Filing period for next year’s primary elections ends soon; see how contested races are taking shape.

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

Time is ticking for those who want to run in next year’s primary elections.

The filing period to get your name on the March 1 ballot ends on Monday, Dec. 13.

I spoke with Erath County Republican Party chairman Dave Washam on Wednesday and he gave me the latest on local filings.

He told me that he will continue to take applications until 6 p.m. on Monday and will then begin the process of verifying names.

On Friday, Dec. 17, candidates will draw for spots on the ballot at 12:15 p.m. at Jake and Dorothy’s in Stephenville. The meeting is open to the public.

Early voting begins Monday, Feb. 14.

Here’s a look at how locally-contested races are shaping up:

ERATH COUNTY JUDGE – Alfonso Campos (incumbent) and Brandon Huckabee (challenger)

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCTS 1, 3, 4 – candidates Jocelyn Perez, Chili Alexander and Greg Evans – this seat is currently held by Judge Shawnee Bass who is not seeking another term.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 2 – candidates Chance Garrett, Darrell Curry and Chris Evans – this seat was held by the late Bart Greenway who recently passed away.

Washam said he expects the list of names to grow before Monday’s filing deadline.

“There have been three or four other packets that have been issued, but have not come in yet,” he said.

Other elected officials up for re-election include District Court Judge Jason Cashon, County Court at Law Judge Blake Thompson, County treasurer Kimberly Barrier, District clerk Wanda Greer, County clerk Gwinda Jones, commissioner precinct 2 Albert Ray and commissioner precinct 4 Jim Buck

These incumbents have all said they plan to seek re-election.