused awaits arrest. To streamline the active
docket, I will allow only one reset per party unless justice or
extraordinary circumstances demands another. Finally, I will
work with law enforcement concerning the attachment process so that witnesses are available to testify at trial in a timely
fashion.
Rosa Maria “Rosie” Gonzalez (DEM) No response
Court No. 14
Susan Skinner (REP)
Background: I have dedicated my career to criminal justice
and have 30 years of well-balanced experience. In those three
decades, I have worked as a child protective caseworker, probation officer, prosecutor, and defense attorney. I graduated
35 LWVSAA Voters Guide
cum laude from St. Mary’s Law School
and hold a master’s and bachelor’s degree. Administration: The proper
administration of a court begins with a
Judge who is willing to work hard every
day. Simply by a Judge starting court
promptly, being prepared, and working
late will immediately reduce a courts
backlog. I will dispose of cases in a timely
manner. I would immediately implement an accounting of
active cases older than one year. The backlog of these older
cases would be reduced by setting a «rocket docket» to resolve
these cases. Ernest Acevedo, Jr. (DEM)
Background: Business & Law Degree from St. Mary’s University. Licensed in 1976 & successfully
practiced law for 38 years. Employed by
Legal Aid & District Attorney’s Office
during law school. Former County Court
Judge. Coordinate with county offices to
improve efficiency of justice system. Help
defendants make right choices to avoid
recidivism.
Administration: Arrive to work on time
to expedite all cases as efficiently as possible. Explore what
other jurisdictions are doing to implement new ideas that
are successful. Coordinate with other courts, clerks, district
attorney’s office, law enforcement, and probation to ensure
everyone is on schedule, present and accountable in the
administration of justice. When court is in trial partner up
with other county courts to take care of pleas to avoid having
to reset cases. Court No. 15
Bob Behrens (REP)
Background: BA Criminal Justice UTSA
1989, Master Public Affairs UT 1992, JD
St. Mary’s University Law School 1994.
I’ve handled over 2,200 criminal cases and
tried dozens of jury trials. I’ve handled
about 150 family law cases and tried
many bench trials. My education and
experience qualify me for this position.
Administration: I will streamline the
court’s docket, work to resolve a backlog currently causing
trials to be set as late as next July, make myself available to the
civil county and district courts for assignment of civil matters,
and I will seek consensus among judges on ideas to improve
administration and make all the county courts more efficient.
Michael T. LaHood (DEM)
Background: St. Mary’s Law School 1967. US Army Retired
- 26 years, Lt. Colonel. State Hospital Judge 1990-1999. Judge
County Court 15, 2009-Present. My judicial philosophy is,
Educate not Incarcerate. Respect all who appear before me
regardless of race, creed or religion. I am motivated by love of
family & country.
Administration: I don’t believe there
are improvements to make CC 15 more
efficient. When the Court was created, its
docket was comprised of over 300 cases
other judges didn’t want. They were the
oldest, most difficult cases, and oftentimes
were the attorneys who may be prone to
make a case more difficult. By compiling a
staff that is experienced and efficient, we have disposed of the
vast majority of those cases inherited. I call docket promptly
at 9 am. Attorneys appreciate the punctuality with which we
handle their cases.
Judge, County Probate Court
Probate matters include the administration of estates of deceased persons, will contests, the guardianship of minors and incapacitated persons, and
mental illness matters
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education,
motivation and experience qualifies you for the office. (50 words)
Nonpartisan Judicial races: Do you think judicial races should
be nonpartisan? Please explain. (75 words)
Key Activities: What are the key activities of the probate court
and what would your emphasis be? (75 words)
Court No. 1
Kelly M. Cross (REP)
Background: I have spent twenty-two years of my legal career
as the voice for the mentally ill and incapacitated; these are
the living people served by Probate 1. I am keenly aware of
the consequences of underserving these complex populations.
I am prepared to serve with compassion and integrity.
Nonpartisan Judicial races: This is my
first judicial campaign. I am an experienced voter and have belonged to the
Republican Party for many years. I believe
that any elected official owes their allegiance to God, country, constituents and
to their party; in that order.
Key Activities: Key activities: Involuntary
mental health commitments; appointment and monitoring of guardianships. My emphasis: Utilization of out-patient commitments for elderly and nursing
home residents; develop family-volunteer guardian trainingsupport; implement low income probate-heirship dockets;
encourage community awareness to prevent senior abuse and
exploitation.
Barbara “Barbie” Scharf-Zeldes( DEM)
Background: I have the institutional understanding, education and legal knowledge resulting from
21 years of trial practice, advocacy and
assisting our judges in the Bexar County
Probate Courts. My motivation stems
from my work as a probate and family law
attorney, allowing me to be what I do best
– protect families.
Nonpartisan Judicial races: We should
do everything we can to keep politics out
of the courtroom. Canon 1 of the Code of Judicial Conduct
mandates, “An independent and honorable judiciary is indispensable to justice in our society.” Judges commit to upholding the integrity of the judicial system by serving as fair
and impartial arbiters and not swaying to partisan interests.
Despite this inconsistency, our political party system aids in
highlighting races that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Key Activities Probate Court addresses the administration of
estates when people die, appoints guardians for incapacitated
adults and minors, determines eminent domain conflicts and
has the statutory jurisdiction for the mental health docket.
Education is needed to protect families. I will continue my
probate education program as a speaker’s bureau, create a
training program for guardians and collaborate with mental
health agencies and organizations, all of which will allow the
Probate Court to work efficiently and effectively.
Court No. 2
Tom Rickhoff (REP) Unopposed
District Clerk
The district clerk has a duty to keep the records of
the district court safe and properly arranged. The
district clerk must, among other things record the
acts and proceedings of the district court, enter all
judgments of the court under the direction of the
judge, record all executions issued and the returns
issued on the executions, administer child support
payments, administer trust accounts for minors
ordered by the courts keep an index of the parties
to all suits filed in the court, and make reference to
any judgment made in the case.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education,
motivation and experience qualifies you for the office. (50
words)
Administrative responsibilities: Because the responsibilities of the district (county) clerk are mostly administrative, do
you think that clerks should be appointed rather than elected? Please explain. (75 words)
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 36
Donna Kay McKinney (REP)
Gerard C. “Gerry” Rickhoff (REP)
Mary Angie Garcia (DEM)
Suzanne de Leon (DEM) No response
Background: Earning two degrees from UTSA – Bachelor’s
Degree in Political Science and Master’s Degree in Public
Administration. Additionally, I have operated my own business
and worked in the public sector for much
of my life – Texas Legislature along with
Bexar County’s Commissioners Court,
Tax-Assessor Collector, Probate Court,
and District Clerk.
Administrative responsibilities: I believe
the District Clerk, whose primary duty is
being the custodian of the District Courts’
records, should be elected – that’s the
American way. The people have a right to elect their representatives. If an elected official is not carrying out the duties of the
office properly, they can be removed by a vote at the next election. If clerks were appointed, the people would have no way to
remove them from office.
Background: I retired from the district clerk’s office after 14
years and during my tenure with the office
I learned a variety of the processes associated with each position. This experience
opened my eyes and I saw improvements
that needed to be made. While I did not get
the opportunity to make these improvements I am now eager to implement these
changes. The office has to be brought up
to its fullest potential and currently we are
not running at maximum capacity and the office is in need of
balance and transparency.
Administrative responsibilities: No, I do not think that the
District/County clerk position should be appointed. Our government is at the will of the people it is our constitutional right
to vote for our representatives. Voting is part of the election
process and it is the voice of the people that make a candidate
successful.
County Clerk
The county clerk serves as clerk of the court for
all misdemeanor county, criminal and civil courts
including commissioners’ court and probate court;
maintaining the official records of the courts they
serve.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education,
motivation and experience qualifies you for the office. (50 words)
Administrative responsibilities: Because the responsibilities
of the district (county) clerk are mostly administrative, do you
think that clerks should be appointed rather than elected? Please
explain. (75 words)
37 LWVSAA Voters Guide
Background: I am completing my twentieth year as Bexar
County Clerk. My tenure can be characterized by reform, establishing best practices, and implementing technology. I received
a Jesuit education, a BA from St. Louis
University, Teaching Certification from
St. Mary’s University, and taught Special
Education for seven years.
Administrative responsibilities: County
Clerks are elected to ensure checks &
balances and separation of powers, which
are necessary for good government. These
produce accountability in government
through transparency. The County Clerk’s job is to maintain
the integrity of the official public record and distribute it to the
public. As an elected official, the County Clerk answers directly
to the public through the voting process. If the County Clerk
were appointed the public would lose its voice.
Earl Lyons (GRN) No response
County Commissioner
County commissioners serve along with the county
judge on the commissioners court. The commissioners court is responsible for building and maintaining the roads and bridges of the county. County
government’s operations are often tailored to meet
the needs and resources of the community, so the
programs overseen by the commissioners court
may vary from county to county. In a typical county,
the commissioners court determine the number and
type of county employees and their compensation,
acquire property for rights of way or other public
uses, adopt and enforce subdivision regulations,
provides rural ambulance services.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education,
motivation and experience qualifies you for the office. (50 words)
Range of responsibilities: County commissioners’ responsibilities range from rural, unincorporated areas to the highly populated city of San Antonio. How will you balance spending between
these two divergent areas? (75 words)
Precinct No. 2
Paul Elizondo (DEM) No response
Annette Anderson (LIB)
Background: I developed personal contact, organizational and
other skills working for Holiday Inn, Portrait Artist Studio,
Daycare Centers and Telemarketing. I find time to attend Com-
missioner’s Court and City Council meetings I am a resourceful
person surrounding myself with experienced, capable people whom I can trust to
guide and assist me.
Range of responsibilities: My first
responsibility is to safety and roads/infrastructure all over the county.The areas
with the most need should have the most
attention no mater where in the county
they reside.
Chuck Robinson (GRN) No response
Eiginio Rodriguez (IND) No response
Precinct No. 4
Timothy Wilson (REP)
Background: As a former Councilman and the current Mayor
of Kirby, Texas, my leadership skills have been honed through
experience and dedication. With a passion for community, my
focus is on my fellow neighbors and businesspeople, not special
interests. As Commissioner, I will get the
job done right the first time.
Range of responsibilities: County commissioners’ responsibilities range from
rural, unincorporated areas to the highly
populated city of San Antonio. How will
you balance spending between these two
divergent areas? A county commissioners’
role should be 75 percent in the county and
25 percent in the cities. Each city has their own leadership and
taxing authority. In precinct 4 it’s not just the city of San Antonio, there are 13 incorporated cities all having their own needs
and wants. The county can help facilitate projects in the city
but, we shouldn’t be taking over these projects. If we stop taking
over projects in San Antonio it would allow us the resources
and time to take care of unincorporated areas of Bexar County.
Tommy Calvert (DEM) No response
Justice of the Peace
Justice of the peace courts have original jurisdiction
in Class C misdemeanor criminal cases, which are
less serious minor offenses. These courts also have
jurisdiction of minor civil matters. A justice of the
peace may issue search or arrest warrants. These
courts also function as small claims courts.
Questions for Candidates
Background: Please describe what combination of education,
motivation and experience qualifies you for the office. (50 words)
Duties: The duties of justice of the peace are extensive. Which, in
your opinion, are the most important requiring the most under-
standing of the law? (75 words)
Precinct No. 1, Place 1
Robert “Bobby” Tejeda (DEM) Uncontested
Precinct No. 1, Place 2
Ciro D. Rodriguez (DEM) Uncontested
Precinct No. 3, Place 1
William E. “Bill” Donovan (REP) Uncontested
Precinct No. 3, Place 2
Jeff Wentworth (REP)
Background: I have a law degree and have been licensed to
practice law in Texas for over 40 years. In addition, I now have
nearly two years’ experience as a sitting judge in Bexar County.
As a state senator, I served as chairman of the Texas Senate
Jurisprudence Committee.
Duties: Every case that comes before me is
important to the person or persons standing before the bench, whether it involves a
criminal misdemeanor charge or a forcible entry and detainer or a contested civil
matter up to $10,000 – and I hear dozens
of cases each week. Litigants in my court
are treated with courtesy and respect, and
I listen carefully to each side before making as fair and just a
decision as possible.
Jason R Pipoly (LIB)
Background: My life experience of being wealthy and poor,
able bodied and a paraplegic, educated with a good analytical
mind exhibiting character and integrity with a passion to get
others to believe in themselves, to believe
they can make a difference and to believe
their voice matters. Duties: Property owners and tenants both
have rights and each should have their
rights protected. How to apply the law in
an eviction is paramount to making sure
this is done fairly, and timely on a case-bycase basis. Families with struggles that find
themselves if front of a JP require analyzing the entire challenge
and providing inspiring solutions.
Precinct No. 4, Place 1
Rogelio “Roger” Lopez, Jr. (DEM) Uncontested
Precinct No. 4, Place 2
Yolanda Acuna Uresti (DEM) Uncontested
LWVSAA Voters Guide Page 38
Texas Constitutional Amendment
The constitutional amendment providing for the use and dedication of certain money transferred to the state highway fund to assist in the completion of transportation construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation projects, not to
include toll roads.
Explanation: The proposed amendment requires the comptroller of public accounts to allocate one-half of the
amount of oil and gas production tax revenue currently transferred to the economic stabilization fund, known as the
Rainy Day Fund, to the state highway fund for the purpose of constructing, maintaining, and acquiring rights-of-way
for public roadways other than toll roads.
House Bill 1, the enabling legislation for Proposition 1, requires any amount transferred to the state highway fund
to be allocated throughout the state by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) consistent with existing
formulas adopted by the Texas Transportation Commission. The bill also calls for the appointment of a committee of
legislators to determine a sufficient balance for the Rainy Day Fund, below which no general revenue would be transferred to the state highway fund.
Arguments for: The proposed amendment with its enabling legislation is a key step toward securing critical
funding for transportation projects in Texas. The two measures together would present a politically viable means
to secure a portion of the funding Texas needs to maintain roadway congestion at current levels, given population
and economic growth. The enabling legislation allows the legislature to take necessary measures to ensure that a
minimum balance is available to respond to natural disasters and fiscal emergencies by appointing a committee of
legislators to determine a sufficient balance for the Rainy Day Fund.
Arguments against: The proposed amendment and its enabling legislation do not provide a solution to
the state’s serious, ongoing highway funding shortage. Because neither measure authorizes the collection of any
additional revenue, the measures in effect take money out of one fiscal pocket and move it to another. The two
measures would not adequately safeguard emergency reserves nor guarantee a minimum balance in the Rainy
Day Fund. The bill would assign this authority to each legislature, which is subject to the preferences of any given
legislative session. The Rainy Day Fund transfer is designated in the constitution in part to provide a well-protected
reserve, which is important for the state’s ability to withstand economic calamities and for its credit rating.
Early voting times and places for March 4 primary
Early voting hours are:
Oct 20 - 24 .................................................8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Oct 25.........................................................8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Oct 26 ....................................................12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m.
Oct. 27 - Oct. 31 ....................................... 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Early Voting Places
Bexar County Justice Center ............................... 300 Dolorosa
Brookhollow Library……....................…….530 Heimer Road
Castle Hills City Hall.......................…….209 Lemonwood Dr.
Claude Black Center ............................... 2805 East Commerce
Cody Library ............................................ 11441 Vance Jackson
Collins Garden Library ..................................... 200 North Park
Converse Ed Kneupper Justice Center ........ 402 S. Seguim Rd
Copernicus Community Center .................….. 5003 Lord Rd.
East Central ISD Admin Bldg, 66.34 New Sulphur Springs Road
Encino Oaks Ranch City Hall (Chambers) .. 1923 Encino Rio
Fair Oaks Ranch City Hall, Council Cmbrs, 7 286 Dietz Elkhorn
Great Northwest Library ………….…........... 9050 Wellwood
Henry A. Guerra, Jr. Library ......…..… 7978 W Military Drive
John Igo Library .............................. 13330 Kyle Seale Parkway
Johnston Library .................................... 6307 Sun Valley Drive
Julia Yates Semmes Library ....................... 15060 Judson Road
Las Palmas Library ................................... 515 Castroville Road
Lions Field ......................................................... 2809 Broadway
Maury Maverick, Jr. Library .......................... 8700 Mystic Park
39 LWVSAA Voters Guide
McCreless Library …….......….......…….…… 1023 Ada Street
Memorial Library ………………...…...………. 3222 Culebra
Miguel Carrillo, Jr. Elementary .......................... 500 Price Ave.
Mission Library ......................................... 3134 Roosevelt Ave.
Northside Activity Center ....................................7001 Culebra
Northwest Vista College ............................. 3535 N. Ellison Dr.
Olmos Park City Hall ……………... 120 West El Prado Drive
Palo Alto College .....................................1400 W. Villaret Blvd.
Parman Library …………………..…. 20735 Wilderness Oak
Precinct 1 Satellite Office…...……....…...3505 Pleasanton Rd.
San Antonio Community College (ECO Centro Bldg)1802 N Main
Shavano Park City Hall ..………...…....…... 900 Saddletree Ct
Sommerset High School ..... 7650 South 1604 West, Somerset
Southside ISD Admin Bldg (Board Room) 1460 Martinez-Losoya
Spouth Park Mall ………..…..…….......… 2310 S.W. Military
Thousand Oaks/El Sendero Library ...... 4618 Thousand Oaks
Tobin Library @ Okwell ………..…..... 4134 Harry Wurzbach
Universla City City Hall ................... 2150 Universal City Blvd.
UTSA (Dexar Room) ......................................... 1 UTSA Circle
Windcrest Takas Park Civic Center .........… 9310 Jim Seal Dr.
Wonderland Mall …….......................…. 4522 Fredericksburg
For more information contact the office of the Bexar County
Elections Administrator, Jacquelyn F. Callanen, at (210) 335VOTE (8683)