KOLKHORST, WHARTON COMMENT ON RE-ELECTION TO STATE SENATE, HOUSE

  

State Senator Lois Kolkhorst and State Representative Trey Wharton have issued statements declaring victory in their bids for re-election.

Results from the Texas Secretary of State’s Office as of this (Wednesday) morning show the two Republicans winning over their respective Democratic challengers, Erica Gillum and Andie Ho.

Kolkhorst's full statement can be read below:

"The voters have spoken and I’m honored to have earned the trust of so many constituents across Senate District 18.

The theme of our campaign has been teamwork and I’d like to thank my family, my campaign staff and each and every volunteer and voter who did their part in achieving this victory. I’ve been entrusted with a great responsibility and it doesn’t happen without tremendous support.

Traveling thousands of miles across the district, this campaign was an opportunity for me to listen and learn directly from the people. I ran on my record of results but clearly there is so much more work to be done. I’m ready to carry all of the great ideas expressed on this campaign to the Capitol for the next legislative session and work to bring down costs.

I approach each election as a job interview — which is why I'm grateful to be rehired by the people across these eighteen counties in our vast district. And I’m proud to have outperformed others on the Republican ticket by double digits due to my positive message and genuine connection to the people I represent.

We can all agree this has been a divisive election and I hope we can now come together as a state and celebrate the fact that whether your candidates won or lost, we are all still Texans. We live in the greatest state in the nation and we need to keep it that way. My heart is full and I am ready to get back to work and do all I can to live up to the expectations the voters have entrusted to me."

KWHI has reached out to Erica Gillum for comment.

Wharton's full statement can be read below:

"Thank you to the voters of House District 12 for entrusting me with another term as your State Representative. I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to continue serving our communities in the Texas Legislature.

JoLynne and I want to extend our sincere appreciation to all the volunteers, supporters, friends and family members who gave their time, energy and support to our campaign. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and make your voice heard.

While the results of last night’s election were sobering for the Republican ticket, the message is clear: we must work harder than ever to defend the conservative values that are important to our district and our state. Our commitment to those principles remains stronger than ever. Republicans must stay engaged, recruit more volunteers and prepare for the next election.

With the 90th Regular Session of the Texas Legislature convening in January, my office will continue evaluating the priorities and concerns of our district. I look forward to building on our work and continuing to represent the people of House District 12.

Thank you again for your trust and support. God Bless Texas!"

Ho also issued a statement to KWHI, saying, “Last night was a historic one for Texas. Texans shouted loud and clear that the current leadership isn't working for them. I can't wait to see life get better for working families.”