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Three candidates are running in the Republican primary for Brazos County Precinct 3 justice of the peace.
The seat is currently held by Rick Hill, who is retiring at the end of his current term.
Challenging for the seat are Steven "Bullet Head" Emert, Kim Russell and Wajih "Joe" Ajib.
Currently, there are no Democratic candidates who have filed to run for the position. This means if things hold, the winner of the Republican primary will run unopposed in November.
To read other Q&As for the March elections, visit Community Impact's voter guide.
What voters should know
Early voting began Feb. 17, and election day is March 3.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 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.
attorney, stay-at-home mom, licensed and practiced attorney, leadership roles in philanthropic organizations
What do you view as the biggest challenge going into this role?
Creating a smooth transition after Judge [Rick] Hill’s retirement while maintaining the reputation established in his court as a fair and responsive judge within Precinct 3 and our county.
Why are you running for this position?
I love the law. I love the study of law. Spending time shadowing Judge Hill, this position combines my love of law with my desire to give back to our community. For more than a decade, I have dedicated time to philanthropic service in the PTO and National Charity League.
What changes, if any, would you make to improve the efficiency of your role?
The outcome of the Republican primary likely determines who fills Judge Hill’s seat. I will use the time between March 4 and Dec. 31 learning how Judge Hill runs the office, meeting with staff and evaluating ways to improve efficiency.
How will you collaborate with law enforcement to keep the precinct and broader county safe?
Maintaining a strong working relationship with Constable [J.P.] Ingram and the deputies of Precinct 3 is imperative. Setting appropriate bail amounts during magistration is important to keep our community safe. Communication with all areas of law enforcement to ensure I am doing my job, so they can do their job.
How will you address challenges in this role associated with ongoing population growth in Brazos County?
Efficient management of the court docket is necessary in a growing community. I will assess challenges as they arise and work with interlocal governments to solve problems.
criminologist; small business owner; nonprofit founder, Ph.D. criminology; federal government service; expert witness
What do you view as the biggest challenge going into this role?
Maintaining public trust while moving a growing docket efficiently, without sacrificing fairness, due process, and respectful treatment. The court must be consistent, timely, and transparent, especially for residents facing their first interaction with the justice system.
Why are you running for this position?
I’m running to bring professional, data-informed judgment to the JP court and ensure fairness, accountability, and respect. With a Ph.D. in criminology, years working with the U.S. federal government, and experience as an expert witness, I will focus on lawful, humane, efficient justice.
What changes, if any, would you make to improve the efficiency of your role?
Improve docket flow and communication: clear written instructions, standardized procedures, better pre-court reminders, and expanded remote options where permitted. Use a practical, evidence-based approach to reduce resets, shorten wait times, and ensure every case is handled promptly and professionally.
How will you collaborate with law enforcement to keep the precinct and broader county safe?
Candidate did not respond to Q&A before press time
What do you view as the biggest challenge going into this role?
Candidate did not respond to Q&A before press time
Why are you running for this position?
Candidate did not respond to Q&A before press time
What changes, if any, would you make to improve the efficiency of your role?
Candidate did not respond to Q&A before press time
How will you collaborate with law enforcement to keep the precinct and broader county safe?
Candidate did not respond to Q&A before press time
How will you address challenges in this role associated with ongoing population growth in Brazos County?
Candidate did not respond to Q&A before press time
Work respectfully with agencies while upholding constitutional rights. Ensure timely warrant review and hearings, clear orders, and consistent expectations. Encourage lawful, professional policing and support proven diversion and accountability options when appropriate to reduce repeat offenses and protect victims and public safety.
How will you address challenges in this role associated with ongoing population growth in Brazos County?
Plan for increased caseloads through smarter scheduling, technology, and efficient procedures, while keeping the court accessible and consistent. Advocate for resources when needed, improve public-facing information to reduce missed court, and maintain a calm, respectful courtroom that serves a growing community fairly.