Rep. Phil King (R-Weatherford) announced he would run for SD10 if it is redrawn as proposed by the Senate’s current redistricting plan, and he was promptly endorsed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R).
An amendment filed by Sen. Joan Huffman (R-Houston) to her redistricting bill would add portions of Parker Co. plus all of Brown, Callahan, Palo Pinto, Shackelford and Stephens Cos. to a portion of southern Tarrant Co. As drawn, the district, currently represented by Sen. Beverly Powell (D-Burleson), would be significantly friendlier to Republican candidates than it has been for the last decade. As it is currently configured, SD10 is located entirely within Tarrant Co., and it could be left in this configuration and still be within the acceptable difference from ideal population.
According to runs produced by the Texas Legislative Council, Huffman’s amendment would change the Anglo percentage of the voting-age population to 53.3% from its current 43.9%.
King would be the 13th House member elected to the 87th Legislature who will not be returning. Reps. Michelle Beckley (D-Carrollton), Matt Krause (R-Fort Worth), Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound) and James White (R-Hillister) are seeking other offices. Rep. Celia Israel (D-Austin) is exploring a run for mayor. Reps. Ben Leman (R-Iola), Jim Murphy (R-Houston), Chris Paddie (R-Marshall), Scott Sanford (R-McKinney) and John Turner (D-Dallas) are retiring. Former Rep. Jake Ellzey (R-Waxahachie) is now in Congress, and former Rep. Leo Pacheco (D-San Antonio) resigned.
So far, two senators are also not returning: Sen. Dawn Buckingham (R-Lakeway) is running for Land Commissioner, and Sen. Jane Nelson (R-Flower Mound) is retiring.
HD10 special, HD118 special: Tomorrow (Tuesday) is Election Day for the HD10 special runoff and HD118 special elections.
LAND open: Former Gov. Rick Perry (R) endorsed Sen. Dawn Buckingham (R-Lakeway).
HD13 open: Brenham attorney and former legislative aide Brad Tegeler established a campaign committee for a potential run for the seat being vacated by Rep. Ben Leman (R-Iola). Tegeler was chief of staff for Rep. Geanie Morrison (R-Victoria) during the 2019 session and an aide to Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) for the 2015 and 2017 sessions.
HD97: Rep. Craig Goldman (R-Fort Worth) announced he would seek re-election and not run for SD10.
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