2016 Voters Guide: Legislative candidates

The Star-Telegram sent a Voters Guide questionnaire to all the candidates appearing on the Tarrant County ballot in contested primary races this year. Take a look at Tarrant County’s sample ballots. And here’s what the legislative candidates who responded had to say.

Senate District 22

Republican

Brian Birdwell (incumbent) No response

Democrat

Michael Collins No response

House District 92

Republicans

Jonathan Stickland (incumbent)

Age: 32

Occupation and/or main source of income: Oil and Gas Consultant

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Bedford 8 years

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-437-9184

Your campaign (public) email address: votestickland@gmail.com

Web site: www.jonathanstickland.com

Education background, including all degrees: Birdville High School, Tarrant County College, Parkland College

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: HEB Chamber of Commerce member, 6Stones Ministries donor/volunteer, Mid Cities Pregnancy Center supporter, Mercy House supporter.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: State Representative HD 92

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. My life experiences have taught me how to be bold in any situation. My skills in public speaking, debate, knowledge of legislative procedure uniquely qualify me to be an effective member of the legislature. My experience in advancing the conservative movement while in office, as a grassroots activist, and as a leader have positioned me to have a large impact on the future of this state.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. Protecting life, liberty, and property rights is the number one responsibility of government. I will use the constitution as my guide and instruction manual. A good public education system is crucial to the long term success of our state and why I have fought to reducing testing and return dollars into the classroom instead of the hands of administrators. Stopping illegal immigration by securing the border and turning off the magnets of free handouts to those who come here illegally is required to ensure our long term financial future.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. I promised to be the most conservative member of the Texas House and have delivered twice. I am proud that I can look every voter in the eyes and say I did what I said I would do. Trust is important and I will not let my neighbors down regardless of any political price. You can count on me to work hard, deliver results, obey the constitution and always tell the truth.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? Yes it should. The tenth amendment matters and I believe the only way to rein in our out of control Federal Government is through the states making them. I plan on supporting very specific and carefully outlined Article 5 issues to limit spending and address our addiction to debt.

Scott Fisher

Age: 57

Occupation and/or main source of income: Senior Pastor, Metroplex Chapel, Euless

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Bedford, 36 years

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-523-9719

Your campaign (public) email address: scott@fisherfortexas.com

Web site: www.FisherForTexas.com

Education background, including all degrees: Baylor University, B.A. Nazarene Bible College, Post-graduate studies – Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and B.H. Carroll Theological Institute

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Served one term on the State Republican Executive Committee (2000-2002); Appointed as Commissioner, Texas Ethics Commission by Gov. Rick Perry (2003-2005); Appointed as Member of the Board of Managers for the JPS Health Network (2005-2015) by County Judge Glen Whitley; Appointed by Gov. Rick Perry as Chairman of the Texas Youth Commission (2008-2010); Appointed by Gov. Rick Perry as Chairman of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (2010-2013); Re-Appointed by Gov. Rick Perry as Chairman of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (2013-present); Board Member of the Mid Cities Pregnancy Center (2010-present); Advisory Board Member of N.E. Tarrant Right to Life (2000-present); Elected Precinct Chairman of two Bedford precincts for multiple terms; Appointed Election Judge of multiple elections in two Bedford precincts; Elected as Delegate to 3 National Republican Conventions (1996, 2000, 2004); Chairman of the Platform Committee at Texas Republican Convention (2000); Multi-year Certified Texas Healthcare Trustee

Offices you have sought and/or held before: 1994 Candidate for Mayor of Bedford (lost by less than 80 votes in the largest voter turnout for a Bedford City election before or since with over 6,000 votes cast. Interestingly enough, I have been endorsed in this race for HD 92 by the former Mayor of Bedford that defeated me in 1994, Rick Hurt).

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. I have served our state and local community in numerous roles over the past three decades and have done so with integrity. My commitment has been to do the right thing, to serve others unselfishly, and to diligently work to find solutions to complex problems. My experience in leading a large state agency and a large hospital network have uniquely prepared me for service in the Texas House of Representatives. I have had to make tough decisions related to budgets in excess of over one billion dollars combined, and over ten thousand employees. I believe my experience has prepared me to best serve our community.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. The main issues of this race are the ineffectiveness of the incumbent in accomplishing any conservative goals. The fact that the incumbent has alienated so many people hurts many of our local residents who now lack a voice. In his time in office, no legislator has passed fewer of the bills they authored. He has goals, but he cannot achieve them. If things had been going well, I would not have decided it was so important to run. We have serious issues facing Texas like border security, the economy and our educational system. Those will be my top priorities. But as I walk door to door, and talk to local leaders and voters, I see a pattern of issues that are being completely unaddressed. I will also work to handle these neglected local concerns. For the State of Texas the biggest issue will be funding the budget during a time of downturn in the oil and gas industry. While we have significantly diversified over the past two decades, oil and gas is still a major resource that our economy is tied to. This will require difficult and perhaps, painful, decisions in meeting our constitutionally mandated balanced budget. Education will also be a major challenge again in the next session.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. I am a true conservative Christian Republican who has voted in every Republican Primary election since 1976, every General election since 1976, and every Municipal and School Board election since 1980. I have been actively involved in the Pro-Life movement since 1979 and am committed to protecting life from conception until natural death. I believe in the traditional, historical, and biblical definition of marriage as between one man and one woman.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? Yes…the Constitution of the United States allows such a process and we should allow that process to work. The ratification process is a high bar and would protect against any change that does not have broad-based support of the States.

Democrat

Kim Leach No response

House District 93

Republican

Matt Krause (incumbent)

Age: 35

Occupation and/or main source of income: Business compensation and transition consultant

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 8 years

Campaign (public) phone number: No answer

Your campaign (public) email address: matt@mattkrause.org

Web site: www.mattkrause.org

Education background, including all degrees: B.A - History (San Diego Christian College); J.D. (Liberty University School of Law)

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Two term state representative for HD 93; previous precinct chair, President of Northwest Tarrant Republican Club, Coach for kids' soccer and football teams, Sunday School teacher at Glenview Baptist Church

Offices you have sought and/or held before: 2010 - HD 99; State Rep for HD 93 - 2013-present

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. Over the course of the past two sessions, my background as a constitutional attorney has allowed me to analyze and consider legislation in the proper constitutional framework and legislate accordingly. And during those sessions, I would hope that I have been able to establish myself as someone who is steadfast in his principles, but is willing to work with and listen to others who have opposing views.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. While there are many issues worthy of consideration for the Texas House, here area few key ones. 1. Transportation funding continues to be an issue for Tarrant County and HD 93. 2. Unfortunately, with the price of oil, revenue into the state will be much less than anticipated. It will be critical that the next legislature governs in a fiscally responsible manner. 3. Education will once again be at the forefront. The state supreme court should hand down it's ruling in the coming months. Therefore, the legislature will have to create a model of funding that passes constitutional muster.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. It has been an incredible honor to represent HD 93 for the past two cycles. We have made some great progress in ensuring Texas stays #1 in the nation, but there is more work to be done. Should I be re-elected some of the key areas I hope to focus on are criminal justice reform, Texas' preparedness should something catastrophic happen (monetarily, our grid security, cyber security), and continued, renewable transportation funding. And if you have some ideas for legislation, please let me or my office know!

For candidates for local offices, in 100 words or less, should local governments allow gun shows on public property they control? If not, are any new regulations warranted? I support allowing gun shows on public property.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? In the 84th Session I voted to move forward on a convention of states. While there are many questions yet to be answered on such a convention, Washington D.C. is so dysfunctional that if we are going to turn this country around, something must be done. A convention of states would send a strong message to the federal government that the states have had enough and ready to make some much needed changes.

Democrat

Nancy Bean

Age: 61

Occupation and/or main source of income: Educator/Counselor with Arlingon ISD

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Arlington for 8.5 years

Campaign (public) phone number: 682-207-BEAN

Your campaign (public) email address: Nancy@nancybean4tx.org

Web site: www.nancybean4tx.org

Education background, including all degrees: Licensed Professional Counselor; Certified School Counselor; Certified Teacher for Special Education, Elementary, and Early Childhood; MA in Counseling: West Texas A&M; MDiv in Pastoral Studies: The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; BS in Human Development and Family Relations-Early Childhood Education: University of Kentucky

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Founding Board member of Friends of Justice, a faith-based non-profit; Member and past Sunday School teacher at Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth; Foster parent and host to community children

Offices you have sought and/or held before: Past candidate for Texas State Board of Education

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. I have the compassion, courage, and conviction to work for the people of Texas. As a public educator for 22 years, first as a teacher and now as a counselor for special needs children, I fight for the success of my students every day. I fought for opportunity for my neighbors in the women’s shelter in Louisville. I fought for justice beside my neighbors in Tulia whose family members were unjustly imprisoned. With my husband of 38 years, I raised our three children to serve the community by fighting for justice and mercy. Send me to Austin, and I will fight for you, for your children, and for ALL our Texas neighbors.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. 1. Public schools are under attack from extremists in the Texas Legislature, who would replace community schools with Private School Vouchers and Corporate Charter Schools. I will fight for full funding of Public Education, universal pre-kindergarten and technical/vocational training. I will work to reduce high-stakes testing and to re-establish the respect and credibility of the teaching profession. 2. I will advocate for the dignity of Work and Wages: a living minimum wage, equal pay for equal work, Worker’s Compensation as a requirement, enforcement of Contract Labor laws, and the right of workers to organize. 3. I will fight to expand Medicaid and work for universal access to Healthcare.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. I am a daughter of the Texas prairie. My grandparents were Texas dustbowl farmers. My mother and father were both first generation high school and college graduates. I’m running because it’s time for those of us who love our families and our neighbors to step up and take back our state from a Legislature who has sold us out to corporate billionaires. They are assaulting public education, voting rights, minority rights, and the safety of our community air, water, and public spaces. I’m running because I have to be part of the movement to rebuild our Texas House with dignity and opportunity for ALL our neighbors. I’m running because I believe that the people of Texas are ready.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? Gov. Abbott’s initiative for a Constitutional Convention is designed to nullify Federal laws and weaken the Supreme Court. A Constitutional Convention endangers voting rights and other protections the enforcement of the Bill of Rights affords minorities and women. Also at issue are environmental protections for our community safety. A weakened Supreme Court would enable the current legislature’s assault on public education, voting rights, women, labor, religious and ethnic minorities as well as public safety. The rights and protections afforded by federal and constitutional law make liberty and justice for ALL possible.

House District 94

Republicans

Tony Tinderholt (incumbent)

Age: 45

Occupation and/or main source of income: Retired Military Office / Director of Training and Recruiting

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Arlington, TX 2008

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-478-5000 District Office

Your campaign (public) email address: Tony@TonyTinderholt.com

Web site: TonyTinderholt.com

Education background, including all degrees: Bachelor of Science; Masters in Education

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: No reply

Offices you have sought and/or held before: Texas State Representative District 94: Southwest Arlington, Dalworthington Gardens and Pantego since 2015

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. I spent 21 years in the military; I managed a budget of over $836 million with 500 personnel, 52 brick and mortar buildings and held a Top Secret security clearance as well as key leadership and Command positions during my military career. I have a Masters in Education and taught college for several years. I spent my entire adult life in service to others and I understand the commitment. I understand that my job as a servant leader is to represent Christian Conservative principles while supporting the needs of the district. I knocked thousands of doors and I know what the people want and prioritize as important. I delivered on every promise last session and I follow through.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. Border Security remains at the top of the list as I continue to knock thousand of doors throughout the district. Additionally, Infrastructure (transportation, water, education, the power grid, etc), a balanced budget that remains within population plus inflation growth, 2nd Amendment rights of law abiding citizens, and pushing back against Federal mandates are the top five that I hear on people’s doorsteps but that doesn’t mean these are all encompassing. I will continue to support all of these in the same way that I did last session. I was ranked the #3 Conservative this session and pledge to continue fighting for Christian, Conservative, Constitutional principles on each of these topics during the next session.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. I did what I said I would do. I followed through and always told the truth. I was ranked the #3 Conservative because I fought against liberal agendas that sought to take away your constitutional rights and hard earned money while growing government. I pledge to uphold Christian, Conservative, Constitutional principles in everything I do while representing the people in the district. I will fight for a transparent, smaller government with less intrusion into your daily lives while protecting life. I and a servant of the people and will stand strong and fight, I won’t bend or fold under pressure and pledge to continue working hard for you.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? I believe in the constitutional convention and was initially very supportive of it but am now very apprehensive about moving forward with one. We don’t know which legislators from Texas or other states would be appointed to be delegates. A permanent change to our Constitution could be very harmful to the future of our nation if liberal delegates are selected both in Texas and around the nation. While I support the idea of a Constitutional Convention, and under the best circumstances Conservatives could win, I am not willing to risk the future of our Nation or hedge that bet.

Andrew Piel

Age: 44 on Feb. 16

Occupation and/or main source of income: Attorney-Mediator, Partner Harrison Steck, P.C. Law Firm.

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Arlington, Texas, 43 years.

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-366-8810

Your campaign (public) email address: andrew@andrewpielfortexas.com

Web site: www.andrewpielfortexas.com, https://www.facebook.com/Andrew-Piel-for-Texas-891190817601378/

Education background, including all degrees: Juris Doctorate, University of Texas School of Law, 1997; BA in Government, University of Texas at Austin, 1994; Graduated James. W. Martin High School, 1990

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Former Tarrant County Asst. D.A.; Texas Lawyer Rising Star, 2008-2012; 6-Time Delegate Texas GOP Convention; Past President Arlington Republican Club; Former Arlington P & Z Commissioner; Former VP, Arlington Education Foundation; Member Arlington Comprehensive Plan Update Committee 2013-14; Member Arlington ISD Capital Needs Steering Committee 2014; Member Arlington Chamber Board of Directors 2008-09; Member Arlington Chamber Public Policy Advisory Council 2004-present; Member Arlington Citizens Bond Committee 2014; Member Arlington Citizens Budget Review Committee 2004; Tarrant County Bar Construction Law Section Chair, 2015-16; Member TEXO/AGC Govt. Affairs Cmtte.; Member First United Methodist Church Arlington, 2001-present

Offices you have sought and/or held before: None.

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. As a long-time conservative GOP activist, a long-time volunteer in the community in many capacities, a former city official, and an attorney who provides legal guidance to small and medium-sized companies, I am uniquely qualified to see the major issues facing Texas from many different angles. This allows me analyze and formulate solutions to Texas’ challenges that are broad-based, in-depth, and that can draw support from a broad-base of people. If elected, I will serve with the goal of preparing Texas for the 20 million new Texans who will join the 29 million current Texans over the next 20 years.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. The disconnect between our public education system and the workforce needs of businesses in the Texas economy. We need to expand trade education and apprenticeship programs in public schools. The use of illegal immigrants by businesses to undercut businesses following the law in competitive bidding situations. We should require all workers on government construction projects to be checked through E-verify. The overreaching of government regulation deeper into individuals’ lives. Elected officials should be extremely wary of the risk of government overreach.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. I have been married to Anna Piel for the past 17 years, and we have two daughters, Elena (12) and Lara (9) who attend Young Junior High and Little Elementary respectively. Because of my deep connections of 43 years to the people of Arlington, and the close relationships I have developed during that time, I am uniquely qualified to represent them in Austin. The people and schools of Arlington that I love shaped me into the man I am today. This is my chance to give back to them. I will work hard to make them proud.

For candidates for local offices, in 100 words or less, should local governments allow gun shows on public property they control? If not, are any new regulations warranted? Yes.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? Yes. I’ve been block-walking since September 2015, and a major concern often expressed is overreach by the government into individuals’ lives. I am a supporter of the re-invigoration of the 10th Amendment, which would decentralize government from Washington D.C. and devolve government power to locations closer to the front doors of the people.

House District 95

Democrat

Nicole Collier (incumbent) No response

Republican

Albert G. McDaniel

Age: 61

Occupation and/or main source of income: Consultant Professional Engineer

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth native. Moved back to FW in 1981 and into this house in 1997.

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-705-6344

Your campaign (public) email address: campaign@agmtexas.com. P.O. Box 25383, FW 76124

Web site: http://www.agmtexas.com/

Education background, including all degrees: Texas Tech University, Bachelor of Science, Petroleum Engineering, 1976; American Institute of Banking, Houston Community College, Houston, 1980; Tarrant County College, Related courses of study, 2004

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Using my own money, I funded research that led to the discovery of Neurotoxic Spongi-Fibrous Parasitic Syndrome and its treatment. My research was presented in February 2012 at the annual meeting of American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics and March 2013 at the Rare Disease Conference, National Institutes of Health (NIH), in Bethesda, MD. That summer, I was honored by Global Genes RARE (Diseases) Project as a Champion of Hope.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: 2014 Republican Candidate for Texas State Rep HD-95

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. HD-95 needs jobs and income from outside the district. Clearly, Democrat lawyer state reps can’t sue companies to move into southeast FW or it would have been done by now. Having a Republican representative will benefit HD-95 because Republicans control Texas & Tarrant County and Republicans have policies favorable to employers. My knowledge from being a Professional Engineer with industrial & manufacturing experience and a past Bank Vice President will help me attract employers and boost the economy in HD-95. I will use your seat in Austin to effect positive improvements in our neighborhoods.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. The 3 top challenges facing HD-95 are Job Creation, Urban Decay and sub-standard education. I am a Professional Engineer and I know how to analyze, create and build things. Your present lawyer state rep has done absolutely nothing to improve our neighborhoods. I know a lot about God’s laws, or science, physics & math. I will walk into our classrooms and determine what has gone wrong, and I am sure our children are not being adequately prepared for their futures. We must present a favorable opportunity to entice new employers to relocate into our district.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. This is my neighborhood. My grandparents lived in Poly. My parents both graduated from Poly High in the 1940’s. I was born in Harris Hospital and taken home to their house on Crenshaw. I grew up here and graduated from EHHS. I remember how prosperous this side of town was when everybody had good jobs. I know how good it feels when we all contribute to society.

For candidates for local offices, in 100 words or less, should local governments allow gun shows on public property they control? If not, are any new regulations warranted? Yes, of course. Guns are legal and gun ownership promotes abiding by the law.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? Be careful what you ask for because there could be unintended consequences. Before lending support, I would need to know how the agenda would be controlled. Important protections would include ensuring that freedom of religion and specifically Christianity are protected, true freedom of speech is restored, government authority against citizens is restricted, citizenship rights are reserved only for citizens, states’ rights trump federal intervention, property ownership is protected, taxation is simplified and limited, government authority and spending is narrowly defined, actions of criminals are completely to blame for crimes and never the victims, English is the only official language.

House District 96

Republicans

Bill Zedler (incumbent)

Age: 72

Occupation and/or main source of income: Investments

City of residence and how long you have lived there: Arlington, 38 years

Campaign phone number: 817-478-7295

Your campaign email address: bill@billzedler.org

Website: www.billzedler.org

Education background, including all degrees: BBA, MBA

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Served on the board of the Arlington/Mansfield Pregnancy Board (currently on their advisory board), on the Board of Elders for Park Springs Bible Church, as a wrangler for the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, a member of Arlington Kiwanis Club, a member of the Arlington Rotary Club and a member of the Chambers of Commerce of Arlington, Mansfield, Kennedale, Crowley and Burleson.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: Precinct Chair, state representative

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: After receivng a MBA from Sam Houston State University, I entered the U.S. Army, attained the rank of first lieutenant, received the Army Commendation Medal and did a tour of duty in Vietnam. After completing military service, I began a long successful career in healthcare industry. When I ran for office, I promised to advance the principles that made this country the greatest country in the world, such as free enterprise, limited government, limited taxes and family values. My voting record shows that I fulfilled that promise. I have gotten awards or been endorsed by every major conservative organization.

In 100 words of less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you promise to address them. Illegal immigration. Eliminate sanctuary cities, eliminate all taxpayer-funded benefits to illegal immigrants, and require E-Verify for employment.

Wesley Nelson No response

Democrat

Sandra D. Lee

Age: 54

Occupation and/or main source of income: District Attendance Officer

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Kennedale. 1.6 years

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-672-5489

Your campaign (public) email address: sandralee.texas@yahoo.com

Web site: www.leeforyou.org

Education background, including all degrees: Associates of Arts, TCC 2006

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: I teach a Sunday Bible Class for 3 year olds, I'm also on a Board of Managers for the McDonald Southeast YMCA. I've started a mentoring program S.W.I.M.(Student's Wellness thru Intrinsic Motivation), helping kids understand their self worth. I've volunteered on PTA boards and Site Base Management teams. I've coached league teams for over 20 years, Special Need students softball teams, my daughter's little league basketball team and even had the opportunity to coach my grandson's basketball team last season.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: Justice of the Peace, Pct. 7 (2014)

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. I believe my position as a Truancy Officer has afforded me the opportunity to engage with the families of HD96 and understand their needs. You have to have a relationship with the constituents before you can effectively represent them, I feel that I have that relationship. A Representative that votes against Funding Education and against Expanding Medicaid is a Representative who has no idea what is needed in HD96.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. Medicaid needs to be expanded. Education needs to be fully funded and we need a transportation infrastructure that will support our growing population. The main problem we have is an incumbent who feels his job is to rest on his laurels instead of doing real work for the people of HD-96. My proposed solution for that is my election to this office.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. I'm ready for this challenge. We deserve a Representative that represents all of HD96 and not just his donors. This is personal and I will fight for every man, woman and child that's being left behind by the inhumane votes of our State Legislators. Bill Zedler made the statement that he shares the same values as Ken Paxton...crookedness and dishonesty are not values I look for in a legislator.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? No, Abbott thinks he's above the constitution. The constitution should not be amended to his personal view. It never ceases to amaze me, the buffoonery that goes on in the name of justice.

House District 97

Republican

Craig Goldman (incumbent)

Occupation and/or main source of income: Real Estate Investments

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 47 years

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-919-9454

Your campaign (public) email address: craig@craiggoldman.org

Web site: www.craiggoldman.org

Education background, including all degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Government and Minor in English from the University of Texas, Austin

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: I have in the past served on the boards of the Cowtown Executive Association, The Tarrant County Community College Foundation and the Women’s Center of Tarrant County.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: Sought previously in 2007 - State Representative, HD-97. Elected to represent HD 97 in 2012.

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office: As a 5th generation Texan and 4th generation native of the City of Fort Worth, I know this area well and I know my district well. I feel I have represented the values of the people who live in District 97 for the last 3 years by helping this past session to pass legislation to provide funding to help secure the Texas and Mexico border, provide extensive tax cuts to our citizens and to find needed funding for infrastructure to improve mobility across the State.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them: 1) I believe this next session we will have yet another in depth discussion about school financing and the proper way we fund all schools in Texas. The 85th Legislature must come up with a resolution that is fair to all but the solution must contain transparency and accountability in order to keep as many dollars in our classrooms as possible. 2) We must continue the trend of decreasing the tax burden at both the state and local levels on the individual, families, and independent businesses. I will continue to fight to eliminate the unfair and confusing franchise tax as well as to lower the property tax burden on homeowners. 3) Keeping up with new infrastructure needs and current infrastructure improvements with the continual growth in population of our State is a must. The 84th Legislature did a tremendous job of ending diversions in the budget to find more money to fund The Texas Department of Transportation. We must continue to be creative to find money without raising taxes or implementing any more toll roads in order to keep Texans moving on our highways.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. The 84th Legislative Session was about finding solutions to some big problems and I was proud to be part of the House membership who came up with some of those solutions. We funded our Texas DPS with hundreds of millions of dollars to help secure our border. We stopped unnecessary diversions in our state’s budget to provide more dollars to fund projects on our highways and byways. We were able to provide much needed tax relief to businesses and homeowners across the State. I look forward to returning in the 85th Legislative Session to continue to be part of group of members who see the problems our state is facing and to help provide the answers to solve these problems.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? Governor Abbott is asking the Texas Legislature to have a honest discussion about what is best for the citizens of Texas. Should Texas join the 27 other states in calling for a Convention of States or not? Governor Abbott believes his plan is a constitutional solution for a constitutional problem and has left the fate of his plan to the will of the Legislature which reconvenes in January, 2017, for the 85th session. I very much look forward to having that discussion and being an active part of that debate and seeing where the rest of the 149 members of the House and the 31 members of the Senate stand.

Democrats

Elizabeth Tarrant

Age: 24

Occupation and/or main source of income: I work as an Operator at the financial branch of Texas Crude Energy, LLC. I also own Liz’s Arts and Crafts where I sell my own artwork and hand made goods.

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, Texas and I have lived here for three years. Preceding Fort Worth, I lived in Stephenville, TX, where I went to Tarleton State University.

Campaign (public) phone number: 469-751-VOTE (8683)

Your campaign (public) email address: elizabethtarrantfor97@gmail.com

Web site: www.voteelizabethtarrant2016.com

Education background, including all degrees: I am currently working on my bachelor’s degree in Horticulture Science and Political Science. I plan to continue my education until I achieve my PhD in Environmental Science.

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: I am an active community member and volunteer. I volunteered at local elementary schools with Reading Partners where I tutored K-3rd grade students in one-on-one reading instruction to help them succeed in school and in life. In the Tarrant County Democratic Women’s Club, I help give to the Rape Crisis and Victims Services Center where we provide needed items such as clothing. In the past I have worked with rescuing and rehabilitating animals of all sorts and continues to be something that is close to my heart.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: I have held other offices within school and organizations. I was involved with Tarleton State University’s Student Government Association where I served as House representative, Student Senator, and Student Supreme Court Justice. In the Student Government Association that mirrored our current governing system with a bicameral congress, I helped tackle housing, parking, and diversity issues on campus. I decided to run for a public office because often seats are left to the republican due to no opposing Democrat. This election, Democrats across Dallas/Fort Worth will have plenty of candidates to vote for to get their voice heard in Texas.

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. House District 97 is a full and diverse district of all walks of life. I believe that my experiences throughout my life have prepared me to be a public servant and do what’s right for all Texans. I am one of two Latinas running in Tarrant County, which has an exceptionally large, underrepresented Hispanic community. I am qualified because I will actually listen to what my constituents will and are saying. I will not be bought and paid for like most of the politicians you see now. I will approach this as a challenge to improve our community, not dismantle it like the Republican party has.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. 1. Research shows hungry children are difficult to educate. School food programs have been severely cut. I will fight to get more funding to education. 2. I do not believe that most mothers want their children subjected to potential violence in public parks, restaurants, and stores that may result from the open-carry law. I will put forth legislation to make our public spaces safer. 3. The Texas Legislature has voted to limit the healthcare, reproduction rights, and equal pay, limiting personal liberty for women. I support the notion that birth control should be free to Texan women.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. I grew up in Commerce, Texas with my parents and three sisters. I was in FFA and 4-H for 15 years where I showed animals in livestock shows, including the Fort Worth Stock Show, and completed community service projects. I earned my Gold Star Award in 4-H and Lone Star Degree in FFA due to my efforts in my community. While in Fort Worth, I have been involved with the Tarrant County Democratic Women's Club and have been elected as first Vice President. This group gives me an outlet to help empower other women and guide them to success.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? No and I find it ironic that the Republican Party, who claims to defend the constitution, wants to change it. I find it unnecessary to have such an event as a constitutional convention. I believe the constitution is a living document that can be added to and taken away from as the people see fit.

Andrew T. McKernon

Age: 31

Occupation and/or main source of income: Business Development and Healthcare Technology Executive

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 7 years

Campaign (public) phone number: (541) AND-T-MCK or (541) 263-8625

Your campaign (public) email address: info@andrewfortexas.com

Web site: andrewfortexas.com

Education background, including all degrees: B.S. in Sociology from University of North Texas (UNT)

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Currently, my professional day to day work bleeds over into civic involvement by providing solutions to healthcare entities such as hospitals, doctors, and pharmacies to increase patient health outcomes while reducing medication errors and readmission rates to hospitals. The overall goal being to keep people healthy while reducing costs to the healthcare system. I also spent several years living in a heavily populated homeless area of Fort Worth lending my ears, thoughts, and countless books to those around me.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: None

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. My journey thus far has been a concerted effort to understand and empathize with the lives of others. I have spent time through my professional efforts in nearly every state in America, in cities large and small, rubbing elbows with those that have nothing and those that have built fortunes by their own hard work. It has taken me to the darkest corners of our cities as well as the brightest, award winning parks and public spaces. My background has given me the wisdom to listen when needed and the power and courage to lead when necessary. I am ready to fight for Texas and I am ready to fight for you.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. First, gerrymandering and the way with which we draw voting districts must change. We must put in place a non-partisan, independent panel to draw district lines after a census and not allow the party in power to draw voting districts to keep existing politicians in power. Secondly, we must enact campaign contribution limits to Texas offices. Currently, there is no limit whatsoever for individual campaign contributions to a candidate. I would enact legislation that echoes at a minimum existing federal limits on campaign contributions. And lastly, we need to modernize voting in Texas. Our voter turnout is abysmal. By simply allowing all registered voters to vote by mail would transform our political process in Texas, truly giving the majority or Texans a voice, and ultimately true representation.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. No answer

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? No. What Governor Abbott is proposing is in effect an all out effort to rewrite the United States Constitution, not amend it.

House District 98

Republican

Giovanni Capriglione (incumbent) No response

Democrat

Maricela Sanchez Chibli No response

House District 99

Republicans

Charlie Geren

Age: 66

Occupation and/or main source of income: restaurant owner, rancher

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, all my life (except for college).

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-624-9999

Your campaign (public) email address: info@charliegeren.com

Web site: charliegeren.com

Education background, including all degrees: Bachelor of Arts from Southern Methodist University, 1971.

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: I am a current TCU trustee and I have served on numerous charitable boards, including those for the Lena Pope Home, Junior Achievement, and ... on the Stockshow Board for 40 years. ... I have served on several different bank boards, as board member for the Tarrant Regional Water District and for the Texas Water Development Board.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: I was elected to the House in 2000 and sworn into office in 2001. Before that, I served on the Tarrant Regional Water District about 20 years ago. I was on there for four years.

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. I think my experience working in the Legislature and on the Texas Water Development Board provide me with a unique insight of how the Legislature works. I have served on several different committees which give me a good understanding of what goes on in the Legislature and how it works.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. No. 1 will be to continue to reduce or eliminate the franchise tax. It is a burden on business and the more we can reduce or eliminate it, it will make it easier on small business people. Obviously we have to pass a balanced budget. And I believe we need to put more money into transportation, continuing fund border security and making sure we best fund public education.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? I believe yes, there are some issues that need to be addressed. The focus of the constitutional convention needs to be very limited so as not to cause a panic. It needs to be laser focused on what we want to do. (Some goals:) The federal government needs to pass a balanced budget just as the state has to. And the conversation about the IRS and how we are taxed needs to be addressed as well. I'm a big proponent of the flat tax.

Bo French

Age: 45

Occupation and/or main source of income: Investor

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Fort Worth, 19 years

Campaign (public) phone number: (817) 919-6969

Your campaign (public) email address: bo@bofrench.com

Web site: www.bofrench.com

Education background, including all degrees: TCU Ranch Management Program, 1994; Texas Christian University B.A., 1993; New Mexico Military Institute, 1988

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Leader for re-engage marriage ministry at Watermark Community Church, Rivertree Academy, Hope Farm, Fort Worth Symphony, The Cliburn, The Fort Worth Zoo, Troops First Foundation, Fort Worth Police SWAT Support Group, James Green Wildlife and Conservation Initiative, Camp John Marc, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Tarrant Area Food Bank

Offices you have sought and/or held before: None

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. I have never held public office, but like most people, I am fed up with the direction of our nation. I am a Christian, husband and father to 4 young children. I am a successful small businessman who understands the burden of government regulation. I believe we need elected officials on our side who will fight for our Constitutional principles and religious values. After all, those are what made this country great.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. I think the most critical problem facing HD-99 is having a representative who gets failing grades by conservative groups across Texas, because he is in bed with the special interests and lobbyists and votes with democrats more than republicans. My solution is to replace him with someone who will champion conservative reforms that will lower taxes and spending, dramatically reduce illegal immigration and make our schools the envy of the nation.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. I have been endorsed by the major conservative groups across Texas including, Texans for Fiscal Responsibility, Conservative Republicans of Texas, Texas Right to Life and Texas Values Action. I will lead the charge in pushing back on the Left’s assault on our rights and values, and I will fight to break up the liberal influence in the House.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? The Federalist Papers clearly discuss the fear the Founders had of an all-powerful central government, which is why the federal government is only supposed to have powers specifically enumerated in the Constitution. I believe that Washington has not adhered to these purposeful and intentional restrictions and instead has far exceeded its authority, threatening our freedoms and liberties. This threat comes from both a lawless executive branch and an ever-growing bureaucracy. Article V clearly lays out how the states can remedy this tyranny and I am supportive of that effort.

House District 101

Democrat

Chris Turner (incumbent)

Age: 43

Occupation and/or main source of income: Communications Consultant

City of residence and how long you’ve lived there: Grand Prairie, 4 years

Campaign (public) phone number: 817-561-4900

Your campaign (public) email address: chris@votechristurner.com

Web site: www.votechristurner.com

Education background, including all degrees: BA, Government, University of Texas at Austin

Highlights of your current and past civic involvement: Prior to elected office, I served as a district director for a Member of Congress. In addition to my service as an elected official, I serve or have served on several community boards as both a member and in an ex-officio capacity.

Offices you have sought and/or held before: I am currently serving my third term in the Texas House of Representatives. Prior to being elected to represent the people of House District 101 in 2012, I represented House District 96 for two years beginning in 2009.

In 100 words or less, please explain how your background, skills and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this office. As a state representative, my first priority is and always will be to be responsive to the needs of the people of District 101 and to be their voice in Austin on the issues that matter most in their daily lives. During my three terms in office, I have developed a reputation for being a hard worker and fighting for the issues that impact our community, including the need for quality public schools, access to affordable healthcare and more economic opportunities for our neighbors. I am proud of my record and for getting things done for our community.

In 100 words or less, please outline the three most critical problems facing the public office you are seeking and the solutions you propose to address them. There are several issues that matter to the people of District 101 – quality public schools, access to affordable healthcare and economic opportunities. There are other key issues that must be addressed – the lack of public transportation, the need for predatory lending regulations and an increased focus on economic development in District 101. To help address these issues, I created a citizen’s task force so that members of the community have a role in finding solutions to these acute needs. In addition, I have worked closely with local governments to move the discussion forward on these and other issues.

In 100 words or less, please add anything else you would like voters to know about you. Some of the measures I have passed into law include: a constitutional amendment which provides a 100 percent property tax exemption to spouses of service members killed in action; the Veterans Cash lottery game, which has raised $56 million for veterans; a bill to protect tenants from unscrupulous landlords; a ban on the practice of politicians double-dipping a salary and pension at the same time; new protections for law enforcement officers from online threats; and a requirement that computer technicians report the discovery of child pornography to law enforcement. I have also worked to secure vital funding for UT Arlington.

For legislative candidates, in 100 words or less, should the Legislature act to get the state involved in the push for a constitutional convention as Gov. Greg Abbott is urging? No. This is not a serious proposal. What is serious is the fact that one-quarter of Texas children live in poverty, our public schools remain dangerously underfunded, the cost of college continues to increase and forces students deeper into debt, our highways are increasingly gridlocked and more than 1 million Texans are denied health insurance due to rigid ideology and partisanship. Our state’s Republican leadership should spend less time pandering to political extremists in the Tea Party and more time working toward solutions to the real challenges facing Texas families.

Republican

Carlos “Charlie” Garza No response

This story was originally published February 5, 2016 at 12:01 PM with the headline "2016 Voters Guide: Legislative candidates."