Voters Guide LWV LWV. L e a g u e o f Wo m e n V o t e r s o f t h e H o u s t o n A r e a General Election NOVEMBER 4, 2008 Polls Open 7am to 7 pm

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1 LWV LWV non-partisan election material Vote YOUR Choice! Voters Guide L e a g u e o f Wo m e n V o t e r s o f t h e H o u s t o n A r e a General Election NOVEMBER 4, 2008 Polls Open 7am to 7 pm What s on the Ballot? On November 4, Harris County voters will cast votes to elect President / Vice President U.S. Senators Representatives to U.S. Congress State Railroad Commissioner State & District Judges State Legislators Board of Education Trustees County Officials Probate Court Judges Justices of the Peace / Constables READ ABOUT: Candidates VotING FACTS EARLY VOTING The Electoral College Voting MachineS Constable County Attorney County Commissioner County Judge County School Trustee County Sheriff County Tax Assessor-Collector Court of Appeals Justice Court of Criminal Appeals Justice District Attorney District Clerk INDEX TO VOTERS GUIDE District Judge Justice of the Peace Probate Court Judges Railroad Commissioner Special Election State Board of Education Trustee State Senator State Representative State Supreme Court Justice U.S. President U.S. Senator U.S. Representative ABOUT THIS VOTERS GUIDE VOTER INFORMATION: Early Voting Locations and Schedule The Electoral College System or Who Elects the President? Telephone Numbers/Web Sites.. 30 Voter Information Voting Machine Diagram The League of Women Voters of the Houston area published this information to help voters cast an informed vote. Inside you will find candidates qualifications, answers to our questions and photographs. Our state organization, League of Women Voters of Texas, provided the information on the state-wide and national races. Races and candidates are listed in ballot order. Candidate replies are published without editing or verification. Replies exceeding word limit requirements are indicated by (///). No portion of this Voters Guide may be reproduced for use in political campaigns or advertising. Other proposed reproduction uses of the Voters Guide must have permission of the League of Women Voters - Houston Area Education Fund. The League of Women Voters is non-partisan. It DOES NOT support or oppose any political party or candidate. We thank and acknowledge contributors who fund the Voters Guide. See back page for a list of contributors. League of Women Voters of the Houston Area

2 view your SPECIFIC ballot! New precinct-specific information now on the Web! View your voting location and specific ballot. Enter your name or precinct number. Go to Click on English, Spanish or Vietnamese Click on Election Info on left Click on 2008 Election box on right On drop down window click on Precinct Specific Voting Information On screen behind the drop down window scroll down Enter your name or your precinct your information comes up! WRITE-IN ELECTION PROCESS Anyone meeting the position and filing requirements and either paying a fee or petitioning with voter signatures, may run as a write-in candidate. The names of all certified write-in candidates will be posted in the voting booths. For each race in which certified write-in candidates are running, there will be a space on the ballot in which the voter may write in a candidate s name. Using the eslate this is done by turning the wheel and selecting the letters necessary to spell the candidate s name. Facts about Voting You can vote if: You are a U.S. Citizen, at least 18 years of age, and a resident of Harris County. You are not on parole, probation, or in prison for a felony. You have not been declared mentally incompetent by a final judgment of a court. You are registered to vote in Harris County. (October 6, 2008 was the last day to register for the November General Election.) How do I register to vote? Each county has a Voter Registrar. In Harris County the Voter Registrar is the County Tax Assessor-Collector. You may register in person at 1001 Preston Avenue 2nd Floor; any of 15 Tax Office substations throughout the County; any Texas Department of Public Safety Office; each Public Library, including any branch or service outlet; several other state agency offices or you can mail in your application. Applications are available at those sites, on line at or by calling to request one via mail. During voter registration drives you can register with a deputized volunteer voter registrar. After you register, you should receive your Voters Registration Certificate (VRC) within 30 days. Every 2 years, you will be mailed a replacement VRC. To maintain your registered status you must notify the Voter Registrar of any address or name change. Where do I vote? During the Early Voting Period, October 20 to October 31, 2008, you may vote at any of the designated Early Voting Locations. Go to page 31 for a list of these locations. They are posted on line at or you can call On Election Day, you must vote in the polling location designated for your precinct of residence. Polling locations for each precinct are listed in the newspaper the day of the election. Also, they are on line at or you can call Where do I find my Precinct Number? Your Precinct Number (Pct. No.) shows in the middle of the left side of your Voter Registration Certificate (VRC). Many Harris County precincts merged year-end 2005 and lines were redrawn. Check the precinct number on your VRC before going to the polling location. Or, you can contact the Harris County Clerk s Office, / or the Voter Registrar, / What do I take to the Polls? Take your Voter Registration Certificate (VRC). This is all that is needed unless this is your first time to vote in this county for a federal office and your original application was mailed to the Voter Registrar without proper identification. Other identification, such as a Texas Drivers License, is accepted but it s much faster to sign in with your VRC, which has helpful information on it. Keep it in a safe place. You can take this Voters Guide or other written material into the Voting Booth. However, voters are not allowed to display or share any campaign material in the polling place. What if my name is not on the list of registered voters and the Voter Registrar has no record of my registration but I think I have registered? If your name is not on the list and you think you have registered, the Precinct Judge will contact the Voter Registrar. If the Voter Registrar cannot affirm your registration, you may vote a provisional ballot. First, you must complete an affidavit stating that you are a registered voter in the precinct in which you are attempting to vote and that you are eligible to vote in this election and you must present valid identification. Your ballot will be counted only if state or local officials determine you are eligible under State law. You will receive a letter after the election notifying you whether your provisional ballot was accepted or rejected. What is provisional voting? See answer to previous question. What can I vote on in this election? You may vote for candidates running for U. S. President, U. S. Senator, U. S. House of Representative for your district, Railroad Commissioner, Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice and Justices, Presiding Judge and Judges Criminal Court, Appellate Court Judge for your district, State Senator and House Representative for your district, State Board of Education Trustee, District Judges, Harris County offices including District Attorney, County Judge, County Attorney, District Clerk, County Sheriff, County Tax Assessor-Collector, County School Trustee, Voter Information County Commissioner for your precinct, Justice of the Peace for your precinct, Constable for your precinct. There will be a special election for State Senator District 17, unexpired term. On line at you can view which races and candidates will be on your specific ballot. Follow the directions at the top of this page. To find out which U. S. Representative, State Senate and Representative Districts, County Commissioner Precinct, and Justice of the Peace Precinct you are in, look on the right half of your Voter Registration Certificate. Those designations, as well as other district/precinct designations are also available from the Voter Registrar, or the County Clerk s Voter Information Line, The County Clerk s Office will have your specific ballot on line at no later than October 20, You may view which races and candidates will be on your specific ballot. See instructions at the top of this page. To obtain this information via telephone, call , the County Clerk s Voter Information Line, during regular hours. When can I vote? You may vote: On Election day - at your assigned precinct s polling place Early - at designated times and locations from Oct.6 to Oct 31, 2008 see schedule on pg. 31. By ballot-by-mail if you are at least age 65, disabled, confined in jail, or if absence from county will prevent you from voting. For this election your application to get a ballot by mail must be received by Sept. 5 - Oct. 28, 2008 (received, not Postmarked), and you must follow the requirements for voting by mail. Contact the County Clerk s Office, for information or visit to print an application for a ballot-by-mail. How does a student who is a registered voter and attends school outside the county vote? A student can return home to vote on Election Day or during the early voting period. A student can vote absentee by using a ballot-by-mail. For ballot-by-mail instructions, see the answer to the previous question. What do I do if I change my address and still live in Harris County? Promptly notify the Harris County Voter Registrar of your address change. You can change your address on line at or in writing by completing a voter registration change form or by correcting the information on your current voter registration certificate and returning it to the Voter Registrar. Voter registration change forms are available from the Harris County Voter Registrar, , on line at or the Texas Secretary of State s office, , or on line at You will be able to vote in your new precinct 30 days after your notice has been received by the Voter Registrar. Meanwhile, you may vote a full ballot in your former precinct if your registration has not become effective in your new precinct. What do I do if I change my address and move to another county? You must re-register. Complete an application and mail it or take it in person to the voter registrar of your new county. You will be registered 30 days after your application is submitted. You may be eligible to vote a limited ballot in your new county of residence after moving if you were qualified to vote in your former county at the time you moved, and if your registration in the new county is not yet effective. You must apply for a limited ballot and vote by personal appearance with the early voting clerk conducting the election in your new county during the early voting period not on Election Day. What does the term suspense mean on a voter s record? The term suspense is used to designate those voters for whom the Harris County Voter Registrar does not have a current address. A voter in suspense status on the rolls will be allowed to vote after completing a change of residence form. Once the address is corrected, the suspense designation will be removed from the voter s record. On November 30 of evennumbered years, the Voter Registrar cancels registrations of suspense list voters if two general elections have occurred since the voter was first listed as a suspense voter if the voter has not submitted an address correction. 2

3 Member of the Senate must be at least 26 years old, registered voter for at least five years, and resident of the district for at least one year. The Senate confirms gubernatorial appointments to administrative and judicial posts. It participates in the initiation of proposals for constitutional amendments. It canvasses the S P E C I A L E L E C T I O N State Senator returns in elections for governor and lieutenant governor. The Senate tries officials impeached by the House. Senate members also serve as advocate for citizens in the members home district. State Senators are elected for a term of four years. Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position? (50 word limit) Companies are showing that energy conservation is cost effective and saves energy. What legislation would you support to increase energy conservation in Texas? Is current state tax policy sufficient to finance state government needs, such as public education, public safety, and bridge and road maintenance? If not, what measures would you support to increase state revenues? Public schools, once again, are in severe financial straits. What additional legislation would you recommend to address this problem? Austen Furse Husband, father, Houston businessman. B.A., Yale. White House Director of Policy Planning under Pres. George H.W. Bush. Led a series of grassroots efforts to protect taxpayers with a tax revenue cap, promote a taxpayer pledge for legislators, require the fulfillment of a promised transit vote, and more. In spite of tremendous growth, technological breakthroughs helped keep oil consumption stable for over a decade after the 1970s oil crisis. We must remove barriers to innovation, small business creation and entrepreneurship, starting with the stifling new business tax. Funding research at Texas universities will also prime the innovation pump. The solution lies in encouraging innovation instead of costly mandates. For the last thirty years, state revenues grew over twice the rate of population increase plus inflation! We need to rein in this tax explosion. In Houston, I pioneered an idea that has caught fire statewide: a Taxpayer Bill of Rights Revenue Cap. This proven solution succeeds in part because taxpayers receive back the excess revenues, encouraging a watchdog citizenry. More revenue should bypass the bureaucrats and go straight to classrooms and teachers. We should also pay teachers based on performance in business that s just common sense. Reducing red tape will allow teachers to spend more time teaching and less time filling out paperwork. We must institute these proven solutions quickly in order to match ever-faster technological and global change. DISTRICT 17 ken sherman, no response received stephanie e. simmons, no response received grant harpold BBA in Accounting from Texas A&M, 1985; JD from South Texas College of Law, Practicing lawyer for 20 years; Board Certified in Civil Trial Law since 1997; Partner, Hargis & Harpold, LLP, 1997-Present. I deal with people/business issues each and every day. A history of listening and responding /// chris bell I earned my B.A. from UT and my law degree from the South Texas College of Law. I represented this area on the Houston City Council as an at-large member for five years and in Congress for two years. By profession, I am an attorney. Gané mi B.A. de UT y mi Doctorado de Ley de la Universidad del Sur de Tejas de Leyes. He representado esta área en el Consejo de Houston como miembro, y por cinco años y en el congreso nacional por dos años. De profesión, soy abogado. Tax exemptions or relief for those companies or individuals who invest in or use alternative energy to power their business or home. Alternatives such as wind, solar and bio-fuel. Also, an effort should be directed to entities and individuals to install alternative ways of collecting and using water so as ease the strain on underground supplies and reservoirs. Joan Huffman, no response received I would favor requiring electric power utilities to meet 100% of the anticipated growth in energy demands through energy efficiency and demand management within the next 5 to 10 years. Incentivizing or requiring the use of energy efficient appliances and buildings, weatherization of existing homes and buildings, and programmable thermostats should also be done. Favorecería requerir que las utilidades de la energía eléctrica resolver 100% del crecimiento anticipado en demandas energéticas a través de rendimiento energético y de la gerencia de demanda en el plazo entre los 5 a 10 años próximos. Estimulando o requiriendo el uso de aplicaciones y de edificios económicos de energía, el weatherization de hogares y de edificios existentes, y los termóstatos programables deben también ser hechos. No. We do not need more artificial means, such as increased taxes, to enable more revenue and more spending. In fact, the people need some tax relief, which is why the business margins tax needs to be repealed. Further, property values need to be frozen for 5-7 years to slow down the growth of spending and to give the property/// No. The state surplus should be used for basic needs such as schools and transportation infrastructure. If this is not sufficient, then I support finding additional revenues to pay for public schools and other needs, as well as a property tax cut for homeowners. No. El exceso del estado se debe utilizar para las necesidades básicas, tales como escuelas e infraestructura del transporte. Si esto no es suficiente, entonces apoyo buscar fondos adicionales para fondar las escuelas públicas y otras necesidades, además una rebaja en los impuestos para los propetarios de sus viviendas. Funding for public education as increased dramatically in the last 10 years, much more so than the rate of enrollment. Therefore, more money is not necessarily the solution. There should be more accountability and transparency as to where the money is spent and for what. We must stop the endless cycle of crisis funding by putting our public schools on sustainable financial footing. We need to explore increasing the state s share of education spending (and decreasing the burden on homeowners) with a broad-based business profits tax. Debemos parar el ciclo interminable del crisis de financiamiento en poner nuestras escuelas públicas en una situción financiera sostenible. Necesitamos explorar aumentar la contribución del estado al gasto a la educación (y la disminución de la carga en propetarios de viviendas) con un impuesto de beneficios de negocio ampliamente distribuido THE ELECTORAL COLLEGE SYSTEM or Who Elects the President? What is the Electoral College? The Electoral College is a group of 538 selected citizens who meet after a presidential election to actually elect the president and vice-president. Each state and the District of Columbia have a designated number of electors. To be elected to the presidency, a candidate must receive an absolute majority of the electoral votes (270). If there were more than two candidates for president and none received a majority, the House of Representatives would pick the winner with each state casting one vote. Why do we have an Electoral College system? Over two centuries ago when the United States form of representative democracy was designed into the Constitution, the choice of the president was to be made by a small number of persons, selected by their fellow citizens from the general mass. These persons will be most likely to possess the information and discernment requisite to such complicated investigations. (Both quotes from Alexander Hamilton, The Federalist Papers, No. 68.) It was a way to monitor a possibly uneducated and uninformed electorate and, in the beginning, it had considerable power to make a choice which did not reflect the popular vote. At that time there were no political parties or national campaigns. Today the sole function of the Electoral College is to confirm the decision made by the voters. How does the Electoral College system work? The number of electors chosen in each state is equal to the combined number of that state s U.S. senators and representatives. Each political party and independent and write-in presidential candidate selects the allowed number of electors in each state. When voters choose a slate of president and vice-president, they are actually voting for electors pledged to that slate. Under this electoral system, voters do not directly elect a president and vice-president on a one-person, one-vote basis. In 48 of the 50 states, whichever candidate gets the most popular votes wins all of that state s electors. Only Maine and Nebraska do not use this winner-take-all system but award electors based on who wins in each congressional district plus two votes for the winner of the popular vote. While states cannot opt out of the Electoral College system, they do have the authority to determine how they allocate their electoral votes. In Texas we have a winner-take-all system for our 34 electoral votes, the second largest number of electoral votes in the nation. California is first with 55. On a designated day in December after the November election at a designated location in each state, the electors who were selected by the winning slate (or slates in the case of Maine and Nebraska) for president and vice-president in that state will cast their electoral ballots. While the electors are not legally bound to vote for the slate to whom they are pledged, it is highly unusual for them not to fulfill that pledge. Observations on the Electoral College system. The system allows someone to be elected president without receiving more popular votes than any other candidate. It fosters the two-party system because independent and third party candidates get few electoral votes. By voting for each state s choice for the presidency, it reflects our federal system of government, which reserves important political powers to the states. It discourages voter turnout if voters feel their choice will not win the popular vote in their state. The source for some of the above information is League of Women Voters Education Fund. Choosing the President 2004: A Citizen s Guide to the Electoral Process. Guilford, CT: The Lyons Press,

4 president of the united STATES Salary: $400,000 per year. Term: Four years. Limit of two terms. Duties: The President is the head of state of the United States of America and is the Chief Executive Officer and the Commander in Chief of all military forces. The powers of the President are described in the Constitution and federal law. Subject to Senate approval, the President appoints the members of the Cabinet, ambassadors to other nations and the United Nations, Supreme Court Justices and federal judges. The President, along with the Cabinet and its agencies, is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws of the United States. The President may also recommend legislation to the United States Congress. u.s. : john mccain / sarah palin Website: : BARACK OBAMA / joe biden Website: Libertarian: Bob Barr / WAYNE A. ROOT Website: Six-year term. Must be at least 30 years old, a resident of the United States for at least nine years, and a resident of Texas. One of 100 members of the U.S. Senate which has specific powers to advise and consent to presidential appointments and treaties and to try impeachments. Powers the Senate shares with the U.S. U.S. SENATOR House of Representatives include the power to levy taxes, borrow money, regulate interstate commerce, and declare war. Authorized annual salary: $165,200 Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) Do you support changes to our current immigration policy? Please explain. (75 words) What is your position on the renewal of the federal No Child Left Behind Act, and what changes would you propose, if any? (75 words) What policies do you support to ensure that the United States has enough energy to supply its needs? (75 words) What actions do you support to improve the delivery and financing of health care in the United States? (75 words) u.s. senator JOHN CORNYN I ve had the honor of serving Texas in many capacities; as a District Judge, a Texas Supreme Court Justice, as Texas Attorney General and now as your Senator. I believe in limited government and low taxes, the importance of families, opportunity for all, and maintaining a strong national defense. Richard J. (Rick) Noriega From my time in the Texas Army National Guard to the five terms I spent in the Texas State Legislature, I ve worked hard for Texas. During Operation Jump Start, I worked to strengthen our borders as the Commander of the Laredo Section Checkpoint. After Hurricane Katrina, I served as the /// Yvonne Adams Schick Libertarian I am a citizen candidate. I have helped start and build a large, successful business demonstrating my ability to lead and make deci sions. I have all of the qualifications stated in the Constitution. In 2005 I introduced one of the first reform bills in the Senate. It specifies requirements for border security, interior enforcement, workplace enforcement, a plan to deal with future immigration and those already here without documentation. Border security must come first, including increased use of technology, more border patrol agents, adding requested barriers and fencing and a verifiable system for employers to identify legal workers. This overall approach is required to resolve this long-neglected issue. Our immigration system is broken, and we must take immediate action to fix it. As the National Guard Commander of the Laredo Sector during Operation Jump Start, I ve worked to promote border security and stem the flow of illegal immigrants entering our country. For comprehensive immigration reform to work, we must secure our borders, crack down on employers who are driving down wages by hiring illegal immigrants, and create an earned path to citizenship that /// I support securing our borders to halt illegal immigration. People without criminal backgrounds or intentions to cause harm should be allowed to immigrate legally without undue burden. We need willing worker who will add their productivity to our economy. Their entry needs to be in a controlled and legal manner. Member of U. S. Congress. Serves in the House of Representatives. The House originates revenue bills and, by tradition, appropriation bills. The House brings charges of impeachment for trial in the Senate. Both the House and the Senate count electoral votes following a presidential election and, if no candidate receives I support NCLB reauthorization, with changes. Education decisions are best made by parents and teachers, not Washington bureaucrats. I introduced legislation (Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success Act, A-PLUS) that gives greater flexibility to states, working in partnership with local school officials, to use federal education funds while maintaining high accountability standards. It also increases transparency of test results by allowing states, and not the federal government, to establish clear and consistent achievement benchmarks. No Child Left Behind measures school and student performance based only on statewide test scores. It is a flawed accountability system that emphasizes teaching to the test and diverts time and attention from broader classroom instruction. States should be given the flexibility to design accountability systems that incorporate statewide assessments with other measures: local assessments, teacher-designed classroom assessments collected over time, student portfolios, and other measures of learning. And we need to make sure schools /// All control of education needs to be returned to the states and, better yet, to the local communities and families. The federal Department of Education needs to be eliminated. It has proven not to be effective at improving the quality of education. Tax dollars go to Washington only to be returned to the states after administrative costs are subtracted and with strings attached. This defies common sense. U.S. REPRESENTATIVE My energy policy is simple: we need All of The Above. More energy from a wide variety of old and new sources is the only real answer in a world where fast-developing economies are competing for supplies that have been artificially constricted. We should pursue all viable solutions; nuclear, clean coal, wind, and solar, in addition to increasing domestic oil production in ANWR, in western shale areas and the OCS to ensure our energy independence. Ensuring that energy supplies are abundant, reliable, and reasonably priced will require extensive cooperation between the federal government and the private sector. I have proposed policies that will provide immediate relief for Texas families, move the United States towards energy selfsufficiency, and develop a sustainable energy and economic future for Texas. By increasing investment in alternative energy technologies and improving the efficiency of our cars and homes, we can begin to address our nation s energy /// Remove federal regulations against drilling and production. A free market in energy is the only workable solution in the long term. No government subsidies for energy. Subsidies disguise the actual cost of energy and interfere with the natural order of supply and demand. The rise in prices as demand rises create a natural response of conservation and innovation for new supply opportunities. The key to better, more affordable, health care is giving people more choices and more control. I support reforms that ensure patients continue to pick their own doctor. We should put the cost and quality of health care online, so patients can easily compare prices and services. We must make insurance portable and we should give individuals and employees of small businesses access to the same tax advantages employees of bigger companies get. Everyone should be guaranteed access to quality, affordable health insurance and be expected to make responsible choices in return. State governments have been forced to develop solutions to their health care problems because Washington has refused to address the serious issues. I ve called on the federal government to expand access to the Children s Health Insurance Program and Medicaid. I also propose providing tax incentives for small businesses that expand health insurance for employees, closing the /// Deregulate the healthcare industry and encourage a free market in healthcare. Allow development of new healthcare delivery innovations. Allow insur ance companies to devise new products and sell across state boundaries so consumers have more choices. Support Medical Savings Accounts. Make all health care expenses 100% tax deductible. Replace FDA with a more responsive free market system to reduce cost of medications. Replace Medicare with system that give the users control over the cost and process. a majority of electoral votes, the House chooses the President from among the top three candidates. The member is elected for a two-year term. Rank-and-file member salary $169,300. Speaker of the House salary $217,400; Majority and Minority Leaders salary $188,100 DISt 9 DIST 7 DISt 2 4 Ted Poe, no response received Craig Wolfe, Libertarian no response received John Culberson, no response received Michael Skelly, no response received Drew Parks, Libertarian no response received Al Green, no response received Brad Walters, Libertarian no response received

5 Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) U.S. REPRESENTATIVE continued What are your recommendations to address the problems of undocumented workers currently in the United States and those who wish to come to the United States to work? Michael T. McCaul, no response received What is your position on a single payer health insurance system for all Americans? What should the government do to promote the development and use of alternative energy sources to reduce our dependence on oil? DISTRICT 18 DISTRICT 10 Larry Joe Doherty, no response received Matt Finkel Libertarian I am in my second term representing Travis County on the Texas Libertarian Executive Committee. I am a two-time delegate to the Libertarian National Convention. I have lived in the district for 11 years. I am comfortable and experienced in representing large constituencies in large meeting with in-depth parliamentary procedure. John Faulk I am a graduate of Reagan High School (the same school my father attended), University of Houston BBA earned a Master of Business Administration at U of H Clear Lake. I successfully completed the Rice University Para Legal Program in I am a successful career as a businessman/fund raiser. Me gradué de la escuela secundaria Reagan (la misma escuela a la que mi padre asistió), la Universidad de Houston, BBA, obtuvo una Maestría en Administración de Negocios de la Universidad de Houston Clear Lake. Yo completé con éxito el Programa de Paralegal en 2007 de Rice University. Yo he tenido una carrera exitosa como recaudador de fondos y como empresario Make the immigration process simpler and allow more work visas for Latin Americans. If we can provide a simple, more efficient way for people to immigrate and work, we can solve problems. Legal immigrants have auto insurance. Legal immigrants don t need to steal Social Security numbers to pay taxes. If more workers do it legally we can effectively catch Terrorist. Make Homeland Security reinstate the Alien Registration Act to track alien residents. Require non-citizens to identify themselves as alien residents when they come in contact with the judicial system. Enforce fines when employers do not following existing employee laws. Sue Mexico for health care provide to Mexican citizens. Hacer que el Departamento de Seguridad de la Patria reintegre la Ley de la Registración para Extranjeros para rastrear a los residentes extranjeros. Exigirle a los no-ciudadanos que se identifiquen como residentes extranjeros cuando ellos entren en contacto con el sistema judicial. Hacer cumplir las multas cuando los patrones no lo hacen siguiendo las leyes de empleo existentes. Demandar al país de México para que paguen por el cuidado de salud proporcionado a los ciudadanos mexicanos. That it will make the gap between the rich and the middle class grow dramatically. The problem with our healthcare system is government manipulation and bureaucracy, giving Government more power will yield more problems. Rich people will go to private hospitals and the middle class will wait in lines for substandard care. The federal government is not able to mange a single payer HIS! Making each individual/ family responsible for making their health care decision is a better system. Increasing the Health Saving Account and a $5,000 tax credit for each family is a beginning. The Federal Government has no constitutional authority to impose a national health insurance program. El gobierno federal no es capaz de administrar un sistema de salud de un solo pagador! Haciendo a cada individuo/familia responsable de las decisiones para cuidar su salud es un buen sistema. Aumentando la caja de ahorros de Salud y un crédito al impuesto de $5,000 para cada familia es un principio. El Gobierno Federal no tiene la autoridad constitucional para imponer el programa de un seguro de salud nacional. Create a large, nation-wide market for alternative fuels and renewable resources by requiring government vehicles and agencies to use more alternative fuels and renewable resources in their everyday operations. The U.S. Government is the biggest business in America and the largest polluter, we as share holders should vote/tell our government to lead by example. We should reduce our dependence on FOREIGN oil. We should develop all possible domestic energy sources. Many alternative sources are only economic viable with a government subsidy or when competing with high crude oil prices. The market will continue to drive down crude prices when we Drill Here, Drill Now will create job in TX 18 CD right now! Nosotros debemos reducir nuestra dependencia del petróleo EXTRANJERO desarrollando todas las posibles fuentes de energía domésticas. Muchas fuentes alternativas sólo son económicamente viables con un subsidio gubernamental o al competir con los precios de crudo altos. El mercado continuará abaratando los precios del crudo cuando nosotros Taladremos Aquí, Taladremos Ahora,lo qué también creará ahora mismo trabajos en el DC 18 de TX! Sheila Jackson Lee, no response received Mike Taylor, Libertarian no response received DISTRICT 22 Pete Olson I served for almost 10-years in the U.S. Armed Forces, as a Navy Pilot and then in the Pentagon with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Senate Liaison Office. On Sen. Gramm s staff, I was the point person for Texas projects, and then Chief of Staff for Sen. Cornyn. Nick Lampson I am a five-term Representative and have focused my work on improving civility in Congress and bringing s and s together to reach common-sense solutions to our problems. I have fought for legislation to protect kids from online predators, secure funding for NASA, and ensure fiscal responsibility. We must start by enforcing all our laws, ending Sanctuary City policies, and securing our borders. The American people deserve to see the federal government working to STOP illegal immigration. I will also work to expand efforts between local and federal law enforcement to target criminal illegal aliens for apprehension and deportation. Amnesty is not an option. We cannot begin to address the issues of illegal immigration until we secure our borders. Undocumented workers must return to their country and apply for visas like others who go through the process legally. However, our country is a nation of immigrants, and our economy depends on the contributions of skilled immigrants. We must strengthen our legal immigration system. We shouldn t harm the 250 million people with health insurance or America s premier delivery system. We must expand affordable and comprehensive coverage for small business via tax deductibility and associated health plans, allow portability and implement lawsuit reform, as in Texas. I oppose Universal health because it will put medical decisions in the hands of government bureaucrats, not families. Our health care system is broken and in need of reform. I will support legislation that increases health coverage for Americans in a fiscally responsible manner and also ensures that our health care system is efficient and not overly bureaucratic. I support early buy-in access to Medicare, and I oppose single-payer, socialized medicine.. Increased domestic oil production is the starting point for energy independence. Simultaneously, we must build new nuclear plants, develop solar, wind, biodiesel, geothermal and clean coal technologies and fund research to discover and develop the next energy technologies that will serve future generations. This staged approach will provide America energy security and independence in the future. We need a comprehensive energy plan. I support domestic drilling in the Outer Continental Shelf and in Alaska (ANWR). However, our energy needs are greater than that. We must also invest in and provide tax incentives for other sources of energy, including wind, solar, biodiesel, fuel cells, and much more. Energy drives our economy, and we can t forget that. John Wieder Libertarian USAF Vietnam Vet 68-72,College of Mainland 1976 AAS Computer Science, UH 1980 BBA Business Administration, Data Base Administrator UTMB 73-80, Owner/ Broker (2) Century 21 Wieder Realty s Converted to Seguros y Bienes Raices Includes American National, American General, Woodmen, Bankers, Royal Neighbors. Not a career politician, ready to /// Undocumented workers are illegal aliens? A plan that might work. If you are here illegally, you must immediately register for a special military draft. If you fail to register, deportation is automatic and businesses are guilty of harboring a draft dodger. As long as we have the IRS, add code for illegal aliens and drug dealers to pay taxes. First, I want to say that Medicaid for children is abused by Dentists. Many children are walking around with caps on all their baby teeth. Health insurance should be defined and divided as physical, optical, dental and mental health. Offer a safety net to all Americans only on any deficient coverage including automatic bridge coverage. Stop abuse in current programs. The United States spends $700 billion every year on foreign oil. We are 4% of the world population but use 25% of the world s oil. We are the Saudi Arabia of wind power. Natural Gas is cheaper, cleaner, and 100% domestic. Adopt T Boone Picken s energy plan by replacing natural gas with wind power and use natural gas for vehicles. DIST 29 Eric Story, no response received Gene Green, no response received Joel Grace, Libertarian no response received

6 Six-year term (on a three-person commission). Must be a Texas resident and qualified voter, not less than 25 years old, and must have no inter est in any railroad. Among duties: regulation of the oil and gas industry, including drilling production and environmental protection; natural gas utility companies; natural gas and hazardous liquids pipeline safety; surface mining of coal, uranium, and iron ore gravel, including land rr commissioner NO PHOTO AVAILABLE Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) Michael L. Williams A Commissioner since 1999 and Chairman, I have dramatically reduced the number of abandoned wells, required operator bonding, imposed stricter enforcement and heavier penalties, instituted the nation s first pipeline safety integrity assessment and management program, required more frequent pipeline inspections, quicker repairs and ordered the statewide removal of unsafe pipe. Un Comisario desde 1999 y Presidente, he reducido drásticamente el número de pozos abandonados, operador de unión necesario, la Comisión impuso una aplicación más estricta y penas más severas, instituido el primer gasoducto de seguridad y la integridad de evaluación de programa de manejo, requiere más frecuentes inspecciones de tuberías, /// Mark Thompson Mark Thompson is qualified to serve on the Railroad Commission because he has forced the agency to protect people instead of industry. For decades, faulty natu ral gas couplings have caused home explosions. The Commission failed to act until Mark Thompson worked to put a spotlight on the Commission s failures. Mark Thompson tiene requisito a server el Commission de Ferrocarriles porque ha fuerzado el agencia a protejer la gente en vez de las intereses industriales. Por las ultimas decadas hemos tenido pipas rotas a bajo de nuestras casas que han causado explosiones. El Commision de Ferrocarriles fallo de actuar hasta que Mark Thompson puso atencion a sus fracasos. David Floyd, Libertarian no response received Six-year term. Must be at least 35 years old, a citizen of the United States, and a resident of Texas. Must have been a practicing lawyer or a lawyer and a judge of a court of record for a total of 10 years or more. Serves as a member of the court of highest appellate jurisdiction in civil matters in the state; has the power to issue RAILROAD COMMISSIONER recla mation; transportation and storage of liquified petroleum gas, compressed natural gas, and liquified natural gas; railroad safety; and encourages the use of clean-burning propane and researches new technologies for its use. Annual authorized salary: $137,500 What are the most pressing issues that you will face as Railroad Commissioner and how would you address them? (75 words) Promoting pro-growth environmental solutions to secure more affordable, cleaner and reliable electricity and transportation by (1) enhancing oversight of oil and natural gas drilling; (2) encouraging investment in innovative off-peak wind energy storage and carbon capture and sequestra tion technologies; (3) advocating increased American oil exploration and the development of alternative fuel cars, trucks and school buses; and (4) inspiring the next generation of Texas energy scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians. Promover el crecimiento en favor de soluciones ambientales para garantizar más asequibles, más limpia y fiable de electricidad y de transporte (1) mejorar la supervisión de petróleo y gas natural de perforación; (2) fomentar la inversión en innovación fuera de las horas punta de almacenamiento de energía eólica y la captación de carbono y de tecnologías de secuestro; (3) la promoción de una mayor exploración de petróleo de América y el desarrollo de combustibles alternatives automóviles, camiones y autobuses escolares, y (4) inspirar la próxima /// The most pressing issues Mark Thompson will face as Railroad Commissioner are protecting people as industry drills for natural gas in the Barnett Shale, improving the permit process for drilling to streamline bureaucracy and help lower gasoline prices, and making sure natural gas prices are not automatically raised, creating higher utility costs for all Texans. Mark Thompson will address these issues through close attention, hard work, and by always putting people and the environment first. Los emisiones mas importantes que encontrara Mark Thompson como Commissionero de Ferrocarriles seria: de protejer la gente contra los taladros industriales que usan para busar por gas natural en Barnett Shale, A mejorar el proceso de permiso de taladros para bajar el precio de gasolina y a estar seguro que los precios de la gas natural no cuesta mas y causa que aumentan los precios de utilidades por la gente de Texas. Mark Thompson seguire de luchar por la gente de Texas y trabajara duro /// CHIEF JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT What measures should be taken to assure the safety of people and the environment when granting permits for oil and gas drilling in both urban and rural areas? (75 words) State law limits consideration of whether to issue a drilling permit to conservation of waste and correlative rights. The legislature can expand the review. Once per mitted, RRC rules ensure the well is drilled in a manner that protects the public and the environment, e.g. mandatory blowout prevention devices for safety; and cas ing, cementing and waste handling requirements to protect ground water. Municipalities can add setback requirements to distance the well from homes and schools. La ley estatal limita la consideración de si la expedición de un permiso de perforación conservación de los residuos y correlativos derechos. El legislador puede ampliar la revisión. Una vez permitido, RRC normas garantizar el bien se taladra en una forma que protege al público y el medio ambiente, por ejemplo, blowout obligatorios los dispositivos de prevención para la seguridad y la cubierta, cementación y manejo de residuos requisitos para proteger las aguas subterráneas. Los municipios pueden añadir /// The measures Mark Thompson will take to protect people and the environment when it comes to oil and gas drilling include: making sure rigs are far from schools, homes, green spaces, and other critical infrastructure; securing responsible disposal plans for oilfield waste; checking operators for histories of dumping, safety, or other violations; and finally, assessing appropriately severe fines and taking disciplinary action for bad operators -- when drilling adversely affects people and property in Texas. Mark Thompson va a protejer La Gente Y El Ambiento contra los intereses de las industrias de Petroleo. El va a luchar contra los taladros a estar seguro que no son cercas a nuestras casas, y otras lugars preciosos tambien los va a fuerzar a limpiar la basura que dejado la industia petroleo y va a luchar para los derechos humanos en vez de los intereses industriales. writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, and others; presides over proceedings for involuntary retire ments or removal of judges. Annual authorized salary: $152,500 (Chief Justice) $150,000 (Justice) Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) CHIEF JUSTICE Wallace B. Jefferson Justice on the Supreme Court ( ); Chief Justice since As a board-certified appellate lawyer, I won cases in the U.S. Supreme Court, Texas Supreme Court, Fifth Circuit, and many intermediate Texas appellate courts. I implemented a webcasting project so that our Supreme Court arguments are accessible to all Texans. Juez del Tribunal Supremo de Tejas ( ). Principal justicia desde 2004 Certificado - Abogado de Apelación. Gané casos en el Tribunal Supremo de los Estados Unidos; Tribunal Supremo de Tejas; Quinto Circuito y muchos Tribunales de Apelación intermedios de Tejas. Estoy ejecutando un proyecto que nuestras discusiones del Tribunal Supremo sean accesibles a todos los Tejanos. An activist judge decides cases not according to the law and the facts, but to reach a predetermined outcome. A judge must strictly con strue the law rather than impose his or her personal view of social policy. Activist judges undermine the public s perception of an impartial judiciary. Un juez del activista decidir casos no según la ley y los datos, pero alcanza un resultado predeterminado. Un juez debe interpretar terminantemente la ley algo que su opinión personal de la política social. Los jueces del activista minan la opinión del público de una judicatura imparcial. The Legislature should consider an appointment system for the appellate courts, in which a justice must subsequently go to the voters to retain his or her seat on the bench. La legislatura debe considerar un sistema de nombramiento para los Tribunales de Apelación, en quienes una justicia debe ir a los votantes para conservar su asiento en el banco. We must either rely on honest judges to enforce the law without regard to campaign contributions or adopt a system in which the public funds campaigns from the general treasury. As the Legislature is not likely to adopt a public-finance scheme, and because campaign expenditures are essential to seek and retain judicial office, I would not require recusal on the basis of campaign contributions. Our ethics laws must be enforced if a judge demonstrates bias. Debemos confiar en jueces honestos para hacer cumplir la ley sin consideración algunas contribuciones a la campaña o adoptar un sistema en el cual el público financia la campaña del tesoreria general. Puesto que la legislatura no es probable adoptar un esquema de público financiar, y porque los gastos de la campaña son esenciales a buscar y conservar la oficina judicial, no requeriría extraccion en base de contribuciones a la campaña. Nuestras leyes de éticas deben ser hechas cumplir si un juez demuestra al sesgo.

7 CHIEF JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT continued Six-year term. Must be at least 35 years old, a citizen of the United States, and a resident of Texas. Must have been a practicing lawyer or a lawyer and a judge of a court of record for a total of 10 years or more. Serves as a member of the court of highest appellate jurisdiction in civil matters in the state; has the power to issue CHIEF JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) Jim Jordan I am a present and former civil district trial judge in Dallas County. Since 1984, I have been board certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Civil Trial Law. In addition, I have been teaching the law to both students and lawyers for approximately 20 years. He sido, y ahora soy, un juez civil de distrito en el condado de Dallas. Desde 1984, estoy certificado en Derecho Procesal Civil por la Comisión de Especialización Legal de Texas. Además, he dado clases de derecho a estudiantes y maestros por aproximadamente 20 anos. Tom Oxford Libertarian I am the Managing Attorney for Waldman Smallwood PC, a firm providing legal help to Texans for over 50 years. My experience includes successfully arguing before both the Texas Supreme Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Soy el Abogado Gerente para Waldman Smallwood, PC, una firma que provee ayuda legal a Tejanos por mas de 50 años. Mi experiencia incluye con éxito la discusión ante la Corte Suprema de Tejas como el Tribunal de Apelación de los Estados Unidos para el Quinto Recorrido. What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) An activist judge is one who rule to achieve a specific result without regard to the law or the facts in order to advance his or her own policy agenda. When judges legislate from the bench it diminishes the publics trust in our judicial system and injures the stability of the rule of law. Un juez activista es aquel que dicta sentencias para lograr un resultado especifico, sin tomar en cuenta la ley o los hechos, con el fin de lograr el avance de su agenda publica. Cuando los jueces legislan desde su cargo, demeritan la confianza publica en el sistema judicial y perjudican la estabilidad de la regla de la ley. A Judge has an obligation to apply existing law to the facts of the case. An activist judge makes his own law. Law making is solely the province of the Legislature constrained only by our state and federal constitutions. Failing to recognize this separation of powers undermines the public s respect for the courts. Un Juez tiene una obligación de aplicar la ley existente a los hechos del caso. Un juez activista hace su propia ley. La fabricación de la ley es únicamente la provincia de la Legislatura obligada sólo por nuestras constituciones estatales y federales. El defecto de reconocer esta separación de poderes mina el respeto del público para los tribunales. Six-year term. Must be at least 35 years old, a citizen of the United States, and a resident of Texas. Must have been a practicing lawyer or a lawyer and a judge of a court of record for a total of 10 years or more. Serves as a member of the court of highest appellate jurisdiction in civil matters in the state; has the power to issue SUPREME COURT JUSTICE writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, and others; presides over proceedings for involuntary retire ments or removal of judges. Annual authorized salary: $152,500 (Chief Justice) $150,000 (Justice) What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) We need a system that focuses on the individual candidate s experience, qualifications, and knowledge of the law. In addition, candidates should be screened for their judicial demeanor and ability to abide by the rule of law. Our judges should be jurists not politicians. Necesitamos un sistema que se enfoque a la experiencia, aptitud, y conocimiento legal de cada candidato. Además, los candidatos deberían tener que pasar una revisión de su comportamiento judicial y su habilidad para seguir la regla de la ley. Nuestros jueces deben ser juristas no políticos. Election of judges, while imperfect, is the only method likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary. When the state appoints judges they reflect only the group in power, generally coming from only the wealthiest and most politically connected law firms in the state. With direct elections there is at least some chance our state s great diversity will be reflected in our judiciary. La elección de jueces, mientras imperfecto, es el único método que probablemente cause una judicatura calificada, diversa e independiente. Cuando el estado designa a jueces, ellos reflejan sólo el grupo en poder, que generalmente viene de sólo el grupo màs rico y bufetes de abogados el más relacionados políticamente en el estado. Con elecciones directas hay al menos alguna posibilidad la gran diversidad de nuestro estado será reflejada en nuestra judicatura. Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) Imagine that your life, your family, or your business was on the line in court, and you found out the other side gave thousands of dollars to the judge s campaign. Texans deserve to have faith in their judiciary. The money required to run cheapens judges, cheapens the judiciary, and cheapens our democracy. Imagina que tu vida, tu familia, o tu negocio estuvieran en juego en la corte y te enteras que el otro lado le dio miles de dólares a la campana del juez. Los tejanos merecen tener fe en la sistema judicial. El dinero requerido para campanas rebaja a los jueces, al sistema judicial y a nuestra democracia. Any practicing lawyer knows that influence with a judge is often purchased through campaign contributions. Even with our best judges human nature is such that the knowledge of who supported them in their last campaign cannot help but influence their decisions. Attorneys should be barred from contributing to the judges they practice before. A Judge should recuse himself if a party to a suit has contributed to the judge. Cualquier abogado de práctica sabe que la influencia con un juez a menudo es comprada por contribuciones de campaña. Aún con nuestros mejores jueces la naturaleza human es tal que el conocimiento de quién los apoyó en su última campaña no puede menos que influir en sus decisiones. Los abogados deberían ser prohibidos de contribuir a los jueces a cual ellos practican ante de. Un Juez debería apartarse si un partido a un pleito ha contribuido a ese juez. writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, and others; presides over proceedings for involuntary retire ments or removal of judges. Annual authorized salary: $152,500 (Chief Justice) $150,000 (Justice) Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) place 7 Dale Wainwright I am the incumbent seeking reelection for Texas Supreme Court, Place 7, and I have an abiding faith in America=s values. I am the experienced candidate having served over five years on the high Court, almost four years as a trial judge, and over a decade in private practice before /// Sam houston Practiced law in Texas since graduating Baylor Law School in Tried dozens of cases to verdict; handled appeals in Courts of Appeals and the Texas Supreme Court. Board certified, personal injury trial law and civil trial advocacy. Member, American Board of Trial Advocates. Consistently rated AV by Martindale Hubbell. A non-activist judicial philosophy applies the original intent of constitutional provisions and the expressed intent of the Legislature in deciding cases. This principled application of the law, as written, is consistent with the constitutional separation of powers doctrine and promotes fairness and predictability in the law. On the other hand, an activist judge decides cases in a manner that improperly changes the written law to effect his own personal or political agenda. The public recognizes /// An activist judge is one who places his or her own feelings about a case over what the law dictates. When judges decide cases based on their personal beliefs instead of by proper application of the law, trust in the legal system is eroded. This is particularly true when we have partisan elections requiring large amounts of money for elections. The Texas Constitution requires the election of judges. There are concerns with electing judges: fundraising, insufficient information among the electorate on judicial candidates and perceived political pressure. We certainly should improve how we select judges, including changing how judicial campaigns are funded and better educating the public on the experience and qualifications of candidates for judicial office. Other methods of selecting judges have pros and cons as well. In a perfect world, I believe a non-partisan election would be preferable. However, if the judicial elections remain partisan, they should be held on a different date than the general election. Under the current system, judges maintain office primarily as a result of party affiliations and the up ballot votes. This needs to change. Judges should be elected based on their background and philosophy. Judge must maintain integrity on the bench and avoid the appearance of impropriety. Laws and ethical rules seek to enforce this objective. If a contribution to a jurist impairs his ability to be fair and impartial, he should either not accept the contribution or recuse himself from the contributor s cases. The increased need for funding has resulted in a loss of credibility among judges. There is a perception, at least, that judges side with political donors as opposed to ruling according to the law. Further, campaign contributions and the need to campaign for re-election have politicized the judicial process to the point that it is perceived by many to be a biased system PLACE 7 Candidates continued on next page 7

8 place 7 continued place 8 Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) PLACE 7 Candidates continued from previous page David G. Smith Libertarian I graduated from Cornell Law School (J.D., 1992) with a concentration in business law and regulation and have been licensed to practice law in Texas since I was a managing editor of the inaugural issue of the Cornell Journal of Law and Public Policy. Phil Johnson 1975 Texas Tech Law School honors graduate. Private practice of law over 20 years; supervising attorney in medium-sized law firm. Board certified in Civil Trial and Personal Injury Trial law. Texas Court of Appeals Justice and Chief Justice, Texas Supreme Court Justice 4/2005 to present. Linda Reyna YaÑez Senior Justice on the 13th Court of Appeals, appointed by Gov. Ann Richards in 1993, authored 1000 s of appellate opinions, a former Clinical Instructor and current faculty member of the Trial Advocacy program at Harvard Law School. I am a former farmworker, elementary school teacher, and legal aid lawyer. SUPREME COURT JUSTICE continued What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) Politicians use activist judge to accuse a judge of ruling based on personal beliefs instead of according to law or legal precedent. It could also be said that an activist judge is one whose ruling you disagree with. The activist judge has become a useful bogeyman for politicians to blame when their objectives are blocked by unfavorable rulings even though this is the role of the judiciary in our constitutional system of checks and balances. An activist judge is one who bases decisions on what that judge wants the law to be, instead of on legal precedent, legal reasoning, valid legal principles and strict construction of legislation. Public perception of the judiciary is hurt by charges that judges are activist, even when the charges are made just because someone disagrees with the result of the judge s decision. Definition depends on whose ox is being gored. Some consider that interpretations of the law which consider the law as alive and responsive to changing mores in the greater society as activists. Others consider that interpretations of the law which pretend to interpret the intent of the original writers as activists. Result oriented analysis should be of concern. We need a system that promotes a judiciary of independent thinkers committed to the rule of law. Drew Shirley, Libertarian no response received Six-year term. Must be at least 35 years old, a citizen of the United States, and a resident of Texas. Must have been a practicing lawyer or a lawyer and a judge of a court of record for at total of 10 years or more. Among duties shared with other judges: serves as a member of the court of highest appellate jurisdiction in What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) Direct election of judges results in a judiciary that is more independent than one with judges appointed by the governor and confirmed by the legislature. However, most voters have neither the time nor legal background to evaluate judicial candidates, so instead rely on party affiliation when casting their vote. I have proposed an independent, nonpartisan candidate review panel, with both lawyers and nonlawyers, which would evaluate candidates and identify those most qualified to serve. I am not aware of studies relating methods of judicial selection to quality or diversity of the judiciary. Nor am I aware of studies relating judicial selection methods to independence of the judiciary. My opinion is that judicial independence depends more on the length of the term of office than on the method of judicial selection. If we are going to continue to elect our judges then we should have single-member districts for the two Supreme Courts. I favor a hybrid system of appointment/election, which has a non-partisan screening committee, including members of the Bar and lay citizens. There are many models in different states in which appointed judges stand for retention elections, reappointment procedures, Bar polls and other permutations. Texans should consider these alternatives to our current process. JUdge, Court of Criminal Appeals Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) No, they should not. Although the Texas Code of Judicial Conduct requires judges to refrain from financial transactions with lawyers who are likely to appear in their court, the Code makes an exception allowing judges to solicit campaign funds from attorneys. Nevertheless, the fact that campaign contributions cloud the air of impartiality that the Code seeks to maintain is certainly one of the negative consequences of our system of electing judges The Texas Legislature has by law limited the amount and timing of judicial campaign contributions. Limits apply to all persons, including parties, lawyers and lawfirms. A judge need not recuse from cases solely because of a contribution which is made within limits. However, if the circumstances might reasonably cause a judge s impartiality to be questioned, then the judge should recuse from the case. The current rules regarding recusal and disqualification adequately address issues of conflicts of interest regarding the judiciary. As long as the judiciary is elected, judicial candidates must raise money. In order to significantly eliminate the issue of contributions and the influence they may have on the judiciary, Texans should have a better system of judicial selection. I support eliminating the election of our appellate bench. No system of judicial selection is free of political influence. criminal matters in the state; has the power to issue writs of habeas corpus and others. Annual authorized salary: $152,500 (Presiding Judge) $150,000 (Judge) place 3 Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) Tom Price I have been a criminal court judge in Texas for over 33 years. I was a County and District Judge for over 22 years in Dallas County. I have served on this court for 11 years. I have served Texas as a Judge for more than half of my life. He sido juez de tribunal criminal en Texas más de 33 años. Yo fui Juez de Distrito y Condado durante mas de 22 años en el Condado de Dallas. He servido en este tribunal durante 11 años. He servido Texas como Juez mas de la mitad de mi vida. What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) Activist Judges are Judges that are more concerned with their view of the law and go beyond legitimate interpretation to change the law which results in citizens distrust of Judicial decisions at every level. I am not a Activist Judge. Jueces Activistas son Jueces que están más preocupados por su priopia vista de la ley y van más allá de la interpretación legitima para cambiar la ley que causa la desconfianza de ciudadanos de decisiones Judiciales en cada nivel. Yo no soy un Juez Activista. What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) Judges should not be elected on party ballots. A judge should not be evaluated by his/her Polital views but by his/hers Judicial philosophy and demeanor. Non-partisan retention elections where a judge is first appointed and then placed on a retention ballot would give voters a more informative process to retain or reject a judge. A voter would vote yes to keep a judge or no to seek his/her removal. Los jueces no deberían ser elejidos en votaciónes de partido. Un juez no deberia ser evaluado por sus vistas politicas, pero por su filosofía Judicial y comportamiento. Las elecciones de retención independientes donde un juez es primero designado y luego colocado en una votación de retención darían a votantes un proceso más informativo para rentener or rechazar a un juez. Un votante votaria si guardar al juez or buscar su retiro. Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) The impact of judges raising money to run for election is a loss of voter trust in the honesty and integrity of Judges. More often than not Judges would receive contributions from people who appear before their courts. The public would then question the impartiality of the decisions from that court. El empacto de jueces que levantan el dinero para correr a la elección es una pérdida de la confianza del votante en la honestidad y la integridad de Jueces. Mas a menudo que no los Jueces recibirian contribuciones de las gente que aparece ante de sus tribunales. El püblico preguntaria entonces las lmparcialidad de las decisiones de aquel tribunal. PLACE 3 Candidates continued on next page Register! Decide! Vote! it counts! 8

9 place 3 continued Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) PLACE 3 Candidates continued from previous page Susan Strawn A native Houstonian, Susan Strawn prosecuted cases nationwide for twelve years with the US Justice Department. She spent four years as a senior federal law enforcement and judicial reform advisor in Kosovo and Africa. She graduated from UT Law School with honors, and teaches at UH Law Center. Susan Strawn, quien es oriunda de Houston, trabajó como fiscal presentando casos en toda la nación con el Departamento de Justicia de los EE.UU. Trabajó cuatro años como asesora senior de cumplimiento legal federal y reforma judicial en Kosovo y África. Se graduó de la Escuela de Derecho de la Universidad de Texas con honores y enseña en el Centro /// Matthew E. Eilers Libertarian I was licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas in 1989, and was engaged in the private practice, including criminal law, in Austin for almost a decade. Recibí mi licencia por El Tribunal Supremo de Texas en Yo tenía mí propio bufete en Austin, y defendí clients con asuntos penales. JUdge, Court of Criminal Appeals What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) True activist judges rule without regard to sound Constitutional principles. However, the term is often used to describe judges who invalidate government actions on Constitutional grounds. Since the 1803 Supreme Court decision in Marbury v. Madison, courts have reviewed executive and legislative acts for compliance with the Constitution. Activist judges has become an epithet sometimes used by those who disagree with their decisions. Like many epithets, it may play to prejudices rather than reasoned debate. Los verdaderos jueces activistas emiten sus sentencias sin tomar en cuenta los principios constitucionales establecidos. No obstante, el término se usa con frecuencia para describir a los jueces que invalidan las acciones del gobierno por razones Constitucionales. Desde la decisión del Tribunal Supremo en 1803 en Marbury v. Madison, los tribunales han revisado las leyes ejecutivas y judiciales para asegurarse de que cumplan con la Constitución. Juez activista se ha convertido en un epíteto que a veces utilizan las personas que no están de acuerd /// An activist judge is one who places his personal or political agenda above the administration of justice. It is my belief that, with some notable exceptions, judicial activism is really more an issue of perception than an actual problem. Un juez activísta pone su agenda personal o política mas arriba de la administración de justicia. Yo creo que activismo de los jueces no es un problema verdadera, sino una question de percepción. What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) I support a merit-selection, retention-election system along the lines of that championed by the late Supreme Court Chief Justice John Hill. The key to the integrity of such a process is the choice of members of the nomination commission. I believe that, with leadership and commitment, Texans can find a way to provide for a broad-based, bipartisan commission whose nominees will be a credit to the State judiciary. Estoy a favor de un sistema de retención-elección basado en la selección por mérito como el que promovió el Juez Presidente del Tribunal Supremo John Hill, que en paz descanse. La clave para la integridad de dicho proceso está en los miembros a escoger de la comisión de nominaciones. Creo que, con liderazgo y compromiso, los tejanos pueden encontrar una manera de proveer para una comisión de base amplia y bipartita cuyos nominados serán valiosos para la rama judicial del Estado. The Texas Constitution has established that judges are selected by public election rather than by appointment, which, although not a perfect system, best ensures that the judges are independent from political pressures that would arise from being appointed by a political figure or committee. La Constitución de Texas establecio que los jueces son seleccionados por las elecciónes publicas, aunque no es un sistema perfecto, cual es mejor que selección por figuras politicas. Asi son mas independientes y sienten menos presión de la politica. Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) Yes. But recusal is not the answer to the corrupting influence of money on the judicial process. Texas limits ($5000/individual and $30,000/law firm) attempt to set an amount that is presumably too low to buy (much) influence. But instead many lawyers contribute to avoid perceived retaliation. Either way the contribution undermines judicial integrity. Expensive campaigns also discourage qualified applicants. Public financing, as recommended by the American Bar Association, is the best solution. Sí. Pero el recusarse no es la solución para la influencia del dinero que corrompe el proceso judicial. Los límites de Texas ($5,000/por individuo y $30,000 por bufete legal) intentan establecer una cantidad que presuntamente es demasiado baja para comprar (mucha) influencia. Sin embargo, muchos abogados contribuyen para evitar lo que perciben como posibles represalias. De cualquier manera la contribución socava la integridad judicial. El alto costo de una campaña también desanima a los candidatos calificados. La mejor solución, según lo ha recomendado el Colegio /// Absolutely. A judge who has received contributions from participants in litigation can consciously or unconsciously shade his rulings in favor of such participants, which certain has a detrimental impact on those cases. More serious is that the general failure of judges to recuse themselves has a corrosive effect on the public trust in the judiciary. I have vowed not to hear any case affiliated with any contributor to my campaign, in the event I am /// Definitivo. Dinero de los participantes del corte del juez puede afectar el caso, sin querer or con querer, en una manera negativa. El problema mas serio es que el publico pierde fe en la sistema juridica. He prometido que yo no voy a escuchar ningun caso cuando un participante ha contribuido a mi campaña. place 4 NO PHOTO AVAILABLE Paul Womack Judge Paul Womack seeks reelection to the Court of Criminal Appeals. He was elected in 1996 and He was the First Assistant District Attorney in Georgetown, where he lives with his wife. Judge Womack has taught law school for 24 years and is a board-certified specialist in criminal law. El juez Paul Womack busca la reelección al Tribunal de Atracciones Criminales. El fue elegido en 1996 y El fue el Primer Fiscal del distrito Ayudante en Georgetown, donde él vive con su mujer. El juez Womack ha enseñado facultad de derecho durante 24 años y es un especialista tabla-certificado en el derecho penal. Activist judge may describe a judge who uses a lawsuit to decide a broad issue of public policy that could be left to the legislative and executive branches of government. This has not been a problem at the Court of Criminal Appeals, where the issues are limited to applying the law and deciding when someone should have a new trial because of an error in his case. El juez de activista puede describir a un juez que utiliza un pleito para decidir un asunto ancho de la política pública que podría ser dejada a las ramas legislativas y ejecutivas de gobierno. Esto no ha sido un problema en el Tribunal de Atracciones Criminales, donde los asuntos son limitados a aplicar la ley y decidiendo cuando alguien debe tener un nuevo ensayo a causa de un error en su caso. Electing judges on partisan ballots has worked fairly well at the local level, where the voters can have personal knowledge of the candidates. It is less satisfactory in statewide races, where paid advertising is the main way of reaching voters. Elegir a jueces en votaciones partidistas han trabajado bastante bien en el nivel local, donde los votantes pueden tener el conocimiento personal de los candidatos. Es menos satisfactorio en carreras a todo el estado, donde pagó la publicidad es la principal manera de alcanzar a votantes. The need to pay for advertising in statewide judicial elections is the root of this problem. Judges should not be obligated to those who make large contributions, and there should not be an appearance that a judge is=2 0obligated. For this reason, I do not seek campaign contributions, and I do not accept contributions from lawyers. La necesidad de pagar por la publicidad en elecciones judiciales a todo el estado es la raíz de este problema. Los jueces no deben ser obligados a los que hacen contribuciones grandes, y no deben haber una apariencia que un juez es obligado. Para esta razón, yo no busco contribuciones de campa a, y yo no acepto contribuciones de abogados. PLACE 4 Candidates continued on next page INVESTIGUE DÓNDE VOTA SU PRECINTO EL DÍA DE LAS ELECCIONES: Llame al ó al or 9

10 place 4 continued NO PHOTO AVAILABLE J. R. Molina JUdge, Court of Criminal Appeals continued Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) PLACE 4 Candidates continued from previous page I received my BA and JD degrees, UT Austin. I have 36 years of experience as a felony prosecutor and defense counsel and have been Board Certified for 31 years. I have prosecuted and defended capital cases. I have tried some 250 jury trials and I have filed some 75 appeals. Recibí mi educacion en la Universidad de Texas. Desde 1972 he sido fiscal de casos penales y abogado defensor. Tambien he participado en casos con pena capital y en mas de 250 juicios de jurado y como 75 casos de apelación y miles de casos con juicio de juez. Dave Howard Libertarian I was licensed to practice law in 1993, having received my JD from St. Mary s University School of Law. Since that time, I have practiced in various areas, including probate law, family law, and for the last 8 years exclusively, criminal law. What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) An activist judge or judiciary group allows for deviation from standing doctrines, practices and common sense. Recently the US Supreme Court ruled that a ratified treaty binds the national government but not individual states. A Texas High Court closed the courthouse to prevent the filing of an appeal. The same court also disallowed an appeal because a team lawyer signed the papers rather than the lead attorney. The public will not accept form over substance. Un juez activo o un grupo de jueces permiten de divertir de doctrinas antiguas. La Corte Suprema dirigió que un Tratado obliga el goberno federal pero no los estados del EU. Una Corte de Texas cerró la casa de corte para no recibir una apelación de un preso y tambien rehusó otra apelación por razon de firma de un abogado pero no del lider del equipo de abogados. La gente no acepta estas manos sucias. The term activist judge should mean someone who takes advantage of his or her position to thwart the intentions of the Constitution to advance a personal agenda. However, the term has become virtually meaningless. Conservatives accuse liberal judges when they interpret a law as contrary to the intentions of the Consitution. Liberals accuse conservatives of activism when they favor the economic freedom of corporations over the needs of individuals. Neither case is necessarily activist. What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) Electing judges in non partisan contests would be a better method of selecting judges. Human experience teaches us that no matter the method, political partisanship would play a large part. Selection by commission and then standing for election on a retention basis is not the answer. Such an appointed or elected commission would be political at its birth. De elegir jueces sin apoyo de ningun partido politico se parece ser mas justo. Asi cada candidato se presenta con sus calificaciones sin la sombra de un partido sucio o en la luz de un partido luminoso. Pero en nuestra sistema, la mano pesada del los caudillos siempre manda y asi no hay esperanza de reformas. Un comisión, eligido o designado, es un comisión politico a su nacimiento. One would like to think that a committee which reviews the qualifications of judges would best choose the most competent individuals. However, some of the best judges I have practiced before were not necessarily the greatest legal minds, but were possessed of simple common wisdom. The voter can best choose these judges. Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) No. Supporters of any campaign are giving first amendment money. As long as we have elections there will be contributors. Representatives to Congress and Senators and presidential candidates receive huge contributions and they are lobbied directly by these supporters. In Court the rules do not allow such lobbying and all persuasive arguments are presented in open court. The maximum contribution to judges is small compared to the aforementioned elected officials. No. Moneda como apoyo a campañas es un derecho basico constituciónal. Los Representantes del Congresso, Senadors y candidatos de presidente reciben millones y estos donadores se presentan directamente con los elegidos para tomar apoyo a sus negocios. La etica de corte no permite lo miso con jueces. Es requirido de presentar las oraciones en la corte y en publico. La contribución máxima por ley a jueces es pequeña comparada a otros elegidos. A judge should recuse himself if the contribution has been made during the pendency of the case. However, the only money judges usually get is going to be from attorneys familiar with them. Without these contributions, there is no election fund. If a contribution can be made anonymously, so much the better. Cathy Cochran, no response required place 9 William Bryan Strange, III Libertarian I served as a Naval Officer and am a combat veteran of the Vietnam War. I hold the following degrees: BA in political science (SMU); Juris Doctor (George Washington University) and Science Masters (MIT). I have over 28 years experience as an attorney and business manager. Serví como un oficial naval y soy un veterano de combate de la Guerra de Vietnam. Tengo los títulos siguientes: soltero del grado en ciencia política (SMU); juris doctor (George Washington University); master ciencia (MIT). Tengo más de 28 años de experiencia como abogado y director de negocios. Activist judges go beyond deciding a case and exert power to change the social order. Judicial activism can advance any agenda or political philosophy. Jurists should only pursue justice for the persons before the court. Activism undermines public faith in the judiciary, subverts the legislative and executive processes and upsets the balance of power in our democracy. Jueces activita hacen más que decidir un caso y se esfuerzan su autoridad a cambiar el orden social. Activismo judicial puede avanzar alga agenda o filosofía política. Los juristas deben seguir solo la justicia para las personas ante del tribunal. Activismo socava la fe pública en el poder judicial, subvierte los procesos legislativos y ejecutivos y disgusta el equilibrio de fuerzas en nuestra democracia. Judicial selection should be a non competitive, merit based process that minimizes political and financial influences. A non partisan commission should name potential appointees who would then be subject to selection by the Governor and approval of the Legislature. Judges should serve a maximum 10 year term but should be eligible for reappointment. La selección de jueces debe ser un proceso sin competición, con base de mérito que minimiza las influencias políticas y financieros. Una comisión independiente debe nombrar los candidatos potenciales, quienes estarían sujetos a la selección del gobernador y aprobación de la legislatura. Los jueces deben servir un mandato no más de 10 años, pero debe poder reunir los requisitos para otro mandato. Judicial selection should be a non competitive, merit based process that minimizes political and financial influences. A non partisan commission should name potential appointees who would then be subject to selection by the Governor and approval of the Legislature. Judges should serve a maximum 10 year term but should be eligible for reappointment. Un jurista debe retirar de alguna causa donde un donante a su campaña comparece como un pleiteante o abogado ante ese jurista. Esta ley estricta debe aplicar si la contribución sea sustancioso o mínimo y también debe aplicar a las personas quien da apoyo que no son monetario. Los tejanos merecen una judicatura independiente e imparcial, sin las relaciones especiales a abogados ciertos o sus clientes. Four-year terms. Must be at least 26 years old, a citizen of the United States, a resident of Texas for at least 12 months, a district resident for at least 12 months, and a registered Texas voter. Composed of 15 members elected from roughly equally populous State Board of Education districts, the Board adopts rules DISTRICT 6 trustee, state board of education Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) Terri LeO, no response received Mary Ann Bryan Libertarian I have many years of experience watching public schools fail our children. This experience has given me the determination to fight for private education, not government schools. I will not accept that the answer to failed public schools is more money and more state control. What are the most pressing public education issues facing the State Board of Education, and how would you address them? (75 word limit) The most pressing issue is the terrible quality and the absurdly high cost of government-run education. I would try to help reduce this problem by returning as much power to local districts as possible. I would try to ease or eliminate curriculum requirements, spending mandates, and testing mandates. I understand that the real answer is legislative reform to create school choice and reduce the power of the public school industry. and establishes policies that govern a wide range of educational programs and services provided by Texas public schools. The Board establishes goals for the public school system and adopts and promotes four-year plans for meeting those goals. Annual authorized salary: none How can you, as a member of the State Board of Education, help the increasingly diverse student population of Texas achieve success in education, in careers, and in civic participation? (75 word limit) Unfortunately there s not much I can do directly, because the real answer lies in school choice and the benefits of free-market-based education. Possible the best thing I can do is use the high profile of this office to advocate for legislative reforms. The activities of the SBOE are mostly like rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. When the State Board of Education considers revisions to the science curriculum in Texas, what will be your position on the current requirement that evolution be taught as science? (75 word limit) It s terrible that the State Board of Education even has to consider this question. Unfortunately, one-size-fits-all government school systems always result in this kind of vicious battle. I will vote that this question be left up to local school districts to the greatest extent possible. I will also advocate for legislative changes to allow parents to education their children in accordance with their beliefs and desires 10

11 DISTRICT 7 trustee, state board of education continued Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) What are the most pressing public education issues facing the State Board of Education, and how would you address them? (75 word limit) David Bradley, no response received Laura Ewing Training: Bachelor s: Secondary Education Master s: Educational Leadership Extensive additional training in how children learn, educational politics and finances; Experience: 24 years teacher 10 years specialist working with teachers, librarians, character education programs, textbook adoption, staff development 5 years on Friendswood City Council SBOE needs to: Address the increasing dropout rate Prepare students for the 21st century Ensure responsible investment of the $25 billion Permanent School Fund for our children s educational future; I will: Promote more vocational courses for graduation Consult with experts and study relevant research before making decisions Ensure that all courses have specific, rigorous, and relevant curriculum standards Make reasonable decisions that will respect and support the teachers /// Richard R. Johnson, Libertarian no response received How can you, as a member of the State Board of Education, help the increasingly diverse student population of Texas achieve success in education, in careers, and in civic participation? (75 word limit) By including a greater variety of courses for graduation credit, the SBOE can better meet the diverse needs of the student population. Non- English speaking students need opportunities to learn English while studying the required subjects. Students who are not college-bound need additional class options with rigorous standards that will prepare them for the work world. Courses also need to include standards that prepare students for civic responsibilities through authentic learning experiences. When the State Board of Education considers revisions to the science curriculum in Texas, what will be your position on the current requirement that evolution be taught as science? (75 word limit) As a parent and a person of faith, I want public schools to prepare our children to succeed in the 21st century. That means public schools should teach accurate, scientific accounts of the theory of evolution. Schools should also respect the freedom of families and congregations to educate their children about their own religious beliefs regarding creation. Public schools have no business deciding whose religious beliefs to teach in science classes. Member of the Senate must be at least 26 years old, registered voter for at least five years, and resident of the district for at least one year. The Senate confirms gubernatorial appointments to administrative and judicial posts. It participates in the initiation of proposals for constitutional amendments. It canvasses the State Senator returns in elections for governor and lieutenant governor. The Senate tries officials impeached by the House. Senate members also serve as advocate for citizens in the members home district. State Senators are elected for a term of four years. 4 Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position? (50 word limit) Companies are showing that energy conservation is cost effective and saves energy. What legislation would you support to increase energy conservation in Texas? Tommy Williams, running unopposed in District 4 Is current state tax policy sufficient to finance state government needs, such as public education, public safety, and bridge and road maintenance? If not, what measures would you support to increase state revenues? Public schools, once again, are in severe financial straits. What additional legislation would you recommend to address this problem? DISTRICT 6 NO PHOTO AVAILABLE Gilbert Pena I have a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in criminal Justice from TSU. I work in the refrigeration. My political experience is that I will make a different. /// I would support legislation that would raise the fines and fees of those companies that are not commit to becoming conservative and cost effective by saving energy. Mario V. Gallegos, Jr., no response received Yes! The current state tax policy is more than sufficient to finance our state government needs. We, the voters, have approve over $5 billion for state bridges and road maintenance; and Harris county voters have approve another $300 million for the same propose. HISD recently had to give away, over $14 million to the State s Robin Hood program. HISD also /// The Texas Lotto contributes over $1billion to public education and school districts continue to raise school property taxes and yet public schools are in financial straits. Why? Because, of school districts financial mismanagement. I would recommend legislation that would hold school broad members and superintendent accountable for mismanagement of their school district. Susan DElgado, Libertarian no response received Mike Jackson I ve lived and worked in Senate District 11 more than 30 years and have 20 years as a member of the State Legislature. My priorities have been to help create jobs, improve education and preserve our environment as well as fighting to cut spending in Austin and keep taxes low. In 2007 I supported legislation to provide resources making wind energy cost effective. These incentives have resulted in a huge private investment in wind energy, making Texas the country s leader in wind energy production. Energy conservation is a priority for me and I will use this model incentives over punishment in advocating for alternative energy initiatives and additional conservation programs. Our state budget is $168 billion, more than enough to address our needs if we eliminate waste, direct education funds into the classroom, and identify efficiencies in health care. In 2007, I voted against the budget because it had become bloated with government waste. I will continue to stand for fiscally conservative policies that assure taxpayer funds are used wisely. Currently, less than half of every education dollar ends up in the classroom. We must direct a much higher percentage of school funding into the classroom and allow local school district to make financial decisions that will give them the freedom to innovate and reward teachers with better pay. DISTRICT 11 Joe Jaworski I earned my bachelor s from North Carolina s Davidson College and my law degree from the University of Texas at Austin. I served three terms on the Galveston City Council, the last as Mayor Pro-Tem, and practice mediation and maritime law in state and federal courts around the country. Me educé en Davidson College en North Carolina y recibí mi licencia en derechos de la Universidad de Texas en Austin. Fui elegido tres veces al Ayuntamiento de Galveston, la última vez como Alcalde Provisional, Mi profesión es la mediación y derecho marítimo en tribunales estatales y federales. I support any common-sense initiatives to help us shift from fossil fuels to a full range of clean alternative energy. Texas should be the national leader in such initiatives, which is why I also support the proposed plan to invest in transmission lines to bring wind power from West Texas to metropolitan areas like Houston and Galveston. Apoyo cualquier iniciativa racional para ayudarnos cambiar de hidrocarburos a una gama completa de energía alternativa y limpia. Texas puede ser el líder nacional en tales iniciativas, y pore so también apoyo el plan propuesto para invertir en líneas de transmisión para traer la energía del viento a áreas metropolitanas como Houston y Galveston. Public schools, public health, public safety, and public infrastructure systems all require more investment, not less. But property taxes are already too high, and a proposal in Austin to raise the sales tax is exactly the wrong solution. I support eliminating taxpayer subsidies to foreign corporations and other unnecessary spending to free up resources for what matters most. Las escuelas públicas y otros sistemas públicos de salud e infraestructura requieren más inversión, no menos. Los impuestos sobre la propiedad inmobiliaria ya están altos, y una propuesta para aumentar impuestos sobre ventas no es la solución. Apoyo la eliminación de subsidios a corporaciones extranjeras y otro gastos innecesarios para poder usar nuestros recursos en lo que de versa importa. The state-to-local ratio of school funding is the lowest state portion since WWII. Let s reverse this ratio to give local taxpayers relief, then make public education the first item approved in the state budget, not the last. If we get education right, everything else will follow. If we get it wrong, not much else will matter. El estado paga 38 porciento de los gastos de educación pública, y contribuyentes locales pagan 62 porciento, la porción más alta desde la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Las escuelas públicas merecen ser el primer artículo aprobado en el presupuesto estatal, no el último. Si logramos arreglar la educación pública, todo lo demás seguirá bien. Si no, lo demás no importará. Cliff Messina, Libertarian no response received Your vote is your voice. Be Heard 11

12 Member of the House of Representatives must be 21 years of age and a legal resident of the state for at least two years and resident of the district from which they are elected at least one year. All bills for revenue and appropriation of funds for operation of state government originate in the House. Members State Representative duties include initiation of proposals for constitutional amendments, serving as an advocate for citizens in their home district and bringing any charges of impeachment for trial in the Senate. They are elected for a two-year term. DISTRICT 126 Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) Patricia Harless I m a successful small businessperson. As a business Owner I understand the importance of profitability and accountability. I will bring common business sense to government. My BS in Business management and 26 years of service to the community has proven me to be a responsive public servant. Chad Khan I hold a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Karachi, Attend San Jacinto College for 2 years. Own two small businesses; I served more than 10 years as a President for Home Owner Association, Serving as a Board of Director for Harris County Municipal Utility District, and serve /// Companies are showing that energy conservation is cost effective and saves energy. What legislation would you support to increase energy conservation in Texas? I would support the creation of initiatives to encourage energy conservation in the form of tax rebates. I would support legislation to create sales tax abatements on the purchase of energy efficient appliances and vehicles; legislation that would allow a one-year property tax abatement for homes and buildings certified as Green by the U.S. Green Building Council; and legislation to give homeowners one-time property tax abatements for energy-efficient modifications such as through re-insulation, installing solar panels, etc. Is current state tax policy sufficient to finance state government needs, such as public education, public safety, and bridge and road maintenance? If not, what measures would you support to increase state revenues? Yes, we are taxing plenty. The problem is the money is not getting appropriated properly. Texas government continues to take money that is taxed for a specific purpose and divert it to other areas of government spending leaving funding shortages in the intended areas. This must be stopped. I would propose the state look toward less regressive taxes to fund public needs, including considering a value added tax to compliment the current gross receipts tax (which would require modification). I do not support a personal income tax, and believe we must reduce the tax burden on homeowners. Public schools, once again, are in severe financial straits. What additional legislation would you recommend to address this problem? Make the WADA formulas less difficult to understand so the school districts can plan accordingly. Quit passing unfunded mandates. If the state requires schools to provide more services then we need to compensate them appropriately. The new tax system passed in 2006 provided no new funds for public education. I would propose that the legislature examine the possibility of requiring sales price disclosure for home sales to make property tax appraisals more accurate (and to thus generate a better standard of revenue), and sunsetting some existing tax exemptions on businesses and large corporations. Oscar J. Palma, Jr., Libertarian no response received Joe Crabb, no response received DISTRICT 127 NO PHOTO AVAILABLE Joe A. Montemayor I served four years in the U.S. Navy before embarking on a 26-year career as a Deportation Officer with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. After retiring, I became a small business owner. I have made a career of serving constituents and know I am qualified to serve. Justo Perez Libertarian Informed Objectivist Philosophy. I would support property tax exemptions for homeowners who invest in home weatherization and other energy conservation efforts. I would also support increased enforcement of environmental regulations and utilize the revenue to fund such a program. None. There are already too many laws and regulations. I believe we are failing to meet our infrastructural needs. I believe we must put an end to Gov. Perry s corporate slush fund, while also studying new revenue streams, such as legalized gambling. However, I would also consider a review of tax exemptions in the tax code and home sales price disclosure. Enforcing environmental regulations will also increase revenue. Reduce the State programs to reduce taxes. We must invest in our public schools to ensure we have a prepared workforce in the future. We must increase the state s current share of school funding, while also reprioritizing funding formulas to ensure equity throughout the state. We must also commit to seeking new revenue streams to ensure property owners are not overburdened at the local level. Get Government out of the education business and stop compulsive education. Eliminate publicly funded schools and education; leave education to the private sector and parents. 128 WAYNE SMITH, running unopposed in District 128 DISTRICT 129 John E. Davis, no response received Sherrie L. Matula Currently a science education consultant in public schools, served two terms on the Clear Creek ISD school board and was a 25-year classroom teacher. Lobbied the Legislature for 30 years on behalf of education. President of the Middlebrook Community Association and member of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. The cheapest, quickest and cleanest way to meet our energy needs is to reduce our energy demand through energy efficiency and conservation. One way would be to expand the Lone Star Program, which lends money to help state agencies, universities, municipalities and school districts implement projects to reduce energy use and pay back the loan through energy savings. The entire tax system needs to be restructured. Some of the problems with the current structure are that the Legislature passed a new tax on businesses that they are required to pay even when they are losing money, Texas has among the highest sales tax in the nation and property taxes are too high in Harris County. Schools must be adequately funded to provide a quality education for all of our students. The Legislature needs to halt unfunded mandates, as well as update the funding formula for transportation, which has not been changed since Taxing authority should go back to local school boards, since they are accountable to the public who elected them 130 Allen Fletcher, no response received William B. Gray, jr., Libertarian no response received 131 Alma A. Allen, running unopposed in District DISTRICT Bill Callegari, no response received Phil Kurtz, Libertarian no response received Jim Murphy I graduated from Strake Jesuit and UT Austin and spent the last 20 years leading Westchase District, adding over $1 billion in new development. I served on the HCC Board from Served as State Representative and Freshman Legislative Class President this past session and passed more bills than any other freshman. I will promote conservation as part of plan to achieve energy independence and to improve our environment. While cost savings will spur expanded private sector efforts, I will introduce legislation to require that a conservation/energy savings analysis be in any contract for goods or services to be purchased by the State so the public can also benefit from conservation efforts. Our projected tax revenues for the next budget will produce a surplus of several billion over our current budget so new taxes are not needed nearly as much as priority decisions to fund the most critical functions of State government. Stopping or reducing the diversions of the gas tax could increase our highway funding by more than two billion dollars. Cutting the red tape of excess regulations and testing for high-performing schools will free up scarce resources and direct them to the classroom where they will do the most good. Districts have been hit hard with increased fuel, insurance, and utility costs so I will support increasing the State funding formula.

13 State Representative continued 133 continued Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) Kristi Thibaut As a native Texan and UT-Austin graduate with 20 years of experience in the non-profit and private sectors and in government, I am well qualified to serve. My experience and the values I was raised with are the basis of my commitment to helping people through public service. Companies are showing that energy conservation is cost effective and saves energy. What legislation would you support to increase energy conservation in Texas? I support improving energy efficiency standards for new construction, as well as weatherization of existing structures to improve efficiency. Additionally, our utility providers should be challenged to achieve some reduction in demand through increased efficiencies. Improved vehicle mileage standards would also help reduce our energy consumption. Is current state tax policy sufficient to finance state government needs, such as public education, public safety, and bridge and road maintenance? If not, what measures would you support to increase state revenues? State tax policy is a complex, difficult issue. However, it is clear the current system is not working. Too many of Texans basic needs are not being met, and yet the current system unfairly burdens homeowners, particularly in the major urban areas where property valuations have skyrocketed. We do need more revenue, and a fairer way of getting it. Public schools, once again, are in severe financial straits. What additional legislation would you recommend to address this problem? We must achieve a long-term funding solution for Texas public schools. The new business tax offers no new resources for education, unduly burdens small businesses and sticks homeowners with most of the bill. I support the Hochberg Amendment, which would raise homeowner exemptions while increasing funds for schools. Decreasing emphasis on testing and empowering our teachers will improve our schools. Joe Agris, no response received 134 Ellen Cohen, no response received Mhair S. Dekmezian, Libertarian no response received Gary Elkins, no response received DIST 135 Trey S. Fleming I have degree in political science and business and worked on staff for Governor Bush, Senator Hutchison and a US Congressional campaign before going into the private sector 10 years ago. I work for a global management and IT consulting firm in the energy sector, primarily focused on Utility companies. I support corporate tax incentives for employees working remotely, for corporations operating in an energy and environmental friendly way and for better city and statewide mass transit (light and heavy rail). I d also like to see a more intelligent Utility grid that enables collaboration between utility companies and consumers for on/off peak time electricity usage. I support maintaining low taxes for all Texans. I d like to focus on efficiency of services through automation where possible. I believe we have the money we need to provide, and even enhance, services in Texas. However, if more state revenue is required, I favor enabling new or increased business revenues that result in higher revenue for Texas. My district includes Cy Fair ISD, now the lowest funded school district in all of Houston. I am currently working with CFISD leaders to build ideas to solve this crisis as this is not an easy challenge to fix and we must leverage group genius to do so. This will be my number 1 priority in the 2009 legislative session. Alfred N. Montestruc, Libertarian no response received 136 Beverly Woolley, no response received Gerald W. Jerry LaFleur, Libertarian no response received DISTRICT 137 Scott Hochberg Recognized as one of Texas Ten Best Legislators by Texas Monthly magazine; Honored by Texas PTA for work improving public schools; Passed legislation closing loopholes in environmental laws, preventing overbilling by hospitals, lowering DWI limit, and strengthening nuisance law enforcement against crime havens. Owns and operates software development business. Reconocido como uno de los Diez Mejores legisladores de Texas por la revista Texas Monthly; Honorado por el Texas PTA por el trabajo para mejorar las escuelas públicas; Pasó legislación para cerrar las escapatorias en las leyes ambientales, para evitar el sobre cargo de los hospitales, para bajar el límite del DWI, y para reforzar la ejecución de las leyes del fastidio contra los refugios de crímenes. Tiene y opera un negocio de desarrollo de software. Cutting demand saves money and provides cleaner air by keeping the least efficient, most expensive, generators turned off. We should improve efficiency through energy efficient building codes and replacement incentives for older, less efficient industrial equipment. With more advanced metering, consumers should be informed when peak charges are in effect so they can save by limiting energy use during peaks. Cortar demanda ahorra dinero y provee aire más limpio cuando los generadores menos eficientes (más caros) son apagados. Nosotros deberíamos mejorar la eficiencia con códigos de energía eficientes y incentivos para reemplazar el equipo industrial más viejo y menos eficiente. Con medidores más avanzados, los consumidores deben de ser informados cuando cargos máximos estén en efecto para que así puedan limitar el uso de energía y ahorrar. We have budget surpluses, but instead of keeping college tuitions low, investing in our highways, and improving schools, the surpluses are being used for tax breaks most Texans never see. Meanwhile tuitions skyrocket and our highways are leased to foreign investors. We must put affordable college, safe transportation, and excellent neighborhood schools ahead of tax breaks aimed at the wealthiest. Nosotros tenemos excesos en el presupuesto, pero en vez de mantener las colegiaturas universitarias bajas, de invertir en nuestras carreteras, y de mejorar las escuelas, los excesos están siendo usados para dar descansos en los impuestos que muchos Tejanos nunca verán. Mientras tanto las colegiaturas están subiendo y nuestras carreteras están siendo arrendadas a inversionistas extranjeros. Nosotros debemos poner universidades baratas, transportación segura, y escuelas sobresalientes antes de dar descansos en los impuestos para los más adinerados. The tax plan passed to fix school finance gives schools no new money, forcing schools to again rely on property tax increases to keep up with inflation. School funding should be based on students, their educational needs, and what s necessary to hire, train and keep the best teachers and principals. We must also reinstate school performance reviews to minimize waste. El plan de impuestos que fue pasado para arreglar las finanzas de las escuelas no les da dinero nuevo, esto fuerza a las escuelas otra vez a tener que contar con los aumentos de los impuestos de propiedad para poder continuar con la inflación. La recaudación de fondos para las escuelas deberían de ser basados en los estudiantes, sus necesidades educacionales, y lo que es necesario para emplear, entrenar y retener los mejores maestros y directores. Nosotros debemos reintegrar la valoración del desempeño de las escuelas para reducir el malgasto. Alex Cresswell, Libertarian no response received DISTRICT 138 Dwayne Bohac Small business owner; Founder, Save our Neighborhoods/Northwest Coalition; Honors graduate, Texas A&M University--B.B.A. Marketing, B.S. Political Science; Elected State Rep. November 2002; Born and raised in Oak Forest; Reside in Spring Branch; Member, White Oak Bayou Association; Member, Trees for Houston; Husband and father; Member, Second Baptist Church. Co-founded the Legislative Air Quality Caucus, which advances clean air solutions. Co-authored HB 3693 which increased efficiency standards on state buildings and created a sales tax holiday on energy efficient appliances. Joint-authored HB 2293 which required 10 percent of new state vehicles to get more than 30 mpg. Will re-file HB 1335 which would have provided rebates for hybrid vehicles. We must be sure to spend taxpayer money wisely. Taxpayers are the ones working hard and financing state government. Our job is to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse while prioritizing state spending. Families across Texas budget and prioritize, so must the legislature. Additionally, I believe in keeping taxes low in order to encourage economic growth, job creation, and prosperity. We need to end Robin Hood. Both HISD and SBISD, the two main districts I represent, are sending local property tax money away to other school districts. We need our local tax revenue right here in our districts. The state needs to spend a greater percentage of General Revenue on education and bring teacher salaries up to the national average. District 138 Candidates continued on next page 13

14 State Representative continued Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) District 138 Candidates continued from previous page Companies are showing that energy conservation is cost effective and saves energy. What legislation would you support to increase energy conservation in Texas? Is current state tax policy sufficient to finance state government needs, such as public education, public safety, and bridge and road maintenance? If not, what measures would you support to increase state revenues? Public schools, once again, are in severe financial straits. What additional legislation would you recommend to address this problem? 138 continued Virginia Ginny stogner McDavid My degree in Accounting from Texas Tech and experience as a CPA & small business owner have prepared me to address the significant budgetary issues facing our state. Through my employment with a major airline I ve held several union leadership positions in which I ve become experienced in legislative advocacy. I would propose a Carbon Action Plan similar to those adopted by 35 other states and that state agencies adopt mandatory recycling and purchase of recycled materials. I would support tax incentives for the use of best available technology in industry, and that a percentage of grants from the Texas Enterprise Fund be dedicated towards companies that further these goals. A re-evaluation of state priorities is needed. The portion of revenue directed toward economic incentives for already thriving large corporations should be first redirected toward funding public schools and then infrastructure needs. There has been a proliferation of new taxing entities at the local level perhaps at the expense of state revenues, where we rank 48th (per capita) nationwide. Reducing unfunded mandates by programs like No Child Left Behind and increased graduation requirements would help relieve the financial burden. Reducing standardized testing will lower expenses, and I oppose de-funding public schools with vouchers. The state should increase funding for public schools to reduce the burden on Robin Hood in equalizing funding between rich and poor school districts Sylvester Turner, running unopposed in District 139 Armando Lucio Walle, running unopposed in District 140 Michael Bunch Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration, 3 Master Degrees, Licensed Architect, 30 years in business and living in Texas for 30 years. Tax credits to save energy and invest in energy conservation. I would not increase taxes. I would reduce expenditures and enforce the balanced budget requirements. Reduce overhead and paper work. Allow more autonomy for the Principals. DISTRICT 141 Senfronia Thompson I am an attorney and a former public school teacher. I have a B.S. in Biology, a Masters in Education, Law degree, and Masters of Law. I am the longest -serving woman and African- American in the Legislature. Authored and passed over 200 bills. The State Energy Conservation Office has done a good job lowering the State s energy use. I support the investment of funds for agencies to increase energy savings. There are many incentives for private entities to use energy saving equipment and make energy saving improvements. The rising cost of energy should be an incentive to take advantage of these programs. The job of governing is balancing various needs and not overburdening the taxpayers. In the current economy this is not the time to increase taxes. Education, public safety and transportation are all funded at less than ideal levels. The legislature is looking at a projected surplus next session. Hopefully the legislature will use the surplus to address these areas. School Finance is much too complicated to adequately address in 60 words. The basic and transportation allotments should be regularly adjusted to reflect increased costs. Otherwise, our school finance system will end up back in courts and we will fail our children. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE Richard Brown Libertarian B.A., Social Work, S.E. La. Univ. (Hammond, La.). Teacher since Post grad work in Education at Tulane Univ., & Univ. of New Orleans. Offer tax reduction to a company who offers a viable, productive method of energy conservation. Cut taxes that exist for a mediocre, average public education program. Allow more toll ways to produce more acceptable roads, bridges. The tolls should have a sunset clause on Jan. 1, 2012 Start charging for financially failing schools. Close schools which show consistently low test scores. 142 Harold V. Dutton Jr., running unopposed in District 142 Dorothy Olmos, no response received Ana E. Hernandez, no response received 143 Joe O. Marcom Libertarian B.S. Allied Health, UHCL; Retired, USAF; Professional Military Education, plus 12 years as Paramedic/firefighter with GPVFD. I would have the state opt-out of Daylight Savings Time, so our children wouldn t be sent to school in the dark. However, I regard legislation to coerce energy conservation (or most other actions) as an abuse of power. Rather than increase revenue to meet the desires of the state, I would reduce the size, and limit the functions of the state to make it live within it s means as the citizens must do. Mismanagement and poor performance are so extensive, that I believe the Public School system has forfeited the right to exist. I would scrap it and replace it with a system of private schools, using vouchers, and with the state exercising oversight authority to assure minimum standards. DISTRICT 144 NO PHOTO AVAILABLE Ken Legler As President of Houston Wire Works I know how to battle big government, run an international corporation, and care for my employees. I serve as a Board Member at South Houston Chamber, NFIB, TAB, and TCEQ and EPA National Advisory Board. I was Commissioner for youth baseball in Pasadena. Joel C. RedmonD I earned a business degree from Baylor University, joined my family in Southeast Harris County and entered the mortgage business 14 years ago, helping over 2500 families purchase their home. I also established a ministry with the goal of equipping inmates to become responsible members of society upon their release. One of the few government programs I support is the state sponsored old vehicle and off-road commercial voucher program. However, I do not believe that the answer is more government. The answer is Texans having the power to use the free market, of which, if it is cost effective and saves energy, they will do it. To help Texans save energy and money, I will explore legislation that encourages the use of alternative fuels, green building (LEED standards), home weatherization and smart traffic engineering. I favor an approach that utilizes incentives rather than one dependent on burdensome regulations and restrictions. Current state tax policy is sufficient to support government needs. The revenue the taxes create is enough, but the problem is the routing and mismanagement of the tax dollars. I support making all government agencies accountable for their use of taxpayer s money and making sure the money goes to its earmarked purpose. Our state tax policy is broken. It places an undue tax burden on homeowners. But the problem is not that we do not collect enough revenue after all the state is projected to have budget surplus. The problem lies with our budget priorities. We have to place a priority on the basics education, public safety, healthcare and infrastructure. We need to get more education for our dollar instead of just throwing more money at a broken education system. We can take steps to ensure that more of every tax dollar spent makes it to the classroom where the students are and the teaching is done. Finally, we must expect standards to rise and hold public schools accountable. In 2006, Texas was faced with a court mandate to restructure the way we finance public schools. The legislature instituted a margins tax on businesses. That approach has failed. We have to start over with a school finance plan that is fair to homeowners and small businesses, continues to encourage economic growth, while providing local school districts with flexibility. 14

15 State Representative continued Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) Companies are showing that energy conservation is cost effective and saves energy. What legislation would you support to increase energy conservation in Texas? Is current state tax policy sufficient to finance state government needs, such as public education, public safety, and bridge and road maintenance? If not, what measures would you support to increase state revenues? Public schools, once again, are in severe financial straits. What additional legislation would you recommend to address this problem? 145 Patricia Rodriguez, no response received Carol Alvarado, no response received 146 Al Edwards, running unopposed in District 146 DISTRICT 147 Garnet F. Coleman I ve served in the Texas House since 1991 and chair the LSG, a House caucus dedicated to sound public policy for Texas families. Received a BA from the University of St. Thomas, have completed continuing education at the Kennedy School and am president of an affordable housing corporation. He servido en la Casa de Representantes de Tejas desde 1991, presido sobre el LSG, un caucus oficial de la Casa de Representantes dedicado al mejorar el orden público para las familias de Tejas. Recibi un BA de la universidad de St. Thomas, he continuado mis estudios en la escuela de Kennedy en Harvard. Soy el presidente de una corporación de viviendas comprables. I support legislation to increase energy efficiency standards for appliances, homes and businesses and to promote renewable energy like wind and solar, both of which will help fight global climate change. For example, last session I authored and passed legislation to promote solar energy technology for Texas homeowners and businesses. Apoyo legislación para aumentar los estándares del rendimiento energético para aplicaciones, casas y negocios y para mejorar energía reanudable como viento y solar que ayudará a luchar el cambio global del clima. En la sesión legislativo pasada yo hice legislación para promover la tecnología de la energía solar para los que son dueños de casas y negocios en Tejas. Rather than passing property tax cuts that primarily benefit wealthy commercial landowners and deprive state government of revenue for important social services, I support tripling the homestead exemption to drive property tax cuts to middle income Texans. I also support eliminating unnecessary exemptions from the state franchise tax. En ves de pasar los cortes de la contribución territorial que solo benefician terratenientes comerciales ricos y cortan dineros para servicios sociales importantes, apoyo triplicar la exención de la granja para conducir cortes de la contribución territorial a la renta media. También apoyo la eliminación de exenciones innecesarias del impuesto de licencia del estado. I support an across the board teacher pay raise to bring Texas to the national average in teacher salaries to attract and keep the best teachers to educate our children. I also support a student-teacher ratio of 22 to 1, increasing the number of certified teachers in the classroom and increasing funding for the Student Success Initiative. Apoyo el aumento de paga del maestros para elevar Tejas al promedio nacional en sueldos del maestros para atraer y para guardar a los maestros mejores. También apoyo un cociente del estudiante-maestro de 22 a 1, aumentar el número de profesores certificados en la clase y aumentar el financiamiento para la Iniciativa del Exito del Estudiante. Joe Tirado, Libertarian no response received DISTRICT 148 Howard H. Gano Jr. I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1974 with a BBA in Accounting. I own an accounting practice that specializes in taxes and have some successful efforts in oil and gas exploration. I am voluntarily active or have been active in the following organizations either as an officer, director, or advisory director: The Alley Theatre, Institute of Energy Research, Free Enterprise Institute, and the Rotary Club of the University Area. If energy conservation is cost effective and saves energy, then companies will employ energy conserving alternatives in their businesses. The legislation that I would propose would be to grant these companies that employ energy conserving alternatives a Certificate of Merit acknowledging their work. My first task will be to eliminate the new business franchise tax and replace it with a franchise tax that would encourage businesses to locate or relocate in Texas. Our state tax system should be a model for all other states to follow. If more businesses relocated to Texas due to a low and fair tax environment, then more revenue would be available for the needs for the State of Texas. Part of the monies collected for public education should be set aside to assist the troubled schools. Retired executives from corporations should be encouraged to be advisory board members to serve and help manage the troubled districts. I also believe that there should be more community involvement and support for our public schools which would defray the need for raising property taxes or revenue sharing between the wealthier districts and the poorer districts. Some kind of an Adopt a School (///) Jessica Christina Farrar, no response received DISTRICT 149 Greg Meyers I ve lived and served in West Houston most of my life. I have a BBA from Texas A&M University and MBA from St. Mary s University. My wife and I own GSK Dental. I served as Chairman of the Houston West Chamber of Commerce and currently serve as a HISD Trustee. Hubert Vo I have a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Houston. I am in the real estate development business. I have served for two terms in the Texas legislature. There are two critical things to help promote energy conservation: (1) Create a sales tax holiday for Energy Star qualified products to encourage purchase of products that save money and help the environment; (2) Install advanced (or smart ) meters in every home and business to give consumers a critical tool to help control their consumption of electricity. I am interested in legislation to provide incentives to retro-fit existing buildings to obtain more energy efficiency. I also want to encourage the development of other emerging technologies. Yes, the challenge is to control those obligations. Since 1994, the state has netted $36 billion in surplus revenues. The state needs better focus on core priorities, like education and transportation. For example, the Legislature must stop the diversion of gas tax revenue from needed road repair and maintenance, and stop creating new programs that drain resources from these priorities. First, I want to make sure we are getting the most efficiency from the money the state now receives. I believe our priorities need changing. Let s look at everything in the budget and use a zero-based budget process. Then we will have a better idea of our true financial situation. The Texas Supreme Court has stated that the Legislature should choose a new path to fund public schools. The Legislature should create a permanent select committee to begin reforming public school finance and fully fund public schools while relieving the taxpayers of rising, unsupportable property taxes. I also support policies that create efficiencies in how our tax dollars are spent. Public school finance is complex. We need to address, among other things, funding sources and equalization. We must look at a long range plan and we have to make education the priority. To be successful, this will require the cooperation of the legislature, school districts and the parents 150 Debbie Riddle, no response received Brad Neal, no response received Ken Petty, Libertarian no response received 15

16 Six-year term. Must be at least 35 years old, a United States citizen, and a resident of Texas and the district for which he or she is seeking office. Must have been a practicing lawyer or judge for at least 10 years. Among duties: appellate jurisdiction co-extensive with the limits of judges respective districts, which shall PLACE 3 Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) Ed Hubbard I have practiced law for nearly 25 years with large and small firms. I have represented plaintiffs and defendants, handled complex litigation throughout the country, provided litigation management for corporate clients, and managed my own law firm. I will bring to the court the perspective gained from these unique experiences. Jim Sharp My preparation spans 3 decades: -Legislation (Senate Education Committee staff; Legislative/Admin. Director to two House members)(70 s); -Case law (clerk to excellent Houston firms; my own solo practice)(80 s), and - Seventeen years of litigation in courthouses across Texas (since). UT-Austin (BA) and South Texas College of Law (JD). COURT OF APPEALS What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) 1st court of appeals justice Activist judges change the law to match their personal beliefs as to how a case should be resolved. An activist uses one or more of the following methods: 1. creating new law; 2. constricting existing law; 3. confusing existing law; and 4. ignoring existing law. Activism distorts precedents and injects politics into the judicial process, thereby destabilizing the development of the law. This instability weakens the public s confidence in the legal system. No respect for jury verdicts; misconstruction of precedent and statutes; activist judges legislating from the bench. Judges forgetting they are no longer prosecutors but officers sworn to uphold justice evenhandedly. Be intellectually honest. No Judge should rule according to party doctrine or defer to political patrons in order to climb the judicial career ladder. extend to all cases of which the District Courts or County Courts have original or appellate jurisdiction. Annual authorized salary $140,000 (Chief Justice) $137,500 (Justice) What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) The best way to select judges is through a non-partisan system, which most states have adopted in one form or another. This approach could include non-partisan elections held in odd-numbered years, or an appointment system with retention-elections (also known as the Missouri System ). Non-partisan elections, preferably on an election day that is designated specifically and exclusively for judicial races. Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) Most contributions to judicial campaigns are made because the contributors either know the candidate, or because they have a professional interest in the quality of the judicial system. Given the volume of cases handled by the courts, requiring recusal solely due to the receipt of campaign contributions would be unworkable. Current disclosure rules and contribution limits protect against improper influences on judicial decisions. The better reform would be to change the system for selecting judges. Jurists should have the moral fortitude for complete impartiality no matter the circumstances. But all judges are not jurists. The Canons of Judicial Ethics prohibit even an appearance of impropriety and statutory contribution limits are further safeguards. Each justice knows her/his soul and there may be cases in which it best to recuse in order to preserve the impartiality of the proceedings and the peace of mind of all parties. PLACE 5 Laura Higley After graduating from law school with top honors, I practiced law at Baker Botts where I was selected Special Counsel. In the last year of my first term on the Court, I have been recognized by P.O.L.I.C.E., Inc. as Judge of the Year and by Rotary as a Paul Harris /// Leslie C. Taylor I have been board certified in civil appellate law since I co-wrote the first edition of O Connor s Texas Causes of Action. I have clerked at a Texas court of appeals and have represented individuals (both rich and poor) and businesses (plaintiffs and defendants) in Texas for 24 years. An activist judge bases decisions, not on the laws promulgated by the legislative branch of government, but on what the judge thinks the result or outcome should be in the underlying case. An activist judge legislates from the bench. Voters expect their judges to make decisions based on the judge s understanding of established statutory and common law. A judge that does otherwise betrays the voters trust and besmirches the reputation of the judiciary. When someone uses the term activist to describe a jurist, it tells me more about the writer or speaker than the jurist. It usually means the writer or the speaker is unhappy with the way the law is developing and changing. The law is not stagnant; nor should it be. However, change should come through the legislature and high court holdings. It is not the job of intermediate courts of appeals to change the law. Some argue that a system of appointment and retention would de-politicize the process. That has not been the result of the federal system. Furthermore, eliminating judicial elections might prevent some qualified, lessknown candidates from presenting themselves to the voters. I suggest a third system - a separate judicial ballot coincident with the general elections. This specialized ballot would retain freedom of choice for the voter, reward incumbency and also encourage voters to focus on candidate /// No method is perfect. Politics will always play a role. My preference is merit selection. A nominating commission should be composed of members from diverse backgrounds. Commission members should be appointed by a variety of sources. The commission should offer a short list of nominees to the governor, who must appoint from the list. After two years on the bench, the judge should face a yes or no retention election to earn a 6-year term. Judges, when they take their oath of office, pledge to preserve and protect the law. In taking that pledge, elected judges commit to put aside any personal bias. Campaign contributions have no place in judicial decision making. In the courts of appeals, a judge must issue detailed opinions firmly grounded in the law and legal precedent. Those opinions should reflect a judge s impartiality and serve to hold the judiciary accountable. As matters stand today, our courts would grind to a halt if jurists recused themselves based on contributions from lawyers and law firms. A jurist who has accepted substantial contributions from a party should not hear the case. I have not accepted and will not accept substantial contributions from lawyers or law firms. My decision to self-finance the bulk of my direct campaign expenditures is a personal choice. It should not be required. PLACE 5 16 Adele Hedges Chief Justice, 14th court of appeals I ve been a licensed attorney since 1974, having graduated summa cum laude from UH Law Center. I ve been an appellate judge since 1992 and Chief of the Court since I ve authored three Texas litigation and trial practice guides and served as Chair of the Texas Council of Chief Justices. Joe E. Beverly I have handled more than 50 trials and appeals in courts all across Texas and have represented clients ranging from large corporations to small business owners to individuals. I am board certified in Civil Appellate Law and served as briefing attorney for the Court of Criminal Appeals. Activist judges are those who go beyond the interpretation of the law and begin legislating from the bench. As such, they misinterpret the role of the judiciary and invade the province of the legislative branch. Their actions represent a perversion of the tripartite system of government. Activist judges are those that pursue their own personal political agendas from the bench rather than enforcing and fairly interpreting the law as applied to the facts. As we have seen over the last 12 years with the cutting back of individual rights and liberties and the distrust of trial by jury, activist judges are not confined to one ideology or one political party. Each method of selection of judges has its advantages and disadvantages. I prefer to leave it to the voters and the legislators to select the best method of judicial selections, since it is their province to make that decision. Judges like any other public official, must be accountable to the citizens of Texas. Judges protect our rights and liberties by being independent, honest and fair. Independent judges that protect the rights of Texas citizens are the bedrock of our democracy. Texas voters provide the ultimate check on an out of control judiciary and insure its independence. Judges are called upon to put aside their personal biases and make decisions based upon the law, not prejudice and favoritism. Judges have a variety of associations with a great many lawyers who practice before them. Judges should not concern themselves with whether they rule in favor of, or against, any lawyer. Their only concern should be whether a ruling is firmly grounded in the law and legal precedent. A judge should not be influenced by political contributions. However, it is unrealistic to expect that all judges can completely disregard large contributions. A judge should absolutely recuse himself or herself when a party to a suit has made a substantial contribution to his or her campaign. However, most contributions come from attorneys and firms. Judges should weigh the significance of those contributions against the appearance of impropriety or bias and act accordingly.

17 Please describe the training and experience that qualify you for this office? (50 words) COURT OF APPEALS continued What does the term activist judge mean to you? Does this term affect the public s perception of the judiciary? Please explain (75 words) What method of selection of judges is most likely to result in a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary? (75 words) 14th court of appeals justice Should a judge or justice recuse himself or herself from cases in which the participating lawyers, their firms, or parties to the suit have contributed substantially to the judge s or justices election? Please explain. (75 words) PLACE 4 Jeff Brown I served six years as a highly rated district judge before going to the court of appeals. I am board certified in Civil Trial Law and write frequently for legal journals. After graduating law school with high honors, I served as a briefing attorney at the Texas Supreme Court. Bert Moser Honor graduate Rice, UT Law, Certified Specialist: Civil Appellate Law 1991-date; Criminal Law ; Appellate counsel- 100 cases in every legal area, 40 published opinions; Wide ranging trial and arbitration experience; Highest peer review rating; Teacher, author; Writing that is understandable and not boring. Judges are activist when they allow their own opinions of what the law should be override their duty to interpret the law as it actually is. Judges and judicial candidates who want to make law should run for the legislature instead. Judicial activism undermines judicial independence because it calls into question whether the judiciary should be independent. It builds a perception that judges regularly abuse their power. Good judges understand their role and practice restraint. Originally a phrase used by s to describe judges who overturned laws to improve working conditions. Has become a code term to disparage opinions they disagree with by judges who take an expansive view of the Bill of Rights and the individual s use of the courts for legal redress. Designed to convince the public that these opinions are based not on law, but only on the judge s personal philosophy. I believe we should adopt an appoint-andretain system. The voters would be able to remove underperforming judges, but good judges would not be swept from office by straight-ticket votes. That does not mean our current system has not produced a qualified, diverse, and independent judiciary. The judges on the bench in Texas are well-qualified and more diverse than ever. But they should be independent of the vagaries of straightticket voting. Judges should not be politicians or fund raisers, as they have become under the Texas system. Elections put a premium on name identification purchased by contributions and discourage able lawyers from seeking judgeships. A better approach is appointment of lawyers deemed by their colleagues to be highly qualified. Appointments should be for limited tenure. Life terms make judges too distant from the real lives of litigants. Campaign contributions have no place in judicial decision making. When they take their oath of office, judges pledge to make decisions based on the law, not prejudice and favoritism. On the court of appeals where I serve, judges must demonstrate that their decisions comport with the law and legal precedent by issuing detailed written opinions. The soundness of those opinions is evidence of the judges fairness and impartiality. They serve to hold the judiciary accountable. The ethics rules do not require recusal for the sole reason that lawyers or parties appearing before the judge have contributed to his campaign. That is because an elected judiciary requires that candidates raise money. And much of that money inevitably comes from lawyers who know the judge personally or are familiar with the court. But a judge should always recuse himself if any relationship to the lawyers raises the appearance of impropriety. PLACE 6 (unexpired term) Bill Boyce Before becoming an appellate justice in 2007, I practiced appellate law for 18 years with Fulbright & Jaworski. I have been board certified in Civil Appellate Law since I argued more than 60 appeals in courts throughout Texas and across the country, including the U.S. Supreme Court. The activist label is most likely to be attached when there is a belief that a particular decision or ruling exceeds the boundaries of a court s authority. Especially in the circumstance of an intermediate appellate court, there must be sensitivity regarding the limits of such a court s authority. An intermediate appellate court should apply the existing body of law to the specific facts and circumstances of a particular case. Mary M. Markantonis, no response received No selection method is perfect. Elections have the advantage of giving citizens a direct voice in the selection of judges who preside over their cases and affect their lives. My own example demonstrates that highly experienced and qualified attorneys will participate in the election process. The features of a pure appointment process must be balanced against the delay and periodic gridlock that have arisen at times in the process for appointing federal judges. Widespread recusal is not warranted and would threaten to interfere with courts ability to function. Any erroneous perception of judges and the judiciary among members of the public can be countered by the hard work and conscientious service of judges who pledge to be fair and impartial, and then demonstrate their commitment to that pledge in the way they perform their work and fulfill their duties on the bench. PLACE 7 NO PHOTO AVAILABLE Kem Thompson Frost In 9+ years on the bench, I ve ruled on cases and authored hundreds of published opinions. I ve been certified in Appellate Jurisprudence (TCJS) and elected to the American Law Institute. Before becoming a judge, I practiced for 15 years with two major firms, earning the highest possible peer-review rating. Martin J. Siegel Harvard Law School, cum laude; federal appellate law clerk; associate at a national law firm; Assistant United States Attorney; staffer, U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee; extensive appellate experience in state and federal courts in Texas and elsewhere as a government lawyer and in private practice; frequently published legal author. Activist judges, whether liberal or conservative, go beyond their appropriate powers and engage in making law and not merely interpreting it. Judges should exercise judicial restraint, applying laws as written and leaving changes to the legislature. The public expects legislatures to make laws and courts to apply those laws as written. When judges exceed this role, public confidence in judges is diminished; when judges stay within the boundaries of their authority, public confidence is strengthened. Activist is a pejorative directed at judges claimed to elevate personal preferences over the law. Because all sides now use the term to describe all sorts of decisions, it is losing much of its meaning, though it probably does lower the public s perception of judges. Decisions must always be based on the law, not personal views. But while fairly criticizing judges, we should strive to avoid politicizing the legal process and compromising judicial independence. The federal system, with lifetime appointments, is lauded as achieving these goals. Judicial selection, however, is a complex and multi-faceted issue. Each system has advantages and disadvantages. Texans feel strongly about electing their judges; when given opportunities to change our current system, Texans have chosen not to do so. Preserving the independence of the judiciary and promoting public confidence in the impartiality and competence of our judges should be the hallmarks of any selection system. Judicial elections have some strengths. They promote public accessibility to judges and candidates during the campaign season and are an easier way to remove judges who have committed misconduct. But, on balance, I believe a system of nonpartisan, publicly financed or retention elections or an apolitical, merit-based appointment system would most effectively convince the public that our courts are free of improper influence and yield qualified, diverse and independent judges. Judicial campaign funding is an unavoidable part a system with an elected judiciary. Though laws limit amounts and require disclosure of campaign contributions, this aspect of our system is criticized because giving/ accepting campaign contributions can give rise to negative perceptions of judges. A judge must recuse in those rare situations when the particular facts and circumstances warrant recusal; a judge is duty-bound to hear and decide matters when they do not. Given how many lawyers contribute, a blanket rule is probably infeasible and would make it harder to assemble panels of judges able to hear cases. Recusal should be considered more strongly as to parties, since non-lawyers contribute to judicial races less frequently. Above all, judges must act with integrity and not to please supports. I will strongly consider recusal where my relationship with the contributors and others might raise any reasonable doubt about my impartiality. To find out where your precinct votes on Election Day: Call or or 17

18 CIVIL AND CRIMINAL DISTRICT JUDGEs District Courts are the state trial courts of general jurisdiction. Twenty-two criminal courts have jurisdiction over felonies punishable by death or by incarceration in state prison or death, and over misdemeanors involving official conduct. An additional 3 courts deal exclusively with juveniles accused of crimes. Twenty-five civil courts have jurisdiction over civil actions, which include disputes over personal or real property, civil rights, contractual matters or other business dealings, and personal injuries. In addition there are 9 specialized civil courts dedicated solely to family matters such as divorce and child custody. 4-year term. Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) When should a judge recuse himself/herself from a case? Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) When should a judge recuse himself/herself from a case? CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 11th judicial district 11 th Mark Davidson Twenty years service as Judge, and acknowledgement as a leader in administration of justice. UT 1971; UH Law; Eleven years as a general practice lawyer. Presided over 450 Jury trials. Served on committees to improve jury duty and protect consumers from wrongful home foreclosures. Judge should recuse themselves when their impartiality could fairly be questioned due to factors outside the merits of a case. It is as important that judges promote confidence in their integrity as it is that they make the correct legal rulings in the cases before them. Mike Miller I graduated from Southwestern University and UT Law School. I have tried over 150 jury trials in 28 years as a lawyer. I am board certified in personal injury trial law and highly rated by other lawyers for competency and ethics. I have been both a plaintiff and defense lawyer. TRCP 18b establishes the grounds for recusal. Generally, recusal is appropriate if her impartiality might reasonably be questioned, she has a personal bias or personal knowledge of disputed facts, she has been a material witness or lawyer in the case, she has a financial interest, or a family member is or was involved or could be affected by the outcome. 55 th Jeff Shadwick Currently Judge of the 55th District Court; appointed by Governor Perry; 1981 law degree from Baylor; 27 years of commercial litigation practice making partner in two different firms; AV rated (highest rating available); twice elected member of HISD School Board. www. jeffshadwick.com CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 55th judicial district Rule 18b clearly sets out when; a judge should remember why. Recusal strengthens the public s confidence in the judicial system. Without it, impartiality may come into question. The courthouse is full of qualified, alternate judges, so there is no need to refuse recusal when appropriate. Dion Ramos I have spent 23 years of my life trying civil cases in District Courts in Houston and Southeast Texas. I am certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury and Civil Trial Law. An experienced trial attorney makes an efficient and fair judge. Rule 18b outlines the conditions upon which a judge has to disqualify himself. These grounds generally involve a personal interest in the case or a relationship to one of the litigants. When his impartiality might be reasonably questioned or he has a personal bias concerning the subject matter or a party, a judge should recuse himself. CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 61st judicial district 61 st John Donovan South Texas College of Law cum laude 1984; Judge 61st District Court since 1996; Board Certified Texas Board Legal Specialization since 1992; Chairman Special Dockets committee 2002/2008; Chairman Rules Committee Board Civil Judges; Member College of State Bar; Life Fellow Houston and Texas Bar Foundation; com The facts and law vary from case to case. Recusal is an issue to be determined by a judge in considering the facts, circumstances and law. The law provides certain situations in which the judge must recuse himself/herself and I do believe the law must be followed. Alfred H. "al" Bennett, BS, UH, JD, UT Law School, Associate, Fulbright & Jaworski. Senior Associate, Solar & Fernandes. Solo Practitioner. Adjunct Law Professor. Certified Mediator. Rated AV (very high to preeminent legal ability) Martindale- Hubbell. Past President, Houston Lawyers Association. Member, District Grievance Committee. Thurgood Marshall Legal Society Award for Distinguished Service The due process clauses of both the Texas and the United States Constitutions guarantee a party an impartial and disinterested tribunal in civil cases. The inquiry the court must make is whether a reasonable member of the public, knowing all the facts in the public domain, would have a reasonable doubt that a judge is actually impartial. 80 th Lynn Bradshaw-Hull During 14 years as a trial judge, I have presided fairly in the disposition of 60,000+ cases, including 500+ jury trials; maintained favorable bar association evaluations; received specialist certification in Civil Jurisprudence (2005) and General Jurisdiction (2008); and twice received State Bar of Texas Presidential Commendations for Judicial Leadership. Durante 14 años como juez de casos judiciales, he presidido justamente en el dispositivo de sobre 60,000 casos, incluyendo 500 juicios por jurado; he mantenido evaluaciones favorables de la asociación de la Barra De Dirección Judicial del Estado de Tejas; recibí certificación de especialista en Jurisprudencia Civil (2005) y en Jurisdicción General (2008); y recibí en dos ocasiones Reconocimientos Presidenciales en Dirección Judicial por de la Barra De Dirección Judicial del Estado de Tejas. CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 80th judicial district Recusal is appropriate if a material witness, a party or related to a party, previously acted as a party s attorney, related to a party s attorney, prepared any legal instrument which is in issue, when personally or financially interested in the outcome, or determines cannot act impartially. Recusal is inappropriate to avoid public clamor, fear or criticism or political attack. El recuso es apropiado si ha sido un testigo material, se es un partido, o he estado relacionado con un partido; ha actuado previamente como abogado de un partido, está relacionado con el abogado de un partido, ha preparado cualquier instrumento jurídico del cual está en cuestión, se tiene interés personal o financiero en el resultado, o se determina que no puede actuar imparcialmente. El recuso es inapropiado para evitar clamor público, temor o crítica o ataque político. Larry Weiman Returning 2006 ic Candidate. Attorney/Mediator; 17 years experience representing clients in state/federal civil trial and appellate courts. Law Degree-South Texas College of Law, 1991 w/dean s List Honors; Bachelor of Science-Business-Boston University, 1981 w/dean s List Honors. Mediation Certificate-A.A. White Dispute Resolution Institute, University of Houston. Candidato Demócrata regresando en el Abogado/Mediador; 17 años representando clientes en Tribunales de Proceso Civil estatales/federales y de apelación. Doctorado en Jurisprudencia del South Texas College of Law (1991) con honores en lista del Decano; Bachillerato de Ciencia-Comercio- Universidad de Boston (1981) con honores en lista del Decano. Asistió a Universidad de Texas. Certificado de Mediación del Instituto Para Resolución de Conflictos A.A.White, Universidad de Houston. Under Texas law, a judge must recuse himself/herself in any proceeding in which his/her impartiality might reasonably be questioned. There must be no doubts or suspicions as to the fairness or integrity of the court. The judiciary must strive not only to give all parties a fair trial but also to maintain a high level of public trust and confidence. Según la ley de Texas, un juez debe retirarse de un caso donde su imparcialidad puede razonablemente ponerse en duda. Nunca debe haber ninguna duda ni sospecha tocante a la imparcialidad o integridad de la corte. Los Jueces deben de procurar, a no solamente darle un juicio justo a todas las partes, sino también a mantener la confianza del público. 18

19 CIVIL AND CRIMINAL DISTRICT JUDGEs continued Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 125th judicial district John Coselli, Over 30 combined years of experience as attorney and State District Court Judge. Twice elected by Harris County voters as Judge. Voted by attorneys qualified and well qualified in Houston Bar Polls since Twice elected by Texas Judges to serve as President of the Texas Association of District Judges. When should a judge recuse himself/herself from a case? I follow the laws in Texas without regard to my personal views. A judge should recuse himself or herself from a case when the law requires recusal. Generally, the law requires recusal when the judge s impartiality might be questioned. The law proscribes rules and procedures for the evaluation of the need or appropriateness of recusal. 125 th Kyle Carter, I am a graduate of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, The University of Texas, and South Texas College of Law. I have vast trial and appellate experience, and served as General Counsel to two state Legislative Committees. I believe that judges should follow the law, be honest, fair, and reasonable. Soy un graduado de Strake Jesuit College Preparatoria, de la Universidad de Texas, y South Texas College of Law. Tengo gran juicio y apelación experiencia, y se desempeñó como Asesor General del Estado a dos Comisiones Legislativas. Creo que los jueces deben seguir la ley, ser honesto, justo y razonable. Judges should recuse themselves when there is the appearance of bias or impropriety involved by virtue of that particular judge s involvement in a case. Texas law recognizes several situations in which a judge should recuse themselves, however, beyond that, judges should openly strive to do everything in their power to avoid the appearance of impropriety and maintain public confidence. Los jueces deben recusarse a sí mismos cuando se produce la apariencia de parcialidad o incorrección que participan en virtud de ese particular, la participación del juez en un caso. Las leyes de Texas reconoce varias situaciones en las que un juez debe recusarse a sí mismos, sin embargo, más allá de eso, los jueces deben esforzarse abiertamente a hacer todo lo que esté a su alcance para evitar la apariencia de incorrección y mantener la confianza del público. 127 th CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 127th judicial district Sharolyn Wood, Judge, 127th District, 1985 to present: trying complex cases, 33,000+ cases; 500+ trials; eliminated trial back-log; introduced mediation. Teaching: law students, judges, court reporters, paralegals, and attorneys. Handled complex civil litigation for individual and corporate clients. Rice University: Economics, UT Law School Licensed attorney, Judge, Juez, Distrito 127, 1985 al presente: casos de juicio complicados, 33,000+ casos; 500+ juicios; eliminado juicios retrasados; introduje mediación. Enseñanza: estudiantes de leyes, jueces, reporteros judiciales, ayudantes de abogados, y abogados. Manejo de litigación civil compleja de individuales y clientes empresarios. Rice University: Economía, Ut Law School Abogado licensiado, Juez, R. K. Sandill, A UH Law graduate, R.K. served as a briefing attorney for the Texas First Court of Appeals before gaining a broad spectrum of courtroom experience in private practice. Nearly 70% rated him qualified in the Houston Bar Association s Qualifications Poll. (The Qualifications Poll is not an endorsement by the HBA.) Un graduado de la ley de UH, R.K. sirvió como abogado para el primer tribunal de apelación de Tejas antes de ganar un espectro amplio de la experiencia de la sala de tribunal en ejercicio privado. El casi 70% lo clasificaron calificaron en la encuesta de las calificaciones de la Asociación de Abogados de Houston. (La encuesta de las calificaciones no es un endoso por el HBA.) Judges recuse in cases involving family members and other situations which personally involve the judge. Judges should avoid business affairs which would cause undue recusals. New judges recuse in cases involving former law firms and former clients for several years. A judge should not recuse because a case is difficult or the parties are contentious. Jueces pueden recusarse en casos en que interfieren miembros de familia y otras situaciones que envuelven personalmente al juez. Jueces deben evitar asuntos de negocio que pueden causar inmerecidos recuses. Jueces nuevos en casos que envuelven firmas de leyes anteriores y clientes anteriores por varios anos. Un juez no debe recusarse solo porque un caso es difícil o los partidos son contenciosos. A judge should recuse himself when his impartiality can be questioned. This includes any situation in which the judge has a financial interest or any other pecuniary interest in the litigation before the Court. Furthermore, a judge must recuse himself when he has a personal bias regarding the case or a party to the case. Un juez debe recuse cuando su imparcialidad puede ser preguntada. Esto incluye cualquier situación en la cual el juez tenga un interés financiero o cualquier otro interés pecuniario en el pleito antes de la corte. Además, un juez debe recuse cuando él tiene un diagonal personal con respecto al caso o un partido al caso. CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 129th judicial district Grant Dorfman, no response received 129 th Michael Gomez, As a practicing attorney with over 8 years of experience, a lifelong resident of Houston, and a graduate of Rice University and the UH Law Center, Michael Gomez cares about our community and its people. Michael pledges to treat everyone in his court with dignity, courtesy and respect. A judge should recuse himself when his impartiality in a particular matter may reasonably be questioned or as required to under the rules and laws of the state of Texas. CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 133rd judicial district Lamar McCorkle, 133 rd Elected judge in Former civil attorney. Attorney for Appeals Court Chief Justice. Certified: Civil Jurisprudence. Past Chairman, Texas Center for Legal Ethics & Professionalism. Dean, Texas College for Judicial Studies. Appointed by Texas Supreme Court to address court efficiency; ethics; technology. Recipient of numerous honors for improving courts. Elegido Juez en Anteriormente era abogado civil. Abogado para el tribunal de apelación juez principal. Certificado: Jurisprudencia civil. Presidente anterior de Centro de Texas para ética legal y profesionalidad. Decano de la escuela de Texas de Estudios Judiciales. Nombrado por la corte suprema de Texas para mejorar la eficiencia de las cortes, ética y tecnología. Galardonado numerosos honores por el mejorando las cortes rd Judicial District Candidates continued on next page Our legal system is founded on the premise that fair, independent and competent judges will interpret and apply the laws that govern us. Judges should recuse themselves in any proceeding in which their impartiality might reasonably be questioned or under circumstances creating even the appearance of impropriety undermining the rule of law and the public s confidence in our judicial system. Nuestro sistema legal está fundado en el principio de que juezes justos, independentes y competentes interpreterán y applicarán las leyes que nos gobiernan. Juezes deben abstenerse de participar en cualquier procedimiento que les pondrá en una situación sospechosa o en circunstancias que tengan la aparencia de impropreidead que causen cuestionaniemto a la imparcialidad y objetividad de la ley y la confianza del público en la sistema legal. 19

20 CIVIL AND CRIMINAL DISTRICT JUDGEs continued Please describe your education, your occupation, and the training and experience that qualify you for this position. (50 word limit) When should a judge recuse himself/herself from a case? 133 rd continued 133rd Judicial District Candidates continued from previous page Jaclanel moore McFarland, I received my undergraduate and law degrees from Baylor University. I did graduate work at the University of Oxford. For 31 years I have been an accomplished litigator, a successful mediator, and have taught law courses on the collegiate level in Harris County. I am a former Baylor University Regent. Recibí mi no graduado y las licenciaturas de derecho de la Universidad de Baylor. Yo me gradué el trabajo en la Universidad de Oxford. Durante 31 años yo he sido un abogado consumado, un mediador exitoso, y he enseñado la ley los cursos en el nivel colegiado en el Condado de Harris. Soy un Regente anterior de la Universidad de Baylor. She should recuse herself in any proceeding in which her impartiality might reasonably be questioned by the public or when there is a possible bias or prejudice concerning the subject matter or a party, or personal knowledge of disputed evidentiary fact concerning the proceeding. Ella debe recuse ella misma en cualquier acto en el que su imparcialidad quizás sea preguntada razonablemente por el público o cuando hay una tendencia o el prejuicio posibles con respecto al tema o un partido, o con respecto al conocimiento personal del hecho evidenciario disputado con respecto al acto. 151 td CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 151st judicial district Caroline E. Baker, 11 ½ years as trial judge. Graduate of Princeton and UT Law. Previously, partner in respected civil litigation firm. Board Certified. Serves on three State Bar Committees: Ethics, Jury Service, Pattern Jury Charge. President of TACTAS. Trial Judge of the Year by HPOU. See /2 anos jueza de prueba. graduada de Princeton y UT Law. Antes, socio en bufete litigio civiles. Certificada por el Colegio de Abogados. Sirve en tres Colegios del Estado, Eticas, Sirvicio del Jurado. Presidenta de TACTAS. Jueza de Prueba del Ano por HPOU. Mirar Mike Engelhart, Mike holds a BA from Michigan and a JD from UH Law Center where he was an editor of the Law Review. A 12 year partner in Engelhart & Greenwood, Mike has tried dozens of cases and successfully represented more than 1000 Texans in both state and federal courts. Mike recibio un BA de la Universidad de Michigan y un JD de la Universidad de Houston donde el fue un redactor del Reviso de Leyes. Como companero de 12 años del bufet de abogados Engelhart & Greenwood, Mike ha peleado docenas de casos y ha tenido exito al haber representado mas de mil Tejanos en las cortes federales y estatales. Independent, disinterested, fair, and competent judges are the very cornerstone of American government. Constitutional Law, statutes and rules impose a duty on judges to recuse themselves in any proceeding in which their impartiality might reasonably be questioned or in which they have a personal bias, prejudice, or personal knowledge concerning the case. Independiente, disinteresada, justo y competente juezes son la piedra sustantivo del gobierno Americano. La ley constitucional, estatutos y reglas imponen una obligacion en juezes a recusar en cualquier procedimiento judicial donde sus imparcialidad puede razonablemente poner algo en duda o donde tienen una tendencia predisposicion, prejuicio o conocimiento personal acerca del caso. A judge should recuse him or herself whenever there is even the appearance of a conflict of interest over the subject matter, parties, or attorneys involved. Further, if the judge does not feel 100% capable of impartially presiding over a case, the judge should recuse him or herself whether asked to or not. Un juez debe apartarse siempre que haya incluso el aspecto de un conflicto de intereses sobre el tema, los partidos, o los abogados implicados. Además, si el juez no se siente el 100% capaz de presidir en una manera imparcial sobre el tema, el juez debera apartarse asi sea pedido o no. Ken Wise, CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 152nd judicial district I have been Judge of the 152nd District Court over 6 years. I am Civil Administrative Judge for I chaired the completion of the new Civil Courthouse, designed technologically advanced courtrooms, and pioneered a paperless filing and docketing system. I graduated from Texas A&M and the University of Houston. Judicial canons, statutory law and an individual Judge s discretion are all involved when a motion to recuse is filed. Unfortunately, sometimes parties will use such motions as a delay tactic. A Judge should always recuse when appropriate but should not countenance the tactical use of a motion to recuse to cause delay or for an otherwise improper purpose. 152 nd Robert K. Schaffer, Sole Practitioner, Certified Mediator; South Texas College of Law, 1984; University of Arizona, 1974; licensed in Texas, 1984; President, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, Houston Trial Lawyers Foundation and South Texas College of Law Alumni Association; Chair, State Bar Grievance Committee; Member, SW Regional Board of Anti-Defamation League; AV rating. Unico Practicador, Mediador De Certificado; Universidado del Sur de Tejas de la Ley, 1984; Universidad de Arizona, 1974; Licenciado in Tejas, 1984; Presidente, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, Houston Trial Lawyers Foundation and Universidado del Sur de Tejas de la Ley Alumin Asociacion; del Agravio Committee de la Barra; miembro contra del Grado Del Sistema de Pesos de Difamacion. CIVIL DISTRICT JUDGE, 164th judicial district Martha Hill Jamison, Incumbent Judge, 164th Judicial District Court, since Board Certified, Civil Trial Law. Member, Harris County Juvenile Board. Civil Administrative Judge. Founding Fellow, International Academy of Mediators. Board, American Judicature Society. Graduate, University of Texas School of Law. Active member, St. Luke s Methodist Church. American Leadership Forum, Class XXV. A judge must recuse himself/herself in any case in which his/her impartiality might be questioned. Examples include having a bias or prejudice concerning the case, personal knowledge of disputed facts in the case, being a witness in the case, having a financial interest in the subject matter of the case or being a party or a lawyer in the case. Un juez debe retirarse de cualquier caso en el que su imparcialidad este en cuestionada. Por ejemplo, si el juez tiene algun prejuicio con respecto a el caso, conocimiento personal de hechos que estan siendo disputados, es testigo en el caso, si tiene algun interés económico o financiero en la materia de el caso o si es el abogado en el caso. A judge should recuse when statutorily required. A judge may offer to recuse in cases where a litigant may feel uncomfortable going forward (for example, if my brother s law firm is representing a party); however, this should be a rare occurrence. A judge should not recuse when the request is made solely because of a ruling made in the case. 164 th Alexandra Smoots-Hogan, After graduating with honors from The University of St. Thomas, I joined South Texas College of Law s nationally ranked advocacy team. With three national moot court titles, I was inducted in the Order of the Barristers. I have spent my career in the Courtroom, representing varied clients in varied cases. A judge should recuse themselves whenever there is an air of impropriety in their remaining on the case. This air may be the result of an obvious financial interest or from a less overt acquaintance between the counsel or judge. 20