Read more: Local, State, Politics, David Swinford, Retiring, Dr. David Rausch, Victor Leal
AMARILLO,TEXAS -- Now that State Rep. David Swinford has officially announced that he will not be seeking re-election, the vacant slot on the Republican ticket should draw a lot of attention this week. The filing deadline for the District 87 seat is Monday, January 4.
Possible candidates must file in Austin. According to political analysts they'll need name recognition, and the necessary campaign funds already in place with the primary coming so soon in March.
"I do think there's a lot of families now sitting down around the table going maybe we should try it this time or not, I do think it's, typically when a person decides not to run for re-election they make announcements a little before the filing deadline but only giving folks 3 to 4 days to decide puts a little pressure on," said Dr. Dave Rausch WT Political Science Professor.
Victor Leal will hold a press conference on Wednesday to formally announce his candidacy for the District 87 seat on the Republican side.
Abel Bosquez has already filed to run as a Democrat.
