The Republican and Democratic primary runoff elections were held on Tuesday, May 22. HAR was involved in two Commissioners’ races in Montgomery County. These were hotly contested races, because of the ongoing legal issues with the Montgomery County Judge and Commissioners violating The Open Meetings Act (TOMA). HAR recommended candidate, incumbent County Commissioner Precinct 2Charlie Riley defeated rival Greg Parker to retain his seat 4,969 (55.93%) to 3,916 (44.07%). He will face Democrat Ron Keichline. Justice of the Peace Judge James Metts defeated HAR recommended candidate Jim Clark 2,455 (51.83%) to 2,282 (48.17%) for Commissioner Precinct 4. That was a difference of only 173 votes that would have helped our candidate win.

In Harris County another notable race took place, the Republican primary runoff for open congressional district 2 seat left vacant by retiring Congressman Ted Poe. Retired Navy Seal Dan Crenshaw defeated one term State Representative Kevin Roberts 20,392 (69.84%) to 8,808 (30.16%). Dan Crenshaw will now face Democrat Todd Litton, an attorney and education advocate in November 6 election.

We encourage our members to be engaged in the political process. Every position, from your local city councilmember to Governor take up issues that impact on your profession as a REALTOR®. HAR offers several ways for you to get involved and make a difference. You can get involved, by volunteering to serve on one of our Governmental or Political Affairs Advisory Groups. Registration will open in October. Visit www.har.com/getinvolved for more information.

Upcoming Events

HAR will be hosting several Harris County voter deputy registrar trainings at HAR Central in the next few months. In the state of Texas, it is necessary to be deputized by your county as a voter registrar in order to register voters. Since REALTORS® are all about providing great service, registering your clients at closings will just be one more service you can provide. Also, if you would like our Government Affairs staff to visit your office to help register agents and explain to them the importance of elections to the real estate industry, please contact Lisa Hunter at 713-629-1900 ext 270.