GROVETON — The midterm elections kick off with early voting on Monday.
Most races locally were decided in the March primary, and a couple in the May runoff, but a few races still deserve voter attention.
In Apple Springs, voters are being asked to continue a tax that helps fund maintenance and operations. While it will bring in additional dollars, that is only due to increases in property values. The tax already was in place.
Additionally, four of the at-large ASISD school board positions are up for election. The five people who have filed are Tonya Odom, Jenny Sanders, Daniel Murray, Amanda Roden, all incumbents, and Melissa Cavazos. Voters will choose up to four candidates, and the top four will be seated on the board.
Westwood Shores voters will also vote for up to two members for the Municipal Utility District. On the ballot are Rick Renfro, Peter Black and Edward Charles Frye.
County officials up for election are running unopposed.
One of the most contested races this year is for the U.S. Senate seat currently occupied by John Cornyn. Republican Ken Paxton, who defeated Cornyn in the primary, is challenged by Democrat James Talarico. In the House race, Republican Chris Gober is challenged by Democrat Caitlin Rourk and Libertarian Ted Brown to replace the retiring Michael McCaul in the newly drawn District 10.
Also of major interest is the governor’s race, with incumbent Gov. Greg Abbott being challenged by Democrat Gina Hinojosa and Libertarian Pat Dixon. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has three challengers — Democrat Vikki Goodwin, Libertarian Anthony Cristo and Green Party candidate Kevin McCormick.
Several other state offices, including Attorney General, state Comptroller, Commissioner of the General Land Office and Ag Commissioner also are on the ballot.
