Texas state legislative Republican primaries, 2018/Races to watch

Elections in Texas, 2018

• General election: Nov. 6
• Voter registration deadline: Oct. 9
• Early voting: Oct. 22 - Nov. 2
• Absentee voting deadline: Nov. 7

• Online registration: No
• Same-day registration: No
• Voter ID: Photo ID required
• Poll times: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

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Ballotpedia's series on the Texas state legislative Republican primaries
Overview
Page 1: Election night coverage of primary matchups
Page 2: Races to watch in the 2018 primaries
Page 3: Top 10 races in 2018
Page 4: Factional conflict in the 2018 primaries
Page 5: What was at stake in the 2018 primaries?
Page 6: Campaign activity by influencers and satellite organizations
Page 7: Noteworthy events, timeline, and media coverage of the 2018 primaries
Page 8: Competitiveness in the 2018 primaries
Page 9: Campaign finance in the 2018 primaries
Page 10: May 22 primary runoffs
Read as one page →

Ballotpedia identified 46 key races to watch in the Texas State Legislature 2018 Republican primary elections: seven state Senate seats and 39 state House seats. To see our primary coverage overview page, click here.

These primaries had the potential to be more competitive than other primaries and could possibly have led to changes in the membership of the Republican caucus or had an impact on general election races.

• See the Senate races to watch here
• See the House races to watch here

See our coverage of the primary runoffs here.

Criteria

To determine the Texas state legislative Republican primary races to watch in 2018, Ballotpedia tracked races that fit one or more of the three factors listed below:

1. Identified by the media as a notable primary election.
2. One or more of the candidates received a notable endorsement.
3. The primary was known to be competitive based on past results or because it was a rematch of a primary that was competitive in the past.

Senate races we watched

This map shows the 2018 Texas State Senate Republican primaries that we watched.

Senate District 2

Texas State Senate, District 2 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Bob Hall Incumbent	53.24%	35,561
Cindy Burkett	46.76%	31,239
Total Votes		66,800
Source: Texas Secretary of State, "2018 Republican Party Primary Election, Election Night Returns," accessed March 7, 2018 These election results are unofficial and will be updated after official vote totals are made available.

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

The Dallas Morning News identified this Republican primary as potentially competitive. It featured a matchup between incumbent Bob Hall and state Rep. Cindy Burkett. According to the Dallas Morning News, Hall has said that Burkett is a moderate, while Burkett has said that Hall is not an effective legislator. Hall was first elected in 2014 as a conservative affiliated with the Tea Party movement. He supported a primary challenge to Burkett in her 2016 state House race because he did not think she was conservative enough. He was also an opponent of House Speaker Joe Straus in the past. On February 7, 2018, Bob Hall began running a TV ad titled "Sen. Bob Hall is Our Trusted Conservative Leader." Endorsements for Hall Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas State Rep. Matt Rinaldi Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick Texans for Free Enterprise Endorsements for Burkett Texas Association of Realtors Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Manufacturers Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Parent PAC Mulitple law enforcement and firefighting groups, including the Dallas Police Association, the Texas State Association of Firefighters, and the Texas Municipal Police Association. Dallas Morning News Texas First Coalition

Campaign advertisements

Bob Hall - support

"Sen. Bob Hall is Our Trusted Conservative Leader," released January 29, 2018

"Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick Endorses Senator Bob Hall," released February 7, 2018

Cindy Burkett - oppose

Senate District 5

Texas State Senate, District 5 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Charles Schwertner Incumbent	75.09%	49,962
Harold Ramm	24.91%	16,576
Total Votes		66,538
Source: Texas Secretary of State, "2018 Republican Party Primary Election, Election Night Returns," accessed March 7, 2018 These election results are unofficial and will be updated after official vote totals are made available.

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Harold Ramm challenged incumbent Charles Schwertner in his primary. Endorsements for Schwertner Empower Texans Texas Medical Association Young Conservatives of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Association of Realtors Texans for Lawsuit Reform The Eagle Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick Endorsements for Ramm Texas Parent PAC

Senate District 8

Texas State Senate, District 8 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Angela Paxton	54.35%	32,653
Phillip Huffines	45.65%	27,421
Total Votes		60,074
Source: Texas Secretary of State, "2018 Republican Party Primary Election, Election Night Returns," accessed March 7, 2018 These election results are unofficial and will be updated after official vote totals are made available.

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

The Dallas Morning News identified this Republican primary as competitive. It was an open seat contested by Angela Paxton, the wife of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R), and Phillip Huffines, the brother of state Sen. Donald Huffines (R) and the Dallas County Republican Party chairman. An issue in the campaign was the candidates' campaign finance history. Paxton emphasized Huffines' past donations to Democrats (he said he gave to them because they agreed with Texans for Lawsuit Reform on some policies), while Huffines has said some of Paxton's donations were linked to former state Sen. John Carona (R), who his brother Donald defeated in a 2014 Republican primary. On February 13, Paxton released a campaign ad emphasizing Huffines' donations to Democrats. Huffines' campaign released a campaign flyer saying that Paxton did not support term limits for politicians, that her campaign was linked to lobbyists, and that she and her husband had increased their personal wealth during their time in politics. In response, Paxton's campaign manager wrote on Facebook that Huffines was engaging in "politics of personal destruction" and that "[it's] clear for anyone to see that his naked political ambition knows no bounds, that there is no line he won't cross." After Huffines released an ad that claimed Angela and Ken Paxton had used public office to enrich themselves, Ken Paxton released a statement that said, "Phillip Huffines’ negative and untruthful attack is disappointing because he gave his word he would run a clean campaign." On February 6, the Texas Tribune reported that Attorney General Paxton's campaign was guaranteeing a $2 million loan to his wife's campaign. The Tribune also reported that Huffines had loaned himself millions of dollars and fives times more cash on hand than Paxton prior to the loan. On March 1, Ken Paxton disclosed a $500,000 loan to his wife's campaign. According to KERA News, the race was the most expensive state legislative contest in Texas. In its endorsement of Paxton's campaign, the Dallas Morning News said, "On the issues, the differences between first-time candidates Angela Paxton and Phillip Huffines are razor-thin. Both are staunch social and fiscal conservatives who are spending big bucks to woo essentially the same far-right Republican primary voters in the conservative state Senate District 8." The editorial board said that it endorsed Paxton over Huffines due to her background in education. On February 20, Paxton's campaign released an internal poll showing her with a 47 percent to 32 percent lead over Huffines. The polling memo said, "While Huffines may recover a little from being staggered and the race may tighten heading into Election Day, the political winds are clearly at Paxton’s back." Endorsements and support for Huffines Texas Right to Life State Rep. Jonathan Stickland State Rep. Briscoe Cain State Rep. Matt Rinaldi U.S. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) held a rally for Huffines on February 23. Endorsements and support for Paxton Texas Association of Realtors Texas Association of Business Dallas Morning News State Rep. Jeff Leach State Rep. Matt Shaheen State Rep. Matt Krause Congressman Sam Johnson (R-Texas) Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick Former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum (R-Penn.) appeared at a fundraiser for Paxton on February 21. Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney State Sen. Brian Birdwell (R) said that Paxton's "grace and courage in withstanding an onslaught of false, withering personal attacks only underscore the respect we have for her and the esteem in which we hold her."

Debates

Texas Tribune split interview

"Split Decision: Republicans Phillip Huffines and Angela Paxton," released March 2, 2018

Campaign advertisements

Phillip Huffines - support

"Trump & Huffines: Outsiders," released March 2, 2018

"Highway Robbery," released February 26, 2018

"Eliminate the "frees," released February 3, 2018

"Two Brothers," released September 8, 2017

Phillip Huffines - oppose

"Why is Phillip Huffines running a negative campaign?" released February 14, 2018

• On February 23, Paxton's campaign released this ad accusing Huffines of not paying taxes and attempting to influence an election in order to raise tax revenue for a development he was working on.

Angela Paxton - support

"We're the air with our third TV ad!" released February 16, 2018

"Secure our borders," released February 6, 2018

"Where I Stand," released January 29, 2018

Angela Paxton - oppose

"Public Service Pays Surprisingly Well... for Angela Paxton," released February 13, 2018

"Behind the smile...," released February 19, 2018

"Call Attacking Paxtons," released March 1, 2018

Senate District 17

Texas State Senate, District 17 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Joan Huffman Incumbent	72.64%	36,668
Kristin Tassin	27.36%	13,808
Total Votes		50,476
Source: Texas Secretary of State, "2018 Democratic Party Primary Election, Election Night Returns," accessed March 7, 2018 These election results are unofficial and will be updated after official vote totals are made available.

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

The Texas Tribune identified this Republican primary as potentially competitive. According to the Tribune, Kristin Tassin, the president of the Fort Bend School Board, challenged incumbent Joan Huffman (R) due to Huffman's initial support for a bill that included subsidies for private school education. House Speaker Joe Straus (R) previously spoke favorably of Tassin and her views on education policy. Gov. Greg Abbott campaigned for Huffman on February 28. He said, "I worked with Sen. Huffman for multiple sessions now, including on public education. I know Sen. Huffman’s genuine commitment to improving public education, making it stronger. I know that she stands with me to ensure the funding that’s necessary that we take care of teachers’ pensions as well as health care. … And to pay teachers more." Endorsements for Huffman Gov. Greg Abbott (R) Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick (R) Texans for Lawsuit Reform Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business Houston Chronicle Support and endorsements for Tassin Texas Parent PAC According to the Texas Tribune, firefighters associations supported Tassin because Huffman supported a bill that would have ended unions' ability to deduct dues from paychecks.

Senate District 25

Texas State Senate, District 25 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Donna Campbell Incumbent	73.73%	58,796
Shannon McClendon	26.27%	20,952
Total Votes		79,748
Source: Texas Secretary of State, "2018 Republican Party Primary Election, Election Night Returns," accessed March 7, 2018 These election results are unofficial and will be updated after official vote totals are made available.

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Shannon McClendon, a donor to House Speaker Straus, challenged incumbent Donna Campbell. In a campaign ad released in January 2018, McClendon said that she is a conservative but is interested in education policy rather than socially conservative legislation that she claimed Campbell supported. Endorsements for Campbell Gov. Greg Abbott U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) U.S. Secretary of Energy and former Texas Gov. Rick Perry Texas Medical Association Young Conservatives of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business Endorsements for McClendon Texas Parent PAC San Antonio Express-News Texas American Federation of Teachers Texas Classroom Teachers Association

Campaign advertisements

Shannon McClendon - support

"Shannon K. McClendon Campaign," released January 8, 2018

Donna Campbell - oppose

"Not Listening," released February 26, 2018

Senate District 30

Texas State Senate, District 30 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Pat Fallon	62.01%	53,796
Craig Estes Incumbent	22.61%	19,614
Craig Carter	15.38%	13,346
Total Votes		86,756
Source: Texas Secretary of State, "2018 Democratic Party Primary Election, Election Night Returns," accessed March 7, 2018 These election results are unofficial and will be updated after official vote totals are made available.

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

The Dallas Morning News identified this Republican primary as potentially competitive. It featured a matchup between incumbent Craig Estes and state Rep. Pat Fallon. According to the Dallas Morning News, Fallon has emphasized Estes' ties to establishment Republicans and his long tenure in office, while Estes has emphasized his ties to the district. According to Time Record News, Fallon loaned himself $1.8 million for the campaign. After Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick (R) spent $17,000 on polling for Fallon's campaign, Estes said in a televised debate, "The donation in kind from Dan Patrick amounts to nothing more than a bribe to hire a yes man in the Texas Senate, a puppet. The people of Senate District 30 are outraged over this, they do not want this, they do not deserve this and they will not have this." Fallon said that he had not known that Patrick had commissioned the poll for him and that he would be a "fierce advocate for one person: the constituent and the taxpayer." A spokesman for Patrick said that the lieutenant governor "dismissed Senator Estes's ridiculous personal attack." Estes had earlier endorsed Patrick for reelection. On February 21, Estes' campaign released an ad that showed a figure resembling Fallon, who is Catholic, attending a confession with a Catholic priest. The ad used the confessional setting to criticize Fallon for his attendance record at the state legislature and some of the statements he had made about Estes. State Rep. Drew Springer (R), who had not endorsed either candidate, said that the "ad released by Senator Craig Estes mocking the Catholic faith and the practice of confession was over the line," and said that Estes should "take his fight outside of the Church, take down the ad and apologize." Estes said that the ad was produced by a Catholic and that it was intended to be light-hearted. He also said, "I think some of the outrages may be manufactured." Fallon said, " I haven't spoken to anyone who found the ad within the bounds. It's just outside the bounds, but we've been dealing with this man for 17 years." Lieutenant Gov. Patrick endorsed Fallon on February 26. He cited Estes' ad featuring a Catholic priest (he said he was "stunned to see the recent attack by the incumbent senator — Craig Estes — mocking Pat’s religious faith.") and Estes' abstention from a 2015 vote to change the threshold of senators needed to consider a bill from two-thirds to a simple majority. Estes was the only Republican senator to not support the rules change. Endorsements and support for Fallon Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick (R) endorsed Fallon on February 26. He earlier spent $17,000 on polling for Fallon, indicating that he supported Fallon over incumbent Estes. Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) State Rep. Phil King (R) State Rep. Drew Springer (R) Endorsements for Estes Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Texas Association of Manufacturers Dallas Morning News Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

Debates

Feb. 15 Texas Tribune split interview

"Split Decision 2018 - Texas Sen. Craig Estes and primary challenger Pat Fallon face off," released February 15, 2018

Campaign advertisements

Pat Fallon - support

"Pat Fallon Took Action," released October 27, 2017

"I recommend Pat Fallon for the Texas Senate," released February 25, 2018

Pat Fallon - oppose

"Mexico Pat: Missing votes since 2013," released January 17, 2018

"Pat Fallon: Only Rugs Lie Better," released February 8, 2018

"Confessions of Lying Politicians," released February 21, 2018

"How sanctuary cities actually work," released February 26, 2018

Craig Estes - oppose

"Two More Years," released December 9, 2017

"Change," released November 22, 2017

Senate District 31

Texas State Senate, District 31 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Kel Seliger Incumbent	50.42%	40,653
Mike Canon	31.39%	25,314
Victor Leal	18.19%	14,669
Total Votes		80,636
Source: Texas Secretary of State, "2018 Democratic Party Primary Election, Election Night Returns," accessed March 7, 2018 These election results are unofficial and will be updated after official vote totals are made available.

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

On September 21, 2017, Amarillo Globe-News reported that incumbent Kel Seliger would face competitive primary challenges from Amarillo restaurateur Victor Leal and former Midland Mayor Mike Canon. According to Seliger, the opposition to him was based on his differences with the Senate Republican Caucus on two bills that would have limited municipalities' ability to raise taxes and provided subsidies for private school education, respectively. Seliger opposed the bills while other Senate Republicans, including Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick (R), supported them. Seliger, who was first elected in 2004, faced Canon in his 2014 primary and won by a five-point margin. On February 13, Victor Leal released a campaign ad referring to Seliger as "Liberal. Corrupt. Wrong." Endorsements for Canon Empower Texans Young Conservatives of Texas Texas Right to Life Endorsements for Leal Texas Right to Life Hispanic Republicans of Texas Endorsements for Seliger Joe Straus Texas Medical Association Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Association of Manufacturers Texas And Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Texas Parent PAC Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

Campaign advertisements

Kel Seliger - oppose

"Kel Seliger’s Liberal History," released February 13, 2018

House races we watched

This map shows the 2018 Texas House of Representatives Republican primaries that we watched.

House District 2

Texas House of Representatives, District 2 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Dan Flynn Incumbent	51.73%	11,803
Bryan Slaton	48.27%	11,013
Total Votes		22,816

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

The Dallas Morning News identified this Republican primary as potentially competitive. According to the Dallas Morning News, conservative groups targeted incumbent Dan Flynn, an ally of Speaker Joe Straus who won his 2016 primary by a two-point margin. Bryan Slaton filed to challenge Flynn in 2018. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Slaton Empower Texans Texas Right to Life State Rep. Briscoe Cain Endorsements for Flynn Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 4

Texas House of Representatives, District 4 Republican Primary Runoff, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Keith Bell	58.90%	7,892
Stuart Spitzer	41.10%	5,508
Total Votes		13,400
Source: Texas Tribune

Texas House of Representatives, District 4 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Stuart Spitzer	45.77%	9,376
Keith Bell	26.20%	5,367
Ashley McKee	25.72%	5,269
Earl Brunner	2.31%	474
Total Votes		20,486

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Four Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Lance Gooden (R): Keith Bell, Earl Brunner, Ashley McKee, and Stuart Spitzer. As of January 31, 2018, all candidates in this race except for Brunner signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Spitzer said he might join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. See our coverage of the primary runoff in this race here. Endorsements for Bell Texas Farm Bureau Texas Parent PAC Endorsements for McKee Texas Parent PAC Endorsements for Spitzer Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas)

House District 6

Texas House of Representatives, District 6 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Matt Schaefer Incumbent	73.28%	12,017
Ted Kamel	26.72%	4,382
Total Votes		16,399

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Ted Kamel challenged state Rep. and Freedom Caucus member Matt Schaefer in his primary. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Schaefer Gov. Greg Abbott Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Kamel Texas Parent PAC

House District 8

Texas House of Representatives, District 8 Republican Primary Runoff, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Cody Harris	56.97%	8,379
Thomas McNutt	43.03%	6,329
Total Votes		14,708
Source: Texas Tribune

Texas House of Representatives, District 8 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Cody Harris	44.93%	8,864
Thomas McNutt	39.46%	7,786
Linda Timmerman	15.61%	3,080
Total Votes		19,730

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Three Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. and Straus ally Byron Cook (R): Cody Harris, Thomas McNutt, and Linda Timmerman. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. McNutt said he might join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. See our coverage of the primary runoff in this race here. Endorsements for McNutt Gov. Greg Abbott (R) U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton (R) State Sen. Brian Birdwell (R) Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Harris Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Farm Bureau Texas Association of Realtors Endorsements for Timmerman Texas Parent PAC

House District 9

Texas House of Representatives, District 9 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Chris Paddie Incumbent	63.92%	13,466
Garrett Boersma	36.08%	7,600
Total Votes		21,066

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Garrett Boersma challenged state Rep. Chris Paddie, an ally of House Speaker Joe Straus, in his primary. As of January 31, 2018, only Boersma had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Boersma released a campaign ad referring to Paddie as liberal and touting his endorsements from conservative organizations on February 22. See the ad here. Endorsements for Boersma U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Paddie Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Parent PAC Texans for Lawsuit Reform Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 11

Texas House of Representatives, District 11 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Travis Clardy Incumbent	66.81%	11,970
Danny Ward	33.19%	5,946
Total Votes		17,916

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Danny Ward challenged state Rep. Travis Clardy, an ally of House Speaker Joe Straus, in his primary. As of January 31, 2018, only Ward had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Ward Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Endorsements for Clardy Gov. Greg Abbott Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business National Federation of Independent Business

House District 13

Texas House of Representatives, District 13 Republican Primary Runoff, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Ben Leman	57.33%	8,062
Jill Wolfskill	42.67%	6,000
Total Votes		14,062
Source: Texas Tribune

Texas House of Representatives, District 13 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Jill Wolfskill	38.51%	8,874
Ben Leman	36.24%	8,349
David Stall	13.73%	3,163
Daniel McCarthy	6.01%	1,385
Marc Young	5.51%	1,270
Total Votes		23,041

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Five Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Leighton Schubert (R): Ben Leman, Daniel McCarthy, David Stall, Jill Wolfskill, and Marc Young. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Wolfskill said she might join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. See our coverage of the primary runoff in this race here. Schubert announced that he would resign on January 25 in order to begin working for Blinn College. This set up a separate special election to fill the rest of his term until a replacement was selected in the November 2018 election. Leman, Stall, Young, and Wolfskill filed for the special election as well as the regularly scheduled election. Gov. Greg Abbott set the special election date for May 5, 2018. Endorsements for Wolfskill Texas Right to Life Empower Texans State Rep. Matt Rinaldi State Rep. Matt Krause State Rep. Briscoe Cain State Rep. Jonathan Stickland Endorsements for Leman Texas Home School Coalition Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Alliance for Life Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Texas Home School Association NRA-ILA TSRA-PAC Endorsements for Stall Texas Parent PAC

House District 14

Texas House of Representatives, District 14 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
John Raney Incumbent	57.70%	4,917
Sarah Laningham	23.53%	2,005
Rick Davis	17.06%	1,454
Jeston Texeira	1.71%	146
Total Votes		8,522

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Rick Davis, Sarah Laningham, and Jeston Texeira challenged state Rep. John Raney, an ally of Speaker Joe Straus. As of January 31, 2018, all candidates in this race except for Davis signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Laningham Texas Right to Life Endorsements for Raney Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Associated Republicans of Texas National Federation of Independent Business The Eagle Texas Parent PAC

House District 15

Texas House of Representatives, District 15 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Steve Toth	78.36%	13,044
Jackie Waters	21.64%	3,602
Total Votes		16,646

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Two Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Mark Keough (R): Steve Toth and Jackie Waters. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Toth said he might join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. Endorsements for Toth Empower Texans Texas Right to Life U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) Gov. Greg Abbott State Rep. Mark Keough Endorsements for Waters Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Parent PAC

House District 18

Texas House of Representatives, District 18 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Ernest Bailes Incumbent	59.34%	11,105
Emily Kebodeaux Cook	40.66%	7,608
Total Votes		18,713

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Emily Kebodeaux Cook challenged state Rep. Ernest Bailes, an ally of Speaker Joe Straus. As of January 31, 2018, only Cook had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Cook Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Bailes Texas Medical Association Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Parent PAC Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 23

Texas House of Representatives, District 23 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Mayes Middleton	57.09%	7,982
Wayne Faircloth Incumbent	42.91%	5,999
Total Votes		13,981

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

In this race, incumbent Wayne Faircloth, an ally of House Speaker Joe Straus (R) was challenged by Mayes Middleton, a conservative activist who has served on the board of the Texas Public Policy Foundation and the Empower Texans Foundation. Middleton received campaign contributions from Farris and JoAnn Wilks, a couple supportive of the conservative wing of the Texas House Republicans. In the 2016 election cycle, Middleton donated over $400,000, with some of his donations going to conservative House Republicans. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Freedom Caucus member Matt Rinaldi said Middleton was likely to be invited to join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. Gov. Greg Abbott, who endorsed Middleton over Faircloth, campaigned with Middleton via a voice call on February 21. He could not attend the event in person due to inclement weather. Faircloth's campaign released a campaign ad titled "Say No to Mayes Middleton" on February 22. The ad said that Middleton did not live in the district and that Mayes wanted to cut funding for public education. Faircloth released an ad on February 13 claiming that Middleton's supporters opposed vaccinations for children and that Middleton was opposed to public school funding. Endorsements for Middleton Gov. Greg Abbott (R) Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Texas City Municipal Police Association Galveston Municipal Police Association Texans for Free Enterprise Endorsements for Faircloth Texas Medical Association Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texans for Lawsuit Reform National Federation of Independent Business Texas House Republican Caucus

Campaign advertisements

Mayes Middleton - oppose

"Sorry Mayes," released February 13, 2018

"Vote No on Mayes Middleton," released February 21, 2018

House District 25

Texas House of Representatives, District 25 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Dennis Bonnen Incumbent	76.80%	12,092
Damon Rambo	23.20%	3,652
Total Votes		15,744

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Damon Rambo challenged state Rep. Dennis Bonnen in his primary with the assistance of conservative groups. Gov. Greg Abbott (R) held a fundraiser for Bonnen. As of January 31, 2018, only Rambo had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Rambo Empower Texans Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Bonnen Gov. Greg Abbott (R) Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business National Federation of Independent Business

House District 45

Texas House of Representatives, District 45 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Ken Strange	54.73%	7,257
Amber Pearce	24.38%	3,233
Naomi Narvaiz	9.18%	1,217
Austin Talley	6.80%	901
Amy Akers	4.91%	651
Total Votes		13,259

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Five Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Jason Isaac (R): Amy Akers, Naomi Narvaiz, Amber Pearce, Ken Strange, and Austin Talley. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Narvaiz Texas Values Endorsements for Pearce Texas Right to Life Endorsements for Strange Texas Parent PAC

House District 47

Texas House of Representatives, District 47 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Paul Workman Incumbent	59.47%	9,079
Jay Wiley	31.23%	4,767
Patty Vredevelt	9.30%	1,420
Total Votes		15,266

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Jay Wiley and Patty Vredevelt challenged state Rep. Paul Workman in his primary with the assistance of conservative groups. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. On February 12, Workman released a TV ad that featured Gov. Greg Abbott and discussed his support for banning sanctuary jurisdictions. Click here to see the video. Endorsements for Wiley Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Workman Gov. Greg Abbott (R) Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 52

Texas House of Representatives, District 52 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Cynthia Flores	60.81%	6,056
Jeremy Story	22.41%	2,232
Christopher Ward	16.78%	1,671
Total Votes		9,959

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Three Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Larry Gonzales (R): Cynthia Flores, Jeremy Story, and Christopher Ward. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Story Texas Right to Life Endorsements for Flores Gov. Greg Abbott Associated Republicans of Texas State Rep. Larry Gonzales Texas Association of Business Texas Farm Bureau Texas Association of Realtors Texans for Lawsuit Reform

House District 54

Texas House of Representatives, District 54 Republican Primary Runoff, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Brad Buckley	58.26%	4,445
Scott Cosper Incumbent	41.74%	3,185
Total Votes		7,630
Source: Texas Tribune

Texas House of Representatives, District 54 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Scott Cosper Incumbent	44.56%	4,472
Brad Buckley	41.58%	4,173
Larry Smith	13.85%	1,390
Total Votes		10,035

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Brad Buckley and Larry Smith challenged state Rep. Scott Cosper in his primary. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. See our coverage of the primary runoff in this race here. Endorsements for Cosper Texas Medical Association Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Parent PAC National Federation of Independent Business

House District 55

Texas House of Representatives, District 55 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Hugh Shine Incumbent	60.18%	6,907
Brandon Hall	21.41%	2,457
C.J. Grisham	18.41%	2,113
Total Votes		11,477

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

C.J. Grisham, the founder of Open Carry Texas, and Rev. Brandon Hall challenged state Rep. Hugh Shine, an ally of Speaker Joe Straus, in his primary. Grisham was endorsed by state Rep. Jonathan Stickland (R), a member of the Texas Freedom Caucus. When endorsing Grisham on January 2, 2018, Stickland said, "Many will criticize me for endorsing against a fellow ‘Republican.’ It’s not typical and most don’t do it. It’s time to kick out RINOs (Republican in Name Only).” All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Grisham was criticized by the Texas Metropolitan Police Association for comments he made on Facebook in June 2018 saying, “I’m done feeling bad when cops get shot," and, “this is why people like me have lost confidence in the law enforcement profession and treat them all they way they treat us — like a threat. This video hurts my heart and my soul.” Grisham said he did not remember the reason why he made the comments. The Texas Metropolitan Police Association endorsed Shine in the race. Endorsements for Hall Texas Right to Life Concerned Christian Citizens Endorsements for Grisham Empower Texans State Rep. Jonathan Stickland Endorsements for Shine Speaker Joe Straus Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business National Rife Association Texas Alliance for Life Texas Parent PAC National Federation of Independent Business Texas Metropolitan Police Association

House District 59

Texas House of Representatives, District 59 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
J.D. Sheffield Incumbent	57.88%	11,452
Chris Evans	42.12%	8,334
Total Votes		19,786

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Chris Evans challenged state Rep. J.D. Sheffield, an ally of House Speaker Joe Straus, in his primary.As of January 31, 2018, only Evans had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Evans Texas Right to Life Endorsements for Sheffield Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Parent PAC Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 60

Texas House of Representatives, District 60 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Mike Lang Incumbent	58.30%	15,893
Jim Largent	38.46%	10,485
Gregory Risse	3.24%	882
Total Votes		27,260

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Jim Largent and Gregory Risse challenged Freedom Caucus member Mike Lang in his primary. In January 2018, Largent, the superintendent of the Granbury Independent School District and an opponent of school choice legislation and bills regulating bathroom usage in Texas, received a vote of no confidence from the Hood County Republican Party. According to Hood County GOP Chairman Jim Logan, "To our knowledge, he has never participated in local or state Republican Party activities. He has said he disagrees with most of the party platform, and openly disparages Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick." Largent said in response that he "[pledged his] allegiance to the Constitution, Jesus Christ and the people who live in House District 60.” At the time of the vote, he had not signed a pledge agreeing to vote for the House Republican caucus' choice for House speaker on the floor. As of January 31, 2018, Risse had not signed the pledge either and Lang had signed it. Support and endorsements for Largent On January 18, the Texas Monitor reported that Largent's campaign was receiving personal financial support from the executives of BTC Construction, a state contractor that worked on public school projects. Texas Association of Business Texas Parent PAC Endorsements for Lang Gov. Greg Abbott (R) U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas State Rep. Tan Parker Texans for Free Enterprise

House District 62

Texas House of Representatives, District 62 Republican Primary Runoff, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Reggie Smith	71.19%	6,227
Brent Lawson	28.81%	2,520
Total Votes		8,747
Source: Texas Tribune

Texas House of Representatives, District 62 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Reggie Smith	45.78%	7,885
Brent Lawson	34.35%	5,916
Kevin Couch	19.87%	3,423
Total Votes		17,224

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Three Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Larry Phillips (R): Kevin Couch, Brent Lawson, and Reggie Smith. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. See our coverage of the primary runoff in this race here. Endorsements for Couch Cooper Mayor Darren Braddy Endorsements for Lawson Texas Right to Life Texas Values Endorsements for Smith Former Sherman City Councilman Terrence Steele Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Farm Bureau Grayson County Commissioner Phyllis James Grayson County Commissioner Bart Lawrence Grayson County Commissioner David Whitlock Grayson County Commissioner Jeff Whitmire Pottsboro Mayor Frank Budra Texas Parent PAC Texans for Life Texans for Lawsuit Reform

House District 64

Texas House of Representatives, District 64 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Lynn Stucky Incumbent	64.33%	8,575
Mark Roy	35.67%	4,754
Total Votes		13,329

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Mark Roy challenged state Rep. Lynn Stucky in his primary with the support of conservative organizations. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Roy Empower Texans Endorsements for Stucky Texas Medical Association Dallas Morning News Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Parent PAC Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 65

Texas House of Representatives, District 65 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Ron Simmons Incumbent	83.30%	6,608
Kevin Simmons	16.70%	1,325
Total Votes		7,933

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Kevin Simmons challenged state Rep. Ron Simmons in his primary. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Ron Simmons Gov. Greg Abbott Texas Medical Association Dallas Morning News Texans for Lawsuit Reform Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 73

Texas House of Representatives, District 73 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Kyle Biedermann Incumbent	57.75%	17,368
Dave Campbell	42.25%	12,706
Total Votes		30,074

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Dave Campbell challenged state Rep. and Freedom Caucus member Kyle Biedermann in his primary. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Biedermann Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) Endorsements for Campbell Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Farm Bureau Texas Parent PAC

House District 87

Texas House of Representatives, District 87 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Four Price Incumbent	78.48%	11,240
Drew Brassfield	21.52%	3,082
Total Votes		14,322

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Drew Brassfield challenged state Rep. Four Price, an ally of House Speaker Joe Straus, in his primary. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Brassfield Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Texas Home School Coalition Endorsements for Price Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Parent PAC National Federation of Independent Business

House District 88

Texas House of Representatives, District 88 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Ken King Incumbent	50.46%	10,412
Jason Huddleston	30.43%	6,279
Richard Beyea	19.12%	3,945
Total Votes		20,636

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Jason Huddleston and Richard Beyea challenged state Rep. Ken King, an ally of Speaker Joe Straus, in his primary. As of January 31, 2018, all candidates except for King had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Huddleston Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Endorsements for King Texas Medical Association Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texas Parent PAC Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 89

Texas House of Representatives, District 89 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Candy Noble	54.18%	7,897
John Payton	45.82%	6,679
Total Votes		14,576

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Two Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Jodie Laubenberg (R): John Payton and Candy Noble. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Noble Gov. Greg Abbott Texas Association of Business Endorsements for Payton Texas Association of Realtors Dallas Morning News

House District 98

Texas House of Representatives, District 98 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Giovanni Capriglione Incumbent	62.71%	11,763
Armin Mizani	37.29%	6,995
Total Votes		18,758

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Incumbent Giovanni Capriglione, an ally of House Speaker Joe Straus, was challenged by Armin Mizani. On January 13, 2018, Mizani released a campaign ad outlining his views on education. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Mizani said he might join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. Endorsements for Mizani Empower Texans Texas Values Young Conservatives of Texas Texas Right to Life Northeast Tarrant County Tea Party Endorsements for Capriglione Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Fort Worth Star Telegram Associated Republicans of Texas Texans for Lawsuit Reform Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business Texans for Free Enterprise

Campaign advertisements

Armin Mizani - support

"ARMIN MIZANI'S EDUCATION PLAN," released January 13, 2018

House District 99

Texas House of Representatives, District 99 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Charlie Geren Incumbent	56.81%	7,909
Bo French	43.19%	6,014
Total Votes		13,923

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

The Texas Observer identified this Republican primary as potentially competitive. The race featured a rematch of a 2016 primary between incumbent Charlie Geren, a Joe Straus ally, and Bo French. In 2016, Geren defeated French by a 16.5 percent margin. As of January 31, 2018, only French had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. French said he might join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. Support and endorsements for French Empower Texans Texas Right to Life New Leadership PAC Young Conservatives of Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) said French "displayed a passion for his conservative principles and a commitment to his community that is not often seen in politics." Endorsements for Geren Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Fort Worth Star Telegram Texas Parent PAC Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 102

Texas House of Representatives, District 102 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Linda Koop Incumbent	72.00%	6,521
Chad Carnahan	15.04%	1,362
Scott Kilgore	12.96%	1,174
Total Votes		9,057

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Chad Carnahan and Scott Kilgore challenged state Rep. Linda Koop, an ally of Speaker Joe Straus, in her primary. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Carnahan Texas Values Endorsements for Koop Texas Medical Association Dallas Morning News Texas Association of Business Texas Parent PAC Texans for Lawsuit Reform Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 105

Texas House of Representatives, District 105 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Rodney Anderson Incumbent	93.57%	5,285
Dinesh Mali	6.43%	363
Total Votes		5,648

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Dinesh Mali challenged state Rep. Rodney Anderson in his primary. As of January 31, 2018, neither candidate had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Anderson Gov. Greg Abbott Texas Medical Association Texas Right to Life Texas Association of Business Dallas Morning News Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business Texans for Lawsuit Reform

House District 106

Texas House of Representatives, District 106 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Jared Patterson	54.04%	7,069
Clint Bedsole	45.96%	6,011
Total Votes		13,080

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Two Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Pat Fallon (R): Clint Bedsole and Jared Patterson. All candidates in this race signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Patterson said he might join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. According to the Texas Tribune, Bedsole opposed private school vouchers. Endorsements for Patterson U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) State Rep. Pat Fallon Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Texas Values Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Bedsole Associated Republicans of Texas Dallas Morning News Texas Parent PAC Texas Association of Business

House District 107

Texas House of Representatives, District 107 Republican Primary Runoff, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Deanna Maria Metzger	56.10%	2,247
Joe Ruzicka	43.90%	1,758
Total Votes		4,005
Source: Texas Tribune

Texas House of Representatives, District 107 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Deanna Maria Metzger	45.30%	3,413
Joe Ruzicka	27.39%	2,064
Brad Perry	27.31%	2,058
Total Votes		7,535

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Three Republicans filed to run in this primary: Deanna Maria Metzger, Brad Perry, and Joe Ruzicka. The winner faced incumbent state Rep. Victoria Neave Criado (D) in the general election. In its endorsement of Ruzicka in the primary, the Dallas Morning News said that Ruzicka's top priorities were education and transportation policy, Perry would support a speaker similar to Joe Straus if elected, and Metzger supported the bathroom bill and a stricter form of Texas' voter ID law. As of January 31, 2018, only Metzger had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. See our coverage of the primary runoff in this race here. Endorsements for Metzger Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Ruzicka Dallas Morning News

House District 113

Texas House of Representatives, District 113 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Jonathan Boos	54.43%	4,578
Charlie Lauersdorf	27.54%	2,316
Jim Phaup	18.04%	1,517
Total Votes		8,411

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Three Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Cindy Burkett (R): Jonathan Boos, Jim Phaup, and Charlie Lauersdorf. As of January 31, 2018, all candidates in this race except for Lauersdorf had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. In an interview with the Dallas Morning News, Phaup listed his priorities as tuition costs, highway funding, and public school funding. He also said he would not have opposed the bathroom bill from the 2017 special session. Endorsements for Boos Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) Endorsements for Phaup Dallas Morning News Texas Parent PAC

House District 114

Texas House of Representatives, District 114 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Lisa Luby Ryan	53.09%	6,387
Jason Villalba Incumbent	46.91%	5,644
Total Votes		12,031

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Lisa Luby Ryan challenged state Rep. Jason Villalba, an ally of Speaker Joe Straus, in his primary. As of January 31, 2018, only Ryan had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. On February 8, Ryan tweeted a video that featured Villalba's criticisms of President Donald Trump (R) during the 2016 presidential campaign. After Trump became the presumptive Republican nominee in May 2016, Villalba wrote an op-ed criticizing him and said he would not vote for him. On November 10, 2016, just two days after the presidential election, Villalba tweeted, "I 100% support President Trump and will pray daily for his success." Endorsements for Ryan Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Villalba Texas Medical Association Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Dallas Morning News Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

House District 121

Texas House of Representatives, District 121 Republican Primary Runoff, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Steve Allison	57.46%	6,054
Matt Beebe	42.54%	4,482
Total Votes		10,536
Source: Texas Tribune

Texas House of Representatives, District 121 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Matt Beebe	29.50%	4,351
Steve Allison	26.33%	3,884
Carlton Soules	13.19%	1,945
Charlotte Williamson	12.85%	1,896
Marc Whyte	12.35%	1,821
Adrian Spears	5.78%	853
Total Votes		14,750

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Six Republicans filed to run in the election to replace House Speaker Joe Straus (R): Steve Allison, Matt Beebe, Carlton Soules, Adrian Spears, Charlotte Williamson, and Marc Whyte. As of January 31, 2018, all candidates in this race except for Allison had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. See our coverage of the primary runoff in this race here. Endorsements for Beebe Empower Texans State Rep. Jonathan Stickland Texas Right to Life Texas Values Endorsements for Allison Texans for Lawsuit Reform Texas Parent PAC San Antonio Express-News

House District 122

Texas House of Representatives, District 122 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Lyle Larson Incumbent	59.61%	10,913
Chris Fails	40.39%	7,393
Total Votes		18,306

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Chris Fails, the mayor of Hollywood Park, Texas, challenged state Rep. Lyle Larson, an ally of Joe Straus, in his primary. As of January 31, 2018, only Fails had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Fails said he might join the Texas Freedom Caucus if elected. On February 15, the Texas Tribune reported that Abbott, who endorsed Fails, would campaign for him before the primary election. On February 20, Abbott's campaign released an ad that opposed Larson called "Liberal Lyle." In response to the ad, Larson said, "I voted for 100% of the governor’s legislative priorities and yet he’s calling me a liberal. What does that make the governor? It’s unbecoming of a governor to attack members of his own party in a primary. Let’s be clear: he’s attacking me because I passed legislation saying we should eliminate pay-to-play for gubernatorial appointments. Is that liberal or conservative? Voters will see through this. People in this district are fed up with my opponents and the Governors negative ads."" Abbott spent $136,000 on advertising for Fail's campaign, according to The Texas Tribune. Endorsements for Fails Gov. Greg Abbott U.S. Secretary of Energy and former Texas Gov. Rick Perry Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Young Conservatives of Texas Endorsements for Larson Texas Medical Association Texas Association of Business Associated Republicans of Texas San Antonio Express-News Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business

Campaign advertisements

Lyle Larson -oppose

"Liberal Lyle," released February 20, 2018

House District 126

Texas House of Representatives, District 126 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
E. Sam Harless	50.58%	5,093
Kevin Fulton	35.90%	3,615
Gail Stanart	13.52%	1,361
Total Votes		10,069

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

No.

What made this a race to watch?

Three Republicans filed to run in the election to replace state Rep. Kevin Roberts (R): Kevin Fulton, E. Sam Harless, and Gail Stanart. Endorsements for Fulton Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee (R) Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay State Rep. Jonathan Stickland State Rep. Briscoe Cain Texans for Vaccine Choice Endorsements for Harless Texas Association of Business Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Parent PAC Houston Chronicle Texas Alliance for Life Endorsements for Stanart Kingwood Tea Party

House District 134

Texas House of Representatives, District 134 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Sarah Davis Incumbent	56.30%	8,048
Susanna Dokupil	43.70%	6,248
Total Votes		14,296

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

Susanna Dokupil challenged state Rep. Sarah Davis, an ally of Speaker Joe Straus and, according to Mark Jones of Rice University, the least conservative Republican in the state House. Dokupil was endorsed by Gov. Greg Abbott (R) in the race. According to the Texas Tribune, Abbott and Davis, the chairwoman of the House General Investigating and Ethics Committee, previously feuded over Abbott's decision to not include an ethics bill on the agenda for a 2017 special session. Davis said that if she lost the primary, her district would likely be won by a Democrat because voters would not elect a Republican who was significantly more conservative than her. As of January 31, 2018, only Dokupil had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. On January 11, 2018, Abbott held a fundraiser for Dokupil, where he said Davis had sponsored a bill that included a $70 million decrease in Texas' disaster relief fund just weeks before Hurricane Harvey impacted the Houston area. Davis said that Abbott's statement was incorrect and that she had opposed the amendment to her legislation that would have taken money from the disaster relief fund. On January 25, Abbott's campaign paid for a TV advertisement for Dokupil. Abbott's campaign released a second ad for Dokupil on January 30 that was critical of Davis' voting record. It released a third ad in early February that said that Davis was a liberal. Campaign finance reports showed that Abbott's campaign spent $161,000 in January 2018 in support of Dokupil. On February 14, Abbott released a fourth ad comparing Dokupil to his 2014 gubernatorial opponent, state Sen. Wendy Davis (D). On February 15, the Texas Tribune reported that Abbott would campaign for Dokupil before the primary election. On February 15, Abbott's campaign cut another campaign ad based on Davis' interview with Tribune CEO Evan Smith. In the clips, Davis said she supported abortion and would not say who she voted for her in the 2016 presidential election. At the event she also said she would likely not vote for governor rather than supporting Abbott in 2018. She said she hoped they could work together after the election though. On February 28, Abbott's campaign disclosed another $62,000 in spending on Dokupil's campaign. Endorsements for Dokupil Gov. Greg Abbott State Rep. Jonathan Stickland New Leadership PAC Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Texas Values Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton Houston Retired Firefighters Association State Sen. Paul Bettencourt Texans for Free Enterprise Endorsements for Davis Joe Straus Houston Chronicle Texas Medical Association Associated Republicans of Texas Texas Association of Business Texans for Lawsuit Reform Texas Association of Realtors National Federation of Independent Business Texas House Republican Caucus

Debates

Texas Tribune split interview

"Split Decision: State Rep. Sarah Davis and Republican primary challenger Susanna Dokupil," released February 28, 2018

Campaign advertisements

Susanna Dokupil - support

"Susanna Dokupil for State Representative," released January 25, 2018

Susanna Dokupil - oppose

"Sarah Davis Dangerous Allies REV 30," released February 20, 2018

Sarah Davis - oppose

"Sarah Davis: In Her Own Words," released February 15, 2018	"Stood Together," released February 14, 2018
"You Can't Trust Sarah Davis," released February 7, 2018	"Susanna Dokupil for State Representative," released January 30, 2018

House District 150

Texas House of Representatives, District 150 Republican Primary, 2018
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Valoree Swanson Incumbent	80.11%	9,530
James Wilson	19.89%	2,366
Total Votes		11,896

Did the incumbent file to run for re-election?

Yes.

What made this a race to watch?

James Wilson challenged state Rep. and Freedom Caucus member Valoree Swanson in her primary. As of January 31, 2018, only Swanson had signed the form committing to vote for the Republican caucus' choice for speaker on the House floor. Endorsements for Swanson Empower Texans Texas Right to Life Gov. Greg Abbott U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz Endorsements for Wilson Texas Parent PAC Texas Association of Business Houston Chronicle

See also

• Texas House of Representatives elections, 2018
• Texas state legislative Democratic primaries, 2018
• Texas State Legislature
• State legislative elections, 2018