Texas is holding elections, including for state legislature, on March 5, 2024. A number of candidates running in these elections completed Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection survey. These survey responses allow voters to hear directly from candidates about what motivates them to run for office.
Below is a selection of responses from a candidate who filled out the survey as of Nov. 14. To read the candidate’s full responses, click her name at the bottom of the article.
Jamie Haynes (R) is running for Texas House of Representatives District 86, and the Republican primary is on March 5. Here’s how Haynes responded to the following questions:
Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
“I’m a true Texan, proud of my upbringing. As a devoted Christian, wife, and mother, family always takes precedence. I’m also deeply committed to my faith, fostering my children’s education and instilling strong values.
Beyond the homestead, I’m a driven business owner and accomplished REALTOR (currently inactive) with Triangle Realty. My academic journey led me to an MBA from West Texas University and a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech, where I crossed paths with my husband, JT. Our shared love for Texas Tech keeps us actively engaged as alumni, with my husband serving on Texas Tech committees and our son likely to follow in our footsteps.
In the political arena, I’m an ardent conservative and lifelong Republican. I chair Randall County Republican Precinct #309 and was a state convention delegate in Summer ’22. I also contribute my time and efforts to important legislative priorities within the Texas GOP.
Outside of politics, our family runs cattle and farms in the Texas Panhandle. My community involvement includes roles in organizations like Texas Ed 9/11, Grassroots America, and High Plains Republican Women. I’m also a dedicated supporter of local businesses and a charitable giver to causes close to my heart, including my church, Hope Choice, colleges, and Rope for a Cure.”
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
“In my public policy advocacy, I prioritize safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty by addressing the pressing issue of securing our border, given the influx of illegal immigrants into our Great State. Additionally, I advocate for protecting unborn life, preserving our constitutional right to bear arms, and supporting various industries, including the oil sector, Texas agriculture, and beef producers, recognizing their pivotal roles in our state’s economy and energy independence.
Local leaders understand the concerns and issues of the community better than any elected official in Austin. We must stop the unfunded mandates and restore power to local governments who are more connected with the community.
Upholding Christian and family values, I champion elevated education standards and parental choice. I staunchly support grassroots initiatives, amplify citizen voices, endorse religious freedom, and back law enforcement and first responders. Furthermore, my unwavering commitment lies in ensuring election integrity, as it is the cornerstone of a fair and just democratic process, vital for preserving the trust of our citizens in our democratic institutions.
Ultimately, my mission centers on promoting freedom, prosperity, and cherished values while addressing Texas’s critical challenges, all for the best interests of our state.”
What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?
“Integrity, virtue, honesty, grit, transparency, patriotism, being grounded being a hard worker, being humble and having strong beliefs in our constitution and bill of rights.”
What legacy would you like to leave?
“I’d like to be remembered as a principled conservative who did a solid job serving the needs of the district and the party.”
What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?
“I remember when the Challenger spaceship blew up in the sky on January 28, 1986. I was 10 years old.”
Click here to read the rest of Haynes’ answers.
If you’re a Texas candidate or incumbent, click here to take the survey. The survey contains over 30 questions, and you can choose the ones you feel will best represent your views to voters. If you complete the survey, a box with your answers will display on your Ballotpedia profile. Your responses will also populate the information that appears in our mobile app, My Vote Ballotpedia.
Additional reading: