Hayes Suspends House District 5 Campaign

SMITH COUNTY — State House District 5 candidate Philip Hayes is suspending his campaign. On his Facebook page, Hayes says, “It is with a great sadness and remorse, that I announce that I am suspending my campaign. I full heartedly ask that all of those who were supporting me to vote for Jay Misenheimer. Jay is the most capable person in the race for House District 5.” Misenheimer is among several candidates vying for the position now held by Bryan Hugues, who is running for state Senate. Hayes didn’t provide further details, but the announcement came the same day as Smith County Judge Joel Baker, citing the Texas Code of Judicial Conduct, said he was not endorsing Hayes.

According to a statement from Baker, “The ethical rules governing judges in Texas prohibit judges from endorsing political candidates.” Baker says when it came to his attention that Hayes had included an express endorsement from Baker on his campaign fliers without his permission, Baker contacted the State Commission on Judicial Conduct for advice. Baker says Executive Director Seana Willing advised him to request in writing that Hayes discontinue the use of his name in campaign literature. Baker says he emailed Hayes February 8 and Hayes agreed to stop using Baker’s name on any campaign materials, saying it was a misunderstanding. “I wish all of the candidates in the March Primary good luck with their races, but as Smith County Judge, I cannot endorse any one candidate for public office,” Baker said in his statement