West Texas Dispatch

Early voting has had a much-higher- than- usual turnout in Taylor County this primary-voting season. That’s thanks in no small part to the crowded field for two open seats.Last week we brought you interviews with the candidates for Texas State House District 71–that has been held by retiring state-rep- Stan Lambert.We have another special show in store this week, as we focus on the Republicans vying to become their party’s nominee for Texas’s 19th Congressional District. Jodey Arrington’s retirement has created a wild contest-with seven candidates on the Republican primary ballot.This week we’re partnering with KTTZ in Lubbock to bring you conversations with as many of them as we can.A runoff seems very likely-with so many candidates in the race–but once there is a clear winner - he will take on Democrat Kyle Rable in November.

This week we’ve got a collection of conversations with the candidates on the ballot for House District 71.As soon as Stan Lambert announced he wouldn’t seek reelection – candidates started filing their paperwork.Liz Case is making a second run for the seat, after coming close two years ago–with the backing of some of the state’s top Republicans.Newcomer Joshua Ohlmacher joined the race after feeling called to it during a church service.And Chance Ferguson, who’s previously challenged Jodey Arrington for the 19th Congressional District seat–has thrown his hat in the ring.Jay Hardaway was unable to make it for today’s show–but we hope to update you on his campaign as soon as possible.We’ll also preview a musical that’s coming to a stage this weekend that tells a story of healing, forgiveness, and self-acceptance.

It’s almost time to cast your ballot in the Republican and Democratic primaries. Early voting polls will be up and running across Texas next Tuesday.Some recent polling shows Ken Paxton pulling ahead of incumbent Senator John Cornyn… but Cornyn has the advantage in fundraising. We’ll take a look at the race for the nomination.West Texas has been a solid-red voting region for decades. The region’s Democrats are looking to draw lessons from the recent upset in the state senate special election.Officials are considering new proposals to build housing in Abilene. But some community members think there just isn’t enough being done about the growing affordable housing crisis in the city…And the Food Bank of West Central Texas provides millions of pounds of food assistance to more than a dozen communities in the Big Country. They’re working on making their support even more accessible. We’ll check in on mobile food pantries and other efforts.