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On March 3, voters in the primary election will decide who will be the Republican candidate in the race for Texas House District 129 in November.
The overview
Republican candidates Bob Mitchell and Scott Bowen are currently running to be the primary candidate for Texas House District 129.
The winning Republican candidate will face the sole Democratic candidate, Albert Wittliff, in November; the winner of that election will serve a two-year term in January 2027.
What you need to know
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.
For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
Retired; Former President of the [Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership]; two-time Governor Abbott appointee; aerospace and manufacturing industry leader; husband, father, grandfather
What would your top priorities be if elected?
My top priorities will be cutting property taxes, creating good-paying jobs, securing our border, and protecting Texas children. Families in District 129 are being crushed by rising taxes; I will fight to rein in spending, grow the private sector and restore common sense in our schools and public institutions.
What are the biggest challenges facing this district, and how do you plan to address these issues?
The biggest challenges are affordability, government overreach and policies that undermine public safety. Property taxes continue to rise while families fall behind, but I’ll fight to lower them every step of the way. I also support cooperation with ICE and law enforcement to keep our communities safe.
If elected, what will your priorities be for the future of Texas education?
My priority is protecting kids and putting parents in charge. Schools should focus on academics, not radical ideology. I will oppose woke curriculum and any policies that confuse or endanger our children. I support parental rights, transparency and education that prepares students for real jobs here in coastal Texas.
If elected, what will your priorities be regarding property taxes and housing affordability?
I will fight to cut property taxes by limiting government growth, increasing transparency, and stopping wasteful spending. Texans should not be taxed out of their homes. Lower taxes and a strong economy are essential to keeping housing affordable and allowing families and seniors to stay where they live.
Chemical engineer; former Clear Creek ISD trustee; Republican party volunteer and leader
What would your top priorities be if elected?
Property tax relief, crime and education. On crime: judges here in Harris County routinely let violent criminals out on bail who turn around and reoffend. We need accountability to ensure prosecutors and judges put criminals in prison where they belong.
What are the biggest challenges facing this district, and how do you plan to address these issues?
Since we are a coastal district, the cost of home ownership and insurance costs specifically are a major issue. We need to find a solution at the state level to rein in growth in property insurance.
If elected, what will your priorities be for the future of Texas education?
Parents have the right to decide how their children are educated, whether public, private or homeschooled. If they choose public schools, those schools need to be high quality and properly funded, and political and social advocacy should be kept out of the classroom.
If elected, what will your priorities be regarding property taxes and housing affordability?
Lower school property taxes, then use the state sales tax surplus to fill in the revenue for districts. Limit appraisal growth to 3% per year and only reappraise every 5 years. This is a realistic plan to bring down the property taxes homeowners pay.
