Best and worst
On Election Day, support the five-star candidates and oppose the one-star politicos.
Those voting on Tuesday might be tempted to hit the straight-ticket button and be done. The ballot is long and the judicial elections can be confusing. Democrats want to punish Republicans for President Trump’s policies. Republicans want to hold the line against even a smidge of blue.
For those unwilling to break ranks, at least consider this option: Straight-ticket light. Select your party then go back through the ballot and make sure you’re voting for this short list of the best candidates while avoiding the absolute worst.
Vote for the best candidates County Judge, Ed Emmett — Republican Party:
County Judge Ed Emmett stands as a symbol of responsible governance. He's also willing to reach across the aisle when appropriate. Example: he says he's voting for Democrat Mike Collier for lieutenant governor.
1st Court of Appeals, Place 2, Jane Bland — Republican Party:
Justice Jane Bland is respected by peers for her even-handedness, work ethic and her innovative approach to complex legal matters. Bland truly is one of the best judges in Texas.
228th Criminal District Court: Marc Carter — Republican Party:
Judge Marc Carter stepped up to oversee the first Veterans Treatment Court Program in Texas, and he has earned a reputation as one of the most fair judges in Harris County.
232nd Criminal District Court, Kristin M. Guiney — Republican Party:
Judge Kristin M. Guiney is one of those rare criminal court judges who can't seem to wait until her job becomes obsolete. She clearly articulates how so many people who come through her court often need help more than punishment.
312th Family District Court, David Farr — Republican Party:
Judge David Farr stands out as a pillar of reliability in a family court system often overwhelmed with trauma and controversy.
Do not vote for the worst candidates
United States Representative, District 18, Ava Reynero Pate - Republican Party:
Ave Reynero Pate has dismissed the plight of Holocaust refugees and that merits special attention.
Attorney General, Ken Paxton - Republican Party:
What's there to say about Attorney General Ken Paxton that one day won't be explained to a jury? He's facing charges for felony investment fraud. He's also trying to get rid of protections for people with preexisting conditions.
Agriculture Commissioner, Sid Miller - Republican Party:
Jesus shots. Fake news on Facebook. Fees on farmers. His war on BBQ. Sid Miller has littered the agriculture commissioner's office with the political equivalent of cow pies. Time for taxpayers to clean house.
State Representative, District 135, Gary Elkins - Republican Party:
State Rep. Gary Elkins has been caught self-dealing for his payday loan business and spent the last legislative session blocking bills that would promote open government.
District Judge, 228th District Court, Frank Aguilar - Democratic Party:
Frank Aguilar doesn’t seem to be running a campaign and the only information we can find is that a former magistrate with his name was charged in 2010 with assault on a family member.
District Judge, 263nd District Court, Charles Johnson - Republican Party:
Charles Johnson has been reprimanded by the Texas State Bar, forced to refund client money and repeatedly sued for not paying his bills.