Open-seat candidate Philip Hayes has suspended his campaign following the revelation that he did not receive a pair of degrees from Southern Methodist University as he has claimed. The Tyler Morning-Telegraph obtained official documents showing Hayes attended SMU but did not receive any degrees. The paper retracted its prior endorsement of Hayes.
In a Facebook post, Hayes said, “It is with a great sadness and remorse, that I announce that I am suspending my campaign. I full heartedly ask that all of those who were supporting me to vote for Jay Misenheimer. Jay is the most capable person in the race for House District 5.”
Hayes’ name will remain on the ballot. Four other candidates, including Misenheimer, are vying for the seat being vacated by Rep. Bryan Hughes (R-Mineola), who is running for the open SD1.
