Lots to Be Decided by East Texas Voters

EAST TEXAS — It’s a busy ballot as East Texans head to the polls for Election Day. One high-profile item is the $89.85 million Tyler ISD bond issue. The proposal calls for new Rice and Dixie Elementary schools, along with a new middle school. Alcohol propositions are set to be voted on in Bullard, Whitehouse, Smith County JP Precinct 4, and White Oak. According to KETK, Bullard, Whitehouse, and White Oak will each vote on allowing mixed beverages in restaurants as well as beer and wine sales for off-premise consumption. Precinct 4 will vote only on beer and wine sales for off-premise consumption.

There are also some legislative races to be decided. Republican District 1 Congressman Louie Gohmert is challenged by Libertarian Charles F. Parkes and independent Trent E. Gale. Incumbent Republican District 6 State Representative Leo Berman faces Libertarian Jon Fitts, while Republican David Simpson goes up against Libertarian Eric (Ric) Brandt in the race for House District 7. In State Senate District 2, it’s Republican incumbent Bob Deuell against Democrat Kathleen Maria Shaw. Incumbent Republican Robert Nichols squares off against Libertarian David Scott for the State Senate District 3 seat. In a Smith County race, District Attorney Matt Bingham faces a challenge from Democrat Lenis Pierce.