State Rep. John Smithee (R-Amarillo), the longest-serving lawmaker in the Texas Panhandle, has formally endorsed Holly Jeffreys in the race to replace him, adding a significant development to the contest for House District 86. Jeffreys announced the endorsement Wednesday, a boost that could reshape the dynamics of the Republican primary.
Jeffreys, an educator and medical professional, is one of two Republicans seeking to succeed Smithee, who is retiring after decades in the Legislature. Her opponent, Jamie Haynes, is a conservative activist and real estate business owner who challenged Smithee in the 2024 GOP primary but fell short.
With Smithee stepping aside, the open-seat race had already drawn attention from local voters and party activists. His decision to back Jeffreys may provide her with early momentum among Republicans who have long supported his leadership in the region.
In announcing his support, Smithee highlighted what he sees as Jeffreys’ ability to advocate effectively for the Panhandle at the Capitol. “We have worked too hard and have too much at stake right now to not have the strongest leader in Austin to get things done for the Texas Panhandle," Smithee said about Jeffreys.
The GOP primary winner will advance to face Democrat Cullin Knutson in the November general election, setting up a contested race for a district that has historically leaned heavily Republican.
The Republican primary is scheduled for March 2026, giving both Jeffreys and Haynes ample time to build name recognition, court donors, and outline their policy priorities. Smithee’s endorsement marks one of the earliest major signals of support in what is shaping up to be a closely watched regional race.
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