Smith County Election Picture Begins to Take Shape

TYLER — There’s a new candidate for Smith County judge. KETK reports Republican John Furlow made his announcement Thursday. Furlow is a CPA, with more than 30 years of operational experience. The military veteran doesn’t think the current leadership is preparing Smith County for the future. According to Furlow, “Judge (Joel) Baker has a record of taking several pay raises while laying people off. He has a record of closed sessions and those are the things that he has to address to the citizens of Smith County.” Furlow said he’s not motivated by money. and if elected he plans to take a pay cut. Baker, also a Republican, wasn’t immediately available for comment and hasn’t announced his future plans.

Meanwhile, Smith County Court at Law Judge Thomas Dunn is retiring next year. He’s presided over the court for more than 15 years. And The line is already forming for judge dunn’s replacement: Jim Huggler, Mike Patterson, and Jason Ellis all plan to run for the spot. All three are Tyler attorneys.