Two candidates are running for the state representative slot for House District 73, left open by state Rep. Kyle Biedermann, R-Fredericksburg, who is not seeking re-election.

Early voting for the Nov. 8 election will run from Oct. 24-Nov. 4.

Read Q&As with each candidate below. Candidates were asked to keep responses under 75 words, answer the question provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.

*Incumbent

**Candidate did not adhere to the word limit. Responses over 75 words were cut off.







Justin Calhoun (D)



Experience: veterans homeless navigator, juvenile probation officer, drug rehab therapist, medical social work, active U.S. Army, foster parent


Occupation: medical social worker


Candidate Website: www.justin4texas.com


Contact Information: 830-888-9795





What would be your top three priorities if elected?



I will focus on boosting our education system to the standard students and teachers deserve while removing the educational property tax that continues to impact so many Texans. Ensure that the unavoidable growth we see across our district does not lead to damaging the natural beauty of our home. Ensuring the air stays clean, [water] stays clear, and that we continue to grow responsibly. We need to move past these social-political arguments**



How would you improve transportation locally as well as within the San Antonio-Austin corridor in general?



We need to be more proactive instead [of] reactive in our transportation development. Supporting city bus transport, we need to revisit the bullet train idea to connect the [I-]35 corridor from Austin to San Antonio.



What would you do specifically as a representative in the state House to involve residents and business owners in decision-making processes?



I want to take my lead from community members and listen to their issues and ideas for solutions. A Representative is only as good as their ability to listen to those they are elected to serve.



How would you work with state and congressional leaders to solve local problems for District 73?



Our government can function best when the state and Federal government are working together rather than against each other when the federal government understands its obligation to the state, and the state understands it's place in the United State. We can solve issues together by utilizing both levels of government to provide the best solutions for Texans.












Carrie Isaac (R)



Experience: I am a fourth-generation Texan, nonprofit leader, wife, mother, and daughter of an Air Force veteran. I have a masters degree in health education.


Occupation: nonprofit leader


Candidate Website: www.isaacfortexas.com


Contact Information: 512-673-3058rn





What would be your top three priorities if elected?



My priorities are cutting property taxes, securing the border and fighting the Biden administration’s radical socialist agenda. The values and principles that have made our state a beacon of freedom and opportunity for the world are under attack, and the voters of Comal and Hays counties have had enough. We must send a strong conservative leader to the Capitol to keep Texas free.



How would you improve transportation locally as well as within the San Antonio-Austin corridor in general?



Comal and Hays counties are two of the five fastest-growing counties in Texas. This gives our district unique challenges, including safe roads, strong schools, and preserving the Hill Country’s natural beauty and resources. I look forward to working with TxDOT, our county commissioners, and constituents to bring the necessary funding to improve our infrastructure for the benefit of our citizens and the visitors to the area.



What would you do specifically as a representative in the state House to involve residents and business owners in decision-making processes?



As a State Representative I will recognize that my constituents are my bosses. As I’ve proven during the campaign, finding me in the community I live in and will serve isn’t difficult. I look forward to continuing to visit and learn from my future bosses so I can be an effective voice for them. Fortunately, Hays and Comal counties are relatively close to the Capitol, which means our voices can have a significant impact on state policy.**



How would you work with state and congressional leaders to solve local problems for District 73?



Fortunately, as a longtime friend and supporter of Senator Donna Campbell and Congressman Chip Roy it will be easy to work with them about important issues facing HD73. I will continue to keep them informed and seek information from them regarding issues facing our great state.