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Home , Debbie Riddle, Gary Gates (politician), John Zerwas, Patricia Harless

2016 HARRIS COUNTY REPUBLICAN PRIMARY EDITION

INSIDE PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY PREVIEW IN-DEPTH ENDORSEMENT ANALYSIS YOUR VOTE MATTERS, SENATOR SAMPLE BALLOT ENDORSEMENTS

EARLY VOTING RUNS FEB. 16-26; ELECTION DAY IS MAR. 1 • ENDORSEMENTS ON PAGE 19 MEET CONSERVATIVE

ary and his wife of 34 years, Melissa, Gcame to in 1986 and started to build. With an unwavering belief in entrepreneurship and what someone can achieve without government in their face, Gary built a real estate investment company that now owns thousands of apartment homes and provides work to hundreds of Texans. Gary and Melissa have given back to the community through their extensive involvement in Republican clubs, other conservative causes and the vital fight against those who would prey on the unborn. At  the same time, they have supported causes to help children and young people, like their 2 local Pregnancy Resource Center and the Fort Bend County Fair and local wrestling  Talk is Cheap. programs. Conservative Means Action. The tragic loss of their premature son, Jacob, in Gary Gates is the most 1992 only stirred Gary and Melissa to do what they always conservative candidate in do – build. By 1998, they were blessed with 13 children – 11 this race...and he has the of whom were adopted, including some with special needs story to prove it. and others from the state’s foster care system. Gary and his family live on a ranch in Richmond. They have been Watch Gary’s story at members of Grace Community Bible Church since 1996. www.ConservativeMeansAction.com AS RAILROAD COMMISSIONER, GARY WILL … 1. Protect Texas from Federal Over-reach 2. Stand up for Property Owners and Private Property Rights 3. Improve Agency Effectiveness, Accountability, and Agility Gary Gates doesn’t care about Political Correctness. Gary cares about Texas. paid political ad • Gary Gates for Railroad Commissioner www.GaryGatesForTexas.com • Facebook: Gary Gates for Texas IN RACE TO THE WHITE HOUSE TEXAS FINALLY GETS TO WEIGH-IN! By Gary Polland, Editor-in-Chief

For the first time socialist. Think about that for a former CEO of a Fortune 100 company in many years, moment. The candidate who tied with and John Kasich, who was both a it appears that Mrs. Clinton—the presumed Democrat congressman and a governor. To Texas Republicans nominee—in the Iowa caucuses, does be clear, any of those 17 would be will actually not deny, no in fact embraces, the fact better than the last or next Democrat have a voice nominee. Republicans should be in determining extremely proud of this field of the Republican exceptional talent. nominee for Republicans should President. And lucky for us, there is be extremely proud Of course, it is a field that continues to a highly qualified pool of candidates shrink, both before and after the Iowa from which to choose. This is, of of this field of caucuses and the New Hampshire course, in sharp contrast to voters on exceptional talent. primary. At the time of this writing, the Democrat side who get to bet on, there still remain nine candidates in what a colleague of mine refers to as, the race, although in reality, the field a “hobo fight”—one between two is much smaller. The Iowa caucuses horrible choices. In that contest, the that he is a socialist. The Democrats cemented top tier status for Senator Democrats have on one side Hillary can only dream of the robust menu of Ted Cruz, Senator Marco Rubio and Clinton, a fatally flawed candidate talent from which we get to choose. billionaire Donald Trump and set who is engaged in a game of musical up a highly competitive three-way chairs with the Justice Department That Republican field is one that race going into the first in the nation that should end with her indictment numbered 17 at the beginning of the primary held in New Hampshire, when the music stops. On the other process and included 5 continuing to South Carolina and  side is Bernie Sanders, an avowed senators, 8 governors, a billionaire, a Super Tuesday.

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In a few short months, Ron Hickman has revolutionized  the Sheriff’s Department, improving public safety and saving taxpayer dollars Redistribution of Manpower to mission critical areas 58 personnel were transferred from non-essential areas to increase the field presence in Patrol for call for service operations, thus increasing the pool of personnel responding to calls for service. 10 additional personnel added to the Criminal Investigations Bureau to increase investigative resources. Realignment of Budget We received permission from Commissioner’s Court for the first time ever to split our Sheriff’s budget into three separate fund accounts to stop the drift of money from one area to another. This establishes a better business plan and helps maintain operational priorities. Developed a better overall business approach to department management. Grants Received a grant to add 21 positions to monitor freeway congestion and improve traffic flow. The Sheriff’s Office will be the only police agency monitoring every freeway in the County. Added $700,000 to the Texas Anti-Gang Center bringing our total in secured grants to $3,842,000. Privatized Commissary Services Increased profits and reduced staff dependency to provide commissary services to inmates by outsourcing. “I DO WHAT I DO BECAUSE YOUR LIVES Canceled Unnecessary Contracts & Purchase Orders Canceled over a million dollars in unnecessary contracts and purchase orders for services, such as paid inmate chaplaincy services MATTER, AND YOU CAN TAKE THAT TO and consulting services. Not one consulting contract issued since taking office. THE BANK.” –SHERIFF RON HICKMAN Harris County Sheriff’s Academy Re-established the Basic Correction Course and Basic Peace Office Course at the Harris County Sheriff’s Academy for the first time since 2009. Training a better prepared and more motivated public servant. Detention Officers Raised the minimum age to 21 and added physical requirements. Eliminated the two week on-line training for Detention Officers. Jail Inspection Passed the surprise jail inspection in December with positive comments on the improvements made to employee and inmate morale. Added project for video recording for the 1200 Baker Street Jail. Homeless Outreach Team Started a public / private partnership to create a Homeless Outreach team that has placed 20 people in housing and made over 110 homeless contacts just in the last 90 days. All equipment and materials for this project were bought with private funds. Republican Primary Early voting: February 16–26 • Election Day: Tuesday, March 1 Morale In just the first 6 months, department morale has skyrocketed with positive comments routinely coming from their public contacts www.ronhickman.com and from personnel. Pol Adv paid for by Ron Hickman for Sheriff, Jim Wright Treasurer MARK HERMAN IS ENDORSED BY: Constable Mark Herman is already at work for you! - Lt. • Reducing Crime Ed Emmett - County Judge • Relieving Traffic Congestion R. Jack Cagle - Commissioner Pct # 4 • Keeping Our Community Safe Jack Morman - Commissioner Pct # 2 30 years serving Precinct 4 Steve Radack - Commissioner Pct # 3 Constable’s Office Ron Hickman - Harris County Sheriff • Best choice to continue the work Phil Camus - Constable Pct 5 for the largest Constable agency Phil Sandlin - Constable Pct 8 in the US Dick Moore - Constable Pct 4 (Retired) • Implemented new policies and Mike Sullivan - Harris County Tax Assessor strategies • More officers on the streets Chris Daniel - Harris County District Clerk • Improved mobility Paul Bettencourt - Senator • Keeping our community safe Patricia Harless - State Representative # 126 • Strengthen bonds and forge Debbie Riddle - State Representative # 150 relationships within our Mark Keough - State Representative # 15 neighborhoods - State Representative # 127 Gretchen Fagin - Mayor of Tomball Merle Aaron - Mayor of Humble  Harris County Deputies’ Organization Police Officers’ Union Coalition of Police and Sheriff’s Inc. Pol ad. pd for by Mark Herman Campaign 4 18482 Kuykendahl Rd, #191 Spring, TX 77379

 2016 REPUBLICAN PRIMARY FEATURED RACE ENDORSEMENTS

Due to space limitations, only featured races are included in the endorsement commentary of the print edition of this year’s Voters Guide. The complete endorsement commentary can be found online at www.TexasConservativeReview.com. President of the United States: Read our feature article beginning on page 3 and make an informed decision.

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE of the Texas Supreme Court. TCR is active within the Republican Party for DISTRICT 7: proud to add our endorsement to her 35 years. list and recommends a vote to keep JAMES LLOYD Justice Debra Lehrmann. Support for a challenger against an JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL incumbent typically occurs when APPEALS, PLACE 5: the incumbent no longer effectively JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, SID HARLE PLACE 5: represents his district or when the Judge Sid Harle has been presiding challenger brings something special RICK GREEN over criminal cases for 27 years. to the race. In this race, both apply. Rick Green is an impressive candidate. During that time, he has developed a Congressman John Culberson, who has He completed college in just two years reputation as tough, but fair-minded. held public office for nearly 30 years, and began law school at the age of Judge Harle’s extensive judicial has become a Washington insider 20. At 27, Rick Green was elected experience will be an invaluable asset and is out of touch with the district. to the and was on the Court of Criminal Appeals. Culberson voted for the terrible named Republican Freshman of the omnibus spending bill that funds Year. In 2001, Rick Green and David Planned Parenthood, Obamacare, Barton founded Wallbuilders, which STATE REPRESENTATIVE Obama’s illegal amnesty, and other promotes the country’s moral, religious DISTRICT 127: offensive liberal programs. James DAN HUBERTY and constitutional heritage. TCR is  Lloyd, on the other hand, brings confident that Rick Green will apply fresh ideas and a youthful passion for Dan Huberty was elected to the his passion for the Constitution to the Legislature in 2010 and quickly conservative political reform. Lloyd protection of our individual rights. will be a hard-working, principled earned wide respect, including from 5 conservative who will work to overturn Texas Monthly magazine who named the Washington big government party. JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, him, “Rookie of the Year” for his PLACE 9: understanding of the issues. Huberty’s  background in education and RAILROAD COMMISSIONER: EVA GUZMAN business has allowed him to serve his GARY GATES During her sixteen years on the constituents exceedingly well. As Gary Gates is quick to point out, bench—first as a district judge, “If you live in Texas, you are in the Oil then a member of the 14th Court of STATE REPRESENTATIVE and Gas business.” That’s because so Appeals and now as a justice on the Texas Supreme Court—Eva Guzman DISTRICT 128: much of our economy is tied to energy, WAYNE SMITH which is the business of the Railroad consistently receives high marks in Commission. And that’s why Texas judicial evaluation polls as well as Wayne Smith has an impressive record voters should care about this race. accolades from professional, civic, and of achievement on conservative issues We like Gary Gates because he is a law enforcement groups. Eva Guzman that includes: Co-authored legislation seasoned business owner who can take has served the people of Texas with to provide $800 million in new funding a business approach and a passion for distinction and has earned re-election. for border security, co-authored the oil and gas business to the agency. legislation that would have banned JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL sanctuary cities in Texas, co-authored APPEALS, PLACE 2: $1.2 billion tax cut and supported JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, legislation that defunded Planned PLACE 3: RAY WHELESS Parenthood. Smith’s solid record on JUSTICE DEBRA LEHRMANN Ray Wheless has a breadth of our issues earns him our endorsement Justice Debra Lehrmannhas been a experience in private practice and as for re-election. principled member of the Supreme a district judge that will be assets to Court since 2010. Prior to her him on the Texas Court of Criminal STATE REPRESENTATIVE appointment, Justice Lehrmann Appeals. Judge Wheless has presided over both criminal and civil cases and DISTRICT 130: served as a district judge for 23 years. Lehrmann has an impressive his versatility will give him a unique list of endorsements including the perspective on the Court. TCR also Dr. Tom Oliverson is a physician and endorsements of 12 previous justices likes the fact that Wheless has been business owner who will bring a unique

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Pol Ad Eric Dick for HCDE Keep Judge Lincoln Goodwin JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT PLACE JUDGE LINCOLN GOODWIN IS PROUD TO BE ENDORSED BY THESE CONSERVATIVE LEADERS AND ORGANIZATIONS Gary Polland Jack Morman Paul Bettencourt Hon. Merle Aaron David Riddle Texas Conservative Review Harris County Comm., Pct. 2 Texas State Senator, District 7 Mayor of Humble SREC, Senate District 7 Terry Lowry R. Jack Cagle Allen Fletcher Hon. Gretchen Fagan Pauline Adams The Link Letter Harris County Comm., Pct. 4 Texas State Rep., Dist. 130 Mayor of Tomball Larry Lipton Dr. Steve Hotze Steve Radack Rep. Patricia Harless Hon. Justin Ray Conservative Republicans of Harris County Comm., Pct. 3 Texas State Rep., Dist. 126 Mayor of Jersey Village For a complete list of Harris County Ron Hickman Rep. Dan Huberty Mark Ramsey endorsements go to Kingwood Tea Party Harris County Sheriff Texas State Rep., Dist. 127 SREC, Senate District 7 www.goodwinforjp.com Ed Emmett Constable Mark Herman Rep. Debbie Riddle Alice Rekeweg Harris County Judge Constable, Precinct 4 Texas State Rep., Dist. 150 SREC, Senate District 4  www.goodwinforjp.com pd pol ad Judge Lincoln Goodwin Campaign, Pauline Adams, Treasurer 8765 Spring Cypress Rd. • Suite L, Box 172 • Spring, TX 77379 7

ELECT Conservative Sharon Republican

Hemphill TH FOR JUDGE • 125 CIVIL DISTRICT COURT CURRENT AND PRIOR MEMBERSHIPS • Trial and appellate attorney 20+ years • Magic Circle Republican Women • Houston Property Rights Assoc.“HPRA” • Dedicated Wife, Mother, Grandmother • Village Republican Women • Centrum Arts League Board • Prior Sunday School Teacher • Tex. Federation of Republican Women • The Partnership, GHP N.E. Houston • Board Certified – Family Law • Nat. Federation of Republican Women Hispanic Chamber of Comm. • Texas Board of Legal Specialization • Cherry Tree Republican Club • AIPAC and Republ. Jewish Coalition • U. of Houston, J.D. & LL.M. (Master of Laws) • Northwest Forest Republican Women Texas Tea Party • Volunteer NW Assist. Ministries NAM Republican Women • Texas Repertory Theater Guild • Prior Briefing Attorney for The Supreme Court of Texas • Downtown Houston & Greater Houston Pachyderm • Champion Forest Baptist Church evaluating trial court and appellate court error • Daughters of Liberty Repub. Women and many more • Prior Exec. Editor, South Texas Law Review • Houston Young Republicans sites.google.com/site/sharonhemphill4judge2016 • E-Mail:[email protected] Political Adv. in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, Pd. for by Sharon Hemphill, Campaign, Rose Cardenas, Treasurer - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 So how do these frontrunners stack up? Texas Senator Ted Cruz: His image as an outsider and anti-establishment candidate combined with hard work is largely responsible for his strength and reflects an anger with the establishment that also helps Donald Trump while hurting candidates like Jeb Bush and Chris Christie. Cruz’s other strengths are his conservative principles and his debate skills, both of which also cut both ways. In a traditional D versus R matchup, conventional wisdom dictates that a hardcore conservative is unelectable in a general election. Fortunately for Cruz, when given the choice between a hardcore conservative and the current Democrat field, the conservative looks pretty good. Cruz’s other problem is his likeability—he just doesn’t have as much as one  would like, especially among swing voters, which is due in part to his brilliant skills as a debater. The facts and peel. Many predict that when records of Cruz and Rubio as rated 8 and reasoning that it takes to win a the veneer of his policy positions are by conservative groups are almost debate are often the ones that lose pulled back, and voters discover that identical. Rubio also has the nagging the hearts of voters, by appearing there is no “there” there, support will issue of illegal immigration and his ties  callous and cold. The other challenge shift to a more traditional candidate to the “Gang of Eight” bill which he that Cruz has is overcoming the curse like Rubio or Cruz. now repudiates. This is a problem in of Iowa— since 1980 there have the Republican primary, but one that been 6 contested caucuses, in which he shares with Senator John McCain, only twice did they actually predict who overcame the issue to become the eventual nominee. And of those ...political campaigns, the Republican nominee in 2008. winners only one, George W. Bush in especially presidential 2000, ultimately became President. So can we conclude that our nominee campaigns, are will be chosen from these three Billionaire Donald Trump: The Trump frontrunners? The easy answer is, achievement and maintenance of unpredictable. “probably.” But political campaigns, frontrunner status has perplexed especially presidential campaigns, the media and political pundits are unpredictable. There are other alike. Those of us in the real world Senator Marco Rubio: Rubio is young, candidates, but the question is though, get it. Trump has tapped into attractive and energetic, qualities whether or not Jeb Bush, Chris a real anger with the establishment which have inspired comparisons to Christie or John Kasich can catch and political business-as-usual in JFK and give the Democrats reason for “lightning in a bottle.” The good news the country. It is a sentiment that great concern. Rubio is seen as the is that we will know before our own inoculates him from his numerous reasonable conservative alternative primary. gaffes that would have been terminal to a much more hardline conservative for any other candidate. Trump not (Cruz) and an unpredictable populist So all bet-hedging aside, the only shrugs off his missteps, he is (Trump); unfortunately, Rubio is conservative decision will likely come actually buoyed by them. The notable quickly becoming the establishment down to a choice between Senator exception, it could be argued, is his choice, which hurts him with the Ted Cruz and Senator Marco Rubio. It boycott of the last Fox debate, which anti-establishment electorate, despite certainly beats the alternative—just many speculate led to his second place the fact that Rubio was elected to think, our choice could be between a showing in Iowa. The question though the Senate as the Tea Party choice criminal and a socialist. Isn’t it great is how long can Trump’s Teflon coating against the GOP establishment pick. to be a Republican!  last under heat before it starts to crack What’s interesting is that the voting James Lloyd For Congress ★ District 7 New Conservative Leadership to Hold Washington Accountable “It’s past time for a new conservative voice for Congressional District 7. James Lloyd will be a hard working, energetic, principled conservative who will work to overturn the Washington big government party.” Texas Conservative Review

Leaders & Organizations Endorsing James Include Commissioner Steve Radack Mayor David Wegner Texas Conservative Review Commissioner Jack Morman Mayor Tom Ramsey Texas Conservative View Former County Judge Former Mayor Derry Essary Terry Lowry, The LinkLetter & State Senator Jon Lindsay Former Mayor Sue Speck Katy Christian Magazine  Mayor Shannon Whiting Numerous SREC/Precinct Chairs Coalition of Police & Sheriffs

PAID FOR BY LLOYD FOR CONGRESS 9

 lect Re-E ENDORSED BY THE TEXAS CONSERVATIVE REVIEW

A Proven Record of Defending the Constitution with Strict Conservative Judicial Philosophy “My goal as a Supreme Court Justice is to ensure that the rights of our citizens are protected, our freedoms are guaranteed, and our laws are strictly enforced.”

Governor ’s Supportive Words at Justice Lehrmann’s Campaign Kickoff: “I think she has done a fabulous job ... She is upholding that high standard we expect for those who serve on the state’s highest court ... She wants your vote, she needs your vote ... as we work towards re-electing Justice Lehrmann to the Texas Supreme Court.”

www.judgedebralehrmann.com Pol. Ad. Pd. for by Judge Debra Lehrmann for Texas Supreme Court, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act. ”GARY GATES: A FIGHTER WHO WON’T BACK DOWN” By Marc Cowart, TCR Managing Editor

Gary Gates is not your typical Gates has a short video posted at government and encourages citizen candidate. In fact, there’s not www.conservativemeansaction.com involvement in the process. And now much about Gary Gates that can be that details his fight. he is a candidate—running for the described as typical. He doesn’t act Texas Railroad Commission, whose like a candidate for statewide office. job is to regulate the oil and gas He certainly doesn’t behave like a man industry, because he understands the worth millions. You might not guess importance of energy to our state. As that he is a triathlete with nearly 3 Gates says, “If you live in Texas, you dozen competitions under his belt. are in the oil and gas business.” Gates But he is all of that. And much more. realizes the challenges that lie ahead Gary and his wife Melissa began for the RRC, pointing out that the fees buying real estate when he was just that fund the agency are down due to 19 years old. It started with one the low price of oil and that it must house, then another and another. adapt and become more efficient. It wasn’t long before Gary realized “The RRC needs a successful business the real financial opportunity was in owner and I am the only candidate in multi-family housing and began buying this race that has a proven track record and renovating apartments. Today of growing businesses,” he says. he has over 4300 units, mostly in the Gary Gates is a businessman who  Houston area, including the very first ...we need more fighters has created hundreds of jobs. He apartment he ever bought. It is a real is a man who understands not only like Gary Gates who will 10 estate empire that has made him a the stifling vice grip of regulation on millionaire, to say the least. It is also stand up and fight for all business, but also the effects of out one that has allowed him to provide of us in Austin. of control bureaucrats who can bully  for a family—a very large family; Gary with impunity. He is also a family man and Melissa have 13 children—11 of who opened his home and his heart to whom were adopted. The Gateses felt Gates’ fight motivated him to become children in need. But most of all, Gary led to start adopting after the loss of active politically. It led him to support Gates is a fighter. And one thing is for their premature son in 1992. candidates and start the Texas Citizens sure, we need more fighters like Gary Gary Gates is an unassuming and Coalition, an organization that helps Gates who will stand up and fight for private man. He doesn’t fit the give citizens a better understanding of all of us in Austin. mold of your typical backslapping politician. Had it not been for a single life-changing incident, Gates may have continued living his life in anonymity, quietly buying and renovating apartments out of the public eye and raising his family. But that all changed with a visit from CPS that led to accusations of “emotional abuse” leveled against Gates. When you talk to Gary about the incident, you discover that underneath his quiet and unassuming manner lies the heart and soul of a fighter. It is even more obvious when he tells the story. Gates did not back down. No, he fought the system, punched the bully in the face and won; taking his case all the way to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. 09DR-Riddle-Ad2.pdf 1 1/31/16 1:25 PM

A Conservative Champion With a PROVEN Conservative Record Endorsed By Conservatives

Conservative Champion Awards & Ratings Conservative Leader Endorsements Americans for Prosperity Harris County Judge Ed Emmett Texas A+ Rating Commissioner R. Jack Cagle, Harris County Pct. 4 Texas Right to Life County Treasurer Orlando Sanchez 91% Rating District Clerk Chris Daniel Texas Association of Business Chief Fred Windisch, Ponderosa Volunteer Fire Dept. 2015 Fighter of Free Enterprise Award Commissioner Gayle Fuller, HC ESD #7 Texas Conservative Coalition Gary M. Polland, Texas Conservative Review 2015 Conservative Champion Award Becky and Mark Lanier Rev. Dave Welch, US Pastor Council Executive Director Conservative Round of Texas 2015 Effective Conservative Legislator Award The Honorable Paul and Nancy Pressler Kathy Haigler, Caldwell Co. Republican Party Chair & C former SD 11 SREC, Former RPT Secretary  Key Conservative Endorsements M

Y 11 CM

MY  CY

CMY Harris County Sheriff Harris County Pct 4 Constable Houston Police Houston Professional TSRA - A+ Rating NRA - A Rating K Ron Hickman Mark Herman Of cers’ Union PAC Fire Fighters Association PAC

Spring Tea Party Retired Spring Tea Party Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas Houston Police Retired Of cers Association PAC Harris County GOP PAC Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC

Texas Alliance for Life PAC Texas Conservative Review 2015 Courageous Defense of Life Award Life PAC (Texans for Life)

Associated Republicans of Texas GOP PAC The Riddle Record : A Champion of Conservative Causes Jessica’s Law Author “Under God” in the Texas pledge Author Castle Doctrine Joint-Author Tax Relief for Senior Citizens Co-Author The Defense of Marriage Act Co-Author www.debbieriddle.org Staunch Opponent of Illegal Immigration Pol. Adv. Paid for by the Debbie Riddle Campaign. Heidi M. Lange, Treas. P.O. Box 273203, Houston, Texas 77277 PROUDLY ENDORSED BY THESE ORGANIZATIONS

www.TomOliverson.com 12 pd pol ad Friends of Tom Oliverson

u Dedicated to the Rule of Law u Will strictly follow the law u Will uphold and protect property rights u Will uphold laws that protect small businesses, jobs and the economy

Vote for Bud for 14th Court of Appeals, Place 2 in the Republican Primary on March 1.

Endorsed by: Gary Terry Polland Lowry

Dr. Steve Hotze

Political advertising paid for by Bud Wiesedeppe Judicial Campaign, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act. PROUD VETERAN AND PROVEN CONSERVATIVE LEADER

Wayne Smith and County Judge Ed Emmett

 Proven Conservative Leadership for Endorsed by Conservative Leaders: District 128: 13 • Co-authored legislation to put more Harris County Judge Ed Emmett • Harris state troopers on the border and County Commissioner Jack Morman •  provide $800 million in new funding U.S. Congressman Brian Babin • Former for border security Harris County Constable Bill Bailey • Tom • Co-authored legislation that would Cottar (former SREC) • All District 128 have banned sanctuary cities in Texas Mayors • Texas Alliance for Life • Life • Co-authored legislation to increase PAC • National Rifle Association (NRA) the homestead exemption by $10,000, • Texans for Lawsuit Reform (TLR) • resulting in a $1.2 billion tax cut Associated Republicans of Texas (ART) • • Helped pass legislation that protects Texas Civil Justice League • Conservative Pastors who refuse to perform same Citizens Club • Over 300 individuals and sex marriages community leaders • Supported legislation that defunded Planned Parenthood

“With your support, I will continue to fight for our conservative values.”

To learn more about Wayne, please visit www.waynesmithcampaign.com and follow him on Facebook. Political ad paid for by Wayne Smith Campaign www.waynesmithcampaign.com www.facebook.com/waynesmithfortexas Jim

REPUBLICAN FOR HARRIS COUNTY ATTORNEY Conservative Leadership We Can Trust

 www.jimleitnerforcountyattorney.com www.AndersonDA.com 14 Paid political ad by Jim Leitner Campaign pd pol ad Friends of Devon Anderson

 YOUR VOTE MATTERS By Senator Paul Bettencourt

It has been since the Budget Process in Congress wrecked Chairman, my committee members and the 1980’s that by Harry Reed and his Senate Democrat I are touring the State taking testimony your vote in the Allies over the past seven years. on ever increasing Property Tax bills. The Republican Primary fact is that Property Tax bills are rising has mattered so I was proud to vote for a balanced 3 times faster than median household much! In the wake budget in the Texas Legislature that income in Texas since 2003. In Harris of the 8th year of reduced the growth of Government to County, Property Tax Revenue has risen President Obama’s just 1.8% a year for general revenues. 40% over the past three years, and it is liberal policies, it The under the Leadership time to seriously consider slowing the is up to each and of Lt. Governor Dan Patrick is already rate of all government spending to a every Republican Primary voter to pick studying 93 public policy changes this combined limit of the inflation rate and a conservative nominee that can beat interim, and as the newly Elected Senate population growth. Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders in the Republican Caucus Chairman you can General Election. The Democratic Party count on me to support my colleagues’ The turnout in the Republican Iowa Nominee will either be an untrustworthy efforts to pass conservative solutions caucuses set a record, and it is time Progressive or an authentic Socialist, to Texas Challenges. After you cast for all Texas Republicans to make so the stakes for our Country’s future your ballot on March 1st, you can help a difference in the voting booth as couldn’t be higher! by attending your Republican Precinct well. Join the “Taxman” in voting for convention election night, and then conservatives up and down the Ballot, The future of our free market economic joining me in attending your Senatorial and get ready to support our Party’s system is in the balance, up to four US District Conventions March 19th. At my Nominees as they take on the Democrats Supreme Court Justices could be replaced District Convention, I will go over the in the Fall Election. Your Republican SD-7 by the next President, and retaking successes of the last Legislative session Senator will be there to help lead the the Presidency is key to unlocking the and the bills that made a real difference way! Republican majorities in both Houses of in the lives of all Texans. Congress to repeal Obama Care. We must Godspeed, pass a Balanced Budget Amendment to I invite you in advance to testify at Senate Senator Paul Bettencourt the US Constitution, reign in an out of Select Committee on Property Tax Relief Texas Senate District 7 control Federal Bureaucracy, and restart and Reform hearings in the Spring. As - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 perspective to the Texas Legislature June 2015. His opponent is a lifelong JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, on behalf of the people of District Democrat who previously ran as a PRECINCT 4, PLACE 1: 130. His background, qualifications Democrat against a Republican judge. and conservative positions on issues The decisions don’t get any easier than LINCOLN GOODWIN such as the 2nd Amendment, sanctity this one. Judge Lincoln Goodwin has had a of life and small government make diverse legal career that includes a Tom Oliverson the best choice for US District Court clerkship, a private conservatives. COUNTY ATTORNEY: practice and a former position as JIM LEITNER an Assistant District attorney. With Jim Leitner is far and away the most experience in both criminal and STATE REPRESENTATIVE qualified candidate in the two-way race civil law, Judge Goodwin is uniquely DISTRICT 150: for Harris County Attorney. Leitner has qualified to preside as the JP Precinct DEBBIE RIDDLE a legal career that spans 40 years and 4, Place 1. Debbie Riddle has been standing includes experience as former General up for conservative principles for Counsel to the Sheriff of Harris County, CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 4: over a dozen years. She is a staunch former First Assistant District Attorney MARK HERMAN opponent of illegal immigration and in Harris, Bell, & Lampasas Counties vehemently opposes Sharia law in our and 20 years in private practice. When Constable Ron Hickman was government. Riddle’s conservative Leitner also has 300+ jury trials and appointed Harris County Sheriff, Mark record includes: Life-long pro-life 300 appellate briefs under his belt. Herman was tapped by Harris County leader (91%+ rated by all pro-life Commissioners Court to succeed him. groups), author of “Jessica’s Law” HARRIS COUNTY SHERIFF: Herman has served over three decades protecting children from pedophiles, in the Precinct 4 Constable’s office, co-author of the “Castle Doctrine” RON HICKMAN rising through the ranks to the position protecting your family in your When you talk to Sheriff Ron Hickman, of Assistant Chief, where he supervised home, and co-authored the “Pastor something becomes very obvious, very nearly 250 deputies. Herman’s long Protection” bill allowing pastors fast—he loves law enforcement and history in the office makes him the  the freedom to exercise their 1st he is exceptionally good at it. He’s also perfect successor. Amendment rights. very smart, which is clear when he starts discussing statistics and budget CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 5: 15 figures. Since taking over, Hickman JUSTICE, 14TH COURT OF has made many reforms including TED HEAP APPEALS, PLACE 2: implementing business methodologies Ted Heap has 30-plus years of  BUD WIESEDEPPE and upgrading technology. There is no experience and is the only candidate doubt that Harris County is safer with in the race who is a law enforcement Since graduating from SMU Law Ron Hickman as Sheriff. officer, which is vital for someone School, Bud Wiesedeppe has built an leading frontline officers. Heap has impressive legal career focused on been recognized for his service and the area of business litigation. Bud’s COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR- promoted through the ranks, achieving experience and dedication to the COLLECTOR: the rank of Chief at the Precinct 5 protection of private property rights Constable’s office. are qualities conservatives should want MIKE SULLIVAN on the Court of Appeals. Under the leadership of Mike Sullivan, customer service and efficiency have HARRIS COUNTY flourished at the office of Harris REPUBLICAN CHAIRMAN: DISTRICT JUDGE, 125TH County Tax Assessor-Collector. Sullivan JUDICIAL DISTRICT: continues to drive innovation at the RICK RAMOS SHARON HEMPHILL office and his passion for the office Rick Ramos has an inspiring story. shows in his dedication to efficient He and his family fled a communist Sharon Hemphill is a Board Certified delivery of services, while maintaining dictatorship in the dead of night to trial attorney with over two decades a sharp eye on the budget. seek a better life in the U.S. With of experience who not only holds desire and hard work, Ramos built a J.D., but also a LL.M (Masters of a successful legal practice and Laws). Hemphill is also active in the COUNTY SCHOOL TRUSTEE, achieved the American Dream. Now community and a longtime grassroots POSITION 2, PRECINCT 4: Ramos wants to apply his grit and activist and member of numerous determination to reforming and Republican organizations. ERIC DICK Eric Dick has a heart for public service revitalizing the local party. Ramos’ and deep compassion for others, which youth, energy, passion and heritage JUDGE COUNTY CIVIL COURT was epitomized by his effort to repeal make him ideally suited to lead the AT LAW #1: the City of Houston’s charitable feeding HCRP in the critical 2016 election.  CLYDE LEUCHTAG ban. Eric, a strong fiscal conservative, is running for the HCDE to add another Judge Clyde Leuchtag serves on the needed voice of fiscal accountability. bench of County Civil Court at Law #1 and handled hundreds of cases since Christian Attorneys for Texans PAC Proudly Endorses the Following Candidates Vote for Texas! March 1st, 2016

 Debra Lehrmann - Justice, Supreme Court, Place 3

Rick Green - Justice, Supreme Court, Place 5 16

 Eva Guzman - Justice, Supreme Court, Place 9

Brent Webster - Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 5

Bud Wiesedeppe - Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 2

Kevin Fulton - District Judge, 11th Judicial District

Sharon Hemphill - District Judge, 125th Judicial District

Sarahjane Swanson - District Judge, 127th Judicial District

Cindy Bennett Smith - District Judge, 133rd Judicial District Early voting February 16th, 2016 Je Hastings - District Judge, 151st Judicial District through February 26th, 2016! Ryan Patrick - District Judge, 177th Judicial District

Ken Shortreed - District Judge, 80th Judicial District

Lincoln Goodwin - Justice of the Peace, Pct. 4, Place 1

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"I pledge to uphold the Constitution without legislating from the bench and ensure Justice for all." Judge Ray Wheless Fifteen years judicial experience Twenty-one years legal experience Double Board Certified, AV rated Chairman, Specialized Courts Advisory Council to Governor and Governor Greg Abbott www.judgeraywheless.com

Cathie Adams, President Hon. Sue Holland, former Hon. Craig Enoch, Hon. Jim Moseley, Kelly Shackleford, of Texas and Judge Texas Court of former Justice Texas former Justice Dallas President of Liberty former Chair Texas Pol. Adv. Judge Ray Wheless Campaign Criminal Appeals Supreme Court Court of Appeals Institute* (used for ID only) Republican Party ABOUT TEXAS CONSERVATIVE REVIEW EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Gary Polland

Polland served as Harris County local officials. His support and advice Republican Chairman from 1996 to have proven invaluable to conservatives 2002 and was overwhelmingly returned seeking office. His TCR guides for voters to office every time he ran. As party offer insight and information on local, chairman, he earned national recognition state and national issues and elections, for his leadership. His aggressive party- they have become a key feature of the building efforts, including leading the fight campaign season in Texas. against a bad arena deal and against the Polland received the “Elected Official of the Year” award from the Republican The pugnacious and always outspoken Human Events described National Hispanic Assembly. The “Tuff Gary Polland is one of the leading Gary Polland as the Tusk” award from the National Federation conservative voices in Texas. Whether of Pachyderm Clubs and was also named it’s through the popular TCR Internet most successful County “Reaganite of the Year” by the Reagan newsletter and website, his TCR voters Chairman in America. Alumni Association. Polland was also guides, or as co-host of Red, White and honored to receive the “Torch Bearer” Blue - the popular political roundtable award from TORCH; a faith based religious show on PBS Houston - Polland has made court ordered striking down of the Texas organization. Polland authored “A Time himself into a force for tough, thoughtful sodomy law, were featured in publications for Choosing: 25 Years Later” and is in the conservatives. like Human Events, The American process of revising and updating President Spectator, the and Reagan’s classic speech. Polland has been a practicing attorney for Inside Houston Magazine. more than 40 years. His practice is a mix Whether it’s on the web, in books, on of trial work in family and juvenile courts.  Over the years, Polland’s political alliances television or at the forefront of the He is Board Certified in Civil Trial law and have stretched from the White House latest political battle, Gary Polland is a has a reputation as a tough and skilled to the halls of Congress and to the Texas conservative leader that voters have come 18 advocate for his clients. Legislature and Governor’s Mansion. to rely on for insight and information.  He is a confidant to state, national and  RICK FOR HARRIS COUNTY RAMOSREPUBLICAN CHAIRMAN STANDING UP FOR OUR CONSERVATIVE VALUES

Rick Ramos has the conservative “As a first generation Cuban American vision to move our party forward. who fled a communist dictatorship in the As our Harris County Republican Party Chairman, dead of night, I understand the greatness Rick will: of this country and the ideals • Stand up for the values that and values that make it the make our party great • Build a bridge to like-minded envy of the world. I achieved voters the American dream through • Hold Republican elected hard work and by embracing officials accountable when they fail to represent our American values. As your our Party Platform and chairman, I will fight for our conservative values shared conservative values • Empower grassroots activists with the most and hold our Republican cutting edge and user- representatives accountable when they friendly technology available • Inspire and engage the next fail to uphold our values and the party generation of voters platform.” — Rick

RickRamosForCountyChair.com pol ad pd for by Rick Ramos Campaign, Lucy Forbes, Treasurer TCR RECOMMENDATIONS By law, you can detatch this page and take it into the polls with you. We have chosen the most qualified, conservative candidate in select down ballot races. Regarding the Presidential race, please read our analysis beginning on page 3 to assist you in making an informed decision.

Each endorsed candidate is shown in BOLD with a YELLOW HIGHLIGHT and red check mark .

U. S. REPRESENTATIVE JUDGE, COURT OF 80TH JUDICIAL HARRIS COUNTY DISTRICT 7 CRIMINAL APPEALS PLACE 6 DISTRICT COURT TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR JOHN CULBERSON  RICHARD DAVIS WILL ARCHER DON SUMNERS MARIA ESPINOZA MICHAEL E. KEASLER  KEN SHORTREED  MIKE SULLIVAN  JAMES LLOYD 125TH JUDICIAL STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT COURT HARRIS COUNTY DISTRICT 126 SCHOOL TRUSTEE, U. S. REPRESENTATIVE L.A. OLSON POSITION 1 PRECINCT 2 DISTRICT 8  KEVIN ROBERTS  SHARON HEMPHILL  KEVIN BRADY  GEORGE MOORE MARVIN MORRIS ANDRE DEAN STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 127 151ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT CRAIG MCMICHAEL  DAN HUBERTY HARRIS COUNTY  JEFF HASTINGS SCHOOL TRUSTEE, MITCHELL BOSWORTH AARON GABRIEL ADAMS POSITION 2 PRECINCT 4 RAILROAD COMMISSIONER  ERIC DICK LANCE N. CHRISTIAN STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DANELL FIELDS DOUG JEFFREY DISTRICT 128 178TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT JOHN GREYTOK XAVIER ALFARO   GARY GATES MELODY MCDANIEL HARRIS COUNTY  PHIL GOMMELS WESTON MARTINEZ  WAYNE SMITH COMMISSIONER, NILE BAILEY COPELAND PRECINCT 3 WAYNE CHRISTIAN BASH SHARMA 19 RON HALE  STEVE RADACK STATE REPRESENTATIVE,

CUT HERE SAM “TEJAS” TEXAS DISTRICT 129 215TH JUDICIAL  JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT,  DISTRICT COURT PLACE 3  FRED SHUCHART HARRIS COUNTY  DEBRA LEHRMANN STATE REPRESENTATIVE, JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, MICHAEL MASSENGALE DISTRICT 130 PRECINCT 4 PLACE 1 DAN GARCIA  TOM OLIVERSON 339TH JUDICIAL KAY SMITH DISTRICT COURT  LINCOLN GOODWIN JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, PLACE 5  MARY MCFADEN ANTONIO BENAVIDES PAUL GREEN STATE REPRESENTATIVE, HARRIS COUNTY  RICK GREEN DISTRICT 132 CONSTABLE PRECINCT 4  MIKE SCHOFIELD HARRIS COUNTY ROLF NELSON DISTRICT ATTORNEY  MARK HERMAN JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT,  PLACE 9 STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DEVON ANDERSON  EVA GUZMAN DISTRICT 133 HARRIS COUNTY COUNTY CIVIL COURT CONSTABLE PRECINCT 5 JOE POOL  JIM MURPHY AT LAW 1  TED HEAP  CLYDE RAYMOND JUDGE, COURT OF STATE REPRESENTATIVE, LEUCHTAG AL HOANG CRIMINAL APPEALS PLACE 2 DISTRICT 150 GLORIA CANTU MINNICK THERESA HEARN-HAYNES  RAY WHELESS HARRIS COUNTY CHRIS OLDNER AL ZOLLI REPUBLICAN PARTY CHAIR HARRIS COUNTY ATTORNEY MARY LOU KEEL  DEBBIE RIDDLE TEX CHRISTOPHER CHRIS CARMONA  RICK RAMOS  JIM LEITNER JUDGE, COURT OF PAUL SIMPSON CRIMINAL APPEALS PLACE 5 JUSTICE, 14TH COURT OF SCOTT WALKER APPEALS DISTRICT, PLACE 2 HARRIS COUNTY SHERIFF STEVE SMITH PRECINCT CHAIR 0548 KEVIN JEWELL  RON HICKMAN BRENT WEBSTER  MARC COWART  BUD WIESEDEPPE CARL PITTMAN EDITH A. GIBSON  SID HARLE PAUL DAY PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MAILED FROM 2211 Norfolk, Suite 920 ZIP CODE 67276 Houston, Texas 77098 PERMIT 23 “Any reader of the Texas Conservative Review can see the emphasis this publication places on informing people before they vote. Please read TCR and Vote!” ~ Senator Paul Bettencourt Online subscriptions are free so please join the family at www.texasconservativereview.com AS RAILROAD COMMISSIONER, GARY WILL … 1. Protect Texas from Federal Over-reach 2. Stand up for Property Owners and Private Property Rights 3. Improve Agency Effectiveness, Accountability, and Agility Gary Gates doesn’t care about Political Correctness. Gary cares about Texas. What Texas leaders are saying about Gary Gates…

Cecil Bell, Jr. Republican State Representative, District 3 Republican State Representative, District 97 “Gary Gates has proven his dedication and commitment to promoting “Gary has proven to be a business leader with great vision in the private Conservative Republican ideals in our state. His commitment to a strong sector. More vision like his is needed in politics today, and less bureaucracy.” Texas is without question.” Kenneth Sheets Mark Keough Republican State Representative, District 107 Republican State Representative, District 15 “Gary will bring his proven business experience and success from the private “Gary has demonstrated that he believes in Conservative Republican policies sector and put it to use at the Railroad commission. Vision like his will be a and has dedicated a tremendous amount of time and energy towards great asset not only to the agency, but to to all Texans.” ensuring that those policies remain in place for future generations of Texans.” Allen Fletcher Rick Miller Republican State Representative and Chairman, District 130 Republican State Representative, District 26 “I’ve gotten to know Gary during the 84th session, and I have only positive “Gary is a proven leader and believer in Texas values. I'm proud to call things to say about him. He is dedicated to ensuring that Texas remains him my friend, my fellow conservative, and proud to endorse him for strongly red and he has a clear commitment to solid Conservative values. Railroad Commissioner.” I'm proud to endorse him in this open RRC race.” Gary Polland Republican State Representative and Chairman, District 28 Editor-in-Chief, Texas Conservative Review “Gary is a proven commodity. I’ve gotten to know Gary and I can say that “For almost 15 years, I’ve worked through the Texas Conservative Review to he is committed to Conservative Republican values. He would be a great make sure conservatives across the State know about the issues and know choice for RRC.” which candidates stand for the values we believe in. Gary Gates is the kind of candidate we look for — real world business experience and success, a Jim Keffer track record of fighting for conservative ideals, and a strong family man. I’m Republican State Representative and Chairman, District 60 proud to endorse Gary Gates for Railroad Commissioner.” “Gary is a hard worker with a passion for the future of Texas. I know he will fight for what’s in the best interest of all the citizens of our State.” Dr. Steve Hotze President, Conservative Republicans of Texas Phil Stephenson “Gary Gates exemplifies the characteristics and experience that we need ENDORSED BY: Republican State Representative, District 85 from a man in public office. He is a dedicated Christian and devoted family “I’ve gotten to know Gary, and there’s no questioning his commitment to man. He’s built a very successful real estate investment business from Conservative Republican values. He is a strong fighter for and believer in scratch. He’s one of the most successful triathletes in the country. Gary Texas values.” Gates is a committed conservative on both social and fiscal issues and has Jodie Laubenberg the courage of his convictions. As President of Conservative Republicans of Republican State Representative and Chairwoman, District 89 Texas, I am proud to announce our endorsement of Gary Gates for Railroad TEXAS “I’ve gotten to know Gary, and he is a man of his word and is a man with Commissioner.” tremendous conviction. His commitment to Conservative values in our State Terry Lowry is without question.” The Link Letter and What’s Up Radio Program Matt Krause “Gary Gates is the most conservative candidate in this race. He has personal Republican State Representative, District 93 experience fighting against over-reach and a proven record of successfully “I’ve enjoyed getting to know Gary this past year. I admire his passion for growing a business from the ground up. In the election to fill this open spot advancing limited government principles and appreciate his leadership on the RRC, we need someone who will bring an outsiders perspective, not with the conservative Texas Citizens Coalition. He would be a reliable a career bureaucrat. We are proud to endorse Gary Gates.” conservative voice on the Railroad Commission.”

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