Here’s who’s running to represent Texas’ 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House

Incumbent Republican Jake Ellzey is squaring off against Democrat John Love to represent a congressional district stretching from Mansfield to Palestine.

Ellzey is seeking his third term after winning a special election in 2021 against a candidate endorsed by former President Donald Trump.

His biggest issues are protecting the rights of gun owners, strengthening border security, and cutting down on federal regulations.

Former Midland City Councilmember John Love’s legislative priorities include protecting Social Security and Medicare, making healthcare more affordable, and protecting voting rights.

Here are the candidates responses to our questions about issues impacting North Texas residents.

Jake Ellzey

Political Party: Republican

Did not respond

John Love

Political Party: Democrat

Age: 56

Campaign website: www.johnlovefortexas.com

Best way for voters to reach you: john@johnlovefortexas.com

Occupation: Financial Advisor/Bookkeeper/Tax Preparer

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Summa Cum Laude

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought, with years): I served as Midland City Councilmember District 2 for 7 years. I served as Mayor Pro Tem twice. I explored a Senate run in 2019 but did not file. I also explored a Senate run in 2021.

Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism:

U.S. Congressional Democratic Nominee 2024 for the 6th District of the State of Texas

110th President (2018-2019) Texas Municipal League

City Councilman (2013-2020) and Mayor Pro Tem (2014, 2019) City of Midland Texas

Chairman (2000) & Commissioner (1994-2002) Planning & Zoning Commission City of Midland Texas

Chairman (2015) of Tall City Task Force appointed by Mayor Jerry F Morales City of Midland Texas

President (2014) & Board Member (2014-2019) Midland Space Development Corporation City of Midland Texas

Chairman (2016) & Policy Board Member (2014-2019) Permian Basin Metropolitan Planning Organization

Committee Member (2014-2019) appointed by Governor Greg Abbott Border Trade Advisory Committee

Member of NAACP.

Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc

Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: Thirty-three years ago in 1991 at the age of 23, I pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of Theft by Check due to an unintentional bounced check. Full restitution was made, and the charge was dismissed after I satisfied all court requirements. This information is disclosed on my U4 form, which is on file with the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD).

Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: No

Who are your top three campaign contributors?: I don’t have that information at the time of completing this survey. My campaign is filing all required forms and reports in accordance with the Federal Elections Commission.

Why are you seeking this office?: I am seeking this office because I believe Texas’ 6th District deserves a representative who will fight for working families, protect essential programs like Social Security and Medicare, and advocate for policies that improve our quality of life. I’ve listened to the concerns of our community—whether it’s affordable healthcare, better wages, or safer schools—and I am committed to delivering real solutions, not partisan politics. I’m running to be a voice for the people, and to work every day to make our district stronger and more prosperous.

What are your top 3 policy priorities?: All issues are extremely important including immigration, border, environment, healthcare and gun safety. But my top policies are the people:

1. Voting Rights

2. People’s Rights (Women, Human, LGBTQ+, and Civil)

3. Economic inequality

Would you support the bipartisan border security bill that failed in the current Congress? Why or why not? If not, what changes would need to be made to win your vote?: Yes, I would support the bipartisan border security bill. It takes practical steps to enhance border security through improved infrastructure, technology, and resources for border personnel, all while respecting our values as a nation of immigrants.

The bill strikes a needed balance between security and compassion, supporting enforcement while ensuring fair pathways for asylum seekers. I believe this is a crucial step toward a secure and just immigration system, and I would vote for it as a foundation for broader reforms.

Do you support extending provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire in 2025? Why/why not?: No, I do not support extending the provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The bill primarily benefited large corporations and the wealthiest Americans, while doing little for working families and small businesses. Extending these provisions would further increase the national debt without addressing the needs of everyday Texans.

Instead, we need a fairer tax system that prioritizes middle- and working-class families, invests in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and ensures that the wealthiest pay their fair share.

Would you support a Federal ban on abortion? Why/why not?: No, I do not support a federal ban on abortion. I believe that decisions about reproductive health should be made by individuals in consultation with their doctors, not by the government. A federal ban would strip away fundamental rights and endanger the health and safety of women.

I am committed to protecting the right to choose and ensuring access to safe and legal abortion care for all.

What role should the Federal government play in addressing the affordable housing crisis?: The Federal government should play a proactive role in addressing the affordable housing crisis by increasing investment in affordable housing programs, expanding tax credits for low-income housing, and providing grants to support local development. This includes funding for the construction of affordable units, expanding rental assistance programs, and ensuring fair housing practices.

We need a comprehensive approach that includes both immediate relief for renters and long-term solutions to increase the supply of affordable homes, reduce homelessness, and support pathways to homeownership for working families.

What’s a Federal policy impacting Texas that’s important to you, but not necessarily as high profile? Why do you think it’s important?: One federal policy that’s important to me is the expansion of broadband access through the Affordable Connectivity Program. This policy doesn’t always make headlines, but it’s critical for Texas, especially in rural and underserved areas. Expanding broadband access connects communities to essential services like telehealth, online education, and remote work opportunities, which are vital for economic growth and quality of life.

This policy helps bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all Texans—regardless of where they live—have the tools they need to succeed in today’s economy. Investing in broadband isn’t just about internet access; it’s about creating opportunities and leveling the playing field for everyone.

Will you accept the results of your election regardless of the outcome?: Yes, I will absolutely accept the results of the election, regardless of the outcome. Our democracy relies on fair and free elections, and respecting the will of the voters is fundamental to that process. I’m committed to upholding democratic principles and ensuring that every vote is counted and every voice is heard.

Why should voters choose you over your opponent?: This election is about who will best serve Texas’ 6th District. I’m focused on real solutions like affordable healthcare, higher wages, and protecting Social Security and Medicare. My opponent’s record shows different priorities.

He voted against the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which improved our roads and bridges and expanded broadband in District 6. He opposed the Inflation Reduction Act, which lowered prescription drug costs, strengthened healthcare, and created jobs. He also voted against the Women’s Health Protection Act and the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which fund violence prevention, mental health, and school safety.

I’ve listened to your concerns and fought for practical solutions that directly impact our district. If you want a representative who prioritizes your needs and works for real change, I ask for your vote.

This story was originally published October 9, 2024 at 4:01 PM.

Harrison Mantas

Fort Worth Star-Telegram

817-390-7040

Harrison Mantas has covered Fort Worth city government, agencies and people since September 2021. He likes to live tweet city hall meetings, and help his fellow Fort Worthians figure out what’s going on.