I am concerned that we are in a time of threat to our Constitution and institutions. I want Democratic Clubs to endorse candidates based on real experience and true independence. I have actually done this job for 17 years and have always stood up for our Constitution and for the rights of all citizens.

My 38-year legal career includes service as an Hays County Assistant District Attorney, Assistant Attorney General for Texas, and District Judge in the 428th Court of Hays County for 17 years. In private practice, I have worked for law firms in several capacities, including partner, senior counsel, and sole proprietor, and I have handled more than 80 disputes as a certified mediator. As an attorney and judge, I have tried over 200 jury trials, including capital murder cases, sexual assault cases, and drug cases. I have handled hundreds of civil and criminal cases as a judge. Additionally, I am Board Certified in both Civil Trial Law and Family Law (Texas Board of Legal Specialization).

1. Protect the rights of the innocent. This means treating all people in court equally, without fear or favor.

2. Provide better rehabilitiation through means of specialized courts. I started the first specialty court in Hays County and supervised it for years without assistance or fanfare. I would continue with that.

3. Make sure people get access to courts through expanded use of the public defender system.

"I Won't Back Down" by Tom Petty. This reflects my determination to not back down from protecting the rights of those who come before the court.

A judge's job in any political climite is to protect the innocent. We are in an age where the rights of our neighbors are being attacked for political reasons. A judge must zealously protect due process in the face of criticism. Judges that are unfairly aligned with any group, including law enforcement, are a threat to all of us. Over the years I have stood up to those that would undermine the rights of our citizens and I will continue to do so. As it stands now there is a potential risk to our rights. Some have threatened the use of the Insurrection Act against citizens. Some have suggested that a President can run for three terms in violation of the Constitution. It is important to have judges that are independent from authority so that they can make fair and informed decisions. Many of these decisions for judges come in the middle of the night when law enforcement shows up at the door requesting a search warrant. It is important that judges stand up in those times with independence and not become an arm of law enforcement. In addition to matters outside the courtroom, a judge must be extremely accomplished in his knowledge of the law. This court handles serious felony cases. I have tried cases dealing with capital murder, child sexual assault, robbery, and other serious felonies. I have also handled cases where the defendant needs rehabilitation and an opportunity to reform.

Everyone has a right to access the courts, to be afforded due process, and to be tried by a jury of his or her peers. A judge must make every effort to ensure that everyone has rights to courts. I have a record of making courageous and compassionate decisions. Justice for all truly means justice for all!

Judges take an oath to follow the law and to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution. They also have discretion on types of punishment. For cases without violence or victims, a judge must understand that some crimes may be the result of addiction, poverty, or mental health issues. A judge must have the experience to follow the law and the compassion to help the people who come into the court. This requires years of experience to accomplish both goals in a way that protects and improves our community.