Holly Jeffreys has announced her candidacy for Texas House District 86, entering the race following the retirement of Representative John Smithee, who served more than 40 years in the Texas Legislature. Jeffreys, a longtime resident of the Texas Panhandle, brings experience in healthcare, education, and local business leadership to her campaign.
A nurse practitioner by profession, Jeffreys has spent much of her career focused on improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas of Texas. In addition to her work in healthcare, she has served as an educator and actively supported local agriculture and small business initiatives across the region. Her involvement with the Northwest Texas Small Business Development Center highlights her commitment to the economic development of the Panhandle.
Jeffreys’ leadership experience includes a long tenure with the Bushland Independent School District. She has served as the board president for 10 of the past 13 years, overseeing significant district growth and managing the construction of new schools to meet the needs of the community. Her work in education has included advocating for programs and initiatives that respond to local population growth and changing educational requirements.
Her engagement extends to state-level advisory roles. Since 2015, she has been a member of the Lieutenant Governor’s health advisory board, where she has contributed to discussions on healthcare policy and other statewide initiatives affecting rural communities. She has also testified before the Texas Legislature on issues related to health, education, and regional development.
Jeffreys’ campaign emphasizes the priorities of rural Texans and the Panhandle region, with a focus on strengthening local economies, supporting education, and addressing healthcare challenges. She describes her approach as grounded in practical problem-solving and community-focused service.
Holly and her husband, Kelly Jeffreys, have lived in the Texas Panhandle for many years, raising four children and now sharing their lives with seven grandchildren. Her personal and professional experiences are tied closely to the region, shaping her perspective on the needs of its residents.
The open seat in District 86 marks a transition after decades of representation by Smithee, providing an opportunity for new leadership in the Texas House. Jeffreys’ campaign is expected to highlight her combination of professional expertise, local leadership, and community engagement as she seeks to represent the district in the state legislature.
