Meet the candidates
Leal received 50.80% of votes for the position in the 2020 election, and he ran unopposed in the March primary election.
Guerrero is a sergeant for Travis County Precinct 2, and he got 59.59% of votes in the primary, securing the seat over Perry Travis, who ran as the Democratic nominee against Leal in 2020.
Also of note
Early voting runs from Oct. 21-Nov. 1, and eligible residents have until Oct. 7 to register to vote. Voting locations and the sample ballot are available on Williamson County’s website.
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
*incumbent
Paul Leal (R)*
Experience:
Elected constable with 27 years of experience.
Occupation:
Williamson County Precinct 4 constable
Candidate Website:
https://www.paulleal.com/
Why are you the best candidate for this seat?
I’ve lived in this part of Williamson County all my life and been serving in law enforcement for the last 27 years. Public service has always been a part of my life; serving is who I am, it’s what I am. I won the 2022 Law Enforcement Achievement Award for …
If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?
I was elected in 2020, and my goals, values and mission are the same. To be fair, impartial, transparent and consistent in all that we do. To have All Sworn Personnel earn their FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award. Hold illegal dumpers accountable; to be fiscally responsible.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve noticed within the county and how would you work to address them?
Our biggest challenge is growth, with 4,000 new residents per month moving here and Samsung, along with many other companies, building here, housing, traffic congestion and crime all increase. We have increased our traffic enforcement and patrol efforts. We partner with communities and agencies that make up Precinct 4.
How will you prioritize the citizens of Williamson County, if elected?
The citizens are why we are here. My motto is “Treat everyone like family, until they give you a reason not to.” Our vision statement is “People Serving People.” During the 2021 winter storm, I housed 23 people in my home and delivered food, water, medication and firewood.
What values helped shape your campaign for County Constable of Precinct 4?
My life values have never changed, from trust to respect, to showing someone affection, gratitude, grace and guidance. Caring for a stranger knowing they can never repay you is love. My life has been about service. 12 years in occupational ministry, 27 years and counting in law enforcement. I love life.
Kenneth Guerrero (D)
Experience:
Commander of Special Response Team, internal affairs, patrol, community outreach, training and recruiting.
Occupation:
Travis County Precinct 2 sergeant
Candidate Website:
https://www.facebook.com/p/Kenneth-Guerrero-For-Constable-61554294340596/
Why are you the best candidate for this seat?
I believe I am the most qualified candidate for this position. As an experienced Law Enforcement Officer, I have dedicated my entire career with the Constable’s Office to keeping our community safe, developing the youth into the future leaders of our community, and enhancing community trust and transparency.
If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?
Once elected, I plan to involve the community in the decision-making process, seeking their input and feedback to develop fair and comprehensive solutions to the issues facing our community. The creation of a well-trained Mental Health Unit and Highway Safety Unit is a top priority of mine.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve noticed within the county and how would you work to address them?
The biggest challenges I’ve noticed within the county are the lack of highway safety enforcement, and the lack of mental health resources from the Constable’s Office. I would immediately work towards creating these specialized units within the Constable’s Office. Once implemented, this would immediately enhance the safety of our community.
How will you prioritize the citizens of Williamson County, if elected?
Building community trust begins with knowing and understanding the community you serve. I plan to involve the community in the decision-making process, seeking their input and feedback on the issues facing our community. I will also create youth programs geared towards youth leadership and development.
What values helped shape your campaign for County Constable of Precinct 4?
As a third generation Law Enforcement Officer, I have dedicated my entire career to serving our community and making it a better place. Trust is gained in inches and lost in miles. Values such as leadership, integrity, honesty and transparency have been the cornerstones of my campaign.
