Guadalupe County Edition

VOTERSGuadalupe County GUIDE Edition GENERAL ELECTION » NOVEMBER 3, 2020 Changes to voting processes could occur after the Voters Guide is published. Go to VOTE411.org for the most up-to-date election information.

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EARLY VOTING: Oct. 13–30, 2020 » ELECTION DAY: Nov. 3, 2020. Polls open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

» ABOUT THIS VOTERS GUIDE » EMPOWERING VOTERS. ThisVoters Guide is funded and published by the League of Women Voters of Texas and LWV ot the Comal Area. The League never DEFENDING DEMOCRACY. supports or opposes political candidates or political parties. » VOTING IN TEXAS

First General Election without straight-party voting! » ONLINE VOTERS GUIDE Beginning with the November 3 General Election, voters may no longer check TheVoters Guide is available online at VOTE411.org. By entering your address one box to vote for one party’s candidates in every partisan race. Instead, vot- and zip code, you can view races and candidates that appear on your ballot, com- ers mark a candidate for each race. Candidates representing a party are identified pare candidates’ responses to questions posed by the League, and create a print- with a letter following their name: “R” for Republican, “D” for Democrat, “L” for out of a ballot to take to the polls. You can also find out where to vote! Libertarian, or “G” for Green. Candidates in many local elections are nonpartisan and do not represent a party. How do I find my polling place? Go to VOTE411.org or your county election website. What is on my ballot? • Find a sample ballot on your county election website! • Compare candidates with the League’s nonpartisan Voters Guide at VOTE411.org. • Take your list of candidates to the polls when you go vote! » SIGN UP FOR • You may bring the League’s Voters Guide to the polls. VOTING REMINDERS! • You cannot use your phone in the voting booth. Note: Changes to voting processes could occur after the Voters Guide is pub- Text LWVTX to 80123 to receive voting reminders lished. Go to VOTE411.org for the most up-to-date election information. on your phone or sign up at my.lwv.org/Texas/get-voting-reminders » VOTERS GUIDE CONTENTS

U.S. President 2 State Senator 15 » SUPPORT THE VOTERS GUIDE U.S. Senator 3 State Representative 16 Help us fund the cost of this valuable resource for Texas voters by donating to U.S. Representative 5 Schertz City Council 17 the League of Women Voters of Texas, 1212 Guadalupe #107, Austin, TX 78701, or Railroad Commissioner 7 Seguin Mayor 18 make a secure donation online at lwvtexas.org. Texas Supreme Court 8 Seguin City Council 19 DONATE Texas Court of Criminal Appeals 12 Voter Identification 20 State Board of Education 14

© 2020 League of Women Voters of Texas | lwvtexas.org VOTERS GUIDE | 2020 GENERAL ELECTION EDITION 1 The President is: the head of state of the United States of America; the Chief Executive Officer; and, the Commander in Chief of all military forces. The powers of the President are prescribed in the Constitution and federal law. The President appoints the members of the Cabinet, ambassadors to other nations and the United Nations, Supreme Court U.S. PRESIDENT Justices, and federal judges, subject to Senate approval. The President, along with the Cabinet and its agencies, is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws of the United States. The President may also recommend legislation to the United States Congress. Current Annual Salary: $400,000 per year

Note: All candidates who will appear on your ballot are listed below but only 3. The candidate must qualify for the ballot in enough states to win a majority of those that meet the following criteria were invited to respond to the League’s electoral votes. questions in this guide. All qualified presidential candidates were invited to provide biographical in- 1. The candidate must have made a public announcement of her/his intention to formation and responses to specific questions. Responses were limited to a spe- run for President. cific number of characters and were truncated thereafter. If a candidate did not 2. The candidate must meet the Presidential Election Campaign Fund Act’s min- respond by the date of publication, “Candidate has not yet responded.” is printed. imum contribution threshold requirements for qualifying for matching funds, based on the most recent data publicly available on the Federal Elections Com- Copyright © 2020 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund mission website.

» Donald J. Trump (R) Candidate has not yet responded. Campaign Website: http://www.donaldjtrump.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DonaldTrump/ Twitter: @realDonaldTrump

» Joseph R. Biden (D) A: America is at an inflection point. It’s past time to end our inequities and deal with the denial of our nation’s promise to too many for too long. I’ll fight to end the Campaign Website: http://www.joebiden.com health inequities that COVID-19 amplifies; and give every child the same strong Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/joebiden start in life by offering universal Pre-K, tripling funding for Title I schools, and Twitter: twitter.com/joebiden making public college debt-free for most families. I’ll make racial equity central Q: What actions would you take to balance public health and to our recovery, closing the racial wealth and income gaps, boosting home owner- economic recovery in the US, both in light of COVID-19 and ship, and investing in communities and entrepreneurs of color—building a stron- for the long term? ger, more inclusive middle class for the future. And, I’ll work for real police reform A: It’s a false choice to think we have to choose between our public health and and invest in shifting our criminal justice focus from incarceration to prevention. economy; they’re linked. On Day One, I’ll implement the COVID strategy I’ve Q: What aspects of our current immigration policy will your administration ad- laid out since March—surging testing and protective gear; distributing vaccines dress first? safely and free of politics; helping schools and small businesses cover costs; and A: My immigration policy is built around keeping families together. It’s past time getting state and local governments resources to keep educators, cops, and fire- to reform our broken system, restoring family unification and diversity as its core fighters on the job. I’ll respect science and tell the truth, period. And I’ll build pillars. As President, I’ll reverse Trump’s assault on our values on Day One, end- our economy back better, creating millions of good-paying jobs. I’ll revitalize ing his cruel border policies that rip children from their mothers’ arms. I’ll act manufacturing, build a clean energy economy, and boost caregiving—easing the immediately to protect Dreamers and their families, and invest real political cap- squeeze on working families, providing paid leave, and getting caregivers the re- ital in finally delivering legislative immigration reform, with a roadmap to citi- spect and pay they deserve. zenship for the nearly 11 million undocumented people who already do so much Q: What is the most important issue facing our country and how do you plan to to make our communities strong. We have to enforce our laws, but in a way that’s address it during your first 100 days in office? humane, respects due process, honors our values, and sees the big picture. A: Pandemic. Recession. Racial injustice. Climate change. We’re facing historic Q: What will you do over the long term to ensure access to quality healthcare crises; we have to tackle them all at once. Character and experience count. I’ll lis- for all? ten to scientists, tell the truth, and make sure we’re never so unprepared for a pan- A: This pandemic makes clear: All Americans need access to quality, affordable demic again. I’ll expand the Affordable Care Act, lowering costs and making health insurance. That’s why I’ll protect and build on the Affordable Care Act. I health care a right for all. I’ll build our economy back better, and make racial eq- helped to secure the final key votes to pass that landmark law, protecting 100 mil- uity central to recovery. In these crises, we have an enormous opportunity, if we lion Americans who can no longer be turned away or denied coverage for pre- come together. As President, I’ll draw on the best of us, not the worst. I’ll work as existing conditions, and bringing coverage to 20 million more. As President, I’ll hard for those who don’t support me as for those who do. That’s a president’s job: to build on that progress with a public option and lower health care and prescrip- represent us all. To take responsibility. To protect the nation. To unite and to heal. tion drug costs. I’ll make all COVID-19 testing, treatment, and vaccines free; Q: How will you address racial injustice in our country on day one of your double funding for community health centers that are so often on the frontlines administration? of care; and much more.

The following candidates have qualified for the Texas state ballot according to the » Jo Jorgensen (L) Secretary of State of Texas but did not meet the LWVEF criteria. » Howie Hawkins (G)

2 VOTERS GUIDE | 2020 GENERAL ELECTION EDITION © 2020 League of Women Voters of Texas | lwvtexas.org Six-year term. One of two members of the U.S. Senate from Texas. The Senate has the exclusive power to advise and consent on presidential nominations to executive and judicial offices, to ratify U.S. treaties, and to try impeachments. With the U.S. House, the Senate U.S. SENATOR adopts budgets, levies taxes, borrows money, regulates interstate commerce, provides services, adopts regulations, and declares war. Current annual salary: $174,000 » What does a senator do? https://youtu.be/K_fSu4Cd9xw

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES Qualifications: What training, experience, and background qualify you for this Voting Rights: What actions, if any, would you take to ensure that all eligible position? voters have equal access to safe and fair elections? Immigration: What are your priorities regarding the immigration system? Vouchers: What is your position on using public funds for private school Healthcare: How would you address access to and the cost of healthcare? vouchers and why? Gun Violence: What are your recommendations to protect students from gun Two Minute Video Option: Comment on the recent civil rights violence? demonstrations. COVID-19: What actions, if any, do you believe are needed to address the health and economic impact caused by COVID-19?

» John Cornyn (R) censed firearm dealers, which will mean more people get background checks because all Federal Firearms Licenses are required to complete those. Qualifications: John Cornyn was elected to the Texas Su- COVID-19: Sen. Cornyn voted for the CARES Act, which sent stimulus checks preme Court in 1990. In 1998, he was elected Attorney Gen- to individuals who—through no fault of their own—were unable to work and eral of Texas. In 2002, he was elected to the U.S. Senate. Senator earn a paycheck, and established the Paycheck Protection Program—a criti- Cornyn serves on the Senate’s Judiciary, Finance, and Intelli- cal lifeline that helped ensure businesses could bridge the gap without laying off gence Committees. employees. Immigration: Recognizing we are a nation of immigrants, Senator Cornyn has Voting Rights: Sen. Cornyn believes that any Texan who wants to vote safely voted in support of a permanent legislative solution for Dreamers who call Texas can do so under existing law. If you’re over 65 or you’re disabled, you can vote by their home. The Senator cosponsored the Secured and Succeed Act in 2018, which mail. Or if you are not going to be present in your county on Election Day, Gov. proposed a solution for DACA recipients that provides a pathway to citizenship Abbott has extended the early voting period. for 1.8 million young adults. Vouchers: School choice empowers parents to choose the setting that best fits Healthcare: Senator Cornyn supports a system that: protects those with pre- their child’s unique interests, learning style and educational needs. While educa- existing conditions; lowers the cost of prescription drugs by increasing gener- tion is rightfully managed at the local and state level, our entire country has a stake ics; increases competition by allowing cross-state health insurance; lowers out of in ensuring we are raising highly educated, analytical, well-rounded citizens. pocket costs for seniors on Medicare; reestablishes the privacy of the doctor pa- Two Minute Video Option: https://www.youtube.com/v/WLnXOc9afTU tient relationship Gun Violence: Sen. Cornyn believes the right to keep and bear arms is a sa- Campaign Website: http://www.johncornyn.com/ cred Constitutional right for Texans. But we must ensure guns are kept out of the Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johncornyn hands of criminals and domestic abusers. He believes we need to eliminate unli- Twitter: https://twitter.com/teamcornyn

» Mary ‘MJ’ Hegar (D) COVID-19: We need to listen to experts, not politicians, when it comes to solv- ing the public health and economic crisis. We must provide adequate testing that Qualifications: I have served our country, am a working is fully covered, protect our frontline workers, and improve contact tracing ca- mom, and live the challenges of regular Texans. I served 3 tours pacity. The economic recovery must center around supporting small businesses in Afghanistan as a medevac pilot, earning a Purple Heart & and workers, while enforcing transparency and accountability measures. DFC w/ Valor and took on DC to make our military stronger. Voting Rights: Having served 12 years in the military I’m committed to de- I’m the fighter we need. fending our constitutional rights. I’ll work to expand access to registration and Immigration: We need comprehensive immigration reform that reflects our voting, fight against voter suppression tactics, and support the John Lewis Vot- core American values—the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We ing Rights Act, restoring protections which have been weakened by the Supreme must streamline the process for applying for and receiving citizenship, create a Court. pathway to citizenship for those here, protect DREAMers, permanently end child Vouchers: I’m a proud product of public school and a mama bear for my two separation and secure the border with effective procedures & technology. young boys, and I will always fight for public schools and ALL of our kids. I op- Healthcare: During my 5 years working in health care, it was clear that our sky- pose any policy that cuts or siphons funding from public schools. rocketing costs and high uninsured rate were unsustainable. As we face a pan- Two Minute Video Option: My entire career I’ve fought to protect people’s demic and beyond, I’ll fight for access to quality affordable health care for every right to protest, and I stand with those peacefully demonstrating for change now. Texan, and for their right to determine whether that is a public option or their It’s time for systemic reforms to fix how we train and equip law enforcement and current plan. improve their relationship with the public, and action to address the racial dis- Gun Violence: As a mother of two young boys, gun violence survivor and a re- parities that go far beyond our criminal justice system. sponsible gun owner, I say enough is enough. We must pass common-sense gun safety legislation to require background checks on every single gun sale, includ- Campaign Website: http://www.mjfortexas.com ing closing the gun show loophole. We must also stop selling weapons of war to Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MJforTexas/ the public. Twitter: https://twitter.com/mjhegar

» Kerry Douglas McKennon (L) COVID-19: I think politicians are damned if they do and damned if they don’t in a pandemic situation. What we can do is get the government out of the way of Qualifications: I have served on the executive committee for treatment and care. It is difficult to say who is and who is not essential. For the the Libertarian Party of Texas. I have over 20 years of manage- individual working that is now not essential by the government for them that ment in the retail and food industry. paycheck is essential to feed their family, to have shelter, etc. Immigration: Our first priority is that no child is left in a cage Voting Rights: The Voters Rights Act has been a huge success. So much so that or separated from their family, reforming immigration pol- preclearance at the federal level is rarely needed to ensure the right to vote. One icy means making it as simple as have the same policy for all immigrants from all way to ensure eligible voters can access equal, safe, and fair elections is to stop the countries. More judges and caseworkers are needed to determine if those seeking gerrymandering that currently occurs from both old parties. asylum can be allowed in, because an individual in a detention facility for three Vouchers: I oppose using public funds for private school vouchers. The main year is unacceptable reason is that those fund have been set aside for the use of public education. If a Healthcare: Health insurance allowed to be purchased across state lines. The parent or guardian chooses to send their child to a private school, the taxpayers cost of healthcare is due primarily to the amount of money being spent in ad- should not be paying for that choice. ministration. We see within the VA and Medicare system; where actual treat- Two Minute Video Option: Protest are always warranted. Violence as with ments are being delayed or not approved due to lack of doctors, but there is never the Boston Tea Party is sometimes necessary when in defense of Liberty. I would a shortage of admins boosting drug costs. stand with Justin Amash in ending Qualified Immunity and gladly sponsor that Gun Violence: Mental health and hate lie at the core of gun violence and those bill. who act in it’s wake. Hate is learned and can be unlearned, but is a very tough row to hoe. Mental health is an issue that we can diagnosis and treat. Those are Campaign Website: http://www.mckennon2020.com not the answers that some individuals want to hear, but they are closer to protect- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KerryMcKennon2020/ ing our students than any gun ban. Twitter: https://twitter.com/McKennon2020 » David B. Collins (G) COVID-19: Our 4% of the world’s population has about quarter of its COVID-19 deaths. If we had shut down public spaces, suspended rent and mortgage collec- Qualifications: I am a US citizen, 30 years of age or more. In tions, and given US residents a livable income for a few months, like New Zea- college I studied political science, originally as my major field land and other countries, we would have saved thousands of lives and billions of but eventually as a second field toward a Texas teacher certifica- dollars. We could easily pay for this by redirecting defense funding. tion. Since then, as an activist, I have followed global politics. Voting Rights: 1. Propose a Constitutional Amendment guaranteeing voting Immigration: Make immigration policy humane, at last. The rights for all US citizens 18 and up, including convicted felons, and prohibiting US has helped make much of Central and South America unsafe for poor and states and counties from purging voter rolls. 2. Enact automatic voter registra- indigenous families for decades; this must stop. Let our neighbors in and give tion and a federal database (which I know scares some people). 3. Approval voting them a path toward citizenship. If the flow of capital is globalized, with national makes elections much fairer by avoiding the third-party “spoiler” problem. boundaries practically irrelevant, the movement of workers should be just as Vouchers: Vouchers are a lazy solution to an avoidable problem. We can have unrestricted. excellent public schools for everyone, and much more, if we cut our national “de- Healthcare: This nation should do what other wealthy nations have done suc- fense” budget by half. Side note: Texas school districts should prioritize the mis- cessfully: guarantee universal, single-payer health care. COVID-19 has made this sion of actually educating children rather than building palatial football stadia. more urgent than ever. Improved Medicare for All will cover all ages, with den- Two Minute Video Option: https://www.youtube.com/v/j9BLOvw9dys``I tal, mental, and optical coverage and no premiums. Once fully operational, it will wholeheartedly support the Movement for Black Lives, as do the Green Parties of save the nation as a whole 50% on health care costs. Texas and the US. Our platform calls for reparations and strong measures to end Gun Violence: When young people have hope for the future and access to the racially motivated police violence. mental health care they need, they will be far less likely to look to firearms to “solve” their problems. Schools need to be places of nurturing and care for the Campaign Website: http://dbcgreentx.net whole student, especially when their homes often are not. Our government can Facebook: https://facebook.com/dbc4senator2020 set a better example by not bombing people to boost corporate profits. Twitter: https://twitter.com/dbcgreentx

» HELPFUL CONTACTS AND WEBSITES League of Women Voters - Comal Area lwvcomal.org Republican Party Democratic Party Libertarian Party Green Party Secretary of State texasgop.org txdemocrats.org lptexas.org txgreens.org sos.state.tx.us VoteTexas.gov VOTE411.org League of Women Voters of Texas The League’s online Voters Guide lwvtexas.org https://my.lwv.org/texas Election Protection Voter Hotline! League of Women Voters (U.S.) • 866-OUR-VOTE English • 888-Ve-Y-Vota Spanish lwv.org • 888-API-VOTE English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Bengali, Urdu, Hindi, and Tagalog

4 VOTERS GUIDE | 2020 GENERAL ELECTION EDITION © 2020 League of Women Voters of Texas | lwvtexas.org Elected to a two-year term, each representative U.S. REPRESENTATIVE serves the people of a specific congressional district by introducing bills and serving on - DISTRICT 15 committees, among other duties.

» Monica De La Cruz-Hernandez (R) » Vincente Gonzalez (D) » Ross Lynn Leone (L)

Elected to a two-year term, each representative serves the people of a specific congressional district U.S. REPRESENTATIVE - DISTRICT 35 by introducing bills and serving on committees, among other duties.

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES Q3: What criminal justice reform policies do you recommend, if any? Q1: What actions, if any, would you take to ensure that all eligible voters have equal access to safe and fair elections? Q4: What other issue is your highest legislative priority and what legislation would you introduce or support to address it? Q2: What legislation would you support to address the health and economic impact caused by COVID-19?

» Jenny Garcia Sharon (R) hundreds of Texans access aid. Supported extensive assistance obstructed by Trump enablers: more COVID testing & treatment, food security, another » No Response Received relief payment, school safety, postal service, and state/local government assistance, which Senate GOP Leader irresponsibly willing to bankrupt. » Lloyd Doggett (D) Background: A life-long Texan, I Overcome ongoing Trump deception. served in the TX State Senate, TX Supreme Court and U.S. House, Chair of Ways & Means Health Subcommittee, 12x » 3:Better security with fair, just treatment. Black Lives Matter since too often “Best of Austin” Austin Chronicle award. devalued. Sponsored George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, blocked by GOP, to ban abusive practices, racial profiling; create new training, empower federal » Education: BA Business, JD, University of Texas at Austin misconduct review; limit qualified immunity. Condition federal funding on local compliance. Adequately fund many good officers providing effective » 1:Vote by mail option for all. Resist Trump postal service sabotage. Restore community policing. Voting Rights Act. Overrule Citizens United and secret corporate money polluting our democracy. Replace outrageous gerrymandering with » 4:Healthcare-better Medicare for more. Defend current pre-existing conditions nonpartisan redistricting panel. I sponsored H.R. 1, For the People Act, to limit protection from GOP attacks. Enact my bills: Medicare dental, vision, hearing SuperPAC spending, improve voter registration and access, limit voter purges, coverage; end surprise billing; better nursing home oversight; prescription provide alternate financing. drug negotiation and protection of taxpayer pharma research investments to stop price gouging. AARP awards twice recognized my efforts strengthening » 2:Assistance for virus testing, small businesses, unemployed. I am helping health access.

» Mark Loewe (L) Background: Physics researcher. care and lower costs, I favor unlimited competition, with public access to track- Did microelectronics R&D. Devised progressive school record and cost statistics of treatments and practitioners. I oppose bailouts that choice. Proposed 4 Texas House bills to let kids permanently would reward lavish spending, poor planning, and mismanagement by state keep low cost math and science textbooks. Education: governments. PhD Physics, UT Austin. BS Chemistry, BS Physics, UC Irvine. Taught physics at UT and Texas State U. Coauthored » 3: I devised progressive school choice to empower parents, especially poor a graduate-level quantum mechanics textbook used parents, to reject mediocre schools and choose safe schools that better serve worldwide. the individual needs, abilities, and interests of their children. Such choice would greatly improve education and job skills, reduce disruptive behavior and » 1: To ease access, I favor making federal election days holidays. For elections numbers of children who turn to drugs and crime, and is essential to criminal with more than two candidates, I favor instant-runoff voting. To promote justice reform. accurate results and deter fraud in federal elections, I favor photo IDs, recountable ballots, public access to photos of cast ballots and chain-of- » 4: Congress should eliminate federal debt, on which it gave away $574 billion custody records, federal rules and payment for mandatory recounts, and severe of interest in 2019. I would introduce a bill to direct the US Treasury to issue penalties for fraud. money to pay for all goods and services Congress acquires and to pay down the current debt by at least $2 trillion per year. I would introduce a Constitutional » 2: Except to vet aliens for dangerous communicable diseases, I oppose health amendment to prohibit Congress from incurring debt on which interest is limits on liberty without proof that a person is dangerous. To improve health given away.

» Jason Mata Sr (G) Background: I am 47 years old; and elderly individuals who may be more At-Risk of contracting the COVID-19 born and raised in US District 35. I am happily married to virus. I would support legislation that focuses on a vaccine and that assures Rachel Gonzales-Mata for 24 years. We have 3 children and that there would be more than enough PPE supplies, hospital beds, and a granddaughter. Education: I graduated from Fox Tech ventilators are avail High School and attended ITT Technical 1 1/2 years. At my fathers urging due to his ailing health I decided to help him » 3: I will work to reform the Juvenile system in an effort to allow Juvenile with the non-profit org. offenders an opportunity to overcome barriers and not repeat offenses. I will work to close to pipeline of Juvenile to County Jail to Prison incarceration. » 1: Due to COVID-19 I would support Vote By Mail with protocols in place to Every year, America spends millions of dollars treating the symptoms of minimize voter fraud. I will also work to assure that there are enough voting instead of prevention and intervention of Juvenile delinquency which may lead sites available in all areas (rural, urban, and suburban) to have reasonable to long term jail access to voting sites. I will also push for Texas to modernize the election process ensuring fair and just election results. Voters respond well to a fair » 4: Youth development, Family Strengthening and community safety are my top process. priorities. I also have special legislation for Senior individuals who qualify as low income. I would introduce and support legislation that would stream line » 2: I would support legislation that ensures that essential workers are secured public benefits and encourage furthering education and enrollment in trade and protected. I would support legislation that protects vulnerable children schools. I will have adequate staff that will be available to assist constituency.

League of Women Voters of Texas Voter Education Chair: » VOTERS GUIDE SPONSORS Dorothy Marchand

AND SUPPORTERS Voters Guide Volunteers: Beatriz Castillo and Mariana Lozano

LWV Texas Voters Guides are funded by the League of Women Voters of Texas, Production Team: Inspirare Communications, Jaci Collins, a 501(c)(3) corporation that is supported by contributions from individuals, Motto Publishing Services corporations and foundations. We gratefully acknowledge our generous Voters Guide sponsors and our major contributors during this important election year.

Special thanks to Margaret “Peg” Hill, PhD, for her generous support of the 2020 Voters Guide Primary Voters Guide Sponsors Anonymous Donor Crossroads Cattle Co., Ltd./Deborah Treece and Leslie Callahan Mary and Joel Stone TeachtheVote.org, a project of the Association of Texas Professional Educators Texas Association of Counties/Texas Counties Deliver Major Voters Guide Sponsors Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas Bev and Steve Vandegrift Elaine Wiant Major 2020 Contributors Diana Bacon Dorothy Marchand Melanie Barnes New Braunfels Community Amber Briggle Foundation Grace Chimene John Nolan Joanne Crull Judy Parken Mary Anne Dingus Janis Richardson Miriam Foshay Marguerite Scott-Johnson Ruthann Geer Kitty Alice Snead Rene Haas Texas Association of Social Workers Darlene Hicks Texas Classroom Teachers Association Barbara Hotinski Deborah Treece Joyce LeBombard Yvonne Wade Sanchez Julie Lowenberg

6 VOTERS GUIDE | 2020 GENERAL ELECTION EDITION © 2020 League of Women Voters of Texas | lwvtexas.org Six-year term. The railroad commissioner is one of the three-member Texas Railroad Commission. The commission has no regulatory authority concerning railroads. RAILROAD Instead, it regulates the oil and gas industry, gas utilities, pipeline safety, safety in the liquefied petroleum gas industry, and surface coal and uranium mining. Current salary: COMMISSIONER $137,500 » What does the railroad commissioner do? https://youtu.be/Fm0BNjPUCic

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES Qualifications: What training, experience and background qualify you for this Natural Resources: What can the Texas Railroad Commission do to promote position? the reclamation and reuse of water resources used in fracking operations? Pipelines: What can the Texas Railroad Commission do to further ensure com- Flaring: What, if any, further regulations or limits are needed to address the im- pliance with pipeline regulations to avoid environmental harm? pact of flaring on the environment?

» James “Jim” Wright (R)

Candidate has not yet responded.

» Chrysta Castañeda (D) lines, informed by experts, could provide best practices for operators. Updated permitting and reporting requirements would ensure operator compliance. Qualifications: I have over 30 years of experience in the oil To work, oversight must be provided by adequately trained and compensated and gas industry, as an engineer and attorney. I know the com- professionals. plex technical and legal issues that face the industry. I will pro- Flaring: If the Railroad Commission would simply enforce the laws on the tect our natural resources and environment and keep industry books, we would dramatically impact greenhouse gasses and pollution. Flar- functioning. ing and venting of natural gas are illegal activities and the Railroad Commission Pipelines: The Commission should increase safety and emissions monitoring should enforce those laws, which Texans enacted long ago to protect our natural to end catastrophic failures and eliminate methane leaks. It should implement a resources and our environment. more robust information system to know where all smaller intrastate and gather- ing lines are located and permitted. The legislature must assign oversight author- Campaign Website: http://chrystafortexas.com ity for pipeline permitting, right-of-way acquisition and condemnation. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChrystaForTexas/ Natural Resources: A reclamation and reuse program would ensure less fresh Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrystaForTexas water is used and would reduce the need for disposal wells. Program guide-

» Matt Sterett (L) Natural Resources: As a Libertarian, I believe in strong private property rights. I also don’t believe in expanding regulators activities. If / when environ- Qualifications: I run a small Oil & Gas Software company. mental harm is done, I’d rather is be settled in a court than a government agency. Clients use the software to forecast well data. Sometimes, that Flaring: I’m against Flaring on the grounds that it’s *wasteful*. We have a lim- data is from the RRC. I’ve been in the building & met w/ a few ited amount of natural resources. In the past, when we’ve had to import, it has RRC team members—I’m familiar with the organization’s digi- meant foreign policy that led to wars. Title 3, Sub-chapter B Sec. 91.015 of the TX tal operations. Natural Resources Code (statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/NR/htm/NR.91.htm) Pipelines: Punt the responsibility to the courts. Texas is a litigious state. I think calls to “prevent waste of oil, gas”. The RRC has not upheld this. the Texas courts have broadly supported property rights. As a Libertarian, I believe in strong private property rights. I also don’t believe in expanding regulators Campaign Website: http://www.mattrrc.org/ activities. If / when environmental harm is done, I’d rather is be settled in a court Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sterett than a government agency. Twitter: https://twitter.com/matthewsterett

» Katija “Kat” Gruene (G) wasteful, unsafe, and unsustainable practice. All water used in these operations is no longer potable and because it is chemically altered, scientists believe it may Qualifications: 3 decades of project & bus.mgmt. along w/ never be returned to the state of water—h2o. The emerging tech of onsite carrier consensus-based facilitation; 2 decades of experience doing leg- gas desalination plants could become a valid option if successful. islative work, coalition building, campaigning, and leading an Flaring: There are solutions, we just need to require them: power oxidation pro- environmental & social justice movement in a litigious & hos- cess, flare gas power generation, flare gas reinjection in secondary oil recovery, tile environment. feedstock for petrochemical plants, LNG, CNG, & a small reactor that inexpen- Pipelines: First, no new pipelines. Second, properly inspect and review existing sively breaks water and methane into carbon monoxide and hydrogen in the field permits for compliance and safety. Third, hold corporations accountable for vi- (syngas), which can then be used for energy and industrial products olations including restoration of & restitution in areas already harmed. Fourth, stop taking political contributions from those they are regulating. Fifth, enforce Facebook: https://facebook.com/GreenTXRRC new 2020 regulations, including updating existing pipelines. Twitter: https://twitter.com/qweekat Natural Resources: Ban Fracking Period. There is no need for such a highly

© 2020 League of Women Voters of Texas | lwvtexas.org VOTERS GUIDE | 2020 GENERAL ELECTION EDITION 7 Six-year term. A member of the court that hears only civil cases. The Supreme Court CHIEF JUSTICE, issues final decisions on civil and juvenile appeals, issues writs of mandamus/ habeas corpus, and has jurisdiction over orders or judgments of trial courts if TEXAS SUPREME the Supreme Court determines them important to the jurisprudence of the state. Base salary: $170,500 COURT » What does the Texas Supreme Court do? https://youtu.be/nv6Mu5-QsO8

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES Qualifications: What training, experience and background qualify you for this Biases: What training and practices do you recommend for trial judges to guard position? against implicit biases? Judicial Selection: Texas is one of the few states that elects judges in parti- Other Issues: What other issues do you believe will be the most pressing for san elections. What changes, if any, in the judicial selection process would you the Texas Supreme Court? recommend? Standards: What changes, if any, do you think are necessary to improve public confidence in the legal profession? » Nathan Hecht (R)

Qualifications: Yale BA 1971; SMU JD w/ honors 1974; Biases: Training Texas judges on issues of race and fairness has been required USNR JAGC 1971-1979 (hon. disch); 1976-1981 Locke firm as- for many years. Implicit bias training is conducted annually for new judges and soc., ptr; 1981-1986 95th Dist. Ct., Dallas; 1986-1988 5th Ct. of by the Texas Center for the Judiciary in many other courses and conferences. The App., Dallas; 1989-2013, Tex. Supreme Ct Justice; Chief Justice Supreme Court’s “Beyond the Bench Summit” featured implicit bias training. The 2013-present Judicial Council that I chair is preparing other training. Judicial Selection: Voters should decide who their judges are, but in par- Other Issues: The Court’s work is completely current and has been since I’ve tisan elections, they don’t get to, because there are too may judges on the bal- been Chief Justice. Its challenges are to continue to guide Texas courts through lot to know their qualifications. It’s not voters’ fault. Party politics and cam- the pandemic and equip them with all they need to function. In these tight eco- paign fundraising are poisonous. Judges must follow the law. Appoint on nomic times, the Court must help ensure adequate funding for courts, and also qualifications, then voters elect to retain based on performance, holding them for legal aid for the poor, to ensure equal access to justice for all. accountable. Standards: Judges and lawyers should engage with community leaders to en- Campaign Website: http://justicenathanhecht.com/ sure the justice system is seen as fair to all, as the Supreme Court and I did in Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hechtyes a “Beyond the Bench Summit” in Dallas. Civics education in schools should be Twitter: https://twitter.com/NathanLHecht stronger and more creative. A great example is the South Texas program for students to enact mock trials in a real courtroom, playing different roles.

» Amy Clark Meachum (D)

Qualifications: As a district court judge for a decade, I have Biases: We need to require every judge and lawyer in the state to take implicit presided over all types of cases heard by the Supreme Court: bias training. This is simple and achievable. When I am elected Chief Justice this civil, family and administrative appeals. I am a guest lecturer fall, we will make this part of the Texas justice system’s mission on Day 1. We for ethics, a member of the Public Law Council and an advocate need to add a pledge of “Equal Justice under the Law” to the lawyer’s and judge’s for legal aid. oaths. It is past time to create a more fair system. Judicial Selection: The State should help voters by sending an information Other Issues: All Texans should have access to essential legal services. Access packet to each voter and providing that information at polling locations. The to justice is a top priority of mine, and one of the cornerstones of a fair and just packet should contain background information, qualifications, and a statement society, especially during COVID. The current Court is considering a $1.2 million of judicial philosophy for each candidate. That information would assist voters to cut to legal aid, but rising evictions, layoffs and domestic violence cases are creat- make an informed selection and would reduce campaign costs for candidates. ing a more urgent need for legal services—not less. Standards: Texas should increase public membership and participation on the Committee on Disciplinary Rules and Referenda, which recommends pro- Campaign Website: http://amymeachum.com posed changes in legal ethics rules in Texas. Currently, under Texas Gov’t Code Facebook: https://facebook.com/JudgeAmyforChiefJustice/ § 81.0872, just 2 of 9 members are public members. Also, members of the public who file grievances should be allowed to participate in some parts of the process. » Mark Ash (L)

Qualifications: I have mostly practiced criminal defense law period of 5 or 10 years. Also, term limits for judges should be seriously considered for the last 27 years. Also, I have represented individuals in limiting judges to no more than 2 or 3 terms per court. civil matters including divorce, property rights and personal Standards: The public needs access to more data from the state bar. The pub- injury. lic needs to know how many clients the lawyer has represented in the criminal Judicial Selection: Elections for judges should not be based or civil courts. Many times, clients are not aware of the limited experience a civil on political party affiliation. At a minimum, judges should be in good standing lawyer may have in criminal court and a criminal lawyer may have in civil court. with the state bar and have actively practiced law in Texas for a minimum time Also, malpractice insurance information needs to be disclosed.

» Mark Ash (L) (continued) attended need to be available online for the public to view. Also, user friendly for family, probate and real estate. Links should be provided to trusted websites access to campaign contributor information needs to be made available to the that give up-to-date information for pro se litigants. public. Other Issues: The Texas Supreme court should continue to make more and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markashfortexassupremecourt/ more user friendly legal forms available online for simpler legal matters such as

Six-year term. A member of the court that hears only civil cases. The Supreme Court issues final decisions on civil and juvenile appeals, issues writs of manda- JUSTICE, TEXAS mus/habeas corpus, and has jurisdiction over orders or judgments of trial courts if the Supreme Court determines them important to the jurisprudence of the state. SUPREME COURT Base salary: $168,000 » What does the Texas Supreme Court do? https://youtu.be/nv6Mu5-QsO8

Qualifications: I have served more than 20 years at three lev- needs of those who cannot afford a lawyer. I have done that work through leader- els of the state judiciary: as a trial judge, as a justice on the ship positions in the bar and as a community volunteer. court of appeals, and now on the Supreme Court of Texas. I am Biases: I recommend that trial judges cultivate standards of excellence by incor- board certified in civil trial law and civil appellate law. porating the best practices of others from all walks of life and foster understand- Judicial Selection: No change in judicial selection can hap- ing even in disagreement or when faced with terrible circumstances. The Texas pen without the support of the voters and their elected representatives. Governor Center for the Judiciary offers excellent courses for judges on understanding im- Abbott and the Texas Legislature have formed a bi-partisan commission charged plicit bias and improving decision-making. with making recommendations about judicial selection. I look forward to these Other Issues: The Court will continue to work toward advancing justice and recommendations, and I support this process. the rule of law during the pandemic. Standards: We can improve public confidence by respecting and valuing all people who encounter our courts, reducing the cost of resolving disputes through Campaign Website: http://www.justicejanebland.com/ innovation and technology, educating lawyers about best practices, and serving Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judgejanebland/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/courthouse_mom

» Kathy Cheng (D)

Qualifications: I have almost twenty years of legal experience Biases: Raising awareness of the existence of implicit bias through regular in areas including complex commercial issues, divorce and pro- meeting discussion can debias the years of exposure to cultural stereotypes, nar- bate, tax and real estate cases. I have also served as adjudication ratives and/or systemic policies. In addition, implement a mandatory annual im- officer for the City of Houston for about six years. plicit bias training for judges and staff members. Judicial Selection: The beauty of democracy is that citizens Other Issues: With the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision to refrain from can vote for individuals who they believe reflect their values, which in the State of hearing challenges of partisan gerrymandering, partisan gerrymandering cases Texas includes the election of judges. If that choice turns out to be a bad choice, will now go before the Texas Supreme Court, which is an example of how this being able to vote elected officials out of office is a mechanism to hold said- offi Court impacts its citizens even though the citizens themselves may never go be- cials accountable. As such, I see no need for change at the present time. fore this Court. Standards: As time evolves, the means of disseminating the rules and standards for the legal profession shall also evolve. With the ease of digital accessibil- Campaign Website: http://www.chengforjustice.com ity, there should be more educational information available to the general public Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chengforjustice/ by digital means of the rules and standards governing said profession so that the Twitter: https://twitter.com/chengforjustice general population are better informed as to their rights.

» JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, PLACE 7 » Jeff Boyd (R)

Qualifications: My extensive and varied legal career—in- Biases: Programs like the “Beyond the Bench” conference the Court sponsored cluding 16 years in private practice, 3 years as the deputy attor- in 2016 can be effective for that purpose. Requiring judges’ participation in such ney general in charge of civil litigation involving the state, and well-designed, high-quality programs as part of their annual continuing-educa- 2 years serving as general counsel and chief of staff for the gov- tion requirements would be a meaningful step in the right direction. ernor’s office Other Issues: (1) Ongoing implementation of evolving technology to increase Judicial Selection: Electing judges creates issues that undermine the public’s efficiency within the judicial system. (2) Maintaining timely decision-making confidence in the system, but it also requires judges and judicial candidates to in- processes through changes in the Court’s make-up over time. (3) Ensuring teract with the public. This gives the public the opportunity learn who will best continued operations throughout the judicial system in times of natural serve to counteract those problems. If we were building the process from scratch, disasters. leave it to the public to decide to alter the system. Standards: We must continue to make the system more accessible by reducing Campaign Website: http://justicejeffboyd.org the costs and delays required to resolve common civil disputes. We must do more Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JusticeBoydTX to promote the legal profession as a means for public service instead of private Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffBoydTX profit. And we must continue to promote transparency into the operations and activities of our courts and judges.

» Staci Williams (D)

Qualifications: I am in my second term as Judge of the 101st Biases: I believe they should attend training sessions and evaluate on a monthly District Court. The 101st District Court handles primarily com- basis what practices or procedures can be modified to reduce implicit bias. Every mercial, personal injury, medical malpractice, oil and gas, and day, the judge should ask him/herself, “would I have treated this litigant differ- consumer issues. I have over 27 years of legal experience. ently if he had been a member of my own race?” Judicial Selection: Texans have elected judges in partisan Other Issues: The Texas Supreme Court will be faced with what to do about elections for more than 100 years. While I believe that this Texas tradition should the bar examination. Many states have an apprentice licensing program. We not be disturbed, a Commission has been established to study options to select- must consider how the Court will ensure safe testing locations and procedures ing judges in urban areas by methods other than partisan elections. Recommen- or if the Supreme Court will allow the 2020 graduates to practice without an dations will be made at the end of the year. I look forward to reviewing these examination. alternatives. Standards: The legal profession needs to get more involved in the commu- Campaign Website: http://judgestaci.com nity. My judicial outreach program, the Citizens’ Civil Academy (“CCA”), was Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudgeStaci/ launched to educate citizens about the civil court system. The CCA explores the Twitter: https://twitter.com/JudgeStaci types of cases heard in the civil courts and what happens to a case from the time the case is filed until it is disposed. There have been over 350 graduates.

» William Bryan Strange, III (L) Candidate has not yet responded.

» JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, PLACE 8 » Brett Busby (R)

Qualifications: Based on my experience as a board-certified Biases: The Texas Center for the Judiciary provides all new Texas judges with appellate lawyer and my record as a fair court of appeals judge, training on recognizing and responding to implicit biases. As part of our ongoing I earned the support of all Democrats and Republicans when commitment to assure that equal justice under law is a reality for all, the Center the Texas Senate voted unanimously to approve my appoint- also offers continuing education on unconscious processes that affect decisions ment to the Supreme Court. and best practices for increasing sound decision-making. Judicial Selection: Our process should select experienced judges who will de- Other Issues: As the Court’s liaison for access to justice, I champion reforms liver justice: giving everyone the fair day in court they deserve and ruling impar- that help Texans of limited means—including veterans, domestic violence vic- tially based on the law, never imposing their personal or political views to reach a tims, families, and the elderly—get the basic civil legal services they need. Exam- desired result. I support the work of the Texas Commission on Judicial Selection, ple: online hearings can significantly increase access and reduce cost, so we are which the Legislature created to report on selection options in 2021. planning how to use them most effectively even after the pandemic. Standards: Important conversations are taking place across Texas about equal- ity and justice under the law. The Supreme Court’s “Beyond the Bench: Law, Jus- Campaign Website: http://www.BrettBusby.com tice, and Communities Summit” developed a toolkit to foster dialogue on real so- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justicebrettbusby/ lutions that will enhance public trust in our justice system. I encourage lawyers, Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrettBusby judges, and local leaders to use this kit in their communities.

» JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, PLACE 8 » Gisela D. Triana (D)

Qualifications: For over 24 yrs, I have served as a judge in Biases: There are several continuing legal education courses that deal with the Texas: Municipal Ct, JP, County Ct, District Ct, Appellate Ct. I psychology behind our unconscious bias, how to identify it, and how best to com- will be the first person on the TXSCT to have served on every bat it. Such courses should be compulsory for all Bar members. Project Implicit lower level court. Most of my 32-yr legal career has been in public service. has several online tests that can be startling, yet should also be required for all Judicial Selection: This is a legitimate discussion if there was a non judges. https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html partisan way to select judges that Texans could trust. The issue is the tim- Other Issues: Restoring balance to the Court. Currently, all members are Re- ing: after the party that has been in power and benefited from partisan elec- publican. 7 of the 9 were originally political appointments by a Republican Gov- tion of judges for decades begins to lose that power. It makes the concern seem ernor. Our founders were wise to create a jury system that brought people from self-interested. Texans have clearly shown a preference for electing judges, I different walks of life, with different experiences to judge a case. We need diver- support that. sity of thought on the Court, as well. It makes for better jurisprudence. Standards: I believe that in today’s racially and politically charged climate, lawyers and judges should be at the forefront and lead by example by requiring man- Campaign Website: http://www.JudgeTriana.com datory implicit bias training for all members of the Bar. We all have implicit bias Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudgeTriana and some even explicit bias. We need to learn how to identify it and work dili- Twitter: https://twitter.com/JusticeTriana gently to overcome it. I try to do this on a daily basis.

» Tom Oxford (L)

Qualifications: With almost four decades of legal experience with the judge than on the actual facts of the dispute. An honest recognition of I will bring a broad range of knowledge to the bench. I have had that fact by our profession would be a good start. the pleasure of successfully representing Texans before both the Biases: I am not sure how to answer this question. You cannot train bias out Texas Supreme Court and the Unites States Court of Appeals. of someone, it is part of human nature. We all favor our family over our neigh- Judicial Selection: The problem is not the partisan nature of bors, our neighbors over our community and our community over the commu- the elections. The problem is the massive amount of money given to these candi- nity down the road. We must recognize our bias and constantly guard against it. dates by the very firms that will be appearing before them. If a firm wants to give A difficult task indeed! funds to a candidate that is their right. However when that firm appears before Other Issues: Historically Judges decided the law and juries decided the facts. that same Judge appropriate conflict of issue standards should be applied. We have gotten away from that respect for the Jury System in Texas. Too often, Standards: An open system that treats all parties with an even hand, regard- when there are honest factual disputes, Judges will overrule the jury and substi- less of race or socio-economic status would be a good start. Too often a litigant’s tute their own opinions for the Jury’s. This tension will continue to be a pressing chances depend more on who their lawyer is and what connections they have issue. » VOTING FOR JUDGES IN TEXAS In some states, judges are chosen by the government. In Texas, judges are chosen • Judges should perform their duties in a manner that assures public faith and by people like you. confidence in the court. Judges make decisions that affect everyone, ranging from someone going to jail, issuing warrants, getting evicted, and owing someone money, to perform- How is the Texas court system organized? ing marriage ceremonies and deciding whether a couple can adopt a child. Be- The Texas court system is made up of a statewide network of trial courts and ap- cause of the power they hold, all persons elected as judges should know the law pellate courts. Most cases begin in a trial court. In a trial court, judges listen to and treat people fairly. witnesses, review evidence, hear arguments from lawyers, and give a decision on To be fair and independent, judges avoid influence from politics and money. the case, or a verdict. They cannot make promises about their decision in a case before they hear and There are many types of trial courts. Some only handle criminal cases, rang- see the evidence. ing from parking tickets to murder. Others only handle civil cases, ranging Because of this, the questions posed to judges in this guide are limited to how from disputes between neighbors to multi-million dollar lawsuits. And some they would make the courts better, the need for impartiality in their roles, and handle both. how they would make sure the system works for everyone. If one of the parties disagrees with the trial court’s decision, they can appeal the decision to an appellate court. Texas has fourteen Courts of Appeals distrib- What should voters look for when electing judges? uted throughout the state. According to the American Bar Association, principles to consider in choosing Then, if a party still disagrees, the next appeal would be to: judges include: • The Court of Criminal Appeals (criminal cases only) or • Judges should uphold the rule of law. • The Supreme Court of Texas (civil and juvenile cases). • Judges should be independent and impartial. • Judges should possess the appropriate temperament and character. Appellate courts do not try cases, have juries, or hear witnesses. They review what the lower courts did and decide if the lower courts were correct. • Judges should possess the appropriate capabilities and credentials. An excellent chart of the Texas Court Structure is available at: • Judges and the judiciary should have the confidence of the public. txcourts.gov/media/1448645/court-structure-chart-january-2020.pdf • The judicial system should be diverse and reflective of the community it serves. To learn more, visit txcourts.gov/about-texas-courts

© 2020 League of Women Voters of Texas | lwvtexas.org VOTERS GUIDE | 2020 GENERAL ELECTION EDITION 11 Six-year term. A member of the court with final judgment in all criminal cases. The court must review all cases in which the death penalty JUDGE, TEXAS COURT is assessed. It also exercises discretionary review in other criminal cases and issues writs of habeas corpus. Base salary: $168,000 OF CRIMINAL APPEALS » What does the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals do? https://youtu.be/ilOwfEy4adk

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES Qualifications: What training, experience, and background qualify you for this Access to Justice: What opportunities are there, if any, to improve the state’s position? indigent defense system in criminal cases? Mental Health: How should the Court of Criminal Appeals address mental Other Issues: What other issues do you believe will be most pressing for the health issues of those who come before the court? Court of Criminal Appeals?

» JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS, PLACE 3

» Bert Richardson (R) quires additional funding and that assistance has to come from the legislature and individual counties, not the courts. In order to attract qualified lawyers to Qualifications: I am the incumbent in this race and have represent indigent defendants, the State will have to compensate those lawyers, or been a State judge for over 20 years. I am a former State and create more public defender offices. Federal prosecutor that is Board Certified in Criminal Law. I Other Issues: In light of the current COVID crisis, one of the most pressing is- have participated in hundreds of appeals, writs and over 50 cap- sues will involve getting the courts across the State back to work. I anticipate sev- ital cases. eral legal challenges will follow the “new normal” including speedy trial claims, Mental Health: Mental health issues are litigated at the trial level. As an ap- jury selection issues, witness testimonies and jury deliberations that result in fair pellate judge, in cases with mental health issues, I write legal opinions that de- verdicts. termine whether a trial court properly admitted, or excluded mental health evidence. If evidence of mental health is improperly excluded, the Court has the Campaign Website: http://www.electjudgerichardson.com/ authority to grant a new trial. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudgeBertRichardson/ Access to Justice: There are opportunities to improve the system, but that re-

» Elizabeth Davis Frizell (D) Access to Justice: The State Bar should require internships similar to internships in the medical field where newly licensed attorneys work for non-profit -or Qualifications: I have 27 years of trial experience and 13 years ganizations, government agencies, and firms doing trial work and appellate work as a private practitioner. I have 20 years of experience as a Judge for at least one year prior to becoming licensed. This will give non-profit and pro where I was elected as a Dallas County Criminal Court Judge bono agencies more attorneys to handle an increased caseload. and Dallas Criminal District Court Judge. Other Issues: Disparate sentencing, wrongful convictions, and death penalty Mental Health: The Court of Criminal Appeals should ensure cases. that trial courts examine mentally ill defendants for their capacity to know the difference between right and wrong as well as whether a mental illness affected Campaign Website: http://www.Frizell4Judge.com their judgment and was properly asserted and applied for sentencing purposes. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frizell4txjudge

» JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS, PLACE 4

» Kevin Patrick Yeary (R) Access to Justice: The Texas Indigent Defense Commission “provides financial and technical support to counties to develop and maintain quality, cost- Qualifications: *Law Clerk- Texas Court of Criminal Appeals effective indigent defense systems that meet the needs of local communities and 1yr (1992-1992) *Private Lawyer- Criminal/Civil Defense 3yrs the requirements of the Constitution and state law.” (1992-1995) *Appellate Prosecutor- Dallas, Houston, San Anto- Other Issues: The Court must follow the rule of law and ensure that the written nio 19yrs (1995-2014) *Judge- Texas Court of Criminal Appeals law provides the even playing field that all citizens should expect from our judi- 5+yrs (2015-Present) cial system. Judges must not be policy makers, but should instead decide disputes Mental Health: The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, along with the Texas between parties to litigation, guided by reference to the constitution and laws, Supreme Court, recently established the Texas Judicial Commission on Men- which are written by others. tal Health “to engage and empower court systems through collaboration, education, and leadership, and to thereby improve the lives of individuals with Campaign Website: http://www.judgeyeary.com/ mental health needs and persons with intellectual and developmental disabili- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudgeKevinPatrickYeary ties (IDD).” Twitter: https://twitter.com/JudgeYeary

» Tina Clinton (D)

Qualifications: I am the presiding district court judge of the have done but also for the lack of time they have based on carrying too heavy of oldest Criminal District Court in Texas. I have 14 years expe- a case load, based on ABA standards. Second, indigent defense attorneys must be rience as a trial court judge over a felony district, county crim- given adequate resources for investigators, experts and other tools. inal and municipal courts. I have tried over 400 trials in my Other Issues: (1) To help answer and educate members of the legislature on career. where bail reform is currently in Texas. (2) Review staffing needs for additional Mental Health: The CCA is an appellate court so issues of mental health raised lawyers on writs that come into the CCA. (3) To consider using differing plat- on appeal are the issues that may be addressed. The CCA also funds education forms to increase transparency to the public. (4) Diversify internships to give ac- programs and grants for judges, lawyers and prosecutors. Expanding the funding cess to law students that have not traditionally been given access. for additional education on mental health in criminal cases would make a vast difference in the entire criminal justice system. Campaign Website: http://facebook.com/JudgeTinaClinton Access to Justice: First, review cases of ineffective assistance of counsel Facebook: https://facebook.com/JudgeTinaClinton closely. One can be ineffective not merely by not doing something they should Twitter: https://twitter.com/JudgeTClinton

» JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS, PLACE 9

» David Newell (R) Access to Justice: Creation of more regional public defender’s offices could help ensure a standard level of competent representation. Additionally, the Court Qualifications: I serve you as a Judge on the Court of Crim- of Criminal Appeals could pro-actively set out minimum standards for represen- inal Appeals. I have over two decades of experience han- tation of indigent defendants in serious cases dling and deciding criminal appeals as either a lawyer or a Other Issues: Mental health issues, mentioned above, are obviously pressing. judge. I am board certified in both criminal and criminal ap- Wrongful convictions based upon junk science or police misconduct are also very pellate law. serious. Additionally, reforming bail practices so that the indigent are not incar- Mental Health: It can adopt dynamic standards to allow non-dangerous citi- cerated for extended periods of time prior to conviction unless there is a flight or zens suffering from mental illness who commit a crime to easily transfer out of safety risk is another significant to address. the criminal justice system from a jail bed to a hospital bed so they can get the help they deserve. Violent offenders should also be treated for their illnesses, but Campaign Website: http://keepjudgenewell.com in a secure facility for the safety of the community. Facebook: https://facebook.com/judgedavidnewell/

» Brandon Birmingham (D)

Qualifications: Two-term Felony Trial Court Judge, former and necessary costs of providing indigent defense. Second, we have to establish Presiding Judge-all Felony District Courts, Dallas. Lead coun- state-wide best practices to define and manage the case loads of indigent defense sel on over 100 jury trials from DWI to Capital Murder. 2 spe- counsel. cialty court dockets, visiting professor at SMU Law School. Other Issues: From allowing a verdict to stand while a lawyer slept in court, to Mental Health: My experience has taught me how important letting politics impact decisions, or reversals by the United States Supreme Court properly addressing mental health issues are to reducing recidivism. The CCA in death penalty cases, rulings from the CCA have contributed to the public’s should help increase training for lawyers on these issues, and where appropriate, skepticism of our criminal courts, and illustrate very clearly the need for change. work to increase funding for courts across Texas for worthwhile mental health If we don’t learn from history, we are doomed to repeat it. programs. Access to Justice: Justice shouldn’t depend upon a person’s access to Campaign Website: http://JudgeBirmingham.com resources-lessons we’ve learned from the Dallas County exonerations. We must Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudgeBirmingham/ increase funding through the legislature to help counties pay for reasonable Twitter: https://twitter.com/JudgeBirmingham

© 2020 League of Women Voters of Texas | lwvtexas.org VOTERS GUIDE | 2020 GENERAL ELECTION EDITION 13 Four-year term. The fifteen-member board decides curriculum, standards, student testing, special education programs, and textbooks for Texas public schools. It also oversees the STATE BOARD Permanent School Fund. Members of the board do not receive pay, but are eligible for reimbursement for expenses incurred in the course of official business. OF EDUCATION » What does the State Board of Education do? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XZK4qoFFlU&feature=youtu.be

Civic Education: What changes, if any, do you recommend to prepare students » QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES for their civic responsibilities? Qualifications: What training, experience and background qualify you for this Charter Schools: What is your position on charter schools in the public educa- position? tion system? Curriculum: What is your philosophy for setting curriculum standards? Other Issues: What other issues do you believe will be the most pressing for the State Board of Education?

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION, DISTRICT 5 Lani Popp (R)

Qualifications: I have spent my life serving Texas students, Charter Schools: Having worked in an inner-city school district, I can see the including working 17 years in public schools (four in inner city benefit of charter schools for students who are more socio-economically disad- schools) and 11 years in private school. I am a passionate cham- vantaged. We need to make sure we are properly vetting charter schools, holding pion for children with autism, with expertise in Autism Spec- them to the same standards as other public schools. We also need to safeguard trum Disorder. parent choice and must always promote the academic success of the student. Curriculum: I believe curriculum standards should be historically and scientif- Other Issues: We need to reform our broken state standardized testing sys- ically accurate and age appropriate. We need to foster critical thinking skills so tem. Many students with disabilities (high functioning autism, ADHD, students students are able to actively debate and question instead of being passive recipi- with anxiety, etc.) may be brilliant but not demonstrate that on a test. We need to ents of information. We need to discontinue requiring a single process for math make sure we are testing basic skills, but we need to look at more than just a test calculations and allow students to use a variety of processes. when judging a student’s knowledge, abilities, or progress. Civic Education: I believe students should have civics in their junior year in high school. Thus if they are 18 in the fall of their senior year, they will have an Campaign Website: http://Lanipopp.com adequate understanding of our constitutions and the freedoms, rights, and re- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/votelanipopp/ sponsibilities therein. I believe students should have to demonstrate competence in this area by answering questions from our citizenship test. » Rebecca Bell-Metereau (D)

Qualifications: PhD. Prof TxSt U, Directs Media Minor; Fac- Charter Schools: SBOE must use better judgment. I saw SBOE approve a pro- ulty Senate, was Special Asst. TxSt Pres, Fulbright Scholar, posal for a charter in a strip mall alongside toxic businesses; luckily Abbott nixed Teaching Awards, 4 books/30 essays, Peace Corps teacher/in- it. Some charters, like Ann Richards school, are great models, admitting by lot- terpreter Air Force flights Chad, San Marcos P&Z, Bonds Recy- tery; some charters don’t admit all students, siphon tax dollars from public cling Commissions, HOA board. schools, & aren’t made to operate by same equitable standards as public schools Curriculum: Restore respect for teachers, public schools. Teach data-based sci- Other Issues: Science 2021 must teach scientific method, experimental tech- ence, technology, literature, art, music, history, vocations, civics, financial, sta- niques, peer review, biology and climate science, global warming, pandemics, bi- tistical literacy, sex ed, SpEd, critical thinking. Show leadership, stop costly high- ology and geology of evolution and latest in DNA research, influence of culture, stakes testing, ideological influence on education; listen to students, teachers, politics and economics on scientific advancement, with engaging curriculum that parents; find common ground, equity, voice for diversity offers hands-on experimental design, service learning, relevance of issues. Civic Education: Teach history of voting rights, governmental branches, variety of governments, include democracies, etc. variation among counties, states, Campaign Website: http://voterebecca.com/ nations, worldwide, and basic principles of voting, jury duty. Note U.S. ranks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voterebecca/ 26th in eligible voter participation at 56% in 2016. Use mock debates and voting Twitter: https://twitter.com/voterebecca to develop civil discourse and constructive engagement/register all over-18

Stephanie Berlin (L) Candidate has not yet responded.

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES Q1: What changes do you support, if any, to ensure fair and impartial Q3: What criminal justice reform policies do you recommend, if any? redistricting?Curriculum: What is your philosophy for setting curriculum Q4: What is your highest legislative priority for funding, and would you be will- standards? ing to use Texas’s “rainy day fund” to finance it? Q2: What actions do you believe are needed at the state level to address the health and economic impact caused by COVID-19?

» FRANK POMEROY (R)

Background: U.S. Navy veteran, former motor controls pro- an oversight committee to determine the need for special session for any rightful fessional, pastor for 18 years. Married for 34 years, with four bi- legislation. ological children, two adopted children, and six grandchildren. A3: Of the over 10 million arrests every year in the US, the majority - roughly Education: B.S. in Biological Anthropology 65% - are for low-level, nonviolent, non-drug related offenses. I believe the Attor- Campaign Website: http://pomeroyfortexassenate.com ney General and law enforcement groups should reassess punishments that best align with the severity of public safety risk. Incarcerate for violent/drug offenses, A1: I believe that a bipartisan commission should be appointed to redistrict the and reduce punishment for low-level offenses to citation/community service. state, equally and fairly, within a determined amount of time to be completed. If A4: Protecting children and the unborn - restructure and revitalize Child Pro- a consensus cannot be reached by that deadline, it should remain the same as the tective Services. Within CPS portfolio, strengthen collaborations between pub- last redistricting. lic, private and faith-based programs to provide counseling, residential programs A2: I believe that Texas needs to immediately open businesses and allow the and support for unplanned pregnancies, to encourage adoption or raising the economy to open and grow, once again. Protect the vulnerable, and allow ev- child, removing abortion as the only option. Yes to rainy day fund, this is a criti- eryone else to get back to work. I also believe we need to reassess the emer- cal need. gency powers act. There should be a 2- to 3-day limit to any declarations, then

» JUDITH ZAFFIRINI (D)

Background: The 1st Hispanic woman elected to the Texas ing public health orders to save and protect lives, prioritizing safe reopening of Senate, Zaffirini has passed 1,160 bills—more than any legislator schools, easing the burden on working and unemployed Texans and small busi- in state history—and has a career-long 100% voting record. nesses, responding to crisis areas, and ensuring everyone has personal protective Education: Self-supporting since she was 17 and married at equipment. 18, Senator Zaffirini worked her way through UT-Austin, where A3: I support systemic criminal justice reform that ensures all Texans are treated she earned B.S., M.A., and PhD degrees, each with a 3.9 GPA. equally, regardless of how we look or how much we have. This includes improving Campaign Website: http://judithzaffirini.com communication and police training, oversight, and accountability; bolstering access to justice initiatives, especially for low-income persons; and ending modern A1: Because redistricting is one of our most important legislative responsibili- debtors’ prisons created by judges who jail persons for inability to pay fines. ties, I support creating an independent, nonpartisan redistricting commission A4: Education, from pre-K through higher ed, is my highest priority and invest- that can develop fair, impartial legislative and other district maps based on sound ment. I favor using the “rainy day fund” to ensure our promises and students’ po- logic and community interests, not on gerrymandering to enhance partisan ad- tential are fulfilled. This includes funding universal, high-quality pre-K; enhanc- vantage; and that reflect standards of transparency and accountability to the ing student success; supporting teachers before, during, and after their teaching public. years; and reducing the crushing burden A2: State leaders must make clear, consistent, evidence-based decisions and mit- igate the dire health and economic impact of COVID-19, including by enforc-

The Voters Guide is available online at VOTE411.org and lwvcomal.org. By entering your address and zip code on Vote411.org, you can view races and candidates that appear on your ballot, compare candidates’ responses to questions posed by the League, and create a print- out of a ballot to take to the polls. You can also find out where to vote!

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES 1: Why are you seeking this position and what qualifications and experience do 4: Would you support Texas expanding Medicaid? you bring to the position? 5: What changes to Texas gun laws would you support or oppose? 2: With the 2020 census, new congressional, state and education districts will be redrawn. What process do you support to ensure fair representation? 6: What other issue do you consider most important and how would you address it?: 3: What changes to environmental regulations would you support or oppose?

» JOHN KUEMPEL (R) Candidate has not yet responded.

» ROBERT BOHMFALK (D)

1: I am running for Texas State Representative to help save 4: Yes, I support Medicaid expansion. But Texas will not get it as long as Gov. Texas, America, and Democracy from a dictatorial president Abbott and the Republicans rule Texas. (Oklahoma voters recently voted for who is above the Law. Republicans agree that he is above the Medicaid Expansion that their governor opposed). At least $10 billion of federal Law also. I graduated from Uvalde High School. I have a B.A. funds for expansion of Medicaid will be going to other states every year that do degree in History and Government from Southwestern Univer- have it. With the Covid-19 virus some hospitals may close and some doctors may sity, and a Master of Divinity from T.C.U. I served United Methodist Churches quit if they are not paid. Expanding Medicaid, keeping private insurance, and in Rocksprings, Eagle Pass, Dilley, Stockdale/La Vernia, Flatonia, and Lyford. I providing Medicare for all during a pandemic is NOT Socialism. Health Care is worked for the MHMR over 20 years, the last 5 years as a Mental Health Case incompatible with capitalism. Manager.I was also the Democratic candidate in 2014 & 2016. 5: I am a gun owner. I support background checks for criminals, gangs, terror- 2: I hope that House District 44 remains with Guadalupe and Wilson Counties. ist, minors, Domestic abusers, and the mentally ill. I support “Red Flag” laws (We could pick up a less populated border county.) Our congressional district that would temporarily confiscate guns from an individual for a hearing. I sup- in the past has been with San Antonio, Austin, Houston, Corpus Christi, Lar- port the sale and manufacture of the “Smart Gun” which is opposed by the NRA. edo, and McAllen. When the census comes out the tri-county area of Guadalupe, The Smart Gun can only be fired by the owner. It should be used by all law -en Comal, and Hays counties will have a population of over half a million. These 3 forcement who handle prisoners, since it cannot be used if taken from the owner. counties should unite to lobby for a tri-county congressional district. We could (There have been many tragic incidents where this has happened). I support gun have an office in Seguin, Schertz, New Braunfels, and San Marcos. We would safety courses. I oppose open carry of firearm have a larger voice than what we have now. 6: I support reproductive freedom and a woman’s right to choose. I oppose at- 3: President Trump and Governor Abbott has reversed many of the environmen- tempts to ban birth control and sex education. I support the Dream Act and tal regulations that we previously had. My main concern is that we continue to Immigration Reform and a pathway to citizenship. I oppose the breakup of His- have clean air, and water that is also clean and plentiful. There needs to be con- panic-American families, or sending those seeking sanctuary or asylum back. I tinued compromise with entities that share the same water. The dams that broke support full funding of all public schools. I would support a state income tax on along the Guadalupe River will soon begin to get fixed with the river homeown- the wealthy (over $500,000) with a reduction or elimination of the state sales tax. ers agreeing to pay most of the cost. I believe that Climate Change is real and a I support elimination of marijuana laws. I support increase funding of Mental serious matter that we all have to deal with. Health services. I support Prison Reform.

» JULIAN MARDOCK (L)

1: For decades I have seen the government grow ever larger and 6: 1. School choice: I believe that parents should be able to choose the school that more intrusive. It limits freedom for the people. I have 3 chil- their children attend. I believe that a voucher in the amount of 2/3 the current dren and 7 grandchildren. I would like to improve their pros- public school expenditure would enable many parents to find a better choice for pects in the future. their children and save the state money. 2: I would like to see the 2 major parties quit seeking partisan 2. Legalize marijuana for possession and use by adults. Marijuana is a much more advantage through redistricting. I don’t think that is possible. innocuous drug than alcohol or tobacco, both of which can be purchased at the Perhaps no district should contain land in more than 2 counties unless it covered grocery store. both entire counties. 3. Defend the right to keep and bear arms 3: Most environmental regulations are federal. I would need to be persuaded that 4. Reduce crony capitalism. Allow auto manufacturers to sell directly to the further state regulation would be beneficial. public. 4: No 5: None that I know of. I believe that legalizing suppressors (at the federal level) would save many shooters’ hearing.

16 VOTERS GUIDE | 2020 GENERAL ELECTION EDITION © 2020 League of Women Voters of Texas | lwvtexas.org JUDGE, 4TH COURT Six-year term. Hears appeals on civil and criminal cases from lower courts in its district. Base salary for Chief Judge: $156,500. OF APPEALS Base salary for Judge: $154,000.

The 4th Court of Appeals: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Brooks, Dimmit, Duval, Edwards, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Kinney, La Salle, Mason, Maverick, McMullen, Medina, Menard, Real, Starr, Sutton, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb, Wilson, Zapata, and Zavala

» Renee Yanta (R) » Rebeca Martinez (D)

SCHERTZ CITY COUNCIL/ALDERMAN

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES 1: Why are you seeking this office and what combination of education, motiva- 3: What role can the city play in increasing the availability of affordable housing? tion, and experience qualifies you for this office. What policies do you support to make Schertz a more affordable place to live for 2: What are your priorities if you are elected to this office? all residents?

» SCHERTZ CITY COUNCIL PLACE 3

» Cedric Edwards

1: Cedric Edwards is a proud veteran of the United States Air Force and a very ing concerns, we must delicately balance sustainable growth and economic de- proud father of four patriotic children. Two sons graduated from the United velopment. Developing a corporate business campus and an institution of higher States Military Academy, West Point, a daughter that attends the United States education would serve as a catalyst for the surrounding area not only Schertz. Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD, and a daughter that is currently attending the applied. United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. My devoted wife of thirty two years, Mary, and I raised our family under the core values of duty, honor, 3: By keeping the tax rates lower and being fiscally responsible with every dollar, country and service to others above self. NOT A POLITICIAN: I’m simply a busi- the current and potential residents can purchase homes in an affordable way. The ness man that desires to help through servant leadersh need to add some workforce housing to compliment the already thriving business community that seeks to employ local labor is paramount to economic sustain- 2: We must improve our streets, and become a smart hub municipality, and do ability. Please contact me at 210-683-6764 if you have any questions for me. Ced- these things while remaining fiscally responsible with the tax dollars entrusted ric Edwards to us, and by leveraging the goodwill of our surrounding communities. Schertz is seeing growth in population rates, but with limited resources, along with fund-

» Jill Whittaker

1: I love the city of Schertz & am looking for an opportunity to tions remained filled and funded. My second priority is fiscal responsibility. I serve the city in a greater way. I have 25 years experience serv- believe in lower taxes - keeping more money in tax payers’ pockets. We need to ing my country, my clients and my community. I was a C-130 be good stewards of the citizens’ money, maintaining essential services while cut- navigator & instructor in the USAF. I worked as a civil service ting waste whenever possible. employee in military youth recreation. I served as the chairper- son for the annual fundraiser at the Sunshine Cottage, School for Deaf Children. 3: Keeping property taxes as low as possible ensures more affordable housing for Currently I serve my clients with all their real estate needs. I have studied engi- all residents, whether they own or rent. The tax appraisal district annually re- neering, recreation, accounting, & political science. I feel very qualified to repre- views and adjusts values on homes and without an equal adjustment to the tax sent the residents of Schertz. rate, residents will experience an increase in taxes every year. The city does not have the power to dictate price point for home sales but they can encourage a va- 2: My number one priority is community safety. It is critical to ensure our po- riety of housing types. As a REALTOR® I work to find families and individu- lice officers, fire fighters and EMS personnel are properly trained and equipped als homes at all price points so I understand the need to have affordable housing to do their job well. It’s also vital that they get paid a competitive wage so that available in all communities. we can attract talented individuals and retain them. I’d like to ensure all posi-

» SCHERTZ CITY COUNCIL PLACE 5 » Gwen Jones

» David L. Scagliola

1: As a military retiree I have a desire to give back to my com- deserve a safe, family-oriented community, quality of life amenities, fiscal re- munity. I was an HOA president when the city annexed us sponsibility, governmental transparency; and, above all, I believe residents de- (over 600 homes), and it soon became obvious that we (my serve to be heard…so my #1 priority is to be their voice. HOA and others in the area) did not have much of a voice in the city; so, I got involved. Over 28 years of military experi- 3: Affordable housing is available in Schertz. Schertz was founded as a blue-col- ences provided a framework for action and leadership, earning a doctorate pro- lar, military community, and that identity persists. In addition to affordable vided a solid foundation of best management and leadership practices, and my homes, there are several apartment complexes and the Schertz Housing Author- past experiences on the city council (mayor pro tem and acting mayor) add to my ity seeks to find safe, affordable housing for low-income families, disabled resi- qualifications. dents, and our seniors. I support more availability by encouraging developers to integrate mixed housing options into all major development plans, which paral- 2: Schertz is a vibrant community and I intend to keep it that way. The explo- lels our economic development strategy of providing good paying jobs; so people sive growth over the past 20 years (our population has tripled) has created sev- can find good jobs AND affordable housing. eral challenges, but also opportunities. Practices that promote smart, sustainable growth are at the top of my priority list. Furthermore, I believe Schertz residents

SEGUIN MAYOR

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES 1: Why are you seeking this office and what combination of education, motiva- 2: What are your priorities if you are elected to this office? tion, and experience qualifies you for this office.

» Donna Dodgen

1: Make a difference*Strengthen our community*Continue 2: • Manage growth • Facilitate a positive community image/story • to create a positive community image*Continue to improve Ensure we follow our master plan/other plans that have been developed/develop quality of life & business opportunities*Be a part of continu- needed plans • Communicate, educate and listen to all persons/entities - I want ing to move our City in a positive direction.I have experience us to be the best City we can be, providing our citizens with an amazing place to on City Council, attended all Texas Municipal League conven- live, work and play. To be a part of the solution in whatever challenge arises. tions as well as many TML education opportunities.I have served as chairman of the Main Street Committee, co-owned a business downtown & won business of the year, served in diverse leadership positions & other City Board, Chamber of Commerce Board x2, & participated in & coordinated Leadership Seguin.

» Francisco Herrera 2: First to define Seguin proper as having boundaries of I 10, Guadalupe Street, 1: The main reason I am running for Mayor of Seguin is to Highway 123, and on the southern border roughly were the power plant res- strengthen the economic pulse of Seguin. I am a strong believer taurant is located. To develop a complement of economic projects that will in education and I achieved an interdisciplinary Master’s de- strengthen the economic pulse of Seguin proper. These projects are: set up street gree out of Texas State University. At both the bachelors and signage and reflectors that would divert traffic into the city, work with commu- Master’s degree levels my focus was on municipal development nity banks to provide liquidity to businesses, the Seguin business incubation and the restoration of economically distressed areas. I came to several conclu- project that will be modeled after the Pica Pica Plaza,Seguin Pearl project, and in- sions and the most important is that everything has limits. That is why I propose vite an robotic firm to support future Mfg. that Seguin from this point forward is developed into a compact city.

» QUESTIONS TO CANDIDATES 1: Why are you seeking this office and what combination of education, motiva- 3: What role can the city play in increasing the availability of affordable housing? tion, and experience qualifies you for this office. What policies do you support to make Seguin a more affordable place to live for 2: What are your priorities if you are elected to this office? all residents?

» SEGUIN CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2

» Sonia Mendez

» Peter Silvius

1: I have lived in district 2 near downtown Seguin for nearly ing growth to the downtown area and continuing to enhance and support exist- 20 years and worked for Seguin ISD for the past 17 years as a ing infrastructure that will be necessary for supporting a growing population. teacher, coordinator and now as the Director of Whole Child I will support these efforts and the 2020 Parks and Recreation Master Plan. We Initiatives. I am proud to live and work in Seguin. I am com- can create a more walkable, bikeable and family-friendly Seguin, that will sup- mitted to public service and see this available city council seat port increased economic development. as a new opportunity to serve the community. I am a graduate of Texas Lutheran University with a Bachelor of Arts in Education/Kinesiology and a graduate of 3: Everyone needs housing they can afford. A healthy and viable Seguin should Texas State University with a Masters of Science in Recreation Administration. help to create a range of housing options that exist at all price points. However, the private market often does not address the housing need for our lower income 2: The City of Seguin is going through a period of rapid growth. This growth is a citizens. Therefore, the City of Seguin does play a role in the creation and preser- great opportunity for our city because it will bring additional resources. During vation of affordable housing accessibility. Policy opportunities include incentive this period of growth, the city of Seguin will need to be intentional about anchor- programs that will encourage the development and maintenance of affordable

» SEGUIN CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 6

» Monica Napier Carter

1:Seguin has been my home for my entire life. I am the Practice economy. These businesses will include retail shops, new restaurants, and youth/ Administrator and LVN for Guadalupe Ear, Nose and Throat, adult entertainment options. 3) Encourage pride and city morale by engaging res- the office of Dr. Jennifer Hennessee. I have been with our prac- idents to be involved in volunteer services and finding ways to give back to the tice since it was established in 2005; prior to that I was em- community. ployed with GRMC for 10 years. I have decided to run for City Council to build on the success of the past and foster changes that will make Se- 3: 1) The city can offer incentives to home builders and investors to increase -af guin even better. My focus is on creating opportunities for all generations; help- fordable housing options. 2) The city can help provide quality housing to all in- ing to guide each person to invest themselves in our city and giving our youth a dividuals; this solution will help to promote pride and dignity to all citizens who desire to raise their future families in Seguin. are working to build our city. There are some families who can afford market value rent, while others who are equally vested would benefit from income-based 2: 1) Assist with developing youth programs, to help engage our youth, encourag- rent due to various circumstances. If a family is working hard and paying their ing civic responsibility and developing loyalty to our community. 2) Assist with taxes, those circumstances should not hinder a family’s right to quality affordable bringing new businesses to our community which will help to strengthen our housing.

» Wanda Lee Rosales

1:I am seeking this office to make Sequin a better place to live able, that residents can feel safe, and comfortable. Higher Living Wages: For the for our community,and generations to come. What qualifies residents can contribute to the city so this can grow more. for this office is that I am opened minded, and able to work with others well, and able to listen to both sides on making 3: Bring in higher paying jobs, Support our Small Business, Incentives Tax decisions. breaks. Housing trust funds can be used for a variety of purpose, including supporting home owners repair progress. Working with home owners to lower rental 2: My priorities if elected for this office are : Infrastructure: Make sure streets are cost in need of repairs. safe, Affordable Housing: Making sure homes are safer to live in, and also afford-

» SEGUIN CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 6 (CONTINUED)

» Ricardo Sanchez Jr.

1: I am seeking this office to make a difference in this commu- pletely transparent on how the government is spending the money and avoiding nity. I have lived here all of my life, apart from the time I spent raising taxes at all costs. in the U.S. Marines, and I want to see this community and its citizens prosper. I have college education and that combined 3: The city can play a big role in helping maintain an affordable cost of living in with my military experiences, and how well I know this area, I the area. There is no need to keep raising taxes on people when the pay of local am very driven to help maximize the possibilities for this community. jobs alone do not afford people affordable living. Better management of the budgets can help keep the tax rate from rising. 2: My priorities if I am elected include being strict on how the local governments manage and spend tax payers money. That includes overseeing and being com-

• Lack of birth certificate or other documents needed to obtain an acceptable » VOTER ID: WHAT TO TAKE TO THE POLLS form of photo ID

In order to vote, citizens must be on the official list of registered voters. Check • Work schedule your registration status at votetexas.gov.

Voters may use one of seven forms of photo ID, listed below. • Family responsibilities • Texas Driver License • Texas Election Identification Certificate • Lost or stolen identification • Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS • Texas license to carry a handgun issued by DPS • U.S. military identification card containing the person’s photograph • Acceptable form of photo ID applied for but not received • U.S. citizenship certificate containing the person’s photograph • U.S. passport (book or card) “Substantially Similar Name” Note: IDs may be expired up to four years. Persons 70 years or older may use an expired ID. ID address does not have to match the voter registration address.

Registered voters without a photo ID, who cannot reasonably obtain one, may The name on the photo ID should match the voter registration card or be “sub- sign a form (described below) and present the original or a copy of one of the following documents with the voter’s name and address to vote a regular ballot: stantially similar.” If the names don’t match exactly but are substantially similar, • Texas voter registration card • Certified birth certificate the voter will initial a box for similar name when signing in to vote. • Current utility bill • Bank statement

• Government check Voter Harassment • Paycheck • Any other government document such as an out-of-state driver license or expired Texas driver license • Election officials cannot question a voter about the use of an ID type Theform to be filled out by registered voters without a photo ID is a “Voter’s Declaration of Reasonable Impediment or Difficulty.” The voter must mark on the form one of the following reasons for not providing a photo ID: • Poll watchers may never question a voter about Voter ID issues • Lack of transportation • Disability or illness • If you are harassed, call the Voter Protection Hotline!