Marfa Public Radio encourages our listeners to vote in today's runoff election. Polls are open from 7 AM to 7 PM today across West Texas.
Early voting turnout in the area, especially in Presidio County and Jeff Davis County, has exceeded expectations. This is most likely because of two big races on the minds and lips of KRTS listeners. The first is the Democratic primary between Ciro Rodriguez and Pete Gallego for the 23rd congressional district. You can hear Marfa Public Radio’s interviews with both candidates here. The winner of this race will challenge Republican Congressmen Francisco “Quico” Canseco in the general election.
The second most talked about primary contest is the Democratic primary for 83rd District Attorney. Rod Ponton, the current City Attorney of Alpine, faces off against former District Attorney Frank Brown. Hear KRTS's interviews with Ponton here, and Frank Brown here. There is no Republican challenger for this position.
Brewster County
- Precincts 1, 2, 4 and 8, Brewster County Courthouse Annex in Alpine
- Precinct 3, Marathon Community Center
- Precinct 5, San Vicente School Gymnasium in Big Bend National Park
- Precinct 6 and 7 voters, Red Pattillo Community Center in Terlingua
In local Brewster County elections, there are two commissioner races in the Democratic Primary. Incumbent precinct 3 commissioner Ruben Ortega faces Eduardo Vega for a chance to challenge Republican Ben Ramirez in the general election. And Mike "Coach" Pallanez and Van Neie are vying for the precinct 4 commissioner seat and a chance to run against Republican Carl Lewis in the general election.
Presidio County
- Precinct 1 and 7, Marfa Volunteer Fire Department
- Precints 2-6, Courthouse Annex in Presidio on O'Reilly Street.
In local Presidio County elections, constable and two commissioner seats will be decided. Incumbent commissioner Felipe Cordero faces Jim White and incumbent commissioner Carlos Armendariz faces Lorenzo Hernandez, the mayor of Presidio. Additionally, incumbent Presidio County Constable Juan Lara faces challenger Estevan Marquez.
Jeff Davis County
- Precinct 1, 2, and 3, Law enforcement building in Fort Davis
- Precinct 4, General Store in the DMR
- In Valentine, vote at the Community Center