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Republican State Rep. Jeff Barry will face Democratic challenger Karen Reeder in the race to represent District 29 in the Texas House of Representatives in the Nov. 3 election.
District 29 covers the northern and eastern portions of Brazoria County, including Alvin, Pearland and parts of Manvel.
What you need to know
Early voting for the Nov. 3 election runs from Oct. 19-30. Election Day is Nov. 3. The final day to register to vote is Oct. 5.
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or shortened to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Candidates are listed in alphabetical order by last name.
Insurance broker (20+ years), State Representative, Former Pearland Councilman and School Board Trustee, Navy Veteran
What would your top priorities be if elected?
Tax relief: Reform appraisals, eliminate school maintenance taxes, and deliver lasting tax cuts; Insurance reform: Fix Texas' broken windstorm system to lower homeowners insurance premiums; Public safety: Secure the border and support local law enforcement and first responders, giving them the funding and resources they need to keep us safe.
What are the biggest challenges facing this district?
Skyrocketing insurance premiums and property tax burdens are squeezing middle-class families. Additionally, rapid regional growth puts immense pressure on our local infrastructure, power grid, and water supply. We must fix our broken windstorm system, deliver lasting tax relief, and fortify critical infrastructure to protect our quality of life.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
As your current State Representative, I know real leadership starts with listening. I plan to hold town halls across Brazoria County, maintain active district office hours, and partner directly with local mayors and county leaders to ensure legislative solutions match local needs.
How will you ensure your constituents receive the appropriate aid after natural disasters?
As a coastal representative and insurance professional, I will cut state red tape to fast-track emergency funding to local first responders. I will also fight for pre-disaster infrastructure investments to mitigate flooding, strengthen local power grids, and reform property insurance to ensure quick, fair claim payouts for homeowners.
How will you ensure Texans have enough water as the state continues to grow?
As a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, I prioritize funding for large-scale water infrastructure projects, groundwater conservation, and modernizing state aquifers. We must plan ahead for rapid growth by securing reliable water rights, reducing supply loss, and ensuring key industries and municipalities have guaranteed water without burdening taxpayers.
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
What are the biggest challenges facing this district?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
How will you ensure your constituents receive the appropriate aid after natural disasters?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
How will you ensure Texans have enough water as the state continues to grow?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
