TYLER COUNTY – Tyler County's criminal district attorney Lucas Babin, who served two full terms as the county's top lawman, said he has, after much prayerful consideration, decided to not seek reelection to another four-year term.
Babin ran unopposed in the March Republican primary for the office, and said he plans to return to practicing law in private practice. Prior to winning the DA position in 2018, he worked for (now retired) attorney Lindsey Whisenhant.
"Throughout my time in office, my goal has been to seek justice for the citizens of Tyler County. My team and I have worked hard to bring positive change to our communities. I am proud of our work and accomplishments," he said.
In the two terms Babin served, much of his first term was spent tackling a large backlog of cases, and in 2020, he was hamstrung by the pandemic. However, in his time in office, the DA's office has successfully prosecuted a number of high-profile cases and added more personnel to its ranks, including a full-time investigator.
For the General Election ballot in November, the county's GOP chairman, Robert "Chappy" Poynter, along with the precinct chairs, will select a party nominee for the ballot. "I wish them every success," Babin said.
Babin said that he and his wife, Luciana, are preparing for a new life chapter "as empty nesters," which gave them both a window of perspective to make the decision. "Another four-year term is now not the best decision for our family," he said. The Babins' two sons are set the graduate high school next year.
"It has been an honor an privilege to serve you for the past eight years," Babin said. "I am profoundly grateful for the trust you placed in me and for the unwavering support from my family, friends and constituents."
He added that he looks forward to continuing to support the community in new ways.
