The 150 members of the Texas House of Representatives consider proposed laws and resolutions, decide whether to refer proposed constitutional amendments for submission to the voters, file bills that may become state law and appropriate all funds for the operation of state government. District 74 represents much of the West Texas border with Mexico, including a sliver of El Paso. Texas representatives get paid $7,200 a year and serve two-year terms.
Who’s running for this seat?
Robert Garza, 76, a Republican, is the former Del Rio mayor. Did not respond.
Eddie Morales Jr., 49, a Democrat, is a lawyer and business owner.
Candidate Questionnaires
Candidates were asked to limit their responses to 100 words. Responses have been lightly edited for grammar.
What is your top priority for the upcoming Legislative session and what legislation would you propose to address it?
Robert Garza: Did not respond.
Eddie Morales Jr.: Representing over 11 counties experiencing drought, it is essential that Texas increase its water supply and ensure we are prepared for future generations. I am proposing and working toward robust investment in creating new water supply and provide additional funds for the Texas Water Fund to replace our outdated infrastructure.
El Paso County jails have lost millions in federal revenue because it has had to house migrants and other state detainees over federal inmates. Should the state shoulder some of these costs? Please explain.
Robert Garza: Did not respond.
Eddie Morales Jr.: Representing 770-plus miles of the border, I know firsthand the impact on our jails, hospitals, and local law enforcement. These funds need to be reimbursed at the federal level and it is essential that the federal government pass a bipartisan border security package that will provide those reimbursements.z
Immigration and border security remain a top priority in Texas. Where do you draw the line between federal and state responsibilities on the matter?
Robert Garza: Did not respond.
Eddie Morales Jr.: Texas stepped up to provide the necessary funding to our counties, cities, and local law enforcement. We increased criminal penalties for human smuggling and fentanyl dealing. However, I draw the line at unconstitutional deportation efforts, militia-like security efforts, and using taxpayer dollars for the construction of a border wall.
Please describe your views on abortion, access to contraception and other reproductive issues – and what legislation you would propose to support your views.
Robert Garza: Did not respond.
Eddie Morales Jr.: I believe in the freedom of women’s right to choose. I would support repealing Texas’ extreme abortion ban and the restoring of post-Dobbs guidelines.
Do you support Gov. Greg Abbott’s proposed school choice/school voucher program? Please explain why or why not.
Robert Garza: Did not respond.
Eddie Morales Jr.: I am strongly opposed to spending billions on private school subsidies. We must invest in our public schools and give teachers the pay raise they deserve.
The post Q&A: District 74 Texas House representative candidates in Nov. 5 general election appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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