Here’s who’s running in the Republican primary for Texas Senate District 30 on March 5
Cody Clark
Age (as of March, 5 2024): 41
Campaign website: https://www.clarkforoffice.com
Best way for voters to reach you: Email to cody@clarkforoffice.com or Text to (972)358-1695
Occupation: Executive Director of Operations
Education: High School- Newman Smith HS Carrollton, College- University of North Texas (43 hours), TCOLE- Jailer’s License and Master Peace Officer’s License (Both inactive currently)
Have you run for elected office before?
No.
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism.
9 years as a Police Officer in Denton, Tx and 9 years as a reserve officer in Denton.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain:
I was in Law Enforcement for just under 20 years. Necessarily, I have been involved in numerous criminal proceedings, due to my previous employment, but have never been arrested or charged with a crime.
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain:
I had a speech contractor, sue my business for 1 or 2 thousand dollars. We had a billing discrepancy, and the individual cussed out my employees while trying to get to the bottom of it. I was told of the issue, and called to rectify the problem. The individual cussed me out as opposed to discussing the incident, so I didn’t pay him. Ultimately, we went to court, and paid what was ultimately determined that we owed since it couldn’t be discussed. I’ve never had a bankruptcy proceeding.
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
We don’t take campaign contributions, so me.
Why are you seeking this office?
I am a police officer by trade, but now operate a business that takes care of the residential placement, and meets the medical/therapeutic needs of individuals with IDD/special needs. Over a decade of time, my work has turned into working with our Legislators both locally, and at the Capitol on the behalf of our clients almost exclusively. I also provide input on the operation of programing with Health and Human Services through our provider association. I have submitted hundreds of millions of dollars in annual cost savings to HHSC and our Legislative officials due to wasteful spending. In short I do what our Legislative Officials, should at least be thinking about, and hopefully doing in function as my day to day job so it makes sense that I could leverage my connections, and do the same for all the constituents of SD 30.
What are the biggest challenges facing Senate District 30?
Housing growth(both availability/cost), water, and infrastructure.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be?
I would like to work on increasing services for those with IDD/special needs, and mental health. I am the only candidate in this race who has submitted actionable plans to carve out 3 to 400 million annually from the HHSC budget (without losing services to those in programming) so that we could serve more individuals with IDD, increase mental health funding, or add additional beds for crisis placements. I’d also like to come to a comprehensive solution on the border, and increase our election integrity.
How will you measure your success as a state legislator?
My constituents telling me that I am available to them, and working in their interest.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents?
It really comes down to the capacity to serve. All of the individuals in our race are competent, but everyone besides me does other serious work elsewhere. Today, all I do is work on substantive legislative issues for Texans (the IDD population). It is what I am paid to do everyday. Our brick, and mortar location largely runs itself day to day. You can’t serve two masters, so while the others are addressing client issues, or running their clinic, I will be working on issues for Texans without distraction, and therefore it makes sense that I can open up my current work to serving all the constituents of SD30.
Should Attorney General Ken Paxton have been convicted during his Senate impeachment trial? Why/Why not?
The most straightforward answer is that the goods were not brought during the trial, so Ken was not convicted.
Do you support Gov. Greg Abbott’s call for the use of education savings accounts? Why?/Why not?
I think we gaveled out of special session without a solution for this is because it is complex. I like the idea that a parent gets to determine the educational needs of their child. I like the free market idea where you can pull your child from an underperforming school, and if that other school does not begin to step it up that they will place themselves out of the marketplace. But, I am very aware of the concerns that people in our rural ISD’s, who have limited options, have told me. They are concerned that their school systems could be hollowed out in the process. So that would be at the forefront of my mind if some kind of educational savings account/voucher program came in front of me to vote on.
What should Texas do to address immigration and border security at the Texas-Mexico border?
We are experiencing an invasion of our State. If the Federal Government cuts our fences, put them back up. We need to get the Texas Guard and DPS shoulder to shoulder at the border to shut it down immediately. We need to restore the remain in Mexico policy for immigrants, so they don’t make it into our State. We need to ensure employers have to use e-verify systems so that they are not able to employ illegal immigrants, and we need to continue the busing of illegal immigrants to sanctuary cities in other states as that is driving the conversation nationally about demanding our Federal Government to do their job on border security. A more comprehensive solution will be to enter into trade agreements with South American countries to bolster economic growth which would offer their citizens legitimate job options as well as reasons to stay. This will necessarily be predicated on the requirement that those countries prevent mass immigrant migrations towards our State/Country as well.
What should the Texas Legislature do to respond to and prepare for population growth in North Texas?
By 2050, the population of Texas is estimated to be nearing 55 million people or approximately doubling. We need to ensure our infrastructure/thoroughfares are being planned today with that in mind. Aid of our legislature to help supplement resources for both our urban, and rural centers to make smart investments in the future will be needed. Promoting smart city planning, so we are not accidentally creating urban deserts void of grocery stores, and employment opportunities will be critical as well. Making sure that we are educating the general population about conservation, specifically in terms of water, will be necessary, in addition to encouraging smart agricultural practices to maximize efficiency will play a major role in the coming years to ensure the stability of our natural resources.
Should Texas law be changed to clarify when an abortion is allowed in medical emergencies? Why/Why not?
We have an obligation to ensure the right to life, and equal protection of law to all individuals including the unborn. Outside of medically necessitated emergencies, where the mother is in danger, there should be no abortions. Clarification beyond that seems unnecessary.
Should Texas expand casino gambling and legalize sports betting in Texas? Why/Why not?
No. If an individual wishes to gamble, they can already do so by making the trip to any of the surrounding states. Additionally, casino gambling preys on the addict, and harms the family structure.
What’s a Texas policy issue that’s important to you, but not necessarily as high profile? Why do you think it’s important?
In Texas we take care of our IDD/special needs population at the worst levels in the country. I do not think it is a conservative value to take care of those who cannot take care of themselves poorly. There are over 150,000 unique individuals with IDD on waiting lists for services that are now averaging, in some cases, over 20 years to get assistance. I have submitted solutions for this, and none of our current legislative officials will address it because it is not a hot button issue. The entire IDD system in Texas is at the brink of failure.
Carrie De Moor
Age (as of March, 5 2024): 43
Campaign website: www.carriedemoor.com
Best way for voters to reach you: Email info@carriedemoor.com
Occupation: Emergency Physician
Education: BA Southern Methodist University, Doctor of Medicine Texas Tech University HSC
Have you run for elected office before?
No
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism.
Past President Collin Fannin County Medical Society, Past President Project Access Collin County. Texas Opioid Abatement Fund Council member, Texas Medical Board District Review Committee member
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain:
No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain:
No Bankruptcy. I have been involved in civil lawsuits that were business disputes.
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
Jennifer and Jason Rush, Veris Law, PLLC, Myself
Why are you seeking this office?
I want to be a true representative for the people of SD 30. I feel that this is a calling from the Lord and that my life experiences have sharpened me for a time such as this to represent the people in this district as we face many pressing emergencies throughout the state.
What are the biggest challenges facing Senate District 30?
Government overreach is a significant problem for SD30. However, the border remains the largest problem with overburdened healthcare systems, schools, etc, along with the impact of human trafficking and the fentanyl crisis. Everything starts and ends at the border. Water availability is also a significant challenge for many parts of SD30 and is an issue that needs urgent attention.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be?
Close the Border, Secure the election process, and decrease healthcare costs/burden on constituents
How will you measure your success as a state legislator?
I will base it on the feedback directly from the people. I have an open door policy and will frequently wish to meet with and discuss issues with constituents.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents?
I have a breadth of experience in both business and in Austin advocating for Texans. I am the authentic, experienced candidate that cares deeply about the people of SD30. I will fight for them and they will always come first.
Should Attorney General Ken Paxton have been convicted during his Senate impeachment trial? Why/Why not?
No. There was not evidence to suggest that he should be convicted.
Do you support Gov. Greg Abbott’s call for the use of education savings accounts? Why?/Why not?
Yes. However, I do think that we have to be careful having a one size fits all approach to all school districts, regions and areas. What works for Frisco may not work for Henrietta. We have to be innovative in our approach.
What should Texas do to address immigration and border security at the Texas-Mexico border?
We need to invest funds to ensure that the border is closed completely and only with one way in, the right way. We need to be able to track who is coming in and out of our country and State and ensure that we are closing the flood gates.
What should the Texas Legislature do to respond to and prepare for population growth in North Texas?
We must ensure that local areas are equipped to grow and that overburdensome regulations do not interfere with the free market or innovation. We also must take on the issue parts of the State are having with water access and make sure we have a plan and that the plan is funded.
Should Texas law be changed to clarify when an abortion is allowed in medical emergencies? Why/Why not?
Yes, we need to better define miscarriage care as being very different than abortion. We cannot mix up these terms. We also need to be sure that we are crystal clear on what constitutes an abortion and what does not and do so in a manner that the prudent layperson can understand.
Should Texas expand casino gambling and legalize sports betting in Texas? Why/Why not?
No. Texas is a safe haven for many gambling addicts. Additionally, what happens in Vegas should stay in Vegas. The trafficking, drugs and crime that can accompany gambling are things that we just do not need in Texas.
What’s a Texas policy issue that’s important to you, but not necessarily as high profile? Why do you think it’s important?
We must ensure that we address healthcare costs that are sky rocketing. We are spending astronomical amounts and getting less and less coverage and care in return for massive premiums. Healthcare expenses including insurance premiums are a huge stressor for Texans and their budgets as inflation soars. We have to do what we can to get a handle on this.
Brent Hagenbuch
Did not respond to questions.
Jace Yarbrough
Age (as of March, 5 2024): 37
Campaign website: https://jacefortexas.com
Best way for voters to reach you: Alex@jacefortexas.com
Occupation: Conservative Attorney
Education: I earned bachelor’s degrees in Electrical Engineering and Government from the University of Texas at Austin, where I interned for the Texas Public Policy Foundation, and a law degree from Stanford Law School, where I served as president of my law school’s chapter of the Federalist Society. I am a former fellow of the John Jay Institute for Faith, Society and Law, Alliance Defending Freedom’s Blackstone Legal Fellowship, and the Claremont Institute.
Have you run for elected office before?
I have served as precinct chair for the GOP. I have never run for higher office.
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism.
Active-duty Air Force, then Air Force Reserve: 2011 - present
St. Francis Academy, Founder/Board Chair: 2022 - present
Precinct Chair: 2020-21
Parish Treasurer: 2020-22
Federalist Society, Dallas Lawyers Chapter Board Member: 2019-21
Federalist Society, Stanford Law School Chapter President: 2017-18
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain:
No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain:
Yes. The Air Force formally reprimanded me for remarks I gave at a friend’s retirement ceremony while not in military status. I raised concerns about initiatives in the military that are imposing the culture wars on a time-honored institution that has traditionally been above the political fray. Seemingly judging my intentions, a few sailors lodged a formal complaint against me, stating that my comments made them uncomfortable and targeted the LGBTQ community. When the Air Force refused to rescind the reprimand, I sued the Air Force in federal court. First Liberty Institute represents me in that suit. You can read the complaint and my remarks online.
Who are your top three campaign contributors?
1. Carol Adams 2. Mark Adamson 3. Phillip Huffines
Why are you seeking this office?
I’m running for Senate District 30 because we are at a crossroads as a state and nation, and it is time for genuine, battle-tested conservatives to step into the public arena.
What are the biggest challenges facing Senate District 30?
The biggest problem facing Texas is the border crisis. I will lead the fight to create a permanent Texas border patrol, repel all illegal crossers, end magnets that draw illegal crossers into Texas, and finish the wall.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be?
1. Secure the border
2. Empower parents through educational choice
3. Eliminate property taxes
How will you measure your success as a state legislator?
The voters of SD30 will be my measurement of success. I will always put their needs first. If I serve them well, they will send me back to Austin on their behalf. There is no greater barometer for success than the consent of the people.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents?
I don’t just talk about conservative principles–I live them. When the pressure was on and no one was watching, I stood up for my convictions, my faith, and my family against COVID vaccine mandates in the military and with my civilian employer. In the courtroom I advocate for the unborn, religious liberty, and medical freedom. I have courageously lived out my deeply held convictions every step of the way. You can rely on me to never back down from a fight for our values.
Should Attorney General Ken Paxton have been convicted during his Senate impeachment trial? Why/Why not?
I served as general counsel to Sen. Angela Paxton during the impeachment trial of the Attorney General. I am on record as opposing the House’s Impeachment Process for the reasons laid out on the House floor by Representatives John Smithee, Matt Schaefer, and others. The House failed to develop a record of evidence, without which no serious trial could be held.
Do you support Gov. Greg Abbott’s call for the use of education savings accounts? Why?/Why not?
Unequivocally, yes. Too many public schools have become vehicles by which the left pushes its agenda and ideology. While I had a good public school education in a rural, West Texas community, that is sadly not the case for too many Texas children today. Parents should be empowered to choose the education they know is right for their kids.
What should Texas do to address immigration and border security at the Texas-Mexico border?
I fully support Gov. Abbott’s push to secure our border through Texas-led efforts. We must create and properly fund a permanent Texas Border Patrol with maximally aggressive rules of engagement, end magnets like in-state tuition rates for those who cannot prove residency, ban foreign adversaries and their agents from owning our land, and construct a state border wall. When the U.S. Supreme Court attempts to prevent us from defending ourselves, a right which is vested in our state by the U.S. Constitution, our political leaders should nevertheless fulfill their constitutional duties as they understand them.
What should the Texas Legislature do to respond to and prepare for population growth in North Texas?
The Legislature should be preparing Texas for a competitive future, which means providing the necessary investments in infrastructure (e.g. roads, water, electricity, etc.) that will ensure that we have the various supplies to meet the future demands. Nothing will stunt the growth and prosperity of Texas, specifically North Texas, quite like a lack of future planning. We know what is coming, we have the resources, and we should invest wisely to support the future.
Should Texas law be changed to clarify when an abortion is allowed in medical emergencies? Why/Why not?
Texas law already clearly defines a medical emergency as a “life-threatening physical condition aggravated by, caused by, or arising from a pregnancy that, as certified by a physician, places the woman in danger of death or a serious risk of substantial impairment of a major bodily function unless an abortion is performed.”
Should Texas expand casino gambling and legalize sports betting in Texas? Why/Why not?
I will oppose any expansion of gambling or sports betting. Gambling weakens the bonds upon which strong societies depend.
What’s a Texas policy issue that’s important to you, but not necessarily as high profile? Why do you think it’s important?
Senate District 30 has extremely real water issues and as the next Senator for this area, I will make addressing the long-term sustainability of our district’s water supplies a top priority. Without securing the future of water for this district, we leave many critical industries and communities in danger, and we simply cannot allow that.
