Folks, this should be a very interesting GOP primary for Texas HD86.
On Thursday, Texas Representative John Smithee announced that he will run for re-election in 2024. The Amarillo attorney has served in the Texas House since 1985 after he was first elected to his position in 1984 and represents Armstrong, Dallam, Deaf Smith, Hartley, Oldham, Parmer, Randall counties as part of the 86th District.
“Today I announced that I am seeking re-election to the Texas House. There are significant issues facing House District 86, the Panhandle and the state of Texas that require conservative leadership, thoughtful independence, and experience. For instance, last session I was proud to be a part of a team of area legislators that secured critical funding for a state hospital in Amarillo that will serve the entire Panhandle. As a legislator, I have always been deeply focused on the priorities of my district and our region, ensuring that our values and needs have a strong champion in the state legislature.
"The last several months have been an extremely tumultuous time for the Texas House and the legislature as a whole. I look forward to returning to the Texas House to provide a steady hand, assist in unifying our Party, and help set a course for strong Republican victories in Novembers to come and beyond.
"I am excited about the opportunities ahead to continue to serve the people of this amazing district and the state of Texas," Smithee said.
Smithee was among the 23 House Republicans who voted against impeaching Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. He argued from that House floor that the impeachment of Paxton was based upon “triple hearsay.”
"I think if you're going to go through an impeachment process, you've got to respect the rule of law, and you've got to respect basic constitutional due process rights of the person," Smithee said.
A news release from his campaign stated that Smithee was "instrumental last session in providing historic funding for state border operations, securing $12 billion in new property tax relief for Texans, banning life-altering gender modification surgeries and procedures on minors, and continuing to foster a culture of life in our state."
Smithee will face at least one opponent in the GOP primary. Amarillo real estate agent Jamie Haynes launched her campaign to challenge Smithee in late June.
“Our state needs strong, principled leadership that puts the interests of Texans first and respects their values. As a conservative standing for House District 86, I will do the work in Austin to secure the border, eliminate property taxes, elevate education, and protect Texas children," Haynes said.
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