Race for top elected official in Harris County already heating up

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

(8/29/07 - KTRK/HOUSTON) (KTRK) -- The Texas primary election may be next year, but the race for Harris County judge is now on. Former Harris County district clerk Charles Bacarisse announced he's running for the top elected position in county government.

Bacarisse relinquished his district clerk position Wednesday to run for the job he's sought before. The county judge office opened up when Robert Eckels stepped down recently to become a practicing attorney. Bacarisse didn't get the appointment because he didn't get enough support from the county commissioners. Now he's taking on the man who beat him out by going to the voters.

"I am today announcing my candidacy for Harris County judge," he said Wednesday.

After 12 years as Harris County district clerk, Bacarisse is seeking a higher, bigger office. He rented Minute Maid Park for the announcement, with a big name contributor by his side -- Astros owner Drayton McLane with a stake on who sits on the Sports Authority, which is in part appointed by county commissioners.

"I am running to bring positive and innovative solutions to Harris County's future," said Bacarisse.

The top on his list is immigration reform, tax reform and juvenile justice reform. But the issue that voters may seize on is that ill-fated move to double rates on the Westpark Toll Road. Bacarrise doesn't intend to let anyone forget.

"A public official who doesn't consider the impact of his decisions is a public official who's failing the people as a leader," said Bacarisse.

Despite the swipe at his opponent, Bacarisse says he will conduct a positive campaign. But with his announcement, it creates a rare contested Republican primary race for Harris County judge. And it will be a race to watch. Sitting county Judge Ed Emmett is also in it to win.

"We've begun to make a lot of changes at the Sports Authority and I think that's the kind of change agent we need, not somebody who says after 12 years, I've got an idea," said Emmett.

A combative primary may be a problem for the Republican party. The Democratic base is growing here and the Democratic candidate for the office -- David Mincberg -- has no opponent...at present.
(Copyright © 2007, KTRK-TV)

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