GOV: Former Balch Springs Mayor Cedrick Davis Sr. announced he would seek the Democratic nomination to challenge Gov. Greg Abbott (R). Dallas businessman Jeffrey Payne announced his candidacy this weekend (We previously reported his entry into the race.). At least four other Democrats have taken a formal step toward challenging Abbott: Austin Democratic activist Garry Brown, Houston electronics businessman Joe Mumbach, Houston resident and former HD149 candidate Demetria Smith and San Antonio hospice chaplain and former congressional candidate Tom Wakely.
SD5: Austin management consultant Brian Cronin formed a campaign committee for a potential state race, but he did not indicate an office sought. A prototype web site and ActBlue fundraising page for the campaign indicate he may challenge Sen. Charles Schwertner (R-Georgetown) as a Democrat. In a Twitter message to us, Cronin said he is assessing options. “Nothing is official yet,” he said.
HD62 open: Tom Bean retired engineer David Schaab formed a campaign committee for a potential run for the seat being vacated by Rep. Larry Phillips (R-Sherman), likely as a Libertarian.
HD77: El Paso resident Joseph Roeper formed a campaign committee for a potential challenge of Rep. Lina Ortega (D-El Paso). We were unable to determine his occupation and political affiliation.
HD88: Rep. Ken King (R-Canadian) announced he would seek re-election.
ED TBD: Missouri City resident Zayd Ahmed formed a campaign committee for a potential run for the State Board of Education but did not indicate which seat he might seek. Missouri City is located within ED4, currently held by board member Lawrence Allen (D-Houston), and open ED7, the seat being vacated by board member David Bradley (R-Beaumont).
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