BEAUMONT, Texas — Texas Governor Greg Abbott was in Lumberton to show his support of Janis Holt, a candidate running in a closely watched State Representative race.
Janis Holt is challenging incumbent Ernest Bailes as well as Stephen Missick in the GOP primary. In an unusual development, the governor not backing the incumbent.
Each republican candidate says their platform is to be more conservative than their opponents and that they are the best fit for those who live in Texas House District 18.
Abbott says he is against Bailes because he voted against school choice.
"She will join with me to secure the boarder, cut your property taxes and ensure that every parent in this district has the right and ability to choose the school best for their child. She will improve education, improve border security, keep you safe in your community. That's why I'm behind Janice [Holt]," Abbott said.
Holt wants to secure our borders along with being for school choice.
"Side by side with Governor Greg Abbott as we, finally secure this boarder. We have to make that happen. Because places like Colony Ridge over in Liberty County, are a direct output of the illegal border, and open border," said Holt.
Bailes says he's already proven his conservative efforts throughout his four terms.
"It's been an honor to serve. I work hard and I keep my nose clean. I do the job I'm supposed to do and come back home to my wife and two little ones, every chance I get. It's an honor to serve in this capacity. And I appreciate the opportunity to continue that service," he said.
Missick plans to play off his military experience at the border and believes in the right to bear arms and lowering property taxes.
“As a fighter for freedom I want to protect our right to bear arms. But also our freedom of speech and freedom of religion. I think that’s fundamental importance. And I also believe that we need to have property tax relief. I’m a patriot and I want to pay my taxes but this is almost highway robbery," Missick said.
District 18 covers Hardin, Liberty, San Jacinto and part of Montgomery Counties. One thing all three candidates agree on is pushing conservative values being their top priority.