House District 106: Democrat Katy Hubener knows the issues Dallas Morning News Endorsement Wednesday, February 8, 2005
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Here's what Katy Hubener, a real estate agent running for House District 106, has going against her special-election candidacy to fill the retiring Ray Allen's seat. She's a Democrat running in a conservative Republican district, which takes in southern Irving and most of Grand Prairie. And she's up against Republican Kirk England, son of popular longtime Grand Prairie Mayor Charles England. (Gene Freeman, a Libertarian, is also on the ballot.)
Here's what Katy Hubener has going for her candidacy – and why we enthusiastically recommend her for the special election slated for Feb. 28. (Early voting begins Monday.)
She knows the big issues down to the smallest detail, and she is on the right side: local-option tax election for transit (for), recorded votes (for), more money for public education (for) and an active governmental role in cleaning up North Texas air (for – she's been an activist on this issue).
Mr. England, 44, an insurance agent, is making his first run at elected office – and it shows. He told us that he decided to seek the office in large part because he "is about to be an empty-nester."
Representing the people in the Legislature ought not be seen primarily as a hobby for folks with time on their hands.
What's more, Mr. England displayed a troubling lack of detailed knowledge about the issues facing the district. For example, when asked about whether the additional counties should have been added to the Dallas-area air quality nonattainment area by the EPA, Mr. England responded, "I'm not familiar with that issue."
Ouch! Air quality is a complicated issue – most issues are – and that's why people, no matter what their political ideology, need to count on having an energetic, engaged representative down in Austin advocating for the needs of their district. Ms. Hubener is probably more liberal than most in District 106, but practical-minded voters should place a high value on competence.
Besides, if voters don't like how Ms. Hubener performs in Austin during the special session, they'll have a chance to toss her out in November.
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email: info@katyfortexas.com
phone: 972.282.9301
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http://www.katyfortexas.com Help Us Get This Endorsement To Voters Thank you for your continued support of my race for the Texas Legislature. Your contribution will help us get this endorsement into the hands of voters.
Early vote begins Monday. Election Day is Tuesday, February 28th.