WASHINGTON CO. CANDIDATES ADDRESS PUBLIC AT FORUM
Candidates in Washington County’s contested races for the March primary election met Monday night to answer questions from the public at the KWHI Candidates Forum at Brenham National Bank.
The four Republican candidates, two for Precinct 2 Commissioner and two for Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace, discussed their qualifications for the post and talked about topics such as county infrastructure, communication and working with other branches of government.
Commissioners candidates were asked about the state of county roads and the equipment used to fix them. Incumbent Candice Bullock said while there may not be resolution overnight, the commissioners court has taken steps with investing in equipment and in employees to rectify issues.
Commissioners candidates were also asked how they plan to work with the City of Brenham and governmental agencies like TxDOT. Challenger Mark Schonefeld said communication with constituents is the county’s biggest asset.
In the race for Justice of the Peace, Daniel McCarthy said he feels his experience and background makes him the most balanced candidate.
One question that came up regarded McCarthy’s campaign slogan, “Make Crime Illegal Again”, asking whether he felt the current judges in Washington County were not doing enough to deter crime. McCarthy defended his statement, saying someone is needed to defend against the urban sprawl coming into Washington County. However, Duane “Dane” Houston said the statement makes it seem that local law enforcement and courts are not doing their job.
Early voting begins Monday, February 14th. Election Day is March 1st. The winners of both races will not have a Democratic opponent in November.
The full forum can be watched on KWHI’s Facebook page.