Voter Guide Hays County Democratic Party
March 2026 Primary
Candidates
US House, CD27 State Senate SD21 State Representatives HD45 & 73 428th District Judge
Criminal District Attorney County Judge Courts at Law 1 & 2 District Clerk
County Clerk Treasurer County Commissioner Pct. 2 County Commissioner Pct. 4
Justices of the Peace Hays Co. Democratic Party Chair
US CONGRESS
U.S. Representative, District 21, Regina Vanburg
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform. Limit 50 Words.
I am a VA trained trauma psychologist, small business owner, federal public servant, and first generation American. I am running to protect our democracy, strengthen economic fairness, and serve Texas’s 21st with accountability, transparency, and practical solutions that put people above profit and politics.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office? Limit 200 Wordss.
I was raised in Bandera, Texas. As the daughter of an immigrant and two veteran parents, I grew up knowing that service was expected and community mattered. I double majored in Government and History at the University of Texas at Austin, earned a Master’s in Counseling, and completed my doctorate in Psychology at OLLUSA..
My career began serving veterans on the PTSD Clinical Team at Audie Murphy VA Hospital. There I learned how to complete critical missions with limited resources while maintaining compassion, focus, and accountability. I later worked in outpatient mental health clinics, helping individuals and families navigate complex challenges.
As a clinical trauma psychologist, I create measurable change under difficult circumstances and find common ground even with those who hold different perspectives. That ability to engage respectfully across differences is essential for representing a diverse district.
Running a small business has strengthened my adaptability, financial accountability, and strategic decision making. My current federal work analyzing data on recruit well being reinforces evidence based leadership.
This combination of public service, clinical expertise, business experience, and deep community roots prepares me to serve with discipline, empathy, and results driven focus.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service? Limit 200 Words.
Seventeen years of clinical practice have shaped how I approach leadership and problem solving. In trauma psychology, success depends on identifying root causes rather than reacting only to visible symptoms. I have learned how to triage complex situations, prioritize effectively, and maintain clarity even when multiple urgent issues compete for attention.
Serving veterans and active duty personnel taught me resourcefulness and responsibility. In public service, you do not have the luxury of saying it is not my job. You find a way or you make one. That mindset informs how I approach governance.
Leadership in clinical settings also requires listening deeply, building trust, and engaging people who may not share your perspective. Real progress often comes from finding shared values and focusing on practical outcomes.
Running a small business strengthened my accountability and adaptability. My current data analysis work reinforces disciplined, evidence informed decision making.
Across every role, I have learned that effective leadership requires presence, follow through, and a clear focus on measurable results that improve people’s lives.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts? Limit 200 Words.
My career has centered on serving individuals and families at moments of vulnerability. At Audie Murphy VA Hospital, I provided trauma informed care to veterans who had sacrificed for our country. In outpatient clinics, I worked to ensure that underserved populations had access to compassionate, evidence based mental health treatment.
Through this work, I advocated for patients navigating complex systems and limited resources. I learned that representation begins with listening carefully and treating people with dignity and respect.
As a small business owner, I contribute to the local economy and understand firsthand the challenges families and entrepreneurs face. My federal service reflects a continued commitment to improving systems from within so they work more effectively for the people they are meant to serve.
Throughout my campaign, I have engaged directly with neighbors across the district, listening to concerns about economic stability, healthcare access, public safety, and democratic accountability. These conversations reinforce that effective advocacy requires presence, humility, and consistent follow through.
I have learned that meaningful representation is not abstract. It is built through trust, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to community well being.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking? Limit 200 Words.
Democratic values guide both my priorities and my approach to public service. I believe government should protect individual rights, expand opportunity, and ensure that every voice matters in our democracy.
Protecting free and fair elections is fundamental. When participation is restricted, accountability weakens and trust erodes. Strong democratic institutions allow communities to shape their future and hold leaders responsible.
Economic fairness is another guiding principle. Working families deserve the opportunity to build stable lives, access quality healthcare, and participate fully in the economy. Policy should prioritize shared prosperity rather than concentrate power among a few.
Respect for human dignity also informs my decisions. Whether addressing healthcare, immigration, veterans services, or public safety, I support practical and humane solutions grounded in evidence and focused on real outcomes.
As a trauma psychologist and federal employee, I approach service with accountability, transparency, and a commitment to finding common ground. Democratic values are not abstract ideals. They are daily commitments to fairness, participation, and the belief that government should work for the people it serves.
U.S. Representative, District 21, Kristin Hook
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I’m a scientist and former middle school teacher running to fight for affordability, accountability, and opportunity for working families like my own. Before running, I served the public as a federal science and technology expert, and I know how to make our government work for us - not against us.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
As a scientist, I’m trained to solve tough problems, listen to diverse perspectives, and deliver results, which I will do from day one in office.
Before running, I served the public across the legislative and executive branches of the U.S. government - securing more than $20B in federal law to tackle the climate crisis in the Senate, expanding access to healthcare at the NIH, and helping Congress use data and facts to solve problems and protect taxpayer dollars at the Government Accountability Office.
When our country is in crisis, I step up. I’ve been fighting the Trump administration for nearly a decade: first as a grassroots organizer for women scientists to push back against attacks on science, women, and immigrants, and later as an oversight investigator for Senator Elizabeth Warren, where I fought corruption and held Trump and powerful corporations accountable.
Growing up in a Texan family living paycheck to paycheck, I understand the strain of rising costs, underfunded schools, and barriers to healthcare. Public investments allowed me to earn degrees from UT-Austin and Cornell, and I’m running to ensure every Texan has the same opportunities and to build an economy that works for us - not billionaires and special interests.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
I grew up in an underserved community, so I’ve spent my life fighting for the underdog and ensuring everyone, regardless of zip code, can thrive.
As a scientist, I’m an expert problem solver and critical thinker trained to identify root causes, analyze data, and deliver solutions. I’ve applied that mindset in the classroom, research lab, and highest levels of government. If elected, I will make decisions grounded in facts, not ideology, to tackle our biggest challenges, from fixing our broken health care system and unrigging our economy to addressing climate change.
As a federal scientist, I’ve helped policymakers use data to make better decisions and know how to pull the levers of government so it works for us, not against us.
As an elected union leader and grassroots organizer, I’ve empowered workers, raised wages, and held those in power accountable. These experiences taught me how to build diverse coalitions and navigate tough negotiations to deliver real results for people.
As the last Democratic nominee in TX-21, I led a grassroots campaign with integrity, listened to constituents from all walks of life and with differing perspectives, and stood up for what’s right - exactly how I will serve as your representative.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts? Limit 200 Words.
In 2024, I was the only Democrat to stand up to represent our community and challenge Chip Roy, an entrenched Republican incumbent in our heavily gerrymandered district. I don’t scare easily, and I believe our community is worth fighting for.
With no institutional support, I raised over half a million dollars and earned the trust of 153,000 bipartisan voters. I even had Trump supporters voting for me, including an unregistered independent who I got registered and brought with me to the polls.
Through my campaign efforts, I learned how constituents have been left behind by a lack of real leadership here. We need an advocate in Washington who will show up, listen, and follow through for us. That’s why I’m stepping up to run again. Because even if I’m just one of 435 members of Congress, I can wield the seat of power to provide excellent constituent services that improve lives, something our district hasn’t had in decades.
Prior to running, I served the public in our federal government, taught and mentored thousands of K-12 and college students from underrepresented backgrounds, registered hundreds of Texan voters as a VDR, and advocated for immigrant children detained in U.S. custody.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
As a scientist, I truly hate politics and want policies to based on facts and evidence, not ideology. But I’ve been a lifelong Democrat because I share the same values of fairness, opportunity, and democracy. I grew up in a working family and have always viewed the Democratic party as an advocate for America’s working class and underdogs, whether fighting for civil rights, living wages, or social safety nets like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
As a working-class Democrat, I am struggling with the skyrocketing costs of housing, healthcare, and groceries like so many others in our district. This affordability crisis has been caused by decades of Republican policies that have put profits over people and driven deep wealth inequality in our country. I believe it’s time we put working people in charge to build an economy and government that works for all of us, not billionaires and special interests.
If elected to serve our district, I will fight corruption head-on, defend our democracy, and work to build a society where people can live and retire in dignity, hard work is rewarded, basic needs are met, and opportunity isn’t determined by the size of your wallet or your zip code.
U.S. Representative, District 21, Gary Taylor
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am a retired public school math teacher, and a musician. I believe in making this economy, and this country, work for everyone. Goals of my platform are: ending any kind of oppression, and creating ways to immediately assist those who are working hard, but seemingly getting nowhere.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
I believe my 25 years of public school teaching has been wonderful preparation. Being employed by the people and for the people has helped me to learn how that beautiful balancing of the public sector and the private sector can make for a better community and country. As a student of both math and history, I have worked hard to educate myself on ways we can form a more perfect union, a more united people, and an economy for all. I have studied the great ideas that have worked in our own past, as well as in other nations.
Working to raise a family with my late wife, Donna, has also been wonderful preparation. Learning the struggles of daily life and the difficulties of making ends meet while juggling schedules and working, often two jobs, prepares one for understanding what working people are going through. I also realize that, economically speaking, it is even more difficult for young families today. Finding ways to immediately assist those who are working hard, but seemingly getting nowhere, or even losing ground, is at the heart of my platform.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
Of course, getting a master’s degree in mathematics, and then teaching math for a total of 28 years certainly prepares one for problem- solving. Although classroom problems are somewhat contrived, it is still good practice. I have put that practice to use in solving real-world problems many times.
I have studied Lincoln and FDR extensively. They were both problem solvers. Lincoln actually studied mathematics, particularly Euclid’s Elements, to help him learn how to be a better lawyer because he learned how to “demonstrate”, as he put it. His study of Euclid is evident in the way he constructed his speeches, and in the decisions he made in a trying time.
I have also produced and recorded several CDs and co-produced some shows, all of which involved much problem-solving.
Lastly, I am a parent. I think parents have to solve many problems every day.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I think my years of public service as a teacher were dedicated to this purpose. I always believed that teaching was more than preparing people for their future; it was also giving them a meaningful life experience in the present. I hope that my students enjoyed the experience of being in the class, and knew that I believed we were enriching each other’s lives in the here and now, as well as preparing them for the future. I always hoped that their futures would be bright.
Since retiring, I have become more active in the Democratic Party, and I co-founded a group called Ending the Divide, dedicated to finding answers.
I also write and perform songs advocating civil rights and human rights (and some songs just for fun). Admittedly, I don’t have a huge audience, but I do think it is a worthy endeavor.
Currently, I am very disturbed by the ICE raids and all of the new attempts to divide us all. I believe we must all work to be more united and provide a safe place for all. This is an important part of my campaign, which is themed, “An Economy for All: A More Perfect Union.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
I have been a student of FDR and the New Deal, as well as the continuing years of Progressive philosophy that was dominant until 1980. I believe, strongly and sincerely, that Progressivism is both compassionate and practical. I call it the necessary constant march of humanity. A march that must continue as long as oppression exists anywhere, and in any form. I believe that caring and compassion is at the heart of all Democratic values, and that is why I am a Democrat. I also believe that Progressivism is highly practical, so it is a win/win. I think it is wonderful that what is both compassionate and moral, is also what works best. I am convinced of this, and I believe that there is plenty of evidence to back it up. The New Deal years and Progressive years (1933-1981) created the greatest middle class the world had ever seen.
U.S. Representative, District 27
Wayne Raasch
(No response from candidate)
District 27, Tanya Lloyd
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Tanya Lloyd is a public school teacher, mom, and lifelong Lockhart resident running for Congress in TX-27. She believes Congress needs a kindergarten teacher — someone who listens, tells the truth, and puts people first. Tanya is focused on lowering costs, fully funding public education, and investing in rural infrastructure.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
For more than two decades, I have worked as a public school teacher in rural Texas, seeing firsthand how federal policy decisions affect my students and their families' daily lives. I believe Congress needs a kindergarten teacher, someone who can manage limited resources, solve problems collaboratively, and stay accountable for outcomes.
Beyond the classroom, I have been deeply involved in my community through school district advisory and bond oversight committees, education-focused volunteer work, and local service organizations. I was born and raised in Lockhart and still live on the family farm my parents built using my father’s VA benefits, which grounds me in the realities of rural life and this district.
These experiences have prepared me to navigate complex systems, advocate for people without power, communicate clearly, and make practical decisions rooted in real-world impact. Congress needs leaders who understand how policy translates into everyday life, and my background gives me that perspective.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
Teaching has shaped my approach to leadership more than any other experience. In the classroom, problems cannot be ignored or delayed. You must listen, adapt, and find solutions that work for real people in real time.
I have also seen how government systems — including public education, foster care, and the justice system — intersect and affect families, sometimes compounding hardship when policies fall short. Those experiences taught me that intentions matter less than outcomes.
Living and raising a family in a rural community has further shaped how I approach decision-making. When hospitals close, teachers leave, or infrastructure fails, families do not have easy alternatives. That reality has made me practical, persistent, and focused on solutions.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
As an educator, I have spent my career advocating for students and families who are often overlooked in policymaking. That work includes collaborating with parents, administrators, and community leaders to secure resources, address learning gaps, and support children facing challenges both in and out of the classroom.
I have served on school district advisory and bond oversight committees and volunteered with community organizations focused on education, food access, and disaster recovery. These experiences taught me that representation is not about speaking for people — it is about listening to them and following through.
I have learned that trust is built through consistency and presence. Showing up matters, especially in rural communities that are too often ignored. If elected, I will continue to advocate for this district by staying accessible, listening closely, and ensuring federal decisions reflect the realities of the people I serve.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values guide my belief that government should work for everyday people. I believe in fairness, opportunity, and dignity — and that public policy should expand access to education, healthcare, and economic security.
As a Democrat, I support fully funding public education, protecting access to healthcare, defending reproductive freedom, and ensuring working families can afford the basics. I believe workers deserve fair wages, safe workplaces, and the right to organize, and that rural communities should not be left behind.
Democratic leadership also means protecting fundamental freedoms, including voting rights, and governing with transparency and accountability. I approach public service by asking who is impacted, who is missing from the conversation, and whether a policy will improve people’s lives in a meaningful way.
If elected, I will bring these values to Congress by listening to constituents, grounding decisions in lived experience, and fighting for policies that strengthen families and communities across TX-27.
"Stock" Castro-Mendoza
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am Stock Castro-Mendoza, a 30-year Navy Captain (Ret.), a teacher and a farmer. I am running on a simple promise—to bring back the working classes and restore the American Dream. I’m running to lower costs of housing and healthcare, protect earned benefits, and make life affordable again.
(Answers Not Available for other questions.)
Judith Zaffirini (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
The first Mexican American woman Texas state senator and first woman Dean of the Senate, my work ethic & effectiveness are reflected in my 100% voting record, having cast 76,000+ consecutive votes in the Senate; and my passing 1,500+ bills, more than any legislator in the history of our state.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My experiences align strongly with the responsibilities of a state senator. As a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who has supported myself since I was 17, I understand the hopes and challenges of families in our district, especially as a minority woman in a male-dominated Texas Senate. Earning my B.S., M.A., and Ph.D. at UT Austin with a 3.97 GPA while married and working up to three part-time jobs shaped my commitment to accessible, affordable, high-quality education and employment opportunities for all Texans.
My background as an educator, award-winning communication specialist, business owner, and President of the Alexander Foundation and its entities also prepared me to lead effectively. Winning my first election in a field of five male opponents was challenging, but proving that minorities and women could excel in the Legislature required even more effort. I have passed 1,524 bills, cast 76,843 consecutive votes, and been the highest bill-passer for six consecutive sessions in a Republican-dominated legislature.
My success includes decades of legislative and political experience, including working for Senator Wayne Connally, advocacy for education and mental health, and leadership within the Texas Democratic Party. Simply stated, I had paid my dues long before running for the Senate.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service? Limit 200 Words.
My staff and I embrace the mantra I learned from the Ursuline nuns, “Serviam!” (I shall serve!) We are here to serve, not to be served; and our agenda is based on the special needs and interests of the families of SD 21, not on my personal interests or agenda.
My approach to solving problems, making decisions, and taking actions is to interact with and learn from constituents while developing consensus. This means not only by having an open-door policy that enables me to accept all their requests for meetings, but also by responding to all their emails, letters, and text messages.
On the rare occasion that someone is rude, insulting, hostile, or even vulgar, I ask myself, “What if he or she is right?” Then I look beyond the emotion to evaluate that person’s perspective based on the underlying logic, truth, and ethics of the message.
My goal is to represent the families of SD 21, not only those who vote for me or who look like, think, or act like I do. I especially welcome opportunities to consider the perspective of those who disagree with my positions, perspective, or votes and always invite them to meet with me.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts? Limit 200 Words.
I advocated for our community long before my election and learned to lead and to serve effectively with compassion while listening patiently and being responsive.
Growing-up as a Democratic party volunteer since I was five, I later served in leadership positions, including Vice Chair of the Texas Democratic Party and Chair of its Rules and Communication committees, State Democratic Executive Commmitteewoman for SD 21, Democratic National Committee member, and delegate to the state and national Democratic conventions. Those experiences empowered me to work within our Big Tent while collaborating, problem-solving, consensus-building, and diversifying.
Having worked for our State Senator as a part-time media aide while a UT undergraduate afforded me insight and experience that enabled me to hit the ground running upon election. My early legislative activities included lobbying legislators as a 22-year-old board member of the Texas Association for Mental Health for the then-controversial independent living centers for persons with intellectual and emotional disabilities. During our quest for a four-year university for Laredo, I also suggested and served on the committee that saved our upper-level center from closure by the legislature, not realizing then that 26 years later I would pass the bill creating our local PhD-granting four-year university.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking? Limit 200 Words.
My priorities, decisions, and strategies in serving constituents are based on Democratic values of equal opportunity, equal worth, access to justice for all, education and health as rights (not privileges), diversity and inclusion, fairness, respect, honesty, and integrity. Accordingly, I have passed 216 bills in education, including 137 in higher education; 268 in health and human services; and 134 impacting the judiciary, with a focus on access to justice for litigants who have low incomes, don’t speak English, have disabilities, and/or are veterans.
These values impact my votes, causing me to oppose bills that eliminate diversity and inclusion, limit opportunity, oppress conflicting perspectives, discriminate against groups or regions, limit access to education or health, make it more difficult to vote, or reduce funding for these important needs.
Having internalized these values early as a Texas Democratic Party leader, I serve with accountability, transparency, and responsiveness and engage young Texans as interns and volunteers in developing leadership skills and helping us create a better future and elect more Democrats. Before running for the Texas Senate, I paid my dues at many levels in multiple arenas since first working as a 5-year-old alongside my parents to support our community and our party.
Cortney Jones
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I’m a social worker, mother, and lifelong advocate running for Texas Senate District 21 because our communities deserve leadership that truly listens, understands, and acts. I’m running to amplify the voices of everyday Texans, protect our children, strengthen families, and deliver practical solutions to the issues affecting our communities.
(Answers Not Available for other questions.)
District 45 Erin Zwiener (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Erin Zwiener is currently serving her fourth term in the Texas Legislature where she is one of the Democratic Caucus's frontline fighters against harmful legislation. She also founded and chairs the Texas Energy and Climate Caucus and serves as the Treasurer for the Texas LGBTQ Caucus.
(Answers Not Available for other questions.)
District 73 Merrie Fox
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
As a retired school principal and longtime public education advocate, I’ve proudly called this district home for 45 years. I’ve seen our rapid growth firsthand, and I believe local communities—not outside interests—should guide development. We must protect our water, preserve our quality of life, and plan responsibly for the future.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My background as a school principal prepared me to lead with fairness, transparency, and accountability—skills essential for this office. In schools I built systems that served diverse communities, managed balanced budgets while prioritizing critical needs, and ensured the safety and well-being of students and staff. I’m experienced in resolving conflicts among people with competing interests and de-escalating tense situations with empathy and clear communication.
Beyond my professional experience, my community involvement keeps me grounded in the real needs of the people I serve. I volunteer with my church to feed people experiencing homelessness, mentor a foster youth through New Braunfels Angels, and support the LGBTQ+ community through Riverside Pride.
As a Principal Advocacy Fellow with Raise Your Hand Texas, I’ve testified on public education issues and worked directly with elected officials on local concerns. These experiences have strengthened my understanding of how public policy affects individuals and families.
Together, my leadership, community service, and policy advocacy equip me to balance big-picture priorities with the everyday needs of our community—making thoughtful, people-centered decisions in this role.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service? Limit 200 Words.
My approach to problem-solving and leadership has been shaped by years of balancing competing needs in high-stakes environments. As a school leader, I learned to support teachers managing large, diverse classrooms while ensuring every student received individualized attention. I balanced passionate parent advocacy with fairness to all families, and community expectations for extracurricular success with state requirements for academic accountability. I also worked to meet growing demands on teachers while protecting them from burnout.
Beyond education, my service on the Riverside Pride board required navigating conservative community views about drag events while honoring the LGBTQ+ community’s right to celebrate identity and history. These experiences reinforced the importance of listening, empathy, and standing firm in core values.
On a personal level, balancing the desire to live authentically as a lesbian with concerns about safety and professional consequences deepened my commitment to thoughtful, courageous decision-making. I’ve also learned to advocate for marginalized people while managing political backlash.
Together, these experiences taught me to weigh multiple perspectives, prioritize equity, make data-informed decisions, and lead with both compassion and resolve—skills I bring to public service every day.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I’ve worked to represent and advocate for my community by showing up, speaking out, and taking action on issues that matter to local families. I’ve attended City Council meetings to oppose harmful development proposals and book bans, and I’ve addressed Commissioners Court to advocate for stronger water infrastructure. I’ve testified before the Public Education Committee to push for fair and adequate school funding.
I’ve also supported vulnerable neighbors through outreach to people experiencing homelessness—feeding individuals, participating in Point-in-Time counts, and helping coordinate services for unhoused families. I’ve helped connect LGBTQ+ residents with affirming businesses, organizations, and each other to build safer, more supportive networks.
To stay informed and grounded, I participate in community forums like the Wimberley Roundtable, attend local meetings focused on water conservation and management, and engage with Braver Angels to foster respectful dialogue across political differences.
Through these efforts, I’ve learned the importance of listening first, building trust, and balancing advocacy with collaboration. Most importantly, I’ve learned that effective public service means amplifying community voices and turning shared concerns into meaningful action.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking? Limit 200 Words.
Democratic values guide me to lead with empathy, fairness, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people I serve. I believe the true marks of a leader are the hands of a servant—someone who listens first, puts community needs above personal or political gain, and works to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to thrive.
These values shape my priorities by centering working families, protecting public education, defending individual freedoms, and standing up for those who are too often overlooked or marginalized. They guide my decisions by grounding them in evidence, transparency, and respect for diverse perspectives, even when there is disagreement.
In office, my approach will be rooted in service: showing up for constituents, advocating for equitable policies, and building solutions that strengthen opportunity, safety, and dignity for all. I will work to expand access to education, healthcare, and economic stability, while safeguarding civil rights and local voices.
Ultimately, Democratic values remind me that public service is not about power—it’s about stewardship, accountability, and improving everyday lives through thoughtful, people-centered leadership.
Cassie Benoist-Templeton
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I bring years of courtroom experience and a lifelong commitment to public service. My approach is straightforward: apply the law fairly and impartially, treat every person with dignity and respect, protect the constitutional rights of all, and continue to support and strengthen our specialty drug court program.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office? Limit 200 Words.
I have practiced criminal law as a prosecutor, handling cases from initial intake through trial and the appellate process. This experience taught me careful judgment, ethical discretion, and a clear understanding that every case is unique. In making charging decisions and negotiating pleas, I have balanced public safety, fairness, and the long-term impact on individuals and the community.
Throughout my career, I have worked closely with all stakeholders in the justice system, including victims and their families, law enforcement, defense attorneys, advocacy organizations such as the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center, and court staff. Building strong professional relationships has been essential to ensuring cases move efficiently while maintaining respect for due process.
Beyond the courtroom, I have previously served as a board member for the League of Women Voters of Hays County and currently serve on the board for the Schieb Center. These roles have deepened my understanding of the intersection between the justice system, compassion, and access to resources. Together, these professional, civic, and community experiences equip me to serve as District Judge with integrity, empathy, and a steadfast commitment to justice.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
My legal career has been foundational in shaping my approach to solving problems and making decisions. Practicing law requires analyzing complex facts, applying the law objectively, and making thoughtful decisions often under tight deadlines and significant pressure. Working daily with attorneys, litigants, law enforcement, court staff and others taught me to listen carefully, weigh competing perspectives, and resolve issues fairly while remaining grounded in the law.
My civic service has also been influential. Serving as a board member of two different community organizations as well as being a youth sports coach has reinforced the value of informed and thoughtful decision making. These roles required clear communication and leadership grounded in fairness.
Together, these experiences have shaped a problem-solving approach grounded in careful analysis, collaboration, and fairness. This has guided me to emphasize listening first and leading with integrity.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
As a prosecutor, I have worked with victims from diverse backgrounds and many who had never been part of the justice system before. My work reinforced the importance of clear communication, patience, and ensuring that every person understands the process and feels heard. It also emphasized how critical fairness, consistency, and respect are to maintaining trust within the justice system.
My community involvement has allowed me to advocate for the public in much broader ways. Serving on the board of the League of Women Voters of Hays County, I worked to promote voter participation, voter education, and transparency in government. This experience has taught me the value of listening to differing viewpoints and fostering a respectful dialogue. My service on a mental health board has highlighted the need for collaboration between the justice system and community resources to achieve meaningful outcomes for many different issues. From these efforts, I have learned that effective advocacy, representation and support begins with listening, empathy, and a commitment to solutions that serve both individual needs and the community as a whole.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values guide me by emphasizing fairness, equality, accountability, and respect for the rule of law. At the core of these values is my belief that our justice system must work for everyone, regardless of their background, status, race, gender, sexual orientation or circumstances. A District Judge should ensure that every person who comes before the court is treated with dignity and respect, afforded due process, and given a meaningful opportunity to be heard.
I also fiercely believe in protecting constitutional rights and maintaining an impartial judiciary. I am committed to making sure the law is applied fairly and consistently, free from political influence and always being mindful of the real life impact judicial decisions have on individuals, families, and our community.
As in the Democratic party, problem solving approaches that strengthen communities should be a priority. This includes recognizing that courts can have a part in addressing underlying issues such as mental health or substance use through collaboration with community resources. Guided by all these values, my approach to service is rooted in integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to justice for all.
Joe Pool (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am the 428th District Judge. Justice delayed is justice denied. I have streamlined court operations resulting in quicker resolutions. Since I have been on the bench incarceration costs have dropped from $25,077 per day to $15,272.50. This reduction has been a team effort and accomplished without releasing violent offenders.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office? Limit 200 Words.
My court has jurisdiction over criminal and civil matters including family law and child protective services. My father and mother died five months apart when I was 12. This greatly affected my childhood and gives me a greater appreciation and discernment in family law and CPS cases.
I have extensive experience and knowledge in the creation of companies and the running of businesses. This helps me provide civil litigants a more focused courtroom seeking fair and impartial resolutions with less time spent on attorneys' primrose paths.
My 3 years on the bench dealing with felonies, felons or defendants has greatly increased my criminal law knowledge and experience. I am now a lot more confident in my abilities to help defendants stay successful under Probation or Pre-Trial supervision than I was when I started. Hays County’s cost reductions in incarcerations have been achieved by smarter economic placement of prisoners and the placing of more defendants under supervision rather than jail. This has all been accomplished without releasing violent offenders.
My 30 year experience in teaching and coaching soccer and basketball has been helpful in dealing with and communicating to defendants and others essential to running a good efficient court.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
Starting new businesses shaped my approach to problem-solving, leadership and decision-making in public service. My brothers and I created a successful Self-Storage business.
I was Vice President and General Counsel for the self-storage corporation. We were getting plans approved and financing for a second set of units. The Bank researched some old fire maps of our property and found a plumbing fixture smelter had been on our property. This was potentially an environmental problem. We had it tested and there were problem residues present. There were two ways to clean it up. One was to take the top three feet of dirt off of the problem area and replace with clean dirt. Then you could retest the site and get clearance to construct the project. But this solution bothered me in that whatever was still below might come to the surface in the future or rules may change and you have to clean it out anyway. So I convinced my brothers that we should clean out the site to a depth where no residues remained. Then I convinced the bank to finance the second phase construction and the total cleanup which was an extra $100,000. Problem solved.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I have served Hays County by providing legal services to many struggling residents on a Pro Bono (without cost) basis. One difficult case was returning a son to his father in Dripping Springs. The mother had taken their son to live with her in Florida and gave no contact information. We finally found her by searching criminal records in Florida and found she had been put in jail for drug offenses. The boy had been placed into Florida foster care. My pro bono client had been sober for ten years after a DWI. We contacted Florida CPS to return the boy to his father. Florida CPS researched my client and discovered the DWI without asking us to disclose any criminal history. Florida CPS decided that the boy was better off in foster care in Florida than to be with his father. We went to Florida and challenged that CPS decision and eventually brought my client's son home.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
I believe and practice in my court that everyone should be treated equally under our constitutions, statutes and the rule of law. In my court I strive to provide justice for all no matter what race or ethnicity you feel you are - we are all human beings, period, no difference. It is my intention to get those who have strayed into the criminal void the freedom to access the tools that may help them finally get and hold an honest job and provide for their families. We push defendants to earn a college degree or a trade in prison or locally under Hays County supervision. In my court I allow diverse voices to be heard and provide individuals an equal opportunity to adjudicate their rights and obligations with a heavy dose of accountability.
Bill Henry
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
As a district judge for 17 years, I tried over 200 jury trials, including capital murder, sexual assault, and drug cases, and handled hundreds of civil, criminal, and family cases. I bring to the court experience and independence, qualities that are crucial as we fight attacks on our justice system.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
I moved to this county 38 years ago. Since then, I have been involved in many local organizations, including Hays County Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and Lions Club. My wife and I have fostered relationships in every corner of the county, seeking ways to give back to this community and support Hays County citizens.
Recognizing that many of our citizens were not afforded timely access to our courts, I helped draft the statute that created the 428th District Court in 2005. When I was appointed to the court, I learned two important lessons. First, I learned that actual experience on the bench is the key to becoming an outstanding jurist. Many attorneys believe they can be a good judge from day one, but it takes years to gather the experience necessary to become a truly effective judge. I have already put in that time. Secondly, I realized that people outside of our county were trying to control our courts. I worked with Democrats on Commissioners Court to help create two additional district courts for our county alone. Out of all the candidates in this race, I have the requisite experience and the independence to best serve in this position.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
One of the experiences from my time on the bench involved understanding the fact that addiction and mental health drive a large part of the justice system. In order to address this problem, I started the first drug court in the history of Hays County and ran that court for a decade without fanfare or assistance. Interaction with the defendants in this specialized court helped me to understand how to balance accountability and rehabilitation while also understanding the factors that create issues in the criminal justice system.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
While serving as judge of the 428th Court, I realized that our citizens were not receiving the timely legal access they deserved because most of the judges serving Hays County lived and worked in another county. I began to advocate for more courts that served Hays County citizens exclusively. Republicans from inside and outside our county opposed adding more courts because this represented a loss of political control. Nevertheless, I worked to make sure that we could have courts that served our county alone. Recently I spoke out publicly against the ICE raid in Dripping Springs because of the lack of constitutional protection in that process. No other candidate in this race has spoken out on this attack on the rights of our citizens. From these and other efforts, I have learned that advocating for my community requires thick skin and a fierce determination to do the right thing despite criticism.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking? Limit 200 Words.
My values are guided by compassion toward others and a determination to protect and defend the Constitution. From my experience on the bench and my investment in this community, I recognize that a majority of non-violent offenses are driven by poverty, addiction, and mental health issues. My decisions on the bench have been, and would continue to be, guided by that understanding.
Judges have wide discretion on types of punishment. For cases without violence or victims, a judge must understand that crime is heavily influenced by other larger issues. In order to protect and improve our community, a judge must have the experience to follow the law and the compassion to help people who come into the court.
Alfonso O. Salazar
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Twelve-year military police Veteran. Former three-year bar card felony prosecutor in Williamson County, now leading a civil rights and criminal defense firm. Strengthen intake to provide immediate mental health support, closely review police conduct, and ensure taxpayer resources are spent only on cases that belong in court.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
I began my career carrying the responsibility of serving as a military police officer, supervising and leading thousands of people from every background. Through that experience, I learned that leadership requires understanding that every individual brings unique strengths and challenges, and that effective leadership means adapting to serve both the mission and the people. I learned the practice of law working felony cases under a mentor, handling murders and other serious crimes, where the consequences of every decision were profound. Later, when I opened my own practice and began representing clients on misdemeanor charges, I gained a deeper understanding of how even minor cases can deeply affect people’s lives. Listening to activists and civic groups across this community confirmed what I have always believed: the public wants accountability, fairness, and leaders they can trust. They want someone who will take responsibility, not shift blame, and who will protect both public safety and civil rights. The District Attorney’s office holds enormous power over people’s lives. That power demands integrity, transparency, and accountability. It is too important to place in the hands of someone unwilling to hold themselves to the same standard they expect of others.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
As a member of this community, I understand what victims and families experience in our court system feeling powerless and forced to rely on a government office for justice. When I was fourteen, my family lost my sister to gun violence. In my youth, I experienced racial profiling and encountered bad policing firsthand. I was raised by a community of strong women who taught me the meaning of sacrifice, service, and giving back. In the military, I learned leadership from both exceptional supervisors and from those who showed me what not to become. In law, I worked beside a mentor wrestling with what justice truly means and who deserves a second chance. Later, running my own practice, I often found myself standing alone against a massive system, fighting for one client at a time. All of these experiences taught me a simple truth: these are not numbers, these are people. Every decision we make in the justice system affects someone’s life sometimes forever. Those decisions must be treated with care, integrity, and accountability, not rushed or reduced to outdated policies. Justice deserves nothing less.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
My entire professional career has been one of service. What many do not see about military service is the sacrifice not only of body, mind, and spirit but of time. You give up days, months, and years so that other Americans can chase their dreams. I have served this county directly as a criminal defense attorney, where it is my responsibility to ensure justice is done for each and every client. Our justice system cannot function without both the defense and the state. As a civil rights attorney, it is my duty to hold accountable those who violate the rights of our community members. I continued serving this county by becoming Kelly Higgins’s campaign manager for District Attorney after seeing the harm caused by previous Republican leadership and refusing to let it happen again. Now, I am advocating for this county by running for office myself. We deserve a leader who is not one-dimensional, but who brings many experiences and perspectives to this office. The District Attorney’s office has the power to create real change across our county if it is led with integrity, accountability, and courage.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking? Limit 200 Words.
Equality and the rule of law are the foundation of justice. The law must apply equally to everyone. My goal is a safe community, and to achieve that I will help those who are willing to accept support. But when someone refuses help and poses a danger to others, they must be removed from the community to protect public safety. On social programs, the Democratic platform has always sought to strengthen services that support our communities. I will continue that work, but with a realistic and progressive approach. If a program is not working, I am not afraid to admit it and pursue better solutions. The only true failure is clinging to policies we know are not effective. Our community deserves progress until we find what works for the long term. On criminal justice reform, labels like “tough” or “soft” on crime miss the point. Crime is often a symptom of deeper issues. While a small number of people choose to harm others, most cases could have been prevented with guidance, education, opportunity, and support. I will protect public safety while rejecting one size fits all justice. Real reform comes from principled leadership, thoughtful decision making, and accountability not slogans or sweeping declarations.
Landon Bryan Campbell
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Landon is the Chief of the Misdemeanor and Specialty Courts Division of the Hays County DA's Office. He has previously served as a misdemeanor and felony prosecutor in the DA’s Office. He believes in doubling down on diversion, focusing on violent crime, and preparing for the challenges of the 2030s.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
Landon has previously served various roles in five prosecutor offices and has worked as an appellate attorney for two judges on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. Specific to Hays County, Landon previously served as the Veteran’s Treatment Court Prosecutor and the Mental Health Court Prosecutor before serving as a felony prosecutor in the 207th District Court. When Kelly Higgins became DA, he chose Landon to supervise and train all new prosecutors. Shortly thereafter, he tasked Landon with managing all diversion courts and programs in Hays County. Landon’s division is now larger than many other DA’s Offices across Texas. In his position as a Division Chief, Landon has worked closely with judges, department heads, and law enforcement leadership to create solutions and new programs for Hays County. In addition, he has trained other prosecutors as a trainer with the Texas District and County Attorney Association. This prior experience means that he is ready on day one for any challenges that come his way.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service? Limit 200 Words.
Being a leader means solving problems, and Landon has constantly answered the call to create solutions. For example, in 2024, when claims of election interference threatened to destroy community trust in local elections, Landon joined other county leaders to create an Election Integrity Taskforce. This Taskforce served as a rapid response tool to answer accusations against Hays County and served as a central conduit for any community concerns. Landon eventually presented at a statewide conference of election workers to share this Hays County solution statewide. As another example, Landon serves on both the Behavioral Advisory Team and Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee, which both operate consistently to coordinate interagency responses to problems such as the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system. These experiences and roles have shown Landon that many problems can only be solved by pulling key stakeholders together to come to joint solutions. Landon is committed to doing that and is ready on day one to do so.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
A local prosecutor represents all the people of the County, including the defendant themselves. Because of this, Landon strives to work every day to improve the criminal justice system to increase efficiency while promoting due process and fairness. He has worked to bring new diversion courts and programs to Hays County, which help the entire county by breaking cycles of crises that had previously trapped our neighbors in the criminal justice system. In addition, he has worked to eliminate a backlog of unfiled cases, which had previously crippled countless lives. When Kelly Higgins took Office, 5,600 defendants and victims were waiting for their day in court. The DA’s Office took action to eviscerate that backlog by 70%, allowing our neighbors to finally either move on with their lives or finally have their day in court. Outside of work, Landon has been a member of the Hays County Bar Associations Board of Directors, where he has worked to increase engagement and education amongst attorneys, and a past Chair of the Schieb Opportunity Center, where he worked to increase the availability and quality of mental health services in Hays County.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Every single day, Landon goes into work and proves that Democratic Values are Governing Values. These values include ensuring due process for all, efficient use of taxpayer dollars, treating everyone fairly and with respect, removing barriers to rehabilitation and reentry, holding all criminal justice partners accountable, and local control of local decisions. Combining these values have led to amazing results for Hays County, and they will lead to even more successes in the coming years!
Michelle Gutierrez Cohen
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I have a straightforward vision for Hays County: to enhance the quality of life for everyone. As a county, we face many challenges ahead which is why we need strong leadership that is capable of collaboration, compromise and vision. My leadership style is rooted in empathy, compassion and proactive planning.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
I have over 30 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, specializing in supply management, contract management, IT systems implementation, consulting, and training. I founded a grassroots organization dedicated to community advocacy that provides COVID-19 resources to marginalized communities. Additionally, I have served as the Hays County Commissioner for Precinct 2 for the past three years.
My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, an MBA, and a Doctorate in Management with a focus on Organizational Leadership. I also serve on several boards, including CARTS, the Hays County Food Bank, the Capital Area Housing Finance Corporation, and the Clean Air Coalition. Furthermore, I am the Chair of the Public Health Advisory Board for Hays County. I have been recognized by TAMACC as a Woman of Distinction honoree, received the Women in Transportation honor, and achieved national recognition with United Latinas' 50 Over 50 Latina award.
For the Democratic Party, I am a former precinct chair, a Volunteer Deputy Registrar, and I have managed four campaigns. My advocacy is the foundation of my leadership, and I will continue to work for the benefit of working families.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
I am the eldest daughter in a Hispanic family, which has instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility towards others. I have always maintained a problem-solving work ethic and never give up when faced with challenges; I will persevere until I find an adequate solution. As a working mom of three children, I have learned to plan ahead and manage multiple situations while balancing the demands of home, work, and school. I earned my doctorate degree while navigating these challenges.
Leadership is my passion, and my leadership style is rooted in empathy, compassion, and proactive planning. My experience as a County Commissioner has further enhanced my skills in problem-solving and decision-making. Removing barriers and increasing accessibility has always been the foundation of my advocacy, and I will continue to prioritize this as the Hays County Judge.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
During the pandemic, I formed a grassroots organization called Hays Latinos United in direct response to the racial disparities faced by the Latino community due to COVID-19. I did not believe that the county government was doing enough to support these marginalized communities. I have consistently assisted with various events, including food distributions, providing school supplies, coats, sneakers, and toys. Additionally, I have mentored through the Seedling Mentor Program, which helps children affected by parental incarceration and deportation. Advocacy is at the core of my leadership style, and I will continue to help people to the best of my ability. Through all this work, I have learned about the lack of effective systems within our county government.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values thrive on the principles of equality, diversity, and justice for everyone. At their core, they empower us to uplift the most vulnerable by breaking down barriers and enhancing access. I’m proud to have a strong track record of supporting my community and tirelessly advocating for its protection. For me, community engagement goes beyond merely showing up; it’s about making a genuine impact. I firmly believe in meeting people where they are and will continue this approach for as long as I can. Community service is a powerful way to gain insights into the needs of our neighborhoods and discover how we can effectively support them through governance. Together, we can create meaningful change and foster a brighter future for all!
Joel W. Martin
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am a self employed builder, business owner, and public safety professional with deep experience in infrastructure, emergency response, and county operations. I am running for Hays County Judge on three commitments transparency, accountability, and doing it right the first time.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
I have spent more than two decades building and operating organizations where failure is not abstract. Construction, infrastructure, and emergency response demand accountability, clear decision making, and results that hold up under pressure. As a business owner, I manage budgets, teams, compliance, and long term planning. That experience translates directly to county governance.
I also serve as a Reserve Senior Deputy with Hays County Constable Precinct 2, with hands on experience in emergency management, disaster response, and multi agency coordination. That work has shown me how county decisions affect first responders, families, and communities in real time.
I understand how to balance growth with infrastructure, public safety, and fiscal responsibility because I have lived it. I know how to lead professionals, ask hard questions, and make decisions based on facts rather than politics. The County Judge must be an operator, not a spectator. My background prepares me to do the work.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
Emergency response has shaped my leadership more than anything else. In a crisis, there is no room for ego or delay. You assess the facts, bring the right people together, and act. I carry that same mindset into public service.
Running businesses has also been formative. Every decision affects employees, customers, and the community. You learn quickly that transparency builds trust, and that avoiding hard decisions only creates bigger problems later. When something goes wrong, you own it, fix it, and put systems in place to prevent it from happening again.
In public safety, I have seen how coordination and communication save time, money, and lives. Silos fail people. Collaboration works. That experience drives my belief that county leadership must support departments, cities, and agencies as one team serving one county.
Leadership is not about titles. It is about responsibility. I focus on preparation, clear priorities, and follow through. That approach has guided every role I have held.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
My work has always been community facing. As a builder and business owner, I deliver projects that families live in, work in, and depend on. Those projects require listening, problem solving, and long term accountability.
In public safety, I have served alongside local agencies during emergencies and routine operations. I have seen firsthand how policy decisions affect staffing, response times, and public trust. That perspective keeps me grounded in the real impacts of government decisions.
I have also mentored employees and team members, investing in training and leadership development from the day they start. That philosophy carries into public service. Strong communities depend on people who are supported, prepared, and respected.
What I have learned is simple. People want honesty, competence, and follow through. They do not expect perfection, but they expect leaders to own outcomes and fix mistakes. That lesson guides how I serve and how I lead.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values guide me toward fairness, inclusion, and accountability. Government should work for everyone, not just those with influence or access. Transparency is essential. People deserve to understand how decisions are made and how public resources are used.
I believe in responsible growth that protects working families, infrastructure, and public services. That means investing in people, planning for the future, and making data driven decisions. It also means standing up for due process, civil rights, and equal treatment under the law.
Democratic leadership is about service, not power. My approach is practical and results focused, but grounded in empathy and respect for the community. When government gets something wrong, it should be honest about it and committed to doing better.
As County Judge, my priorities will reflect these values by strengthening county operations, supporting public safety and emergency readiness, protecting taxpayers, and ensuring that growth benefits the whole community. That is how trust is built and maintained.
Ruben Becerra (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
My name is Ruben Becerra, and I currently serve as your Hays County Judge. I am a lifelong Democrat and small business owner. I lead with results, not rhetoric- protecting civil rights, demanding transparency, managing crises, and holding county government accountable to working families.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
Before public office, I ran my family’s small businesses in the service industry. I understand leading teams, payroll, and what it means to make tough decisions that directly affect workers and families. That experience shaped my results-driven approach to leadership.
As your current county judge, I have led one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas through major infrastructure demands, complex budgets, and multiple large-scale emergencies.
I managed the county’s response to COVID, coordinated wildfire response to protect lives, homes, and critical infrastructure, and oversaw emergency operations during major weather events—prioritizing evacuations, road safety, and recovery.
I believe preparation matters. I have completed years of extensive training through the Texas Association of Counties, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, emergency management programs, executive leadership training through NACO & CUC, and I am a graduate of the Hill Country Alliance Leadership Institute. Hays County has invested in a continuously trained County Judge who takes this responsibility seriously.
I bring steady leadership, ethical oversight, and a clear focus on doing what’s right, even when I am the lone vote on the court.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
My leadership has been shaped by moments where doing the right thing meant standing alone. As County Judge, I have balanced urgency with accountability during emergencies, rapid growth, and high-stakes public decisions involving infrastructure, public safety, and taxpayer dollars.
I authored and led the passage of a countywide resolution affirming due process and constitutional protections, stood firm against ICE overreach because when rights are taken from one group, they are easily taken from all. I was the only ‘NO’ vote against allowing the NRA into our county, just weeks after the Uvalde school massacre. I was also the only court member to oppose the use of FLOCK surveillance cameras from the moment it was revealed they were being used to monitor vulnerable communities, including women seeking healthcare. These decisions weren’t easy, but leadership isn’t about comfort. It’s about courage. I don’t lead from the sidelines. I lead from the front, guided by principle, not panic, and committed to transparency, due process, and people-first decision-making.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I have spent decades advocating for our community, first through civic leadership, and now as your County Judge. I believe government works best when people are heard before decisions are made, not after. I am the only court member who championed (repeatedly) and advocated for a community oversight committee for the 2024 Road Bond.
I have fought to keep the county tax rate among the lowest in decades while ensuring essential services keep pace with growth. I have challenged closed-door decision-making, raised concerns about unnecessary surveillance, and insisted on public notice and transparency. In my first term, I brought the creation of the Public Defender’s Office to Commissioners Court. I stood as the lone vote, twice, but through persistence, it finally became a reality.
I am the only Democrat on Commissioners Court who consistently votes to fund other Democratic County Officials and ensure their employees are properly paid, because values matter most when budgets are tight.
I’ve learned that trust isn’t built through slogans, it’s built through openness, fairness, and showing up. Effective leadership means listening early, acting with integrity, and refusing to back down when powerful interests push back.
That’s how we protect working families and earn trust.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
I am proud to have been selected by The TEXAS DEMOCRATIC PARTY to serve as Chair of the 2026 Texas Statewide Democratic Convention. That trust reflects my consistent commitment to Democratic principles in action, not just words.
I am a lifelong Democrat, and Democratic values guide every decision I make as County Judge- fairness, inclusion, transparency, and accountability.
That means defending civil rights, standing against discrimination, and protecting due process for everyone. It means opposing government overreach, questioning surveillance technology, and demanding openness in intergovernmental agreements that erode public trust.
I don’t believe in reactive leadership. I believe in proactive leadership that does what’s right before public pressure forces it. That’s why I stood against ICE overreach, opposed the NRA’s presence in our county, and refused to stay silent when surveillance threatened vulnerable communities.
I am battle tested, crisis proven, and guided by principle. I will continue leading from the front with integrity, courage, and accountability.
Jimmy Alan Hall (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
My slogan is "Hall for All" because I always honor and respect everyone - without exception - and do so in my courtroom. I see the interconnectedness between justice for all and the efficient use of tax dollars in Hays County.
(Answers Not Available for other questions.)
County Court-at-Law #2
Chris Johnson (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I've been putting others first as a profession since 2001: First as a prosecutor in Collin and Hays counties and then for two terms as Judge of County Court at Law #2. I will continue to lead by example and serve the people with devotion to duty, honor and justice.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office? Limit 200 Words.
County Court at Law #2 is almost exclusively a criminal court. I've devoted 25 years to the pursuit of justice in our criminal justice system. I've prosecuted every kind of criminal offense and presided over just as varied an array of criminal cases. As Judge of CCL2 I am the only candidate with the experience of presiding over jury trials, directing the daily large dockets and managing the County Courts at Law. I am the only candidate to answer the call for warrant reviews at all hours, day and night. I am the only candidate to balance the needs of public safety, victim rights and juvenile "best interest" in cases ranging from burglaries and Fentanyl possession to aggravated robbery, sexual assault and murder. As an Air Force dependent I grew up in the military. My father's assignment to the US Embassy to Italy exposed me to the other services and what sacrifice means. I build on that experience as Judge of the Veterans Treatment Court to help guide our veterans along their journey to recovery and out of the criminal justice system. Working well with others for the common good is my daily habit.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
Public service has been my life. First I watched the adults give their time and talent for others; my father and his friends as flyers in the Air Force; my grandfather as a police officer. I saw what it cost. I saw what it achieved. Later I understood something of their sacrifices as every four years I too was called upon to give up friends, family, home and endure daily the scrutiny of military family life. As an adult my experience of public service has shown me the best and the worst of humanity. They call it trial by jury for a reason, it's a trial. Trial drives every aspect of our criminal justice system. Cases are charged, dismissed, plead or punished based on the prospects or outcomes of trials. Trials and all that lead up to or follow after them are team activities. Trials cost - money, teers and sweat. We must all put ourselves aside to achieve the goals of public service. Our leaders especially. A Judge's primary function is to listen to others. For the common good, as Judge I put myself aside and listen to those I work with and those I serve.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I have lead in a number of areas unique to our criminal justice system. I plaid an important role in the efforts to expand and protect the rights of the accused to competent representation. I worked with others to reform the indigent defense plan; work that ultimately lead to the creation and expansion of the Indigent Defense Coordinator and the Public Defenders Office. By playing a vital role in the creation of our Pre-Trial Services Division, I worked with others to improve the way we balance the interests of public safety and those beset by addiction and/or mental health concerns. I helped professionalize our Veterans Treatment Court for the better treatment of those scared by military service. I have plaid a critical role in improving the way in which our Juvenile Justice System balances public safety and best interest of child offenders by increasing access to attorneys, developing a remote system for Detention Hearings, advocating for better pay, better working conditions and more Juvenile Detention Staff and by helping to improve and expand programming for Juveniles on Probation. Working with others and listening to their concerns is the only way to achieve lasting success and meaningful improvement.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
My experience of Democrat leaders in Hays County has taught me to remain open minded and maintain a lively heart. From them and with them I've learned to work with others to achieve our common goals. I have long been guided by the values of Duty, Honor and Justice. It is by steadfast devotion to these ideals that I've learned how to love my neighbor; how and why to sacrifice for the good of others; and how and why to ensure the fair, decent and humane treatment of others. As a Prosecutor and later as a Judge it has been my duty to follow the law even when I didn't like the outcome. That is what it means to be a nation of laws. That is how we protect ourselves and each other from tyranny. But we must do so with kindness and charity in our hearts. I have learned to be an optimist without illusions. I know what people are capable of - the good and the bad. I have learned the values of teamwork and charity. A Judge may singly bare the weight of the Court's decisions, but the good Judge listens and works well with and for others.
W. David Friesenhahn
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Our campaign slogan is "Let's Get Real -- Real Democrat, Real Experience, Real Change. I'm a former Democratic Precinct Chair, a criminal trial lawyer, and I believe in real change -- to prevent drunk driving, to help first offenders clear criminal records, and to clear the backlog of cases.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
County Court-at-Law No. 2 is primarily a criminal trial court, and I'm a criminal trial lawyer. I have been a criminal trial lawyer for over 36 years, both as a prosecutor and a defense lawyer. I'm board certified as a specialist in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. I've handled literally thousands of criminal cases, I've tried over 150 jury trials to a verdict, and I've presented oral arguments to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. I handle criminal cases in County Court-at-law No. 2 on a regular basis. Thirty years ago, I founded my own law office, which I still run today.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
There's been no one experience that has most shaped my approach to problem solving and decision making. Rather, it's the accumulated humility that comes from spending decades of my life meeting, and working with, people from all walks of life and realizing that the world is not black-and-white, and that you don't always have all the answers. I hope what I have gained is an open mind and a willingness to listen. Every person, and every case, is different. As a prosecutor, I've listened to survivors of assault tell me of their struggles to break free from their abusers. As a defense lawyer, I've heard my clients tell me of their battles with addiction and mental illness. And I've listened to cops, and others who work in criminal justice, as they've labored in an overwhelmed system. I view my career as a calling to ensure that people are heard and that cases don't fall through the cracks.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I've learned to say the word "no" a lot. I began my career as a prosecutor and worked in the trenches with cops. Although my job was to support law enforcement, one of the biggest responsibilities I had was to sometimes say "No, we can't do that. It's not legal. It's not right." As a defense lawyer, I've been defending the rights of individuals against the government almost every single day for over three decades. It's not an accident that I'm both a criminal defense lawyer and a member of the American Civil Liberties Union. The desire to fight for individual liberty is what led me to become a lawyer in the first place. Over the past three decades, I've walked into courtrooms and said "no" to the government literally thousands of times. With the rule of law under attack in America, the court needs someone who is willing to stand up and defend the rights of the people of this county, who is willing to stand up and say "No, we can't do that. It's not legal. It's not right."
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
The best way for a trial court judge to be an ambassador for the Democratic Party is simply to run a fair court that treats everyone with respect -- to uphold the Bill of Rights one case at a time. Beyond that, judges should actively emphasize values that align with the values of the Democratic Party -- namely, equal justice for everyone and respect for the rule of law.
Thomas Just
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
- Former USAF senior intelligence analyst.
- Lifelong Democrat, veteran advocate.
- Fair, efficient courts: diversion programs, in-person Spanish interpretation.
- Fully fund Public Defender; end predatory 30% private-collections surcharge.
- Learn more at JustForHays.com.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
Built a career in the courtroom handling the same cases this court hears: Class A/B misdemeanors, civil disputes, probate and guardianship matters, juvenile and mental-health proceedings, and de novo appeals.
- Served as first chair in hundreds of contested hearings and trials; managed cases from intake through judgment and enforcement; practiced in federal court.
Handled serious felony matters, sharpening evidentiary skills and judgment in high-stakes proceedings.
- Led public-integrity litigation removing an incompetent Hays County District Clerk and exposed unauthorized practice of law, reflecting a commitment to ethical, accountable government.
- Former U.S. Air Force senior intelligence analyst, trained to evaluate evidence, recognize bias, and make disciplined decisions under pressure—skills directly transferable to the bench.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service? Limit 200 Words.
My approach to problem-solving and leadership is grounded in two experiences: military intelligence and front-line courtroom litigation.
As a senior intelligence analyst, I learned to evaluate sources, test assumptions, and recognize cognitive bias before acting, guided by the Air Force core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. That discipline informs how I assess credibility, weigh evidence, and explain rulings grounded in the record.
As an attorney on a high-volume docket, I learned that leadership is preparation and a steady temperament. People come to court on some of the most challenging and vulnerable days of their lives. A judge must listen carefully, communicate clearly in plain language, enforce the rules consistently, and keep the docket moving without compromising due process.
I am also shaped by moments when public trust is on the line: leading litigation to remove an incompetent Hays County District Clerk; serving as Vice Chair of the Hays County Democratic Party, and serving on the boards of the Austin Bar Association’s Criminal Justice Section and the Hays County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section. These experiences reinforced that public service requires courage, transparency, and accountability—especially when it is inconvenient or unpopular.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts? Limit 200 Words.
The core lesson is that the justice system works best when it is understandable, consistent, and adequately resourced. When people lack counsel, language access, or reliable information, outcomes turn on confusion rather than facts and law. Fair procedures and efficient dockets reinforce each other.
I have spent years representing people in the same court system this bench serves—defendants, families, and community members navigating criminal, civil, probate and guardianship, juvenile, and mental-health matters. That work taught me what “access to justice” means in practice: clear notice, plain-language explanations, timely rulings, and a courtroom where we treat every person with dignity.
I have also advocated beyond individual cases. I led public-integrity litigation to remove an incompetent Hays County District Clerk, built a case exposing the unauthorized practice of law, continued to represent veterans in VA proceedings, and provided pro bono counsel to Task Force Butler to hold neo-Nazi and white-supremacist groups accountable.
In the community, I have served in civic leadership roles, including as Vice Chair of the Hays County Democratic Party and on local boards, focused on strengthening public trust and participation. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking? Limit 200 Words.
"Democratic values begin with the principle that the law should be the great equalizer—not a tool that favors wealth, status, or connections. My north star has always been equal justice under law and applying the Constitution, statutes, and binding precedent fairly, with decisions grounded in evidence and the record—not politics or backroom pressure.
People cannot participate meaningfully without competent and well-resourced counsel, language access, and clear communication. That's why my administrative priorities include a fully funded Public Defender's Office, in-person Spanish interpretation, plain-language orders, and a courtroom that treats victims, witnesses, and families with dignity and takes them seriously.
Democrats also believe government should serve people, not profit from them. I support ending private fine-collection practices that impose a predatory 30% surcharge and can trap working families in a cycle of fees. Because public trust requires accountability, I support transparent, easy-to-read court data on backlogs and outcomes—while protecting privacy—and adequate staffing so cases move without unnecessary delay.
Finally, Democratic values entail believing in second chances and evidence-based solutions. Diversion courts for young adults, juveniles with serious mental health needs, and veterans can improve public safety while reducing long-term harm.
Amanda K. Calvert (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am currently the Hays County District Clerk, elected in November of 2024. Prior to that, I worked at the District Attorney’s Office for 12 years. I attended Texas State University where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and also attended graduate school for Legal Studies. My goal has been to make the District Clerk's office a dependable and stable office with clear communication to the public and law enforcement community.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My education and professional experience prepared me for this office. I previously worked at the District Attorney’s Office. There, I served as the Felony Lead Supervisor overseeing all the administrative work for felony cases in the county. I also have an educational background that fits my position. My degree in Political Science, minor in Sociology and paralegal certificate from Texas State University (go Bobcats) all prepared me for my position. I have also served the community as a Seedling mentor for students who have a parent who is incarcerated or deported, I was a certified advocate on the HEART team for Hays Caldwell Women’s Center as well as a certified foster (now adoptive) parent through the State of Texas. My goal has always been to show up for my community the best way I can.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
I would say the thing that shaped my approach to problem solving the most was obtaining my mediation certificate. It showed me how to communicate effectively. It also showed me how sometimes everyone can be satisfied without compromise if you get creative. Finally, it showed me how to win with integrity when losing is not an option.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts? Limit 200 Words.
As touched on before, I have provided service to the community as a Seedling mentor for students who have a parent who is incarcerated or deported, I was a certified advocate on the HEART team for Hays Caldwell Women’s Center, as well as a certified foster (now adoptive) parent through the State of Texas. I have learned through these experiences that service to the community is vitally important and that the need always exists. In these roles, I have learned firsthand how rewarding and challenging the work can be, and I feel a strong sense duty to ensure the vulnerable among us are not forgotten.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking? Limit 200 Words.
I think educating our community about their rights and responsibilities and inspiring our community members to participate in the decisions that affect their lives are values I apply to my work. I value fairness and strive to apply that value by making sure marginalized community members are treated equally. I also value justice, which is evident through my work towards making sure our legal process is just and fair within my sphere of influence. Furthermore, I will continue to apply my strong sense of integrity in the management of official court records.
Cynthia A. Millonzi
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Current Assistant County Clerk and retired U.S. Army Colonel with 30+ years of leadership and public service. I focus on investing in people, optimizing technology, and planning responsibly—delivering transparent, accurate, and accessible government. Experience, leadership, and qualifications matter—and I’m ready to put them to work for Hays County.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My background is defined by executive-level leadership and management of complex organizations. As Assistant County Clerk, I oversee day-to-day operations of a public-facing office, manage personnel, guide strategic planning, and ensure accurate, transparent service for a rapidly growing county. My work includes operational and growth analysis, technology modernization, and long-range planning to meet increasing community demands.
Previously, I served 30 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Colonel. In that role, I functioned at the equivalent of a CEO—leading large, diverse organizations; managing budgets; conducting forecasting and resource allocation; and developing long-term strategic plans. I was responsible for personnel development, performance management, and accountability, often in high-stakes environments requiring precision and trust.
Across both careers, I have led teams, managed budgets, planned for growth, and delivered measurable results. These experiences prepare me to run the County Clerk’s Office as a professional, efficient, and accountable organization—focused on people, planning, and performance—so Hays County residents receive reliable, transparent, and accessible government services."
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
My approach to leadership and decision-making has been shaped by decades of executive responsibility in complex, high-accountability environments. During my 30-year career in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Colonel, I led large organizations with responsibilities equivalent to a CEO—overseeing personnel, operations, budgets, and long-term strategic planning. Those roles required disciplined problem-solving, risk assessment, and decisions that balanced people, resources, and mission outcomes.
In my role as Assistant County Clerk, I apply that same executive framework to public service. I analyze operational challenges, forecast growth, plan strategically, and implement solutions that improve efficiency, accuracy, and transparency. I believe strong leadership means setting clear priorities, investing in people, and building systems that perform reliably over time.
My decision-making is grounded in data, policy, and accountability, with a focus on long-term impact rather than short-term fixes. I value collaboration and listening, but I am comfortable making difficult decisions when necessary. These experiences shape my commitment to professional, ethical leadership that delivers consistent results and earns the public’s trust in Hays County government.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
My commitment to public service is rooted in values of inclusion, dignity, and community care. As Assistant County Clerk, I work to ensure every resident has access to accurate, transparent, and respectful government services. I advocate for systems that reduce barriers and reflect the diverse needs of our growing community.
Beyond my professional role, I have served as President of Imagine Wimberley, President of the Katherine Anne Porter Public Charter School, and President of the Wimberley Players community theater. Through this nonprofit leadership, I have supported education, the arts, and civic engagement—spaces where community connection and belonging matter deeply.
I am also a longtime advocate for LGBTQIA+ organizations and a community activist for human rights. This work has shaped my belief that government must serve everyone fairly, especially those who have been historically marginalized. Listening, representation, and compassion are essential to earning public trust.
From these experiences, I’ve learned that strong communities are built when leaders show up, listen, and act with integrity. I bring these values to my work every day, committed to building a County Clerk’s Office that serves all residents with fairness, respect, and accountability.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values guide every aspect of how I approach public service. I believe government works best when it is transparent, fair, and accountable to the people it serves. As County Clerk, these values shape my priorities, decisions, and leadership style.
Equity and inclusion are central to my work. I am committed to ensuring that every resident—regardless of background, identity, or circumstance—has equal access to accurate, accessible, and respectful services. I believe government should remove barriers, not create them, and should reflect the diversity of the community it serves.
I value transparency and good governance. Clear processes, ethical decision-making, and responsible stewardship of public resources are essential to earning and maintaining public trust. I prioritize data-driven decisions, long-term planning, and investments in people and technology that improve service delivery.
Finally, I believe public service is about accountability and care for the community. Listening to residents, respecting the law, and leading with integrity guide my approach. Democratic values are not abstract ideals—they are daily practices that ensure government is responsive, inclusive, and works for everyone in Hays County.
DeeDee Rodgers
(No response from candidate)
Nicholas "Nico" Costilla
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am a lifelong Hays County resident running for County Clerk to give back to the community that raised me. My campaign focuses on modernizing records, improving access to county services, and ensuring public services are administered fairly, transparently, and efficiently.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My background is grounded in public service, professional experience, and community engagement. As a lifelong Hays County resident, I have spent years actively involved in the community—attending local events, supporting nonprofits, and engaging with residents about the issues that matter most to them. Professionally, I have worked with the District Attorney’s Office, where I gained firsthand experience navigating government processes, managing sensitive records, and serving the public with accuracy, discretion, and integrity. Combined with my civic work, this experience has strengthened my ability to help residents navigate county services efficiently and with confidence.These experiences have given me a strong understanding of the responsibilities of the County Clerk’s office and the direct impact it has on families, businesses, and residents. The role requires accuracy, organization, transparency, and a commitment to serving the public with fairness and respect. My background has prepared me to lead the Clerk’s office with integrity, modernize systems where needed, and ensure residents receive reliable, accessible, and efficient service.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
My approach to leadership and problem-solving has been shaped by listening to community members and responding to real concerns. Engaging with residents across Hays County has reinforced that effective public service starts with understanding people’s experiences and being clear, consistent, and transparent in decision-making. Working in the District Attorney’s Office and participating in community initiatives has strengthened my organizational skills and highlighted the importance of accountability, accuracy, and discretion. I have learned to balance attention to detail with adaptability, ensuring that decisions are both practical and fair. I believe leadership means collaboration and service. The best decisions are made by engaging community members, communicating clearly, and keeping the public informed. These experiences have shaped my commitment to steady, ethical leadership and prepared me to manage the County Clerk’s office in a way that prioritizes integrity, accessibility, and confidence in county government.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I have consistently worked to support and advocate for my community by showing up and staying engaged. Through community events, nonprofit support, and helping residents understand county services, I have focused on making government more approachable and accessible. I have spent time listening to residents’ concerns about access, transparency, and trust in local offices. These conversations have shown me that effective representation is not just holding a title—it’s building trust through presence, follow-through, and respect.
From these experiences, I have learned that people want a county government that works efficiently and treats everyone fairly. As County Clerk, I will continue advocating for accessible services, clear communication, and transparent processes so residents feel confident interacting with the office and receiving the support they need.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values guide every aspect of my approach to public service. I believe in fairness, transparency, accountability, and equal access—principles that are essential to the responsibilities of the County Clerk’s office. I am committed to supporting an accessible and transparent civic process by helping residents understand county services, public records, and how local government affects their daily lives. These responsibilities must be carried out with integrity and without partisanship, ensuring residents can trust and rely on county government. Democratic values also mean government should respond to the needs of the community. I support modernizing systems, improving communication, and making county services efficient, accessible, and fair for everyone. Public trust is earned through ethical leadership, consistency, and service, and I am committed to upholding these values every day as County Clerk.
Daphne Sanchez Tenorio (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
The Treasurer’s office is defined by security, efficiency and transparency. We cut the red tape to make government work faster for you by modernizing juror payments from paper checks to instant funding. And we delivered unprecedented transparency ensuring you can finally see exactly how your money is being invested every single month.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
Before my current position, I was a Kyle City Council member known for my preparation, work ethic and integrity. I worked hard to ensure residents views were represented on the board and fought for transparency every step of the way.
I am also known for my community leadership as founder of the Hays CISD Mariachi Booster Club. I have raised thousands of dollars and logged numerous hours volunteering for community events
Serving as Hays County Treasurer has strengthened and refined the very skills this office demands: financial stewardship, risk management, and operational leadership. Over the past term, I have overseen the safeguarding and investment of hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars with a relentless focus on security and accountability. We strengthened collateralization policies to ensure county funds are fully protected, modernized outdated systems, and improved internal controls to reduce risk.
My professional background emphasizes fiscal responsibility, efficiency, and public transparency—core competencies for a Treasurer. Beyond technical expertise, I bring a deep commitment to public trust. This office is not simply about managing accounts; it is about managing the confidence residents place in their local government.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
Transforming the Treasurer’s Office required more than maintaining the status quo—it required bold, strategic problem-solving. When I took office, processes were outdated and unnecessarily cumbersome. Rather than “tread water,” we conducted a full operational review and implemented modernization efforts, including transitioning juror payments from paper checks to instant electronic funding. That change reduced delays, increased efficiency, and improved service for residents.
Strengthening our collateralization policies was another defining experience. Financial security is not an abstract concept—it is the bedrock of public confidence. By proactively reviewing and tightening safeguards, we eliminated vulnerabilities before they could become problems.
These experiences shaped my leadership philosophy: anticipate risk, embrace innovation, and prioritize transparency. Effective public service means listening, studying the data, and making decisions that balance caution with forward momentum. It means building systems that outlast any one individual. I lead with clarity, accountability, and the understanding that every decision must ultimately serve the public interest.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
Representation begins with accessibility and transparency. Throughout my service as a City of Kyle Council Member, I worked to ensure residents could clearly see how their tax dollars were managed. I was known for advocating for our community and prioritizing their needs.
In my current roles as treasurer, we are providing unprecedented monthly investment reporting to empower the public with real-time insight into county finances.
I have also maintained open communication with county departments, local officials, and constituents to ensure the Treasurer’s Office operates as a responsive partner in county government. From these efforts, I’ve learned that trust is built through action, not rhetoric. People want competence, clarity, and consistency. When government works efficiently and transparently, confidence grows—and that trust is one of our most valuable public assets.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values center on transparency, equity, accountability, fairness, and responsible stewardship of public resources. As Treasurer, I see financial management as a public trust. Every taxpayer—regardless of background or income—deserves to know their money is protected and managed prudently.
Transparency is a fundamental Democratic principle. By providing accessible monthly investment reporting, we strengthened open government and reinforced accountability. Efficiency also reflects our values: government should work for people, not create unnecessary barriers. Modernizing payments and streamlining processes ensures public systems serve residents effectively.
Equity and responsibility guide investment strategies that prioritize safety and liquidity first—protecting core services that families depend on, from public safety to infrastructure and community programs.
Democratic leadership means building institutions that are secure, transparent, and forward-looking. My priorities are grounded in ensuring that county finances remain stable, protected, and aligned with the needs of our growing community. Responsible fiscal management is not partisan—it is foundational to delivering the services and opportunities our residents deserve.
County Commissioner, Precinct 2
Johnny Flores
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am a proud family man and experienced leader serving as Vice President of the Hays CISD School Board, where I have fought to protect public education. I am committed to improving roads, tackling affordability, and strengthening public safety with fiscally responsible solutions, guided by Democratic values that serve all residents.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
As a Hays CISD School Board trustee, I have worked alongside my colleagues to sustain excellence in a fast-growing district serving more than 25,000 students and thousands of dedicated educators and staff. Together, we have guided and overseen a budget larger than that of Hays County, making tough, responsible decisions that protect classrooms while maintaining long-term financial stability. As a trustee, I have also overseen multimillion-dollar construction projects, ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and transparently to meet the needs of a growing community.
In this role, I have consistently pushed back against harmful policies advanced by our Governor and our President when those policies threatened public education, local control, and the well-being of our most vulnerable neighbors. I believe leadership means standing up, even when it is difficult.
I am a principled, experienced leader with real governing experience and a proven record of delivering results. I understand how to manage complex institutions, build consensus, and move policy from discussion to action. Over the years, I have built strong working relationships with local and state elected officials, educators, advocates, and community leaders, collaborating across jurisdictions to solve problems and deliver meaningful outcomes.
That experience prepares me to serve the people of Precinct 2 and Hays County with integrity and real accountability.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
In my years as an elected official, public education has faced an all-out assault. At the school board level, my colleagues and I have worked to weather that storm while staying focused on what is right for kids. At the same time, policies at the state and local level have targeted our most vulnerable students, including LGBTQ youth and members of our immigrant community. When local efforts sought to remove critical supports for LGBTQ students, I voted against those policies. While some viewed taking a stand as controversial, I chose to lead. I proudly co-sponsored a resolution reaffirming that every child in our district is welcome, valued, and deserving of safety and dignity, including students who are undocumented.
As a trustee, I have also learned that shaping budgets is not just about numbers on a spreadsheet. Budget decisions reflect our principles and priorities. Being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars has meant helping shape multimillion-dollar bond packages to build new campuses and facilities, while balancing growth, fiscal responsibility, and community needs. That work requires collaboration, robust debate, and clear prioritization.
As a county commissioner, civil dialogue, collaboration, and principled leadership are essential. My experience has prepared me to bring this approach and work ethic to the Commissioners Court.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
In addition to serving in an unpaid, elected role on the Hays CISD School Board, I have remained deeply involved as a volunteer in our community. I have worked alongside neighbors at food distributions for the Hays County Food Bank, Central Texas Food Bank, and Hays Cares, and I have volunteered at the Hays CISD Clothes Closet to help ensure students have what they need to succeed. I have also served on the Hays County Historical Commission, the Kyle Radio Board, and on committees within my local church. For me, public service is about more than holding office, it is about rolling up your sleeves and showing up when your community needs you most. There is always time to give back, and I believe actively helping others is both a responsibility and a privilege.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
As an elected trustee entrusted by the community to do what is best for kids, I center Democratic values in every decision I make. That means ensuring all people have an equal opportunity to succeed and governing with inclusion so no community is left out and everyone has a seat at the table. I believe deeply in the rule of law and that all residents, whether they arrived in Hays County decades ago or yesterday, deserve due process and to be treated with dignity and respect. These principles guide my service, and as an elected official, I believe it is our responsibility to remove barriers and create the conditions for everyone to achieve stability and prosperity.
Bryan Escobar
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Bryan Escobar is an IRS-licensed tax expert and small business owner with decades of experience in budgets, cash flow, fiscal responsibility, and financial accountability. He is running for County Commissioner to bring clear oversight, efficient county government, and practical decision-making that protects hardworking families and keeps government affordable and transparent. Its time we respect hard working families in Precinct 2.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My mother taught me early that integrity means doing the right thing when no one is looking, holding yourself accountable, and standing up for people who cannot always stand up for themselves. Those lessons reflect Democratic values I learned at a young age, including fairness, shared responsibility, and respect for the dignity of work.
As my children were growing up, I spent nearly 18 years volunteering as a youth sports coach. Coaching taught me how to lead people from different backgrounds, communicate honestly, and build teams based on trust, patience, and accountability. It also taught me that avoiding hard conversations or ignoring problems only creates bigger consequences later.
Professionally, those same values have guided my career. I have learned that integrity, transparency, and follow-through matter when people rely on your decisions. For too long, hardworking families in Precinct 2 have not been treated with the respect they deserve. County government should listen to them, respect them, and make decisions with their realities in mind. That is the standard I would bring to the role of County Commissioner.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
For nearly 30 years, my work as a tax consultant has shaped how I approach problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making. Early in my career, I saw how many families and small businesses were living under real financial stress. They were debt‑heavy, struggling with cash flow, and facing serious consequences if problems were not addressed quickly and responsibly.
That experience taught me to look past surface symptoms and find the root cause. Sometimes financial stress comes from broader economic conditions; other times it is the result of poor decisions, too much debt, or waiting too long to act. In every case, avoiding the issue only made the outcome worse.
My role required acting quickly, communicating clearly, and making difficult decisions under pressure when people’s livelihoods were at stake. Over time, that shaped my leadership style: address problems head‑on, prioritize what is broken, and make thoughtful decisions before challenges grow larger.
Those same skills are needed in public service today. County government must be disciplined, efficient, and focused on solving real problems for the people it serves.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
Much of my work serving the public has happened one-on-one rather than in front of a microphone. Throughout my professional career, I have worked directly with families and small businesses facing financial stress, helping them navigate complex systems, advocate for fair treatment, and find workable solutions in difficult times. That work required listening carefully, understanding people’s circumstances, and representing their interests when the stakes were high.
Since moving to Hays County, I have supported civic engagement through campaign volunteering, including block walking and voter outreach, which reinforced the importance of meeting people where they are and listening to their concerns directly.
During my own campaign, I have spent significant time talking with residents across Precinct 2, including communities that have not always felt heard or well served. I have learned that many people want to be respected, listened to, and treated fairly, regardless of background or neighborhood.
These experiences have reinforced my belief that effective public service starts with listening, empathy, and follow-through. Advocacy is not about visibility for its own sake. It is about showing up, taking concerns seriously, and making sure people are not overlooked."
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values guide my public service by shaping how I weigh decisions and whose voices I prioritize. I believe government has a responsibility to protect people who have the least margin for error and to make decisions with real-world consequences in mind, not just theory or politics.
In my professional work, I have seen how policies and decisions made far from people’s daily lives can create stress, instability, and long-term harm if they ignore economic reality. That experience reinforced my belief that government must act responsibly, transparently, and with an understanding of how decisions affect working families, seniors, and small businesses.
Democratic values also mean shared responsibility. Everyone deserves fair treatment, but public leaders have a higher obligation to act carefully, listen openly, and correct course when something is not working. Respecting people means being honest, accessible, and willing to do the hard work of follow-through.
As County Commissioner, those values would guide me to ask who is impacted, who bears the cost, and whether decisions are sustainable over time. Serving the public means governing with empathy, discipline, and respect for the people who rely on county government every day.
County Commissioner, Precinct 4
Angie Unger
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Angie Unger is a local Realtor®, longtime community leader, and problem-solver rooted in Precinct 4. Her community-first campaign looks beyond election cycles, focusing on water stewardship, safe roads, affordability, and transparent budgeting. Angie leads with humility, fiscal responsibility, and inclusion; showing up, listening, and delivering practical solutions that serve neighbors today.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My preparation for this office comes from deep, local experience in Precinct 4 and a proven record of leadership across complex systems.
As a local Realtor® working daily in Precinct 4, I have firsthand, practical experience with the very issues this office oversees: water constraints, wells, septic systems, floodplains, road access, drainage, land use, and the impacts of rapid growth. I work directly with families, rural landowners, and longtime residents navigating affordability and infrastructure challenges. This gives me an on-the-ground understanding of how county decisions affect real people.
My professional background also includes extensive budget and operational management. I served as a senior paralegal in a criminal justice office, where I managed office operations, budgets, compliance, and complex documentation. In addition, as a real estate investor and small business owner, including international business operations, I have worked across multiple budgets, regulatory environments, and financial systems. Budget discipline has been central to every role I’ve held.
Beyond my professional work, I am a longtime community leader with over a decade of hands-on service. I have founded and led parent and Democratic organizations, bilingual community platforms, and non-partisan civic initiatives. When moments were uncertain or frightening during COVID and other community challenges; I stepped forward to organize, communicate, and lead. I have worked closely with parents, seniors, women, church communities, and vulnerable populations, always with a boots-on-the-ground approach.
These experiences reflect leadership rooted in local knowledge, fiscal responsibility, accountability, and service; the foundation required to serve Precinct 4 well.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
My approach to leadership has been shaped by showing up when it is hard, when people are vulnerable, and when leadership is needed most; not once, but repeatedly.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I helped lead parent and community networks through uncertainty, fear, and rapidly changing conditions. I organized, listened, communicated clearly, and helped families navigate systems that were overwhelmed. Leadership is in my DNA.
Throughout my life and work, when problems arise and vulnerable people are put at risk; children, parents, seniors, immigrants, LGBTQ+ neighbors, families facing housing or financial instability; I have shown up unafraid. I am deeply solution-oriented and driven. The strongest outcomes come from collective solutions built with the people most affected. I organize, advocate, and work to turn concern into action and action into real results.
My professional background in real estate, legal operations, and small business has further shaped my decision-making. I am accustomed to balancing competing priorities, working within constraints, managing budgets, and making decisions that carry real consequences for people’s lives.
These experiences taught me that strong leadership is calm, courageous, and rooted in service. I lead by listening first, acting decisively, and staying accountable; especially when the stakes are high.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I have spent more than a decade representing and advocating for my community through direct action, organization, and leadership, especially when circumstances were difficult or uncertain. I have founded and helped lead multiple community groups and communication networks, including bilingual platforms, designed to move information quickly and support families in real time.
I’ve listened to hundreds of parents, including families with immunocompromised families and children with disabilities. I gathered their concerns, identified shared challenges, and translated those voices into clear written communication so decision-makers could understand what families were experiencing on the ground. That work required trust, courage, and consistency.
That same leadership continues today. I actively organize and coordinate food and essential item support for vulnerable families who fear shopping or traveling; making sure no one is left without help. I collaborate with local organizations and public institutions to support community events and I regularly serve seniors, church communities, parents, and families through ongoing mutual aid and service. I have also supported Democratic candidates through voter outreach, translation, organizing, and self-funded civic events.
I’ve learned that trust is built over time, through presence and follow-through. Leadership isn’t about showing up once; it’s about being there consistently. I’ve been here, serving Precinct 4 alongside my neighbors, and I remain committed to continuing that work with humility, responsibility, and care.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values guide my work through equity, inclusion, transparency, participation, and accountability. At their core, these values recognize that the government exists to serve people; especially those with the least power or access; while strengthening the common good.
I believe politics is fundamentally about how we treat our neighbors. That belief shapes my approach to leadership: listening before acting, protecting marginalized communities, and ensuring decisions are informed by the people most affected. It means governing with humility, honesty, and respect, particularly in a politically diverse community.
These values directly inform my priorities as a county commissioner. I focus on long-term stewardship, including protecting water resources, planning infrastructure responsibly, and preventing existing residents from subsidizing unchecked growth. Transparency and early public engagement are essential, because trust is built before decisions are made, not after.
Democratic values also require participation. I am committed to accessible communication, meaningful public input, and inclusion across language, culture, geography, and identity, including standing consistently with the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups.
My goal is to lead in a way that builds trust, strengthens unity, and ensures county government works with the people it serves; not above them.
Laurie Brown
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
With more than 40 years in banking, real estate, and teaching at TXST, I bring relevant experience for public service. Our county’s primary challenge is accommodating growth while protecting our substantial natural assets. I will focus on safe, adequate roadways, while limiting growth at the expense of our aquifers.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
Much of my recent community service is related to my work at Texas State. For more than nine years, I’ve been very active as Faculty Advisor for an honors student organization, Beta Alpha Psi, and have received awards for my contributions and service to this organization, as well as to TXST and the McCoy College of Business.
Bobcat Bounty, which is a food pantry for food insecure Texas State students, has been a particular interest of mine, which is also supported by the Hays County Food Bank. Further, I’m a regular blood donor for We Are Blood at Living Word Lutheran Church.
Additionally, I’m on the board of Leisurewoods HOA and serve as its treasurer. I’ve enjoyed sustained involvement with the Central Texas Food Bank, Salvation Army, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, and Austin Pets Alive. Capital City Villages, a nonprofit that helps seniors age in place, is another group that I work with, and it has taught me many life lessons.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
The past 13 years working as an educator at Texas State University has been instrumental in shaping my approach to public service. I’ve held several different positions at TXST, including as Assistant Dept. Chair, Faculty Advisor for an honors student organization, and as the Undergraduate Scholarship Chair for our department for the last three years.
During my nine years as Faculty Advisor for Beta Alpha Psi, I coached and guided the members of the club to participate in regional and national competitions relating to good governance and the importance of community volunteerism and service. We won a national competition in 2015, which was a highlight of my time as their advisor.
As the undergraduate scholarship chair for our department, I work collaboratively with other faculty members to evaluate scholarship applications. My experience serving on various nonprofit boards, as well as my neighborhood association, have prepared me to not only work collaboratively, but to articulate my positions and ideas. Through all of the above, I’ve learned to multitask quite efficiently, and I believe that will serve me well in public office.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
I’ve been voting for and supporting Democratic candidates in elections since moving to central Texas – more actively since 2016! I support Democratic candidates by block walking, putting up yard signs, making donations, and working the polls on election days. While I might not be considered a political activist, I am committed to Democratic values and good Democratic leadership we need at every level of government.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Below are principles that guide my thinking, actions, and will guide my approach to public office.
I believe in:
• A healthy and diverse economy, to provide quality jobs and a positive environment for small businesses.
• Free and Fair elections in which we make it easier for people to vote, rather than harder.
• Accountability and Transparency so that no more business is done behind closed doors.
• Rule of Law in which every citizen in Hays County has equal access and equal protection.
• Equality and Inclusion policies that encourage diversity and equity at all levels of society.
My job as a county commissioner will be to make certain that all of the residents of Hays County are heard, and that the county government is working in the best public interest.
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, Place 2
Maggie Hernandez Moreno (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am a lifelong San Marcos resident and nearly decade-long Judge known for fairness, integrity, and community involvement. My record reflects a commitment to fair decisions based on the law and community minded solutions that support families, protect rights, and uphold public trust in our courts.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My nearly decade of service as a Judge continues to help me carry out the responsibilities of this office with fairness, integrity, and compassion. Since taking the bench in 2016, I have presided over criminal and civil matters, jury trials, truancy cases, and disputes that directly affect families and public safety. This experience has given me a deep understanding of the law, court procedure, and the importance of applying it consistently and impartially.
Beyond the courtroom, my dedicated involvement with local nonprofits, schools, and civic organizations keeps me connected to the real challenges residents face, including housing instability, access to legal resources, and barriers for working families. Serving in leadership roles has strengthened my ability to collaborate, listen, and build practical, people centered solutions.
I also worked with colleagues to create and implement a juvenile diversion program, pairing accountability with opportunity and prevention. A family legacy of public service further shaped my commitment to ethical leadership, transparency, and public trust, equipping me to serve this community with compassion and respect for the rule of law for all who rely on it.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
Serving nearly a decade on the bench has given the experience to shape my approach to problem solving, leadership, and decision making. Presiding over criminal, civil, truancy, and jury cases requires listening carefully, weighing facts objectively, and applying the law with fairness and consistency. I understand that each case represents real people and real consequences, grounding me in the importance of thoughtful, impartial, compassionate, and fair decisions.
My leadership skills allowed me to work to bring the first juvenile diversion program to the justice courts. That work required collaboration, innovation, and a focus on solutions that balance accountability with opportunity, showing me the value of addressing root causes rather than only outcomes.
My service on nonprofit boards, school organizations, and civic groups has further strengthened my problem solving skills by exposing me to issues such as housing instability, access to resources, and challenges facing working families. These experiences emphasize the importance of listening to diverse perspectives and building partnerships to create community centered solutions.
Growing up in a family deeply committed to public service instilled in me the values of integrity, transparency, and responsibility. Together, these experiences guide my leadership and decision making, ensuring they are grounded in fairness, compassion, and respect for the public trust.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts? Limit 200 Words.
Outside the courtroom, my service with nonprofit organizations, school organizations, and civic groups has allowed me to advocate for families facing housing instability, limited access to legal resources, and economic hardship. Working directly with people from the community I seek to serve has served as a constant reminder about the importance of listening, working alongside community leaders, and meeting people where they are.
From these efforts, I have learned that effective public service requires both compassion and consistency, and that lasting solutions come from understanding root causes, building partnerships, and ensuring that systems are fair, responsive, and centered on the people they serve.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
I was raised in the values of the Democratic Party, in a family that believed deeply in fairness, equal opportunity, and providing a voice for those often not heard. My father was the first Hispanic elected District Attorney in Hays County, and my mother served as Justice of the Peace and founded the Youth Service Bureau. Their example taught me integrity, honesty, and the responsibility to use public office to protect the rights and dignity of every person. After my mother’s passing, I chose to continue her commitment by fulfilling the duties of her office and carrying forward her legacy of service.
These values guide my priorities on the bench, where I focus on equal justice under the law, transparency, and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background or income, have an opportunity to be heard. Democratic principles of inclusion, community, and public trust shape my decision making and leadership. I strive to serve with compassion, consistency, and respect for the rule of law, and to ensure the courts remain fair, accessible, and worthy of the public’s confidence. Serving as your Justice of the Peace has allowed me to ensure that the interactions the community have with my court are a representation of what we are believe in. Now more than ever, we need elected officials who put people first and follow the law.
Elizabeth Trevino Amaya
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I am a community organizer and advocate. I have spent years organizing for quality education, community engagement, and provided the necessary resources to the citizens of San Marcos so they can prosper. I am the daughter of two hard working people who taught me the value of hard work, service, and dedication. There is no greater calling than to be of service to others. I am a resilient and passionate individual who will fight for our community, at the same time ensuring equality and fairness for all who come before my court.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My experience as a previous justice court clerk, community advocate, and state investigator have prepared me to serve our community in this capacity. My goal is to transform this process into one that is more transparent. I believe that JP court justices should play a part in helping to distribute information to the public on the process. I have served on various boards, have over 10,000 hours of community service within the San Marcos School District, attended and graduated from the Hays County Citizens Sheriff's Academy and San Marcos Citizens Police Academy, and I currently and actively volunteer at various nursing facilities in the community. I want to use the skills I learned professionally to keep Hays County safe and the community thriving.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service? Limit 200 Words.
I am running for this bench because I feel that I am the most qualified candidate. I have experience in the duties of case management, scheduling, financial administration, courtroom assistance, public service, general office duties, and warrant processing within the JP office. I have first hand experience, understanding, and knowledge of small claims, debt claims, eviction, and truancy hearings in the JP courts. I understand the issues our community faces daily. Relevant experience matters
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
For years I have advocated for our community when issues came up. I have assistance community members on where to go to get assistance with rental assistance programs to assist people with sources to help pay their rent, utilities, clothing, and food for their families when in need. I have worked with organizing shelters for the homeless especially during the hottest days in the summer and coldest days in the winter. I have also directed those in need of assistance to churches and organizations that hold public clinics and aid expos in the community.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
This court is the most likely law court to be encountered by our citizens. It thereby has the greatest duty to perform at the highest standards of both the law and morality. Nowhere are the basic tenets of democracy more challenged than in the Justice Courts. I am running to reinvest in my community and bring humanity back into the courtroom. Most notably, I am running to have working class people leave my courtroom better than when they left. A Justice of the Peace should be fair, effective, and efficient. By being active with people that come before the JP this improves the over all functions of the court.
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2, Place 1
Beth Smith (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
I have been serving in this position for 27 years with integrity, fairness, and respect for all and plan on continuing on that path. I am committed to being available 24/7 as I have been.
This is a lifestyle and not just a job or position. INTEGRITY AND EXPERIENCE MATTER.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
I've been publicly serving our community for 41 years. First as the Mayor of Mountain City for 14 years and then as the Justice of the Peace for 27 years. I've served or am serving now on approximately 22 Boards that have given me great take aways of resources that have been valuable to this office, especially focusing on juveniles, common sense, budgets, people skills, but most importantly a grasp of what serves the constituents in our area of the county well. Criminal Justice classes, including death investigation training, have been incredible assets, as well as substituting at the High school for many years working with our youth. A few of the boards were CPS, Hays County Drug and Alcohol Abuse Board, ACC Criminal Justice Department advisory committee, State Board of TEXSAR (Texas Search and Rescue). Being the President of the Emergency Service District #5, since it was formed, has taken me through the infancy of an organization to a fully functioning taxing District, thus learning the intricacies of leadership skills and budgeting carefully.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
I can honestly say that hands on training in volunteer positions, learning the make-up of our community and being involved in all aspects have been the greatest teachers. I've lived, worked and stayed in Pct 2 since I was 23 years old. Being in the schools with the students has been very helpful. Being elected as the first Mayor of Mountain City when I was 28 yoa, put me in a strong leadership position at a young age to learn accountability, working well with all people, and learning all portions and rules of the government. I had never planned on a political career but worked at for the City of San Marcos when I was 19 as one of 2 tax appraisers and liked the commitment and the hard work it took. The everlasting experience of 24/7 on call continues to teach. I'm a firm believer that all experiences can add a tiny bit of knowledge and integrity every day and everyone keeps learning. It takes a lot to build and earn respect, and one mistake can ruin all that has been earned in the eyes of those that I serve.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts? Limit 200 Words.
In the 47 years I have been here, there have been a lot of opportunities to help and advocate for others outside and within the office. I've been a member of several clubs and organizations that strive to advocate for others. The Kyle Lion's club, The Rotary Club in Kyle, the Ladies VFW Auxiliary, an original member of KASZ, and on the board for Hats off for Veterans. i.e., During hurricane Katrina, Wallace middle school was a safe haven for those fleeing the flooding. I spent the night with other community members serving busloads of people needing help. I cannot give legal advice in the office but can offer referrals to those that need help finding resources. I'm one of the first contacts a family has after the loss of a loved one and they sometimes just need a person to stay, listen, comfort and guide them through the next steps. I've learned that people truly appreciate and remember even the little things. I began Shattered Dreams in the High Schools at Hays and still have students, parents and faculty randomly recognize me and thank me for that and other issues in which I've worked with them. All volunteer efforts and giving are worth contributing to.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
I approach everything I do with heart, passion, family and community in mind. The Democratic values that stand out to me most are integrity, honesty, fairness, and empathy. The democrats are a caring and all-inclusive party that helps others. I am guided by the principles that I have been taught and raised my children with: we serve. I approach other with a listening ear and helping hands to see how best I can work for them to solve their problems with dignity, whether it be a debt, a citation, or resources that point someone in the right direction. No one is happy to walk into court. They are either filing a suit, have a suit filed against them, facing an eviction or need help with a number of other situations that are not pleasant. They are shown the respect and fairness that I utilize every day. I take responsibility for my actions.
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5
Sandra Bryant (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Judge Sandra Bryant, Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5, Hays County (Buda). My background is rooted in public service, community leadership, and mentorship. My platform focuses on fair and accessible justice, strengthening court operations, investing in preventative programs that support youth/families, and community partnerships.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office? Limit 200 Words.
My preparation for the Justice of the Peace (JP) office comes from years of hands-on professional and civic service rooted in accountability, compassion, and community engagement. Long before taking the bench, I was actively engaged in my community, working alongside schools, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and local leaders to support families, mentor youth, giving me a clear understanding of the challenges people face before they enter the courtroom.
That experience guides my work as a JP, believing that leadership requires a commitment to always learning. I lead a court that values both efficiency and fairness, ensuring operations are professionally managed while treating every individual with dignity and respect. My direct involvement in juvenile diversion and youth focused initiatives has strengthened my ability to balance accountability with second chances, helping young people learn from their mistakes without being defined by them.
In addition, supervising staff, enforcing county policies, and improving court processes have strengthened my leadership and administrative skills. My deep connection to the community, allows me to apply the law thoughtfully and consistently. These combined leadership experiences have prepared me to uphold justice, and earn public trust placed in me by the people of Hays County with the upmost integrity and fairness.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
The experiences that have most shaped my approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service come from serving people at the most vulnerable moments of their lives (life experiences). As Justice of the Peace, I preside over court proceedings, responding to inquests, and working closely with families in crisis, first responders, educators, and community partners. These experiences have taught me to listen carefully, remain steady under pressure, and respond with both fairness and compassion.
My leadership is also shaped by life and building programs that address root causes, not just symptoms, such as juvenile diversion efforts, student mentorship, and community partnerships that create pathways to accountability and growth. Managing a court office in a rapidly growing precinct has required data-driven decisions, fiscal responsibility, and collaboration with county leadership to ensure services keep pace with community needs.
I have learned that effective public service requires balancing empathy with the rule of law, decisiveness with humility, and experience with a willingness to keep learning. Every decision I make is guided by integrity, respect for the law, and a commitment to serve all people fairly because leadership in public service is not about authority, but about responsibility and trust.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts? Limit 200 Words.
I have spent twenty years advocating for my community through service, leadership, and collaboration. As the founder of Keeping Communities Connected, I work to provide informational resources, mentorship, and scholarships to graduating seniors, helping students and families access opportunities and build pathways to higher education.
I served two terms as a Hays CISD School Board Trustee at Large, where I represented diverse voices across the district, made policy decisions focused on student success, and learned the importance of listening, transparency, fiscal responsibility, and community trust. Serving as President of my Homeowners Association for seven years strengthened my skills to listen, problem-solving, and community engagement.
My volunteer work with For the Love of Go allowed me to mentor youth through physical activity and giving back. I also organized Buda Black History Celebration for five years, creating space to honor history, promote cultural understanding, and strengthen community connection.
Additionally, as President of the Hays CISD Council PTA and President of the Buda Police Foundation, I built partnerships between families, educators, and public safety leaders to support students and enhance community safety.
Through these experiences, I have learned that effective advocacy requires active listening, accountability, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to serving the whole community.
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
As a judge, my values remain non-partisan because I serve the entire community. It is my job to apply ethical standards, fairness, and integrity to every decision. I am committed to treating every individual equally, with respect, and consistency under the law for all.
Hays County Democratic Party Chair
Willie Tenorio, Jr. (Incumbent)
Please write a short description of your background and campaign platform.
Willie Tenorio Jr has worked to elect Democrats since he was 12 years old. He was a Hays CISD Trustee for twelve years, including two years as Board President. He is also the former President of the MASBA, the largest Hispanic School Board group in the United States.
What aspects of your professional, community, or civic background best prepare you for the responsibilities of this office?
My experience as a two-term Hays CISD School Board President and one-term Vice President has prepared me to lead with vision, accountability, and results. As Board President, I led a complex budget process known for transparency. During my tenure, we had high credit rating and were recognized by the State of Texas for our financial systems. I also facilitated a very thorough process to bring a bond measure to the voters. I ensured diverse viewpoints were included in our discussions I also served as President of MASBA, the largest school board association in the United States, where I collaborated with leaders statewide and strengthened governance practices.
Professionally, my background in accounting and as a systems analyst provides the analytical and financial oversight skills necessary to responsibly manage party resources and operations. I understand budgets, compliance, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making.
Most importantly, I have earned a reputation for fighting for equity and inclusion, advocating for underserved communities, and ensuring transparent processes. Leading the Hays County Democratic Party requires organizational discipline, collaborative leadership, and a deep commitment to Democratic values. My record reflects that I bring all three to the table.
What experiences have most shaped your approach to problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in public service?
When I graduated from high school, I noted there were many capable individuals that were ready to go to college, but many did not because of the lack of resources or lack of knowledge of the process. As a public servant, I worked to help level the playing field by fighting for measures that improve outcomes for people that need some extra help. During my tenure on the school board, I was known for adding programs that provided resources to help more students obtain a higher education.
Advocating for equity within a diverse and rapidly growing district strengthened my belief that leadership must be intentional and courageous. Difficult conversations around resource allocation, inclusion, and community trust required careful listening, and thoughtful analysis.
My work as an accountant and systems analyst reinforces my commitment to solving problems with data, structure, and long-term planning rather than short-term reaction. I approach challenges by gathering information, engaging stakeholders, identifying root causes, and building sustainable solutions.
Leadership is not about holding a title—it is about building systems that outlast you and empowering others to succeed.
How have you previously worked to represent, support, or advocate for the community you seek to serve, and what have you learned from those efforts?
Throughout my time on the Hays CISD Board, I consistently advocated for underserved communities and fought to ensure equitable access to educational resources. I supported policies and budget decisions that directed funding where it was most needed, ensuring all students—regardless of zip code or background—had opportunities to succeed.
I made transparency a cornerstone of my leadership. By opening up the budget process and clearly communicating decisions, I worked to build trust between the board and the community. Trust is earned through honesty and engagement. We always made the hard decisions in public.
As MASBA President, I helped elevate collaboration among trustees statewide, recognizing that strong institutions require collective leadership.
Representation is not symbolic—it is action-oriented. Advocacy requires persistence, coalition-building, and a willingness to speak up when equity is at stake. I always spoke up, even if I was the only one
How do Democratic values guide your priorities, decisions, and approach to serving the public in the office you are seeking?
Democratic values are the foundation of my public service. I believe in strong public education, accessible healthcare, economic opportunity, inclusion, transparency in government, and respect for every individual’s dignity.
On the school board, these values guided my commitment to equity—ensuring resources reached underserved students and families. They informed my insistence on transparent budgeting and accountable governance. They shaped my advocacy for inclusion and fairness in policy decisions.
When I was on the school board, I won some battles and I lost others. During a very conservative era, I lost a fight. The board chose to downgrade the bilingual program, which hurt our immigrant community. Even though I was virtually alone fighting this change, I put up the resistance. That is a quality that is needed in the face of our current Federal administration, and I am ready to bring it!
As Hays County Democratic Party Chair, those same principles guide my priorities: strengthening our local party infrastructure, building broad community engagement, supporting candidates who reflect our shared values, and ensuring our party remains open, inclusive, and forward-looking.
Democracy works best when people feel heard and empowered. My commitment is to lead in a way that reflects our shared belief in justice, opportunity, and community — and to ensure our local Democratic Party remains a strong, principled voice for those values in Hays County.
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