The district, which covers much of the eastern part of Brazoria County from Pearland, Manvel, Alvin and stretches down as far as Freeport, is currently represented by state Rep. Ed Thompson, R-Pearland. Thompson is not running for reelection. Adrienne Bell is the lone Democratic candidate.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking their opponents. Answers may be edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
For more information about voting, visit the Brazoria County website, or www.brazoriacountyclerktx.gov.
For more election coverage, go to communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
Alex Kamkar
Experience:
Two term [city of] Pearland Councilmen, business owner
Occupation:
Real Estate
Candidate Website:
www.alexkamkarfortexas.com
Contact Information:
346-367-2914
If elected, what will be your priorities?
Support Governor [Greg] Abbott’s request for more resources for enhanced border security, permanently cut property taxes. Pass stricter ethics laws to keep elected officials accountable.
What kind of school-related legislation do you feel the state should be focusing on?
More funding for education. We need to make up for the learning from [the COVID-19 pandemic]. Empowering parents to choose the best education for their children.
What, if anything, do you feel the state fell short on in its 2023 session?
We needed to pass legislation to support and protect oil & gas production and jobs in Texas. The state needed to do more to increase homestead exemptions and lower the cost of housing.
Are there any policies that can be passed to help Texans deal with inflation?
Large drivers of inflation are shelter costs, food, and energy. Increasing energy production will drive down costs, and increasing housing supply will drive down costs.
What would you like to see prioritized in terms of gulf protection projects?
I am glad to see the Gulf Coast Protection District's creation. We need the Galveston Bay Storm Surge Barrier System. We need to expedite their funding to “unlock” the federal dollars and get the Ike Dike [project] and gates moving.
Jeffrey Barry
Experience:
In Pearland, Economic Development Corporation, 6 years on school board, 2 years on City Council
Occupation:
Insurance sales
Candidate Website:
www.votejeffbarry.com
Contact Information:
281-464-3384
If elected, what will be your priorities?
Priorities are secure the border, reduce property taxes, support of first responders, protect our kids, insurance reform, and securing water sources for the next generation.
What kind of school-related legislation do you feel the state should be focusing on?
We should focus on moving [Texas's] national education ranking from No. 38 to No. 1. Lowering our class sizes, supporting our teachers, building a teacher pact with parents, and eliminating the STAAR Test.
What, if anything, do you feel the state fell short on in its 2023 session?
Didn't pass meaningful education finance legislation. Prop 6 [creation of a state water fund] only considered new water systems and leak detection. I would like to see wastewater included in the low interest loans.
Are there any policies that can be passed to help Texans deal with inflation?
Saturating the marketplace with goods is the best way to control inflation. We can incentivize manufacturers to produce more products through temporary tax reductions.
What would you like to see prioritized in terms of gulf protection projects?
I would like to focus on erosion control projects and protecting our natural resources.
Edgar Pacheco Jr.
Experience:
Legislative advocate, Board President of Jonathan's House, board member of TOPAA, active Republican Party member
Occupation:
Special Education Advocate
Candidate Website:
www.edgarpachecojr.com
Contact Information:
956-667-8789
If elected, what will be your priorities?
If elected, I'll prioritize rebuilding trust in Texas's education, advocating for a universal school choice program, and supporting Medicaid expansion for better healthcare access. Addressing tax issues, I aim for a balanced regime, easing reliance on property taxes, while supporting small businesses and workforce development to foster economic growth.
What kind of school-related legislation do you feel the state should be focusing on?
Texas should prioritize legislation that rebuilds trust between districts and parents, increasing accountability and transparency. Additionally, addressing funding disparities, equal opportunities, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for an effective and responsive education system. Supporting a universal school choice program would also empower parents in directing their children's education.
What, if anything, do you feel the state fell short on in its 2023 session?
Political infighting hindered the progress of crucial bills, including those on school choice, financial transparency in school districts, Medicaid, and attendant care services. In the upcoming 89th Legislative Session, legislators must renew efforts to address these issues, utilizing a more collaborative and effective approach to resolve differences for the benefit…
Are there any policies that can be passed to help Texans deal with inflation?
Prioritizing workforce development and education is essential to stimulating economic growth. By enhancing skill-building programs and educational opportunities, the state can empower its residents to secure higher-paying jobs, ultimately contributing to economic stability. This proactive approach not only addresses immediate workforce challenges, but also positions individuals for long-term success.
What would you like to see prioritized in terms of gulf protection projects?
Projects focusing on hurricane resilience and water quality management, including the Coastal Barrier System, should be prioritized to help protect communities near the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally, a strong commitment to advocating for taxpayers and preventing windstorm insurance rate increases is essential for financial security and the well-being of residents.
