In Texas, elections for school board, mayors or city council are “non-partisan”.
What successful candidate doesn’t bring their overall philosophy of governance and their core values to an elected office? None. Elected officials bring who they are, and who they are is based on their experiences and beliefs.
Do they follow the law? Of course (constituents sure hope so). Do they fight for change where they believe it is needed, advocating for legislative changes? If they do that, and I’d expect they would, then no race is non-partisan. Our beliefs draw us to a particular political party so those things we would advocate for are, logically, partisan.
In Bastrop County, more than 60% of each property tax dollar goes to the schools. So why is voter turnout so low? It could be because it’s hard to find information about the candidates.
Early voting starts Monday and I’ve not received one political mailer for any Bastrop ISD candidate or the bond issue. (I live in that jurisdiction.)
I did some research and I hope it helps you. I’ve listed the position, candidate, year they registered to vote, and which party’s primary they voted in since 2012. I did not include general election votes as they are not an indicator of philosophical party alignment. The comments under Voter History are mine based on the voting history provided.
Search Facebook, Instagram, and the web for candidate information. For example, a search of Lyle Nelson Mayor returns this FB page: https://www.facebook.com/nelsonforbastropmayor. I leave it to you to research the candidates for whom you’ll be voting.
Bond issues? Here’s where to find the information on those: Bastrop ISD, Lexington ISD, McDade ISD, Wildwood Municipal Utility District.
One last thought: You can view your sample ballot at BastropVotes.org. Viewing this in advance will help you be prepared when you vote.
Early voting starts 4/24. Election day is Saturday 5/6. Where to vote.
BASTROP
SMITHVILLE
ELGIN
