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Local guide for all the races on Election Day
  
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By OBSERVER STAFF REPORTS
Harris County candidates only have six days left to sway undecided voters to vote for them on Election Day, Nov. 4.
While many have stood in long lines to cast their vote during early voting, there are some who have not yet voted. To get more votes, candidates have submitted their profiles for voters to see why they are running and what they are running for.
Early voting will continue through Oct. 31 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Octavia Fields Library in Humble, the Humble ISD Instructional Service Center in Kingwood or at any polling location in Harris County. On Election Day, voters will have to vote at their precinct box listed on their voter registration cards. Local voters in Precincts 35, 457, 598 and 599 will vote at Humble Elementary School; Precinct 108 will vote at Octavia Fields Library; Precincts 334 and 756 at Hotel Marquis and Suites in Humble; Precincts 363 and 742 at Whispering Pines Elementary School; Precincts 0799 and 0847 at Northbelt Elementary School; Precinct 0840 at Houston International Church of God; Precinct 83 at North Belt Baptist Church; and Precinct 705 at Francis Elementary School.
John Cornyn
Party: Republican
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Richard Noriega
Position: Democratic
Age: 50
Place of residence: Houston
Relevant experience: Past Political and Military Service: Texas House of Representatives (1999-present); Commander, 143rd Infantry Detachment; Lieutenant Colonel in the Texas Army National Guard where I served as deputy garrison commander of the KMTC training facility in Kabul, Afghanistan after 9/11; Incident Commander, George R. Brown Houston Katrina Shelter Relief Effort, provided shelter, health care and job placement to thousands of Louisiana hurricane evacuees. Current Civic Involvement: Catholic Charities; Houston Holocaust Museum; UH Alumni Life Member; Christ Church Cathedral; Harvard Alumni; LULAC Council 402; VFW; American Legion; U.S. Army Infantry Assoc., Tejano Democrats; East End Chamber of Commerce and Life Member TRA.
No. 1 issue you are running on: Our health care system costs too much and covers too few. John Cornyn has stood in the way of reform by voting against children’s health insurance six times and blocking lower priced drugs for our seniors. Under Cornyn's watch family premiums have gone up 80 percent. I have a plan to make sure all Texans have access to quality affordable healthcare. I will fight to extend coverage to all Texas children; create tax incentives for small businesses that provide health insurance; connect Texans with affordable plans and keep costs down by supporting increased transparency with regard to premiums and physician ratings.
Yvonne Adams Schick
Position: Libertarian
Age: 60
Place of residence: Hill Country near Austin
Relevant experience: Grassroots lobbying for tax reform
No. 1 issue you are running on: The Economy. Texans feel betrayed. They can no longer trust either of the major parties to defend to the Constitution, to stand on the principles of fairness and free markets that made our country great, or even to use common sense. The economy can be restored but only if we return to those basics and stop bailouts for those who have used poor business judgments at best and are possibly guilty of criminal fraud; severely cut government spending including putting an end to nation-building wars; lower taxes; and reform the monetary system by returning the control of printing money to the federal government and not the Federal Reserve.
Ted Poe
Party: Republican
Age: 60
Place of residence: Humble
Relevant experience: 4 years U.S. Representative Congressional District 2: member, Foreign Affairs Committee (Terrorism Subcommittee); member, Transportation & Infrastructure Committee; founder, Victims Rights Caucus; U.S. Congressional Delegate to the United Nations; Congressional Delegate travelling to Iraq and Afghanistan; 22 years District Court Judge (criminal) 228th Criminal District Court; and 8 years assistant district attorney and chief felony prosecutor
No. 1 issue you are running on: The number one issues in Congressional District 2 are energy, border security and the economy. Energy: We need to explore all energy alternatives and we need to do something now. Border Security: More people call my office regarding their concerns over border security than any other issue. Most people are frustrated because neither presidential candidate mentions it when discussing their platform. As a former judge, I will not support legislation that allows people to break the law and live in our country illegally. The Economy: I voted against the Wall Street bailout twice because it doesn’t provide a common sense approach to our country’s financial woes. We should not have to buy Wall Street out of this mess. Before we strong-arm the American citizens into paying for the sins of the New York City financial market, we need to do more investigation. Then we can come up with the right thing to do.
Craig Wolfe
Party: Libertarian
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Patricia Harless
Party: Republican
Age: 44
Place of residence: Spring
Relevant experience: Current State Rep. District 126, elected in 2006. Grassroots volunteer since 1980 in political campaigns; past president of American Heart Association, NW Division; foundation board member Lone Star College System; involved in Northwest Assistance Ministries, Cypress Woodlands Junior Forum, Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts, ARK (Adults Relating to Kids), 100 Club of Houston and the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.
No. 1 issue you are running on: Transparency, accountability and efficiency in Texas government.
Chad Khan
Party: Democratic
Age: 47
Place of residence: Glenn Haven Estates
Relevant experience: Chad Khan has been a local entrepreneur and committed volunteer public servant for more than 20 years. In addition to owning and operating several business ventures, including real estate development and tourism industry experience, Khan has also served Houston’s northwest as president of the Harris County Municipal Utility District and a board member of North Channel Emergency Medical Services. Khan has also served and volunteered in a number of capacities in Houston-area school districts, homeowners associations and as a graduate of both the Harris County Constable’s and Sheriff’s Citizen Police Academy.
No. 1 issue you are running on: Education. If Texans are to compete in our global economy, our students from preschool to secondary classrooms deserve nothing less than a quality education affordable to all families. Our state continues to rank among the least successful states in funding our public education system. As District 126’s next state representative, I will actively seek solutions to fund these schools responsibly, increase teacher pay as a means of increasing retention of quality teachers and reduce the dropout rate. I also will focus on solutions for families facing the burden of paying for their child’s college education, which has increased since the Texas Legislature deregulated college tuition in 2002.
Oscar J. Palma Jr.
Party: Libertarian
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Joe Crabb
Party: Republican
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Joe A. Montemayor
Party: Democratic
Age: 54
Place of residence: Crosby
Relevant experience: I have served my country for 29 years, including 25 years of service to the Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. My political experience includes serving as a precinct chair and as a deputy voter registrar. I have also served in community groups, such as Knights of Columbus, American Legion, AARP, among other volunteer groups.
No. 1 issue you are running on: District 127 possesses the best schools in the state of Texas, but we are facing growing deficits that can only be paid by tax increases because Joe Crabb has failed to fight for our schools—our children and our teachers—for too long. Instead of a politician tied to special interests, we need a servant-leader in Austin who will hit the ground running and lead on ensuring proper funding for our school districts, provide for our growing community colleges, make college affordable for our middle class families and strengthen the foundation of our economy. I will be that leader.
Justo Perez
Party: Libertarian
Age: 47
Place of residence: Kingwood
Relevant experience: None
No. 1 issue you are running on: All things having to do with fiscal discipline. This means that any subsidies, be it welfare handouts to individuals or corporate favoritism, should be eliminated. There’s no need for so many taxes – we can make deep cuts by eliminating government agencies, programs and entitlements. Our state’s tax revenue should solely be used to fund physical infrastructure and civil functions that are essential to our state. Examples of non-essential taxes are those used for social engineering schemes such as sin taxes, job creation programs, etc.
Debbie Riddle
Party: Republican
Age: Experienced
Place of residence: Spring/Tomball area
Relevant experience: As a business owner, I understand what it means to meet payroll and pay taxes. As a former volunteer firefighter and EMT, I understand the needs and challenges of our emergency services. Since 2002, I have served as the state representative for District 150 and have authored and passed major legislation like House Bill 8 otherwise known as “Jessica’s Law.” Currently I am the committee budget officer of the Criminal Jurisprudence Committee where I was the vice-chair for four years. I also am a member of the Appropriations committee and the Committee on House Administration and the Joint Select committee on the Operation and Management of the Texas Youth Commission. I have previously been a member of the State Affairs, Financial Institutions and Border and International Affairs committees. During the interim period between sessions in 2004, I was named the chairman of the Joint Interim Committee on Long Term Care. My experience as a business owner, a community activist and legislator has helped in my being an effective state representative for the people in my district.
No. 1 issue you are running on: Repeal of the new “margins” or business tax is high on my priority list. I helped to lead the fight against this bad legislation and I will do all I can to repeal it. The issue of taxes also includes lowering property tax. I will be introducing a bill this session for appraisal caps. Crime in our area is another number one priority. Decline of the 1960 area from Interstate 45 to Highway 249 and doing what is necessary to revitalize our area is very important. Part of my district is being negatively affected with the Grand Parkway and I will be working on eminent domain issues and doing what is necessary in the Legislature to minimize or avoid the negative affects of the Grand Parkway in the Spring area. Illegal immigration is another key issue for my district and state. I will be introducing legislation to repeal the Texas law giving illegal immigrants instate tuition. Bottom line - lower taxes, smaller and more responsible government job growth and illegal immigration must be dealt with from the White House to the State House.
Brad Neal
Party: Democratic
Age: 44
Place of residence: Spring
Relevant experience: Engineering and project management in energy industry; conducted voter registration drives and voter education programs; husband and parent of six children; homeowner and taxpayer; nine years Army National Guard; four years Marine Corps Reserve
No. 1 issue you are running on: We must reduce our public debt. With the impending economic downturn, we must do it without delay. Even when our economy stabilizes, we will see more value in our public spending and feel relief in our property taxes only after we reduce the issuance of new bonds and make early retirement of existing bonds a goal...a community cause. Therefore, while we can restructure our tax system to be fairer to payers and less stifling to commerce, it’s not realistic to speak of (net) tax reduction until we significantly reduce our debt. In all issues, I must be frank, honest and realistic.
Ken Petty
Party: Libertarian
Age: 48
Place of residence: Spring
Relevant experience: I served two terms as a Commissioner with the Hazelwood MO Neighborhood Watch, I also was a candidate for office in 1996 (Missouri General Assembly) I also serve in the Bailey Middle School PTO
No. 1 issue you are running on: Immigration and borders: Immigration is among the most contentious issues facing America today, and the specters of terrorism and war have only added fuel to an already fiery debate. By any reasonable measure, properly regulated immigration is not just beneficial to the American economy but indispensable to the goal of a nation of freedom and opportunity. Government spending and taxes: I support and will earnestly persist that we have a balanced budget at all levels of government within the state without increasing net taxation. Eminent domain: As your elected representative, I would close the exceptions and loopholes in the state prohibition against the use of eminent domain for private economic development. Toll roads: I highly oppose the Trans Texas Corridor Act, a costly boondoggle intended to benefit land developers through the abuse of eminent domain and the power of highway monopoly.
Pat Lykos
Party: Republican
Age: 66
Place of residence: Houston
Relevant experience: Worked way through undergraduate school and law school as a Houston Police Officer, practiced law in federal, state, local and appellate courts; elected four times as judge and presided over 20,000 felony cases; former Chief Judge of Criminal District Courts, former Chair, Harris County Justice Information System; adjunct professor, South Texas College of Law; member of Governor's Council on Sex Offenders; Fellow American and Houston Bar Foundations; Director of Special Projects for County Judge Robert Eckels and Director of Judicial Issues for County Judge Ed Emmett.
No. 1 issue you are running on: The district attorney is the top law enforcement officer in Harris County and my duty is to protect the people and ensure that justice is done; the justice system is tarnished and I intend to restore public trust and confidence in the office and transform it into the best in the nation through principled leadership, ethics reform and professionalism. Dangerous criminals will be vigorously prosecuted, and victims rights enforced; crimes will be solved and prevented with effective collaboration with the 150 area law enforcement agencies and engaging citizens and the business community in cooperative efforts.
C.O. Bradford
Party: Democratic
Age: 53
Place of residence: Southwest Houston
Relevant experience: Degrees in Law, Criminal Justice and Public Affairs and graduate of FBI Academy’s National Executive Institute. Houston Police officer for 24 years, Chief of Police for 7 years. Attorney for 15 years, including as partner in law firm. Consultant in litigation support, public safety and homeland security. Served as a Precinct Chair and Election Judge in Southwest Houston.
No. 1 issue you are running on: In recent years, we have seen crime rise, jails become overcrowded and our taxes rise too high. We must vigorously prosecute violent offenders but for those who commit non-violent misdemeanors, first time offenders, substance abusers or are mentally ill, let’s use pre-trial interventions, alternative sentencing and other programs that will keep them out of jail and help treat them. We must balance public protection, offender accountability, and rehabilitation needs. It’s the right thing to do and it’s good fiscal stewardship. I will obey the law, respect the principle of justice, and pursue the truth.
Ed Emmett
Party: Republican
Age: 59
Place of residence: Houston
Relevant experience: Texas House of Representatives: Chairman, House Committee on Energy; US Interstate Commerce Commission; International Transportation Person of the Year, 2005 Small Business Owner and numerous boards and commissions
No. 1 issue you are running on: County Judge Ed Emmett recognizes the need for Harris County to focus on the future in many areas. Homeland security and emergency management preparations were evident during Hurricane Ike. As a recognized transportation expert, Judge Emmett is leading a regional, multi-modal effort to meet future transportation needs. In others areas ranging from health care to juvenile justice to water quality, Ed Emmett believes Harris County, the third largest in the country, must be a leader in meeting current needs and focusing on the future.
David Mincberg
Party: Democratic
Age: 58
Place of residence: Bellaire
Relevant experience: I am a businessman; I am not a politician. In 1991, I started Flagship Properties Corporation, a firm involved in the investment of almost $1 million right here in Harris County. That company ultimately grew to over 750 employees. My extensive business experience has given me the knowledge to run a large entity like Harris County. Worked with Southwest Houston 2000, an organization I started to help revitalize the Southwest area of Houston. I have also served on the boards of the DePelchin Children’s Center, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Houston Child Guidance Center, and Jewish Family Services. I have been honored to received numerous awards for my service, among them: The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston's Young Leadership Award (1991), The Mickey Leland Humanitarian Award by the NAACP (1994), The University of Texas Tejas Club Distinguished Alumni Award (2001), The Houston Chapter of the American Jewish Committee Max H. Nathan Human Relations Award (2003), and The Association of Fundraising Professionals Outstanding Community Volunteer, Houston National Philanthropic Day (2006).
No. 1 issue you are running on: I am running for Harris County Judge because we need to clean up county government. There are many issues we will face in the coming years, as Harris County continues to grow, however, until we have an honest, ethical government which functions for the sole purpose of improving the lives of its citizens, we will not be able to move forward. Let’s put an end to the culture of corruption in county government. Let’s put an end to FBI investigations, racist and sexist e-mails, and civil rights violations. In light of the national financial market, Harris County needs a business leader who understands running a large budget and effectively managing our tax dollars. When we have a leader who can plan for the future, we can ensure our local economy remains strong and continues to thrive. If you care about changing the way our local government functions and want to bring respect back to Harris County, I would be honored to have your vote.
Tommy Thomas
Party: Republican
Age: 65
Place of residence: Katy
Relevant experience: Master peace officer with 40 years of law enforcement experience – more than 20 years in key management positions. Currently supervise 4,000 employees and manage a $360 million budget. First sheriff in modern history to serve in every position in the Sheriff’s Office. Graduate of Dept. of Justice’s prestigious National Executive Institute in Washington, D.C. Recognized for Career Achievements: The 100 Club of Houston – Officer of the Year, 1973. Lifetime Achievement Award, 2003; VFW – Officer of the Year, 1978, Texas Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, 1999; Distinguished Rotarian Award, Rotary International, 1997 and Distinguished Alumni, Jeff Davis High School, 1998
No. 1 issue you are running on: Experience and record of accomplishment during years as Sheriff. Created the Sex Offender Registration and Tracking Unit to keep our children safe from predators. nitiated education programs such as Citizen’s Police Academies. Started Rape Aggression Defense classes to help protect innocent women from violent crimes. Opened 7 Sheriff’s Office storefronts to bring law enforcement closer to the neighborhoods. Doubled number of patrol deputies to keep roads and drivers safe. Created Burglary Apprehension Response Squad to crack down on home burglaries. Created the Homeland Security Bureau to secure vulnerable locations (such as Port of Houston) from terrorist attacks.
Adrian Garcia
Party: Democratic
Age: 48
Place of residence: Houston
Relevant experience: I served 23 years on the Houston Police Department during which time I was Director of the Anti-Gang taskforce before being elected to the Houston City Council. I currently chair the Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security where I help oversee a budget of over $1 billion in addition to serving as the Mayor Pro-Tem for Bill White.
No. 1 issue you are running on: I am running to restore public trust and bring fresh perspective to the largest Sheriff's Office in Texas. The current administration has tainted the image of this office because leadership has been non-existent for far too long and it has resulted in wasted taxpayer money. The endorsement by the three main employee groups of the Sheriff's department indicates that the employees want and are demanding change. After 23 years with the Houston Police Department and five years on Houston City Council, I am running because the citizens deserve 21st Century public safety and ethical leadership they can trust.
Paul Bettencourt
Party: Republican
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Diane Trautman
Position: Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector
Age: 58
Place of residence: Humble
Relevant experience: I have over 30 years of administrative and leadership experience. I spent 10 years in the banking industry at Texas Commerce Bank and First City National Bank in the Trust Asset Management Division and Energy Lending Division and 24 years in education as a classroom teacher, principal, and professor of education. I am active in several local chamber of commerce organizations, American Business Women’s Association, AARP, Humble Area Retired Teachers Association, and North Harris County Law Enforcement Association. I ran for state representative in House District 127 in 2006 as an education advocate.
No. 1 issue you are running on: As the third largest county in the nation, I want Harris County to lead the way and set the standard when it comes to efficient tax collection and I want to be accountable to the public about where we stand in relation to other counties. Unfortunately, right now we rank 5th out of the 5 largest counties in Texas for tax collection. This translates to lost tax dollars for our communities and the services our families count on. We can not be afraid to admit there is room for improvement, and we must be open, honest and transparent about it.
Jeffrey McGee
Party: Libertarian
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Unopposed candidates
Tommy Williams: State Senator District 4
Ron Hickman: Harris County Constable Precinct 4
While many have stood in long lines to cast their vote during early voting, there are some who have not yet voted. To get more votes, candidates have submitted their profiles for voters to see why they are running and what they are running for.
Early voting will continue through Oct. 31 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Octavia Fields Library in Humble, the Humble ISD Instructional Service Center in Kingwood or at any polling location in Harris County. On Election Day, voters will have to vote at their precinct box listed on their voter registration cards. Local voters in Precincts 35, 457, 598 and 599 will vote at Humble Elementary School; Precinct 108 will vote at Octavia Fields Library; Precincts 334 and 756 at Hotel Marquis and Suites in Humble; Precincts 363 and 742 at Whispering Pines Elementary School; Precincts 0799 and 0847 at Northbelt Elementary School; Precinct 0840 at Houston International Church of God; Precinct 83 at North Belt Baptist Church; and Precinct 705 at Francis Elementary School.
John Cornyn
Party: Republican
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Richard Noriega
Position: Democratic
Age: 50
Place of residence: Houston
Relevant experience: Past Political and Military Service: Texas House of Representatives (1999-present); Commander, 143rd Infantry Detachment; Lieutenant Colonel in the Texas Army National Guard where I served as deputy garrison commander of the KMTC training facility in Kabul, Afghanistan after 9/11; Incident Commander, George R. Brown Houston Katrina Shelter Relief Effort, provided shelter, health care and job placement to thousands of Louisiana hurricane evacuees. Current Civic Involvement: Catholic Charities; Houston Holocaust Museum; UH Alumni Life Member; Christ Church Cathedral; Harvard Alumni; LULAC Council 402; VFW; American Legion; U.S. Army Infantry Assoc., Tejano Democrats; East End Chamber of Commerce and Life Member TRA.
No. 1 issue you are running on: Our health care system costs too much and covers too few. John Cornyn has stood in the way of reform by voting against children’s health insurance six times and blocking lower priced drugs for our seniors. Under Cornyn's watch family premiums have gone up 80 percent. I have a plan to make sure all Texans have access to quality affordable healthcare. I will fight to extend coverage to all Texas children; create tax incentives for small businesses that provide health insurance; connect Texans with affordable plans and keep costs down by supporting increased transparency with regard to premiums and physician ratings.
Yvonne Adams Schick
Position: Libertarian
Age: 60
Place of residence: Hill Country near Austin
Relevant experience: Grassroots lobbying for tax reform
No. 1 issue you are running on: The Economy. Texans feel betrayed. They can no longer trust either of the major parties to defend to the Constitution, to stand on the principles of fairness and free markets that made our country great, or even to use common sense. The economy can be restored but only if we return to those basics and stop bailouts for those who have used poor business judgments at best and are possibly guilty of criminal fraud; severely cut government spending including putting an end to nation-building wars; lower taxes; and reform the monetary system by returning the control of printing money to the federal government and not the Federal Reserve.
Ted Poe
Party: Republican
Age: 60
Place of residence: Humble
Relevant experience: 4 years U.S. Representative Congressional District 2: member, Foreign Affairs Committee (Terrorism Subcommittee); member, Transportation & Infrastructure Committee; founder, Victims Rights Caucus; U.S. Congressional Delegate to the United Nations; Congressional Delegate travelling to Iraq and Afghanistan; 22 years District Court Judge (criminal) 228th Criminal District Court; and 8 years assistant district attorney and chief felony prosecutor
No. 1 issue you are running on: The number one issues in Congressional District 2 are energy, border security and the economy. Energy: We need to explore all energy alternatives and we need to do something now. Border Security: More people call my office regarding their concerns over border security than any other issue. Most people are frustrated because neither presidential candidate mentions it when discussing their platform. As a former judge, I will not support legislation that allows people to break the law and live in our country illegally. The Economy: I voted against the Wall Street bailout twice because it doesn’t provide a common sense approach to our country’s financial woes. We should not have to buy Wall Street out of this mess. Before we strong-arm the American citizens into paying for the sins of the New York City financial market, we need to do more investigation. Then we can come up with the right thing to do.
Craig Wolfe
Party: Libertarian
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Patricia Harless
Party: Republican
Age: 44
Place of residence: Spring
Relevant experience: Current State Rep. District 126, elected in 2006. Grassroots volunteer since 1980 in political campaigns; past president of American Heart Association, NW Division; foundation board member Lone Star College System; involved in Northwest Assistance Ministries, Cypress Woodlands Junior Forum, Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts, ARK (Adults Relating to Kids), 100 Club of Houston and the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.
No. 1 issue you are running on: Transparency, accountability and efficiency in Texas government.
Chad Khan
Party: Democratic
Age: 47
Place of residence: Glenn Haven Estates
Relevant experience: Chad Khan has been a local entrepreneur and committed volunteer public servant for more than 20 years. In addition to owning and operating several business ventures, including real estate development and tourism industry experience, Khan has also served Houston’s northwest as president of the Harris County Municipal Utility District and a board member of North Channel Emergency Medical Services. Khan has also served and volunteered in a number of capacities in Houston-area school districts, homeowners associations and as a graduate of both the Harris County Constable’s and Sheriff’s Citizen Police Academy.
No. 1 issue you are running on: Education. If Texans are to compete in our global economy, our students from preschool to secondary classrooms deserve nothing less than a quality education affordable to all families. Our state continues to rank among the least successful states in funding our public education system. As District 126’s next state representative, I will actively seek solutions to fund these schools responsibly, increase teacher pay as a means of increasing retention of quality teachers and reduce the dropout rate. I also will focus on solutions for families facing the burden of paying for their child’s college education, which has increased since the Texas Legislature deregulated college tuition in 2002.
Oscar J. Palma Jr.
Party: Libertarian
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Joe Crabb
Party: Republican
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Joe A. Montemayor
Party: Democratic
Age: 54
Place of residence: Crosby
Relevant experience: I have served my country for 29 years, including 25 years of service to the Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. My political experience includes serving as a precinct chair and as a deputy voter registrar. I have also served in community groups, such as Knights of Columbus, American Legion, AARP, among other volunteer groups.
No. 1 issue you are running on: District 127 possesses the best schools in the state of Texas, but we are facing growing deficits that can only be paid by tax increases because Joe Crabb has failed to fight for our schools—our children and our teachers—for too long. Instead of a politician tied to special interests, we need a servant-leader in Austin who will hit the ground running and lead on ensuring proper funding for our school districts, provide for our growing community colleges, make college affordable for our middle class families and strengthen the foundation of our economy. I will be that leader.
Justo Perez
Party: Libertarian
Age: 47
Place of residence: Kingwood
Relevant experience: None
No. 1 issue you are running on: All things having to do with fiscal discipline. This means that any subsidies, be it welfare handouts to individuals or corporate favoritism, should be eliminated. There’s no need for so many taxes – we can make deep cuts by eliminating government agencies, programs and entitlements. Our state’s tax revenue should solely be used to fund physical infrastructure and civil functions that are essential to our state. Examples of non-essential taxes are those used for social engineering schemes such as sin taxes, job creation programs, etc.
Debbie Riddle
Party: Republican
Age: Experienced
Place of residence: Spring/Tomball area
Relevant experience: As a business owner, I understand what it means to meet payroll and pay taxes. As a former volunteer firefighter and EMT, I understand the needs and challenges of our emergency services. Since 2002, I have served as the state representative for District 150 and have authored and passed major legislation like House Bill 8 otherwise known as “Jessica’s Law.” Currently I am the committee budget officer of the Criminal Jurisprudence Committee where I was the vice-chair for four years. I also am a member of the Appropriations committee and the Committee on House Administration and the Joint Select committee on the Operation and Management of the Texas Youth Commission. I have previously been a member of the State Affairs, Financial Institutions and Border and International Affairs committees. During the interim period between sessions in 2004, I was named the chairman of the Joint Interim Committee on Long Term Care. My experience as a business owner, a community activist and legislator has helped in my being an effective state representative for the people in my district.
No. 1 issue you are running on: Repeal of the new “margins” or business tax is high on my priority list. I helped to lead the fight against this bad legislation and I will do all I can to repeal it. The issue of taxes also includes lowering property tax. I will be introducing a bill this session for appraisal caps. Crime in our area is another number one priority. Decline of the 1960 area from Interstate 45 to Highway 249 and doing what is necessary to revitalize our area is very important. Part of my district is being negatively affected with the Grand Parkway and I will be working on eminent domain issues and doing what is necessary in the Legislature to minimize or avoid the negative affects of the Grand Parkway in the Spring area. Illegal immigration is another key issue for my district and state. I will be introducing legislation to repeal the Texas law giving illegal immigrants instate tuition. Bottom line - lower taxes, smaller and more responsible government job growth and illegal immigration must be dealt with from the White House to the State House.
Brad Neal
Party: Democratic
Age: 44
Place of residence: Spring
Relevant experience: Engineering and project management in energy industry; conducted voter registration drives and voter education programs; husband and parent of six children; homeowner and taxpayer; nine years Army National Guard; four years Marine Corps Reserve
No. 1 issue you are running on: We must reduce our public debt. With the impending economic downturn, we must do it without delay. Even when our economy stabilizes, we will see more value in our public spending and feel relief in our property taxes only after we reduce the issuance of new bonds and make early retirement of existing bonds a goal...a community cause. Therefore, while we can restructure our tax system to be fairer to payers and less stifling to commerce, it’s not realistic to speak of (net) tax reduction until we significantly reduce our debt. In all issues, I must be frank, honest and realistic.
Ken Petty
Party: Libertarian
Age: 48
Place of residence: Spring
Relevant experience: I served two terms as a Commissioner with the Hazelwood MO Neighborhood Watch, I also was a candidate for office in 1996 (Missouri General Assembly) I also serve in the Bailey Middle School PTO
No. 1 issue you are running on: Immigration and borders: Immigration is among the most contentious issues facing America today, and the specters of terrorism and war have only added fuel to an already fiery debate. By any reasonable measure, properly regulated immigration is not just beneficial to the American economy but indispensable to the goal of a nation of freedom and opportunity. Government spending and taxes: I support and will earnestly persist that we have a balanced budget at all levels of government within the state without increasing net taxation. Eminent domain: As your elected representative, I would close the exceptions and loopholes in the state prohibition against the use of eminent domain for private economic development. Toll roads: I highly oppose the Trans Texas Corridor Act, a costly boondoggle intended to benefit land developers through the abuse of eminent domain and the power of highway monopoly.
Pat Lykos
Party: Republican
Age: 66
Place of residence: Houston
Relevant experience: Worked way through undergraduate school and law school as a Houston Police Officer, practiced law in federal, state, local and appellate courts; elected four times as judge and presided over 20,000 felony cases; former Chief Judge of Criminal District Courts, former Chair, Harris County Justice Information System; adjunct professor, South Texas College of Law; member of Governor's Council on Sex Offenders; Fellow American and Houston Bar Foundations; Director of Special Projects for County Judge Robert Eckels and Director of Judicial Issues for County Judge Ed Emmett.
No. 1 issue you are running on: The district attorney is the top law enforcement officer in Harris County and my duty is to protect the people and ensure that justice is done; the justice system is tarnished and I intend to restore public trust and confidence in the office and transform it into the best in the nation through principled leadership, ethics reform and professionalism. Dangerous criminals will be vigorously prosecuted, and victims rights enforced; crimes will be solved and prevented with effective collaboration with the 150 area law enforcement agencies and engaging citizens and the business community in cooperative efforts.
C.O. Bradford
Party: Democratic
Age: 53
Place of residence: Southwest Houston
Relevant experience: Degrees in Law, Criminal Justice and Public Affairs and graduate of FBI Academy’s National Executive Institute. Houston Police officer for 24 years, Chief of Police for 7 years. Attorney for 15 years, including as partner in law firm. Consultant in litigation support, public safety and homeland security. Served as a Precinct Chair and Election Judge in Southwest Houston.
No. 1 issue you are running on: In recent years, we have seen crime rise, jails become overcrowded and our taxes rise too high. We must vigorously prosecute violent offenders but for those who commit non-violent misdemeanors, first time offenders, substance abusers or are mentally ill, let’s use pre-trial interventions, alternative sentencing and other programs that will keep them out of jail and help treat them. We must balance public protection, offender accountability, and rehabilitation needs. It’s the right thing to do and it’s good fiscal stewardship. I will obey the law, respect the principle of justice, and pursue the truth.
Ed Emmett
Party: Republican
Age: 59
Place of residence: Houston
Relevant experience: Texas House of Representatives: Chairman, House Committee on Energy; US Interstate Commerce Commission; International Transportation Person of the Year, 2005 Small Business Owner and numerous boards and commissions
No. 1 issue you are running on: County Judge Ed Emmett recognizes the need for Harris County to focus on the future in many areas. Homeland security and emergency management preparations were evident during Hurricane Ike. As a recognized transportation expert, Judge Emmett is leading a regional, multi-modal effort to meet future transportation needs. In others areas ranging from health care to juvenile justice to water quality, Ed Emmett believes Harris County, the third largest in the country, must be a leader in meeting current needs and focusing on the future.
David Mincberg
Party: Democratic
Age: 58
Place of residence: Bellaire
Relevant experience: I am a businessman; I am not a politician. In 1991, I started Flagship Properties Corporation, a firm involved in the investment of almost $1 million right here in Harris County. That company ultimately grew to over 750 employees. My extensive business experience has given me the knowledge to run a large entity like Harris County. Worked with Southwest Houston 2000, an organization I started to help revitalize the Southwest area of Houston. I have also served on the boards of the DePelchin Children’s Center, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Houston Child Guidance Center, and Jewish Family Services. I have been honored to received numerous awards for my service, among them: The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston's Young Leadership Award (1991), The Mickey Leland Humanitarian Award by the NAACP (1994), The University of Texas Tejas Club Distinguished Alumni Award (2001), The Houston Chapter of the American Jewish Committee Max H. Nathan Human Relations Award (2003), and The Association of Fundraising Professionals Outstanding Community Volunteer, Houston National Philanthropic Day (2006).
No. 1 issue you are running on: I am running for Harris County Judge because we need to clean up county government. There are many issues we will face in the coming years, as Harris County continues to grow, however, until we have an honest, ethical government which functions for the sole purpose of improving the lives of its citizens, we will not be able to move forward. Let’s put an end to the culture of corruption in county government. Let’s put an end to FBI investigations, racist and sexist e-mails, and civil rights violations. In light of the national financial market, Harris County needs a business leader who understands running a large budget and effectively managing our tax dollars. When we have a leader who can plan for the future, we can ensure our local economy remains strong and continues to thrive. If you care about changing the way our local government functions and want to bring respect back to Harris County, I would be honored to have your vote.
Tommy Thomas
Party: Republican
Age: 65
Place of residence: Katy
Relevant experience: Master peace officer with 40 years of law enforcement experience – more than 20 years in key management positions. Currently supervise 4,000 employees and manage a $360 million budget. First sheriff in modern history to serve in every position in the Sheriff’s Office. Graduate of Dept. of Justice’s prestigious National Executive Institute in Washington, D.C. Recognized for Career Achievements: The 100 Club of Houston – Officer of the Year, 1973. Lifetime Achievement Award, 2003; VFW – Officer of the Year, 1978, Texas Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, 1999; Distinguished Rotarian Award, Rotary International, 1997 and Distinguished Alumni, Jeff Davis High School, 1998
No. 1 issue you are running on: Experience and record of accomplishment during years as Sheriff. Created the Sex Offender Registration and Tracking Unit to keep our children safe from predators. nitiated education programs such as Citizen’s Police Academies. Started Rape Aggression Defense classes to help protect innocent women from violent crimes. Opened 7 Sheriff’s Office storefronts to bring law enforcement closer to the neighborhoods. Doubled number of patrol deputies to keep roads and drivers safe. Created Burglary Apprehension Response Squad to crack down on home burglaries. Created the Homeland Security Bureau to secure vulnerable locations (such as Port of Houston) from terrorist attacks.
Adrian Garcia
Party: Democratic
Age: 48
Place of residence: Houston
Relevant experience: I served 23 years on the Houston Police Department during which time I was Director of the Anti-Gang taskforce before being elected to the Houston City Council. I currently chair the Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security where I help oversee a budget of over $1 billion in addition to serving as the Mayor Pro-Tem for Bill White.
No. 1 issue you are running on: I am running to restore public trust and bring fresh perspective to the largest Sheriff's Office in Texas. The current administration has tainted the image of this office because leadership has been non-existent for far too long and it has resulted in wasted taxpayer money. The endorsement by the three main employee groups of the Sheriff's department indicates that the employees want and are demanding change. After 23 years with the Houston Police Department and five years on Houston City Council, I am running because the citizens deserve 21st Century public safety and ethical leadership they can trust.
Paul Bettencourt
Party: Republican
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Diane Trautman
Position: Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector
Age: 58
Place of residence: Humble
Relevant experience: I have over 30 years of administrative and leadership experience. I spent 10 years in the banking industry at Texas Commerce Bank and First City National Bank in the Trust Asset Management Division and Energy Lending Division and 24 years in education as a classroom teacher, principal, and professor of education. I am active in several local chamber of commerce organizations, American Business Women’s Association, AARP, Humble Area Retired Teachers Association, and North Harris County Law Enforcement Association. I ran for state representative in House District 127 in 2006 as an education advocate.
No. 1 issue you are running on: As the third largest county in the nation, I want Harris County to lead the way and set the standard when it comes to efficient tax collection and I want to be accountable to the public about where we stand in relation to other counties. Unfortunately, right now we rank 5th out of the 5 largest counties in Texas for tax collection. This translates to lost tax dollars for our communities and the services our families count on. We can not be afraid to admit there is room for improvement, and we must be open, honest and transparent about it.
Jeffrey McGee
Party: Libertarian
Did not respond to The Observer’s questionnaire.
Unopposed candidates
Tommy Williams: State Senator District 4
Ron Hickman: Harris County Constable Precinct 4
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