We congratulate the candidates in this year’s Republican Party Primary; those who won their race, those who garnered enough votes to continue in a run-off as well as those that offered themselves for public service but were not selected. Collin County voters had excellent candidates to choose from in this years’ primary. We encourage those not chosen by the voters to stay involved, stay engaged and continue to help make Collin County even better.
As this election unfolded we learned more about each candidate; their record of service, what they will/want to do for us and his/her temperament under pressure. A major disappointment to The Coalition was the negative campaigning by some of the candidates. We believe that voters are best served by candidates who tell us about themselves and what they want to do rather than attacking their opponent personally.
This type of negative behavior had an influence in our run-off endorsements.
For the run-off we have upgraded our “RECOMMENDATION” to an “ENDORSEMENT” in all but one race. Below we are presenting brief summaries of our findings. We believe you will find these helpful and ask that you share them with your family, friends and neighbors. You are eligible to vote in the Republican Party Primary run-off as long as you did not vote in a different Party’s Primary.
State Representative House District #66
In the race for Texas House of Representatives House District 66 both candidates are asserting that they are THE conservative candidate. Collin County Voters have to choose which of them truly offers conservative credentials and conservative values that would give Collin County citizens strong conservative representation in Austin.
Van Taylor is a fiscal conservative promoting limited government, lower taxes and safe borders. He has an outstanding and proud military record and is a social conservative with a pro-life businessman's experience under his belt. He actively supports veteran's organizations and protecting the voting rights of members of the military. Mr. Taylor's vision includes advocating for lower taxes, less government and traditional family values.
Mabrie Jackson is married with two sons and has had a business career with EDS and Microsoft Corporations. She has served for 18 months on the Plano City Council and recently resigned from that position to run for the HD #66 seat. She has voted against a Plano tax increase in 2009 and has been active in Conner Harrington Republican Women's club activities. Our concern over this candidate stems from the approximately $160,000.00 cost to the taxpayers of Plano for a special election and run-off election to fill the unexpired term Ms. Jackson created when she resigned to advance her political career by running for this seat in the House of Representatives. In addition the Coalition believes Ms. Jackson’s heavy handed and negative campaign material was excessive and unnecessary.
It is said that you can tell a lot about a person by the friends, in this case supporters, they have. We believe this ole saying particularly applies in this contest. Mr. Taylor’s endorsements include: Texas Right to Life, Collin County Conservative Republicans, the North Texas Party, the Conservative Hispanic Society, Texans for Fiscal Responsibility but most importantly their former opponent, Wayne Richard. Ms. Jackson on the other hand is endorsed by: the Texas State Teachers Association (TSTA), affiliated with the National Education Association (NEA) a strong union – TSTA endorsed Barack Obama in 2008 for President and has just endorsed Bill White for Governor, The Texas Parent PAC (a trial lawyer political action committee) and the liberal editorial board of the Dallas Morning News.
Based on all these facts we endorse Mr. Van Taylor for Texas House District #66.
WE ENDORSE: Van Taylor
County Commissioner Pct #2
Another contest that required long deliberation by the Coalition was the Precinct #2 competition, in fact we interviewed both candidates a second time to reconfirm the contestants positions on the issues.
This race pits twenty nine year incumbent Jerry Hoagland against former Plano City Council woman Cheryl Williams. Each has strengths to offer the voters of Precinct #2 (basically the southeastern part of Collin County). The operative word in this year’s election is conservative and it certainly is the main focus in this race.
County Commissioner Jerry Hoagland has a long standing reputation as a conservative – fiscally, socially and emotionally. Mr. Hoagland is strongly pursuing the Inter-modal operation proposed for southeast Collin County and points to that as one of his cornerstone issues in his bid for re-election. The Coalition is concerned about Mr. Hoagland’s working relationship with the Commissioner’s Court. But perhaps the biggest concern the Coalition has is Commissioner Hoagland's lack of tact and his insensitivity when addressing citizens or county matters in Public.
Cheryl Williams says she is the most conservative in the race. Certainly her six years of experience on the Plano City Council would testify to the validity of her claim. Ms. Williams is a small business owner, not a career politician. She believes we need to start running county government like a business, and her background in finance and economics makes her uniquely qualified to do so. Ms Williams says she wants an even more open and honest government in the commissioner’s court. Specifically she wants to change the culture of government by ending what she calls pay-to-play politics where those who make large campaign contributions get special treatment from elected officials. Ms Williams says it is time for a fresh start at the county. In this race we agree.
WE ENDORSE: Cheryl Williams
District Clerk
Patricia Crigger exemplifies the word experience. She has been an active Republican and has worked in the District Clerks office for 23 years. She has been the Chief Deputy for the last 15 years and has actually run the office in the absence of the District Clerk Hanna Kunkle. She is knowledgeable about the current technology being used and has ideas to make the system more efficient for the Court. There is no doubt she enjoys the respect of the fellow workers in the office. She is conscientious and would be a good steward of Collin County taxpayer’s dollars.
Alma Hays is the only candidate who declined to participate in the interview process thereby depriving the Coalition of the opportunity to evaluate her personally and hear her ideas for improving the office she seeks.
After thoughtful consideration the Coalition strongly endorses Patricia Crigger candidacy for District Clerk.
WE ENDORSE: Patricia Crigger
219th District Court
Angela Tucker is a 1996 graduate of the Southern Methodist University School of Law. Since graduation she has practiced both criminal and civil law and has practiced in both the State and federal courts. Angela states that she is the only candidate with experience in all areas handled by this court. Indeed, Angela is a former assistant Collin County district attorney who has ably handled felony, misdemeanor, juvenile, CPS, and mental health cases. She is death penalty certified. She compliments her criminal experience with a private practice resume which has encompassed both criminal and civil experience in these areas of law. She has an expansive resume of involvement with the Republican Party.
Scott Becker is a 1997 graduate of the Southern Methodist University School of Law. Mr. Becker has been employed at the Collin County District Attorney’s Office for the past six years. He is currently a felony prosecutor. Mr. Becker also served in the Crimes Against Children Unit. Prior to his time in the DA’s Office, Mr. Becker had a private practice where he primarily handled criminal matters.
The Coalition appreciates the unique qualifications each of these candidates brings to the table in this race. Each appears bright and knowledgeable. However, we endorse Angela Tucker for the position.
WE ENDORSE: Angela Tucker
County Court at Law #3
Stewart Matthews is a 2002 graduate of the Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. Mr. Matthews is currently in private practice as a general practitioner in both State and Federal courts throughout North Texas. He is a member of several bar associations and volunteers and local legal aid clinics.
Lance Baxter is a 1986 graduate of the South Texas College of Law. He is the most experienced and qualified candidate for a judicial bench in Collin County. Lance has spent the last 23 years practicing civil and criminal trial law and has experience as a hearing master for the Collin County Mental Health Court. He formed his current partnership with Baxter, Gibbs, Robison and Henderson in 1999. He has also served on the board of directors for numerous bar associations throughout the county.
Neither one of the candidates have extensive involvement serving the Collin County Republican Party. However, each possesses unique attributes and professionalism. Qualifications that make a good judicial candidate include experience, fairness and temperament. Lance Baxter’s extensive legal experience, record of public service and excellent temperament make him our recommended choice for election to Collin County Court at Law #3.
WE ENDORSE: Lance Baxter
County Court at Law #4
Matthew Goeller has a strong and impressive background in criminal law. He is board certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has over 20 years of experience as prosecutor and defense attorney. He has handled criminal, civil, family, and juvenile cases ranging from misdemeanors to capital murder. He is a veteran (U.S. Marines Corp). He has been involved in his community as well as in the education system having taught constitutional law.
David Rippel is a 1988 graduate of the Louisiana State University with a Business Administration Degree in Economics. He earned his law degree from The Southern University Law School in 1995. David has served in the U.S. Armed forces. David cites his expensive trial experience in civil and criminal law. David is admitted to practice in Texas and Louisiana as well as before the United States Supreme Court, and in the federal court system. He also has been extensively involved with the Republican Party of Collin County.
The Coalition is impressed by the unique range of qualifications of these candidates in this race. Each candidate appears both bright and knowledgeable. Though we believe each are competent to perform the job of judge the deciding factor for us is David Ripple’s long time and extremely active involvement in the Collin County Republican Party.
WE ENDORSE: David Ripple
County Court at Law #6
Jay Bender has a strong educational background: graduating cum laude from Austin College after which he graduated from St. Mary’s Law School. He has worked in the Dallas District Attorney’s office as a prosecutor and been in private practice specializing as a Criminal Defense attorney. When he was asked why he was running he said to give back to the community. We found Mr. Bender is well qualified to serve as Judge in County Court at Law #6.
Terri Green describes herself as a self made woman. Her resume bears that out: she has been a trial lawyer for twenty years in Civil and Family Law; she is licensed to practice law in all Texas courts, the Federal Courts and the United States Supreme Court. She is very involved in community and Republican Party activities. Ms Green believes strongly in the rule of law.
WE ENDORSE: Jay Bender
Early Voting time and locations:
http://public1.co.collin.tx.us/elections/polling_locations/early_voting/default.aspx#PrimaryRunoff
Election Day voting places:
http://public1.co.collin.tx.us/elections/polling_locations/default.aspx#PrimaryRunoff
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
The Coalition for Better Government
Origin
The Coalition for Better Government was conceived during the summer of 2009 as a result of a growing frustration by several conservative area Republican leaders over the quality and integrity of government leadership on a national level. That group shared the opinion that the most effective way to influence and impact government leadership on a national level was to cultivate and encourage responsible leaders on a local level who will carry the message of conservative values and fiscal conservatism throughout our community.
A core group of seven citizens organized with the intent to form a representative cross-section of Collin County, Texas Republican leaders with the goal of bringing to bear both our individual and collective influence to encourage, support and endorse current and potential candidates for public office who will best represent the core values, integrity and responsibilities of the next generation of Republican leaders in Collin County.
The Coalition invited all Republican candidates seeking election to local office this year to interview with the Coalition for Better Government and explain not only their reasons for seeking public office but to provide a detailed explanation as to their personal, professional, political and community service background and qualifications. All interviewees submitted to a rigorous interview process designed to dig past the admittedly shallow and limited information that may be presented at a crowded campaign event. The Coalition spent over forty five hours interviewing – vetting all but one of the candidates, Alma Hays candidate for District Clerk, chose not to speak to us.
We realize that reasonable minds may differ as to who might provide the best leadership in our community. Our intent is to provide a positive and fair evaluation to voters to allow them to make a more informed and objective decision for themselves as to who will represent the interests of Collin County for the next election term. Since we are each already active and involved Republicans we come to the table with some of our own biases and inherent prejudices as to what we look for in a leader. However, where a member of our group has previously committed to support a candidate for a particular office he or she has been encouraged to abstain from participating in the discussion and recommendation process for that particular office. We sincerely hope that our recommendations will be a valuable resource tool to voters who do not have the time to spend vetting each candidate for themselves.
Below, we are presenting our brief summaries of our findings. They appear in ballot order – by office and by placement of candidates’ names on the ballot.
We salute ALL of the candidates for offering their services to our county. We have to choose from thirty eight candidates for only fourteen offices. Simple math reveals that not everyone can be selected. We encourage those not chosen by the voters to stay involved, stay engaged and continue to help make our Collin County even better.
State Representative House District #66
In the race for Texas House of Representatives House District 66 we are in an enviable and unique position. Collin County Voters have three solid candidates to choose from. Each of them offers conservative credentials and conservative values which we believe would give Collin County citizens strong representation in Austin.
Van Taylor is a fiscal conservative promoting limited government, lower taxes and safe borders. He has an outstanding and proud military record and is a social conservative with a pro-life businessman's experience under his belt. He actively supports veteran's organizations and protecting the voting rights of members of the military. Mr. Taylor's vision includes advocating for lower taxes, less government and traditional family values.
Wayne Richard is a fiscal conservative promoting limited government, lower taxes and safe borders. He is a successful businessman having formed and run his own thriving company. He is a social conservative, pro-life and has worked with the “TEA Party” membership. He favors the strict following of the Texas State Constitution and limiting rights and welfare payments to illegal immigrants. Mr. Richard's vision includes serving with a realistic and conservative appreciation of finances and the economy.
Mabrie Jackson is married with two sons and has had a business career with EDS and Microsoft Corporations. She has served for 18 months on the Plano City Council and recently resigned from that position to run for this HD #66 seat. She has voted against a Plano tax increase in 2009 and has been active in Conner Harrington Republican Women's club activities. Our concern over this candidate stems from the approximately $100,000.00 cost to the taxpayers of Plano for a special election and run-off election to fill the unexpired term Ms. Jackson created when she resigned to run for this seat in the House of Representatives. We do look forward to her future involvement in the Collin County Republican Party.
Mr. Taylor and Mr. Richard favor the overhaul of the education system to make it more effective and support a voter identification system to curtail fraud and abuse. These men are eager to serve the citizens of Texas and provide us with examples of the best values and capabilities that we have been privileged to witness in a long time. It is with great pride that we endorse Van Taylor and Wayne Richard and suggest that you vote for either of them in March.
Collin County will be served well by either of these gentlemen.
WE RECOMMEND: Van Taylor and Wayne Richard
RESULTS: Van Taylor & Mabrie Jackson in runoff
County Judge
Judge Keith Self has presided over a Commissioner's Court that has held the line on the budget, lowered Collin County taxes and placed the Collin County check book on line for all to see how our tax money is spent. The Commissioner's Court sessions are available on line so all citizens may see our government in action. Judge Self has testified on the taxpayer's behalf in Austin at the Texas State Legislative session and has excellent working relations with Texas Governor Rick Perry, State Senator Craig Estes and State Representatives Jodie Laubenberg, Jerry Madden, Ken Paxton, and out going Representative Brian McCall.
Collin County Judge Keith Self has kept his promise to the taxpayers by providing an open and transparent government. He has concentrated on the issues and has communicated the process of government to the citizens in a straight forward and clear manner.
John Muns is running for Collin County Judge and has served on the Plano ISD board of Trustees since being elected in 1993. He has been married for 26 years and has three children. He states he is a fiscal conservative with the needed leadership to reduce unnecessary spending and waste in the county. He is running on building our political equity and increasing county services that he views as being neglected. He says he has the skills to repair and develop positive relations with cities in the county, adjacent counties and the state. He also intends to make our schools and community safer. It is our concern that Mr. Muns is short of specifics and was unable to articulate the details of changes he would make to achieve his vision for the county.
Collin County Judge Keith Self has proven himself worthy of our support. In the race for Collin County Judge we endorse Collin County Judge Keith Self.
WE RECOMMEND: Judge Keith Self
RESULTS: Judge Keith Self re-elected
County Commissioner Pct #2
This race is another one that required long deliberation by the coalition. This race pits twenty nine year incumbent Jerry Hoagland against two familiar challengers, Karl Voigtsberger and former Plano City Council woman Cheryl Williams. Each has strengths to offer the voters of Precinct #2 (basically the southeastern part of Collin County). The operative word in this year’s election is conservative and it certainly is the main focus in this race.
County Commissioner Jerry Hoagland has a long standing reputation as a conservative – fiscally, socially and emotionally. Mr. Hoagland is strongly pursuing the Intermodal operation proposed for southeast Collin County and points to that as one of his cornerstone issues in his bid for re-election. During the almost hour long interview with Mr. Hoagland he was unable to identify any specific accomplishments in his last four years of service as a reason for citizens to re-elect him. But perhaps the biggest concern the Coalition has is Commissioner Hoagland's lack of tact and his insentitivity when addressing citizens or county matters in Public.
Karl Voigtsberger, a long time active Republican is promising to be an advocate for Taxpayers. The keystone of his campaign is his emphasis on being a fiscal conservative, stating that he is the only true conservative in the race. He wants to put to use his twenty four years of engineering experience with Hewlett Packard in the Commissioner’s Court. Mr. Voigtsberger touts his grassroots support stating that he is only taking campaign money from individuals, not taking PAC money. Mr. Voigtsberger is opposed to the Collin County Intermodal system and the bridge over Lake Lavon.
Cheryl Williams says she is the most conservative in the race. Certainly her six years of experience on the Plano City Council would testify to the validity of her claim. Ms. Williams is a small business owner, not a career politician. She believes we need to start running county government like a business, and her background in finance and economics makes her uniquely qualified to do so. Ms Williams says she wants an even more open and honest government in the commissioner’s court. Specifically she wants to change the culture of government by ending what she calls pay-to-play politics where those who make large campaign contributions get special treatment from elected officials. Ms Williams says It’s time for a fresh start at the county. In this race we agree.
WE RECOMMEND: Cheryl Williams
RESULTS: Cheryl Williams & Jerry Hoagland in runoff
County Commissioner Pct #4
County Commissioner Kathy Ward has been a long time resident of Plano. She is a graduate of the University of North Texas. Ms. Ward has held several positions of increased responsibility both in the private and public sectors. Ms. Ward served as Collin County GOP Chairwoman. During her tenure as chairwoman, she was appointed by Collin County Judge Keith Self to fill the office vacated by former Commissioner Jack Hatchell. Since the appointment, Ms. Ward ran, and won, last November to complete the remaining unexpired term. In the past 18 months, Ms Ward has shown her strong commitment to small government and a tax cut for home owners by voting for a fiscal conservative budget.
James "Duncan" Webb was looking to run for Plano City Council or House District 66 held by former State Representative Brian McCall, and finally due to redistricting, he decided to run against Commissioner Kathy Ward. In our meeting, Mr. Webb offered ideas concerning what he believes are wrong with the county, but he failed to articulate that vision. Mr. Webb is a graduate of Southern Methodist University where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration and Juris Doctorate degrees. Duncan is a long time resident of Plano and he has served for 12 years as a trustee of the Plano Independent School Districts.
WE RECOMMEND: Commissioner Kathy Ward
RESULTS: Duncan Webb
District Attorney
James Angelino is a 1994 graduate of the Southern Methodist University School of Law. He is an Iraq War veteran and has worked as a police officer and over 11 years as a Denton County prosecutor. He currently has a criminal defense practice in Denton, Texas.
Jeff Bray is a 1995 graduate of the Oklahoma City University School of Law and resides in Parker. He currently serves the Plano Police Department as the Senior Legal Advisor. He previously served 11 years as an assistant district attorney in Collin, Dallas and Gregg counties. Jeff is the only candidate who is board certified in criminal law. He has the endorsements of several law enforcement individuals and organizations.
Judge Greg Willis is a 1991 graduate of the University Of Virginia School Of Law. In October of 2009 Greg resigned his elected position as presiding judge of Collin County Court at Law No. 6, a post he held since 1995, to run for Collin County District Attorney. Prior to his public service Greg had a general law practice in Plano and served 4 years as an assistant district attorney in Collin County. Greg is a former president of the Collin County Bar Association and has twice been named a SuperLawyer® by Texas Monthly. He has a long history of service to the Republican Party of Collin County.
Judge Willis has an impressive resume that highlights a history of exceptional professionalism as well as having made significant contributions to his community and to the Republican Party of Collin County.
WE RECOMMEND: Judge Greg Willis
RESULTS: Greg Willis
District Clerk
Patricia Crigger exemplifies the word experience. She has been an active Republican and has worked in the District Clerks office for 23 years. She has been the Chief Deputy for the last 15 years and has actually run the office in the absence of the District Clerk Hanna Kunkle. She is knowledgeable about the current technology being used and has ideas to make the system more efficient for the Court. There is no doubt she enjoys the respect of the fellow workers in the office. She is conscientious and would be a good steward of Collin County taxpayers dollars.
Terrye Evans currently serves as the Court Coordinator for the 219th District Court. We found Ms Evans to be bright and friendly. We liked her “working smarter” comments and her positive personality and attitude. We hope she will remains active in local Republican efforts and we see an excellent future for her in public service.
Alma Hays is the only candidate who declined to participate in the interview process thereby depriving the Coalition of the opportunity to evaluate her personally and hear her ideas for improving the office she seeks.
After thoughtful consideration the Coalition endorses Patricia Crigger candidacy for District Clerk.
WE RECOMMEND: Patricia Crigger
RESULTS: Patricia Crigger & Alma Hays in runoff
219th District Court
Angela Tucker is a 1996 graduate of the Southern Methodist University School of Law. Since graduation she has practiced both criminal and civil law and has practiced in both the State and federal courts. Angela states that she is the only candidate with experience in all areas handled by this court. Indeed, Angela is a former assistant Collin County district attorney who has ably handled felony, misdemeanor, juvenile, CPS, and mental health cases. She is death penalty certified. She compliments her criminal experience with a private practice resume which has encompassed both criminal and civil experience in these areas of law. She has an expansive resume of involvement with the Republican Party.
Wendy McMillon has been licensed in Texas since 1994. She currently practices complex commercial litigation, including Intellectual Property, Patent Infringement, Antitrust, and other business litigation in the Dallas County office of McKool, Smith. In addition to her business litigation practice she also lists experience in the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Ms. McMillon is trained as a CASA volunteer.
Scott Becker is a 1997 graduate of the Southern Methodist University School of Law. Mr. Becker has been employed at the Collin County District Attorney’s Office for the past six years. He is currently a felony prosecutor. Mr. Becker also served in the Crimes Against Children Unit. Prior to his time in the DA’s Office, Mr. Becker had a private practice where he primarily handled criminal matters.
The Coalition appreciates the unique qualifications each of these candidates brings to the table in this race. Each appears bright and knowledgeable. However, we endorse Angela Tucker for the position.
WE RECOMMEND: Angela Tucker
RESULTS: Angela Tucker & Scott Becker in runoff
296th District Court
Keith Gore is a 1997 graduate of the University of Mississippi Law School and practices law in McKinney. Mr. Gore possesses a broad range of experience in civil, family, and criminal cases. He is a former prosecutor in Dallas County and for the City of Frisco as well as a municipal court judge for the City of Trenton, Texas. He has been in private practice since 1999. He also cites his experience as a certified mediator and is certified to represent defendants in death penalty cases.
Mr. Gore is a member of First Christian Church in McKinney and is a former board member for the Avenues Counseling Center. He also boasts substantial involvement in several local bar associations and Republican clubs as well as being a former Republican precinct chair.
Judge John Roach, Jr. is the Presiding Judge of the 296th Judicial District Court and is running for re-election. He has served in this position since taking office on January 1, 2007. He is a 1997 graduate of the St. Mary’s University School of Law and an 8 year member of the United State Marine Corps Reserves.
In addition to his judicial duties, Judge Roach cites significant changes he has helped implement to the judicial processes in Collin County through the use of technology including the Felony Video Plea Program, with the cooperation of many other officials and department heads, which uses video-conferencing technology to connect the secured jail facility and the courthouse.
Collin County is fortunate to have two outstanding candidates for this bench. Judge Roach has generally performed well since his election to the bench. However, we are concerned about the continuing reports of Judge Roach's court room demeanor. Also of concern was Judge Roach's insistance on continuing to limit his case load to civil cases only, thereby placing a burden on the other District Judges and/or adding an unnecessary additional cost to taxpayers to pay for visiting Judges to hear criminal cases. Keith Gore is a reputable and competent attorney in his own right and it is the belief of Coalition members that he has the proper Judicial temperament for a judge and in fact would be a fine judge who possesses quality credentials, especially as to criminal matters. It is therefore the position of the Coalition to endorse Keith Gore for Judge in District Court #296.
WE RECOMMEND: Keith Gore
RESULTS: Judge John Roach re-elected
County Court at Law #2
This race pits long time, and often challenged, Judge Jerry Lewis against a bright young challenger, Sharon Ramage.
Judge Lewis states that he is fair; he follows the law and respects others. The most recent Collin County Bar Association rating of Judges available (2005) seems to support this assertion. The attorneys practicing in County Court at Law #2 rate Judge Lewis as acceptable or excellent in the following areas: Hard working 68%; Impartial 70%; Correct Application of the Law 48%; temperament 54% and his overall rating by those that work with him on a regular basis is 55%. We found, in our time with Judge Lewis, him to be passionate about his work and offering a mature stable approach to the application to the law.
Ms. Ramage is a very qualified candidate who is perhaps just one step away from becoming a Judge. She states that she has always wanted to be a judge; that she is not running against Judge Lewis but that she thinks she can make County Court at Law #2 more efficient. She is well qualified in both civil and criminal law with more experience in family law – her passion is protecting children. Part of her experience is working as a prosecutor in punishing crimes against children.
Overall, we believe the citizens will be well served to retain Judge Jerry Lewis for another term.
WE RECOMMEND: Judge Jerry Lewis
RESULTS: Judge Jerry Lewis re-elected
County Court at Law #3
Stewart Matthews is a 2002 graduate of the Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. Mr. Matthews is currently in private practice as a general practitioner in both State and Federal courts throughout North Texas. He is a member of several bar associations and volunteers and local legal aid clinics.
Lance Baxter is a 1986 graduate of the South Texas College of Law. He is the most experienced and qualified candidate for a judicial bench in Collin County. Lance has spent the last 23 years practicing civil and criminal trial law and has experience as a hearing master for the Collin County Mental Health Court. He formed his current partnership with Baxter, Gibbs, Robison and Henderson in 1999. He has also served on the board of directors for numerous bar associations throughout the county.
Barnett Walker is a Gulf War veteran who retired after 22 years as a Senior Master Sergeant in the Air Force. Mr. Walker earned several honors prior to his graduation from the Southern Methodist University School of Law in 2004. After graduation he joined the Collin County District Attorney's Office and was assigned as a felony prosecutor. He is currently in private practice. He also had many well-reasoned suggestions for improving efficiencies in County Court.
None of the candidates have extensive involvement serving the Collin County Republican Party. However, each possesses unique attributes and professionalism. Qualifications that make a good judicial candidate include experience, fairness and temperament. Lance Baxter’s extensive legal experience, record of public service and excellent temperament make him our recommended choice for election to Collin County Court at Law #3. However, Coalition members were favorably impressed with the credentials, demeanor, and common-sense suggestions of Barnett Walker and consider him to be a rising star in the Republican Party.
WE RECOMMEND: Lance Baxter
RESULTS: Lance Baxter & Stewart Matthew in runoff
County Court at Law #4
Linda Wynn Drain received her Juris Doctorate degree from South Texas College of Law in 1996. She interned for the Honorable Judge Lynn N. Hughes of the United State District Court as well as served in the Collin County District Attorney’s office as Assistant Criminal District Attorney. She is a founding partner in the firm of Nolte, Drain & Rosenthal, PLLC. Ms Drain is active in the Republican Party of Collin County and received a gubernatorial appointment in 2008 to the Texas Board of Acupuncture Examiners. She has a good reputation in the legal community as a hard worker and as a competent attorney
Matthew Goeller has a strong and impressive background in criminal law. He is board certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has over 20 years of experience as prosecutor and defense attorney. He has handled criminal, civil, family, and juvenile cases ranging from misdemeanors to capital murder. He is a veteran (U.S. Marines Corp). He has been involved in his community as well as in the education system having taught constitutional law.
Christi Bryant received legal degree from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law where she served as a member of the Law Review. She resides in Plano with her husband and three children. As a civil trial lawyer she has been involved in numerous cases ranging from minor auto accidents to complex multi-party litigation. She has previous work experience with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
David Rippel is a 1988 graduate of the Louisiana State University with a Business Administration Degree in Economics. He earned his law degree from The Southern University Law School in 1995. David has served in the U.S. Armed forces. David cites his expensive trial experience in civil and criminal law. David is admitted to practice in Texas and Louisiana as well as before the United States Supreme Court, and in the federal court system. He also has been extensively involved with the Republican Party of Collin County.
The Coalition is impressed by the unique range of qualifications of these candidates in this race. Each candidate appears both bright and knowledgeable. Though we believe each are competent to perform the job of judge we believe that Linda Wynn Drain and Matt Goeller are the best suited of the candidates.
WE RECOMMEND: Linda Wynn Drain & Matt Goeller
RESULTS: Matt Goeller & David Ripple in runoff
County Court at Law #6
Of all the County Court at Law Judicial contests this was one of the most difficult for us to reach a consensus. Each candidate brings a strong resume to the campaign. The following is what we found in interviewing the candidates.
Shawn Ismail experience includes: Graduate from Austin College BA in Economics and St Mary’s Law School. He currently practices law in Plano handling Civil, Criminal, Business Law, Contracts, Real Estate, Tax Law and Immigration cases. As a Judge Mr. Ismail says that he would dispense, fair, impartial and firm application of the law. If elected, Mr. Ismail would prioritize the Civil and Criminal cases and work to bring “new efficiencies to the court.
Jay Bender has a strong educational background: graduating cum laude from Austin College after which he graduated from St. Mary’s Law School. He has worked in the Dallas District Attorney’s office as a prosecutor and been in private practice specializing as a Criminal Defense attorney. When he was asked why he was running he said to give back to the community. We found Mr. Bender is well qualified to serve as Judge in County Court at Law #6.
Don High graduated from Baylor Law School. He has been a prosecutor in the Collin County District Attorney’s office and he has experience in both criminal and civil law. He is board certified in Criminal Law and he is licensed to practice before the Texas Supreme Court. He is also active in the Republican Party.
Terri Green describes herself as a self made woman. Her resume bears that out: she has been a trial lawyer for twenty years in Civil and Family Law; she is licensed to practice law in all Texas courts, the Federal Courts and the United States Supreme Court. She is very involved in community and Republican Party activities. Ms Green believes strongly in the rule of law.
WE RECOMMEND: Jay Bender
RESULTS: Jay Bender & Terri Green in runoff
Justice of the Peace Pct 4
Doug Reeves has served the Collin County GOP for many years in the capacity of Precinct Chair, Election Judge, Caucus Chair and delegate to the State GOP Convention just to name a few. We look forward to his continued leadership and involvement in the Collin County GOP. Mr. Reeves believes that truancy is the biggest issue in JP 4. He feels the truancy occurring in Precinct 4 should be heard in that court. Mr. Reeves believes his experience in mentoring and counseling would make him the most qualified to resolve those cases. Mr. Reeves has a master’s degree in counseling.
Judge Mike Yarbrough has served as Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 for the past eleven years and is seeking another term. Judge Yarbrough earned his degrees while serving in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1973 to 1993. Prior to his election as JP in 1998 Judge Yarbrough served as a prosecutor and law professor. He has also been involved in various Republican Clubs and organizations in Collin County for many years. The Coalition applauds Mr. Yarbrough’s service to our country and to Collin County. His court does return a large sum of money to Collin County mostly through traffic tickets. We believe that truancy is an issue in JP 4 that needs to be addressed. The truancy cases in Precinct 4 are currently being handled by another Justice of the Peace, by the city of Frisco and/or Denton County. We believe these cases are the responsibility of the Justice of the Peace in Precinct 4 and should be resolved in that court
Kelley Adley became a Police Officer at the age of 21 and served with the Dallas Police Department as well as the Euless Police Department. He has been a special investigator with the Dallas County DA and the Collin County DA. He is also a certified Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and an active volunteer with the Prosper Fire Department. Kelley has earned a BA and MBA and is a certified mediator with the State of Texas.
The Coalition was impressed with Mr. Adley’s work ethic and his desire to fully serve the constituents of JP 4 by implementing new ideas within the office of JP 4. Mr. Adley’s desire to take on truancy cases in that court and to work with the parents, children and school districts of JP 4 to resolve those issues were important to our members. Mr. Adley’s pledge to be available full time in that court and on weekends if necessary is why we are endorsing Mr. Kelley Adley for Justice of the Peace in Precinct 4.
WE RECOMMEND: Kelley Adley
RESULTS: Doug Reeves & Mike Yarbourgh in runoff
Republican Party County Chairman
Fred Moses has been a small business owner in Plano for over 25 years and has been recognized for his community spirit by being appointed as a Commissioner in the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulators Commission. He has served as Chairman Emeritus of the Plano Community Forum, Chairman of the Board Plano Community Home, Inc., Vice-Chair Plano Day Care Center, and is an Associate and Licensed Minister of Shiloh Baptist Church in Plano, TX.
Chairman Moses advanced the use of technology in the new headquarters building. He has promoted communications within the Party by modernizing the website to make it more useful and accessible. Mr. Moses continued communications within the Republican Party by conducting the first annual Collin County Republican Party up date with the club presidents. He began unification of the Republican Party as the county population continued to grow. In his 18 months tenure he significantly increased the number of precinct chairs for the Party. He has personally conducted ongoing Precinct Chair training sessions and has opened the financial records of the party.
Ms. Tschoepe has worked in the Republican Party for 20 years. She is the former president of the Conner Harrington Republican Women's Club and State Republican Executive Committee (SREC) representative from Senate District 8. She has worked on National campaigns and in the Dallas County Republican Party. Her vision for the Collin County Republican Party includes party unity, increased communications and increased fundraising. Despite her positions within the Party she has failed to demonstrate consistent effective leadership in past elections. Her communication of activities at the State level when she was SREC was inadequate.
Collin County Republican Party Chairman Fred Moses has earned the respect of the Collin County Republican Party by his values, his conservative leadership and his actions to institute transparent record keeping and financial records.
WE RECOMMEND: County Chairman Fred Moses
RESULTS: Chairman Fred Moses re-elected
Origin
The Coalition for Better Government was conceived during the summer of 2009 as a result of a growing frustration by several conservative area Republican leaders over the quality and integrity of government leadership on a national level. That group shared the opinion that the most effective way to influence and impact government leadership on a national level was to cultivate and encourage responsible leaders on a local level who will carry the message of conservative values and fiscal conservatism throughout our community.
A core group of seven citizens organized with the intent to form a representative cross-section of Collin County, Texas Republican leaders with the goal of bringing to bear both our individual and collective influence to encourage, support and endorse current and potential candidates for public office who will best represent the core values, integrity and responsibilities of the next generation of Republican leaders in Collin County.
The Coalition invited all Republican candidates seeking election to local office this year to interview with the Coalition for Better Government and explain not only their reasons for seeking public office but to provide a detailed explanation as to their personal, professional, political and community service background and qualifications. All interviewees submitted to a rigorous interview process designed to dig past the admittedly shallow and limited information that may be presented at a crowded campaign event. The Coalition spent over forty five hours interviewing – vetting all but one of the candidates, Alma Hays candidate for District Clerk, chose not to speak to us.
We realize that reasonable minds may differ as to who might provide the best leadership in our community. Our intent is to provide a positive and fair evaluation to voters to allow them to make a more informed and objective decision for themselves as to who will represent the interests of Collin County for the next election term. Since we are each already active and involved Republicans we come to the table with some of our own biases and inherent prejudices as to what we look for in a leader. However, where a member of our group has previously committed to support a candidate for a particular office he or she has been encouraged to abstain from participating in the discussion and recommendation process for that particular office. We sincerely hope that our recommendations will be a valuable resource tool to voters who do not have the time to spend vetting each candidate for themselves.
Below, we are presenting our brief summaries of our findings. They appear in ballot order – by office and by placement of candidates’ names on the ballot.
We salute ALL of the candidates for offering their services to our county. We have to choose from thirty eight candidates for only fourteen offices. Simple math reveals that not everyone can be selected. We encourage those not chosen by the voters to stay involved, stay engaged and continue to help make our Collin County even better.
State Representative House District #66
In the race for Texas House of Representatives House District 66 we are in an enviable and unique position. Collin County Voters have three solid candidates to choose from. Each of them offers conservative credentials and conservative values which we believe would give Collin County citizens strong representation in Austin.
Van Taylor is a fiscal conservative promoting limited government, lower taxes and safe borders. He has an outstanding and proud military record and is a social conservative with a pro-life businessman's experience under his belt. He actively supports veteran's organizations and protecting the voting rights of members of the military. Mr. Taylor's vision includes advocating for lower taxes, less government and traditional family values.
Wayne Richard is a fiscal conservative promoting limited government, lower taxes and safe borders. He is a successful businessman having formed and run his own thriving company. He is a social conservative, pro-life and has worked with the “TEA Party” membership. He favors the strict following of the Texas State Constitution and limiting rights and welfare payments to illegal immigrants. Mr. Richard's vision includes serving with a realistic and conservative appreciation of finances and the economy.
Mabrie Jackson is married with two sons and has had a business career with EDS and Microsoft Corporations. She has served for 18 months on the Plano City Council and recently resigned from that position to run for this HD #66 seat. She has voted against a Plano tax increase in 2009 and has been active in Conner Harrington Republican Women's club activities. Our concern over this candidate stems from the approximately $100,000.00 cost to the taxpayers of Plano for a special election and run-off election to fill the unexpired term Ms. Jackson created when she resigned to run for this seat in the House of Representatives. We do look forward to her future involvement in the Collin County Republican Party.
Mr. Taylor and Mr. Richard favor the overhaul of the education system to make it more effective and support a voter identification system to curtail fraud and abuse. These men are eager to serve the citizens of Texas and provide us with examples of the best values and capabilities that we have been privileged to witness in a long time. It is with great pride that we endorse Van Taylor and Wayne Richard and suggest that you vote for either of them in March.
Collin County will be served well by either of these gentlemen.
WE RECOMMEND: Van Taylor and Wayne Richard
RESULTS: Van Taylor & Mabrie Jackson in runoff
County Judge
Judge Keith Self has presided over a Commissioner's Court that has held the line on the budget, lowered Collin County taxes and placed the Collin County check book on line for all to see how our tax money is spent. The Commissioner's Court sessions are available on line so all citizens may see our government in action. Judge Self has testified on the taxpayer's behalf in Austin at the Texas State Legislative session and has excellent working relations with Texas Governor Rick Perry, State Senator Craig Estes and State Representatives Jodie Laubenberg, Jerry Madden, Ken Paxton, and out going Representative Brian McCall.
Collin County Judge Keith Self has kept his promise to the taxpayers by providing an open and transparent government. He has concentrated on the issues and has communicated the process of government to the citizens in a straight forward and clear manner.
John Muns is running for Collin County Judge and has served on the Plano ISD board of Trustees since being elected in 1993. He has been married for 26 years and has three children. He states he is a fiscal conservative with the needed leadership to reduce unnecessary spending and waste in the county. He is running on building our political equity and increasing county services that he views as being neglected. He says he has the skills to repair and develop positive relations with cities in the county, adjacent counties and the state. He also intends to make our schools and community safer. It is our concern that Mr. Muns is short of specifics and was unable to articulate the details of changes he would make to achieve his vision for the county.
Collin County Judge Keith Self has proven himself worthy of our support. In the race for Collin County Judge we endorse Collin County Judge Keith Self.
WE RECOMMEND: Judge Keith Self
RESULTS: Judge Keith Self re-elected
County Commissioner Pct #2
This race is another one that required long deliberation by the coalition. This race pits twenty nine year incumbent Jerry Hoagland against two familiar challengers, Karl Voigtsberger and former Plano City Council woman Cheryl Williams. Each has strengths to offer the voters of Precinct #2 (basically the southeastern part of Collin County). The operative word in this year’s election is conservative and it certainly is the main focus in this race.
County Commissioner Jerry Hoagland has a long standing reputation as a conservative – fiscally, socially and emotionally. Mr. Hoagland is strongly pursuing the Intermodal operation proposed for southeast Collin County and points to that as one of his cornerstone issues in his bid for re-election. During the almost hour long interview with Mr. Hoagland he was unable to identify any specific accomplishments in his last four years of service as a reason for citizens to re-elect him. But perhaps the biggest concern the Coalition has is Commissioner Hoagland's lack of tact and his insentitivity when addressing citizens or county matters in Public.
Karl Voigtsberger, a long time active Republican is promising to be an advocate for Taxpayers. The keystone of his campaign is his emphasis on being a fiscal conservative, stating that he is the only true conservative in the race. He wants to put to use his twenty four years of engineering experience with Hewlett Packard in the Commissioner’s Court. Mr. Voigtsberger touts his grassroots support stating that he is only taking campaign money from individuals, not taking PAC money. Mr. Voigtsberger is opposed to the Collin County Intermodal system and the bridge over Lake Lavon.
Cheryl Williams says she is the most conservative in the race. Certainly her six years of experience on the Plano City Council would testify to the validity of her claim. Ms. Williams is a small business owner, not a career politician. She believes we need to start running county government like a business, and her background in finance and economics makes her uniquely qualified to do so. Ms Williams says she wants an even more open and honest government in the commissioner’s court. Specifically she wants to change the culture of government by ending what she calls pay-to-play politics where those who make large campaign contributions get special treatment from elected officials. Ms Williams says It’s time for a fresh start at the county. In this race we agree.
WE RECOMMEND: Cheryl Williams
RESULTS: Cheryl Williams & Jerry Hoagland in runoff
County Commissioner Pct #4
County Commissioner Kathy Ward has been a long time resident of Plano. She is a graduate of the University of North Texas. Ms. Ward has held several positions of increased responsibility both in the private and public sectors. Ms. Ward served as Collin County GOP Chairwoman. During her tenure as chairwoman, she was appointed by Collin County Judge Keith Self to fill the office vacated by former Commissioner Jack Hatchell. Since the appointment, Ms. Ward ran, and won, last November to complete the remaining unexpired term. In the past 18 months, Ms Ward has shown her strong commitment to small government and a tax cut for home owners by voting for a fiscal conservative budget.
James "Duncan" Webb was looking to run for Plano City Council or House District 66 held by former State Representative Brian McCall, and finally due to redistricting, he decided to run against Commissioner Kathy Ward. In our meeting, Mr. Webb offered ideas concerning what he believes are wrong with the county, but he failed to articulate that vision. Mr. Webb is a graduate of Southern Methodist University where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration and Juris Doctorate degrees. Duncan is a long time resident of Plano and he has served for 12 years as a trustee of the Plano Independent School Districts.
WE RECOMMEND: Commissioner Kathy Ward
RESULTS: Duncan Webb
District Attorney
James Angelino is a 1994 graduate of the Southern Methodist University School of Law. He is an Iraq War veteran and has worked as a police officer and over 11 years as a Denton County prosecutor. He currently has a criminal defense practice in Denton, Texas.
Jeff Bray is a 1995 graduate of the Oklahoma City University School of Law and resides in Parker. He currently serves the Plano Police Department as the Senior Legal Advisor. He previously served 11 years as an assistant district attorney in Collin, Dallas and Gregg counties. Jeff is the only candidate who is board certified in criminal law. He has the endorsements of several law enforcement individuals and organizations.
Judge Greg Willis is a 1991 graduate of the University Of Virginia School Of Law. In October of 2009 Greg resigned his elected position as presiding judge of Collin County Court at Law No. 6, a post he held since 1995, to run for Collin County District Attorney. Prior to his public service Greg had a general law practice in Plano and served 4 years as an assistant district attorney in Collin County. Greg is a former president of the Collin County Bar Association and has twice been named a SuperLawyer® by Texas Monthly. He has a long history of service to the Republican Party of Collin County.
Judge Willis has an impressive resume that highlights a history of exceptional professionalism as well as having made significant contributions to his community and to the Republican Party of Collin County.
WE RECOMMEND: Judge Greg Willis
RESULTS: Greg Willis
District Clerk
Patricia Crigger exemplifies the word experience. She has been an active Republican and has worked in the District Clerks office for 23 years. She has been the Chief Deputy for the last 15 years and has actually run the office in the absence of the District Clerk Hanna Kunkle. She is knowledgeable about the current technology being used and has ideas to make the system more efficient for the Court. There is no doubt she enjoys the respect of the fellow workers in the office. She is conscientious and would be a good steward of Collin County taxpayers dollars.
Terrye Evans currently serves as the Court Coordinator for the 219th District Court. We found Ms Evans to be bright and friendly. We liked her “working smarter” comments and her positive personality and attitude. We hope she will remains active in local Republican efforts and we see an excellent future for her in public service.
Alma Hays is the only candidate who declined to participate in the interview process thereby depriving the Coalition of the opportunity to evaluate her personally and hear her ideas for improving the office she seeks.
After thoughtful consideration the Coalition endorses Patricia Crigger candidacy for District Clerk.
WE RECOMMEND: Patricia Crigger
RESULTS: Patricia Crigger & Alma Hays in runoff
219th District Court
Angela Tucker is a 1996 graduate of the Southern Methodist University School of Law. Since graduation she has practiced both criminal and civil law and has practiced in both the State and federal courts. Angela states that she is the only candidate with experience in all areas handled by this court. Indeed, Angela is a former assistant Collin County district attorney who has ably handled felony, misdemeanor, juvenile, CPS, and mental health cases. She is death penalty certified. She compliments her criminal experience with a private practice resume which has encompassed both criminal and civil experience in these areas of law. She has an expansive resume of involvement with the Republican Party.
Wendy McMillon has been licensed in Texas since 1994. She currently practices complex commercial litigation, including Intellectual Property, Patent Infringement, Antitrust, and other business litigation in the Dallas County office of McKool, Smith. In addition to her business litigation practice she also lists experience in the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Ms. McMillon is trained as a CASA volunteer.
Scott Becker is a 1997 graduate of the Southern Methodist University School of Law. Mr. Becker has been employed at the Collin County District Attorney’s Office for the past six years. He is currently a felony prosecutor. Mr. Becker also served in the Crimes Against Children Unit. Prior to his time in the DA’s Office, Mr. Becker had a private practice where he primarily handled criminal matters.
The Coalition appreciates the unique qualifications each of these candidates brings to the table in this race. Each appears bright and knowledgeable. However, we endorse Angela Tucker for the position.
WE RECOMMEND: Angela Tucker
RESULTS: Angela Tucker & Scott Becker in runoff
296th District Court
Keith Gore is a 1997 graduate of the University of Mississippi Law School and practices law in McKinney. Mr. Gore possesses a broad range of experience in civil, family, and criminal cases. He is a former prosecutor in Dallas County and for the City of Frisco as well as a municipal court judge for the City of Trenton, Texas. He has been in private practice since 1999. He also cites his experience as a certified mediator and is certified to represent defendants in death penalty cases.
Mr. Gore is a member of First Christian Church in McKinney and is a former board member for the Avenues Counseling Center. He also boasts substantial involvement in several local bar associations and Republican clubs as well as being a former Republican precinct chair.
Judge John Roach, Jr. is the Presiding Judge of the 296th Judicial District Court and is running for re-election. He has served in this position since taking office on January 1, 2007. He is a 1997 graduate of the St. Mary’s University School of Law and an 8 year member of the United State Marine Corps Reserves.
In addition to his judicial duties, Judge Roach cites significant changes he has helped implement to the judicial processes in Collin County through the use of technology including the Felony Video Plea Program, with the cooperation of many other officials and department heads, which uses video-conferencing technology to connect the secured jail facility and the courthouse.
Collin County is fortunate to have two outstanding candidates for this bench. Judge Roach has generally performed well since his election to the bench. However, we are concerned about the continuing reports of Judge Roach's court room demeanor. Also of concern was Judge Roach's insistance on continuing to limit his case load to civil cases only, thereby placing a burden on the other District Judges and/or adding an unnecessary additional cost to taxpayers to pay for visiting Judges to hear criminal cases. Keith Gore is a reputable and competent attorney in his own right and it is the belief of Coalition members that he has the proper Judicial temperament for a judge and in fact would be a fine judge who possesses quality credentials, especially as to criminal matters. It is therefore the position of the Coalition to endorse Keith Gore for Judge in District Court #296.
WE RECOMMEND: Keith Gore
RESULTS: Judge John Roach re-elected
County Court at Law #2
This race pits long time, and often challenged, Judge Jerry Lewis against a bright young challenger, Sharon Ramage.
Judge Lewis states that he is fair; he follows the law and respects others. The most recent Collin County Bar Association rating of Judges available (2005) seems to support this assertion. The attorneys practicing in County Court at Law #2 rate Judge Lewis as acceptable or excellent in the following areas: Hard working 68%; Impartial 70%; Correct Application of the Law 48%; temperament 54% and his overall rating by those that work with him on a regular basis is 55%. We found, in our time with Judge Lewis, him to be passionate about his work and offering a mature stable approach to the application to the law.
Ms. Ramage is a very qualified candidate who is perhaps just one step away from becoming a Judge. She states that she has always wanted to be a judge; that she is not running against Judge Lewis but that she thinks she can make County Court at Law #2 more efficient. She is well qualified in both civil and criminal law with more experience in family law – her passion is protecting children. Part of her experience is working as a prosecutor in punishing crimes against children.
Overall, we believe the citizens will be well served to retain Judge Jerry Lewis for another term.
WE RECOMMEND: Judge Jerry Lewis
RESULTS: Judge Jerry Lewis re-elected
County Court at Law #3
Stewart Matthews is a 2002 graduate of the Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. Mr. Matthews is currently in private practice as a general practitioner in both State and Federal courts throughout North Texas. He is a member of several bar associations and volunteers and local legal aid clinics.
Lance Baxter is a 1986 graduate of the South Texas College of Law. He is the most experienced and qualified candidate for a judicial bench in Collin County. Lance has spent the last 23 years practicing civil and criminal trial law and has experience as a hearing master for the Collin County Mental Health Court. He formed his current partnership with Baxter, Gibbs, Robison and Henderson in 1999. He has also served on the board of directors for numerous bar associations throughout the county.
Barnett Walker is a Gulf War veteran who retired after 22 years as a Senior Master Sergeant in the Air Force. Mr. Walker earned several honors prior to his graduation from the Southern Methodist University School of Law in 2004. After graduation he joined the Collin County District Attorney's Office and was assigned as a felony prosecutor. He is currently in private practice. He also had many well-reasoned suggestions for improving efficiencies in County Court.
None of the candidates have extensive involvement serving the Collin County Republican Party. However, each possesses unique attributes and professionalism. Qualifications that make a good judicial candidate include experience, fairness and temperament. Lance Baxter’s extensive legal experience, record of public service and excellent temperament make him our recommended choice for election to Collin County Court at Law #3. However, Coalition members were favorably impressed with the credentials, demeanor, and common-sense suggestions of Barnett Walker and consider him to be a rising star in the Republican Party.
WE RECOMMEND: Lance Baxter
RESULTS: Lance Baxter & Stewart Matthew in runoff
County Court at Law #4
Linda Wynn Drain received her Juris Doctorate degree from South Texas College of Law in 1996. She interned for the Honorable Judge Lynn N. Hughes of the United State District Court as well as served in the Collin County District Attorney’s office as Assistant Criminal District Attorney. She is a founding partner in the firm of Nolte, Drain & Rosenthal, PLLC. Ms Drain is active in the Republican Party of Collin County and received a gubernatorial appointment in 2008 to the Texas Board of Acupuncture Examiners. She has a good reputation in the legal community as a hard worker and as a competent attorney
Matthew Goeller has a strong and impressive background in criminal law. He is board certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has over 20 years of experience as prosecutor and defense attorney. He has handled criminal, civil, family, and juvenile cases ranging from misdemeanors to capital murder. He is a veteran (U.S. Marines Corp). He has been involved in his community as well as in the education system having taught constitutional law.
Christi Bryant received legal degree from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law where she served as a member of the Law Review. She resides in Plano with her husband and three children. As a civil trial lawyer she has been involved in numerous cases ranging from minor auto accidents to complex multi-party litigation. She has previous work experience with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
David Rippel is a 1988 graduate of the Louisiana State University with a Business Administration Degree in Economics. He earned his law degree from The Southern University Law School in 1995. David has served in the U.S. Armed forces. David cites his expensive trial experience in civil and criminal law. David is admitted to practice in Texas and Louisiana as well as before the United States Supreme Court, and in the federal court system. He also has been extensively involved with the Republican Party of Collin County.
The Coalition is impressed by the unique range of qualifications of these candidates in this race. Each candidate appears both bright and knowledgeable. Though we believe each are competent to perform the job of judge we believe that Linda Wynn Drain and Matt Goeller are the best suited of the candidates.
WE RECOMMEND: Linda Wynn Drain & Matt Goeller
RESULTS: Matt Goeller & David Ripple in runoff
County Court at Law #6
Of all the County Court at Law Judicial contests this was one of the most difficult for us to reach a consensus. Each candidate brings a strong resume to the campaign. The following is what we found in interviewing the candidates.
Shawn Ismail experience includes: Graduate from Austin College BA in Economics and St Mary’s Law School. He currently practices law in Plano handling Civil, Criminal, Business Law, Contracts, Real Estate, Tax Law and Immigration cases. As a Judge Mr. Ismail says that he would dispense, fair, impartial and firm application of the law. If elected, Mr. Ismail would prioritize the Civil and Criminal cases and work to bring “new efficiencies to the court.
Jay Bender has a strong educational background: graduating cum laude from Austin College after which he graduated from St. Mary’s Law School. He has worked in the Dallas District Attorney’s office as a prosecutor and been in private practice specializing as a Criminal Defense attorney. When he was asked why he was running he said to give back to the community. We found Mr. Bender is well qualified to serve as Judge in County Court at Law #6.
Don High graduated from Baylor Law School. He has been a prosecutor in the Collin County District Attorney’s office and he has experience in both criminal and civil law. He is board certified in Criminal Law and he is licensed to practice before the Texas Supreme Court. He is also active in the Republican Party.
Terri Green describes herself as a self made woman. Her resume bears that out: she has been a trial lawyer for twenty years in Civil and Family Law; she is licensed to practice law in all Texas courts, the Federal Courts and the United States Supreme Court. She is very involved in community and Republican Party activities. Ms Green believes strongly in the rule of law.
WE RECOMMEND: Jay Bender
RESULTS: Jay Bender & Terri Green in runoff
Justice of the Peace Pct 4
Doug Reeves has served the Collin County GOP for many years in the capacity of Precinct Chair, Election Judge, Caucus Chair and delegate to the State GOP Convention just to name a few. We look forward to his continued leadership and involvement in the Collin County GOP. Mr. Reeves believes that truancy is the biggest issue in JP 4. He feels the truancy occurring in Precinct 4 should be heard in that court. Mr. Reeves believes his experience in mentoring and counseling would make him the most qualified to resolve those cases. Mr. Reeves has a master’s degree in counseling.
Judge Mike Yarbrough has served as Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 for the past eleven years and is seeking another term. Judge Yarbrough earned his degrees while serving in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1973 to 1993. Prior to his election as JP in 1998 Judge Yarbrough served as a prosecutor and law professor. He has also been involved in various Republican Clubs and organizations in Collin County for many years. The Coalition applauds Mr. Yarbrough’s service to our country and to Collin County. His court does return a large sum of money to Collin County mostly through traffic tickets. We believe that truancy is an issue in JP 4 that needs to be addressed. The truancy cases in Precinct 4 are currently being handled by another Justice of the Peace, by the city of Frisco and/or Denton County. We believe these cases are the responsibility of the Justice of the Peace in Precinct 4 and should be resolved in that court
Kelley Adley became a Police Officer at the age of 21 and served with the Dallas Police Department as well as the Euless Police Department. He has been a special investigator with the Dallas County DA and the Collin County DA. He is also a certified Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and an active volunteer with the Prosper Fire Department. Kelley has earned a BA and MBA and is a certified mediator with the State of Texas.
The Coalition was impressed with Mr. Adley’s work ethic and his desire to fully serve the constituents of JP 4 by implementing new ideas within the office of JP 4. Mr. Adley’s desire to take on truancy cases in that court and to work with the parents, children and school districts of JP 4 to resolve those issues were important to our members. Mr. Adley’s pledge to be available full time in that court and on weekends if necessary is why we are endorsing Mr. Kelley Adley for Justice of the Peace in Precinct 4.
WE RECOMMEND: Kelley Adley
RESULTS: Doug Reeves & Mike Yarbourgh in runoff
Republican Party County Chairman
Fred Moses has been a small business owner in Plano for over 25 years and has been recognized for his community spirit by being appointed as a Commissioner in the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulators Commission. He has served as Chairman Emeritus of the Plano Community Forum, Chairman of the Board Plano Community Home, Inc., Vice-Chair Plano Day Care Center, and is an Associate and Licensed Minister of Shiloh Baptist Church in Plano, TX.
Chairman Moses advanced the use of technology in the new headquarters building. He has promoted communications within the Party by modernizing the website to make it more useful and accessible. Mr. Moses continued communications within the Republican Party by conducting the first annual Collin County Republican Party up date with the club presidents. He began unification of the Republican Party as the county population continued to grow. In his 18 months tenure he significantly increased the number of precinct chairs for the Party. He has personally conducted ongoing Precinct Chair training sessions and has opened the financial records of the party.
Ms. Tschoepe has worked in the Republican Party for 20 years. She is the former president of the Conner Harrington Republican Women's Club and State Republican Executive Committee (SREC) representative from Senate District 8. She has worked on National campaigns and in the Dallas County Republican Party. Her vision for the Collin County Republican Party includes party unity, increased communications and increased fundraising. Despite her positions within the Party she has failed to demonstrate consistent effective leadership in past elections. Her communication of activities at the State level when she was SREC was inadequate.
Collin County Republican Party Chairman Fred Moses has earned the respect of the Collin County Republican Party by his values, his conservative leadership and his actions to institute transparent record keeping and financial records.
WE RECOMMEND: County Chairman Fred Moses
RESULTS: Chairman Fred Moses re-elected
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