Bastrop, Tx–The outline of 2010 party primary elections for Bastrop County offices in March is coming into sharper focus as incumbents from both major parties rejoined the fray, and some new challengers put their names forward. Democrats and Republicans will hold primary elections in March ahead of the November general election.
Pct. 2 county commissioner Clara Beckett, a Republican, and Pct. 4 county commissioner Lee Dildy, a Democrat, are officially seeking re-election, each said this week. So far neither has an opponent, though Dildy said he continues to hear he may have a Democratic challenger.
County GOP party chair Albert Ellison said two Republicans are also considering a race for Dildy’s seat.
Ellison also said Laurie Ingram has put her name on the GOP ballot for county treasurer, a post now held by Kathy Schroeder, a Democrat who is seeking a second term.
Other Republicans have also stepped forward, led by District Attorney Bryan Goertz who is seeking re-election. So far he has no opponent from either major party.
The most political activity, however, continues to center on the race for Pct. 1 Justice of the Peace where Democrat Bill Weddle is seeking a second term. He already has a primary opponent, Dickie Henderson. And now there is also a contested race for the post among local Republicans.
Donna Van Gilder was the first to file earlier this month on the GOP ticket. She is being challenged by local attorney Van Pressley.
Other Democrats seeking re-election next year include County Judge Ronnie McDonald, County Clerk Rose Pietsch, District Court Clerk Cathy Smith and County Court at Law Judge Benton Eskew along with Pct. 2 Justice of the Peace Raymah Davis, Pct. 3 Justice of the Peace Kathy Hanna and Pct. 4 Justice of the Peace Larry Dunne, none of whom have opponents from either party so far.
Jan. 4 is the deadline for candidates who want their names on either primary ballot.