Aug
2
Written by:
William Lutz
8/2/2011 11:17 AM
So much for Williams versus Williams. Railroad Commissioner Michael Williams announced July 29 that he's switching from Arlington-Weatherford-based District 33 to District 25 -- an open seat that stretches from West Austin to Burleson. Williams's profile in both Austin and North Texas should come in useful in that district. Michael Williams's decision means former Secretary of State Roger Williams now has a clear shot at the open CD 33, instead of the Williams versus Williams matchup that has been taking shape the past few weeks.
"For several weeks, former Texas Railroad Commissioner Michael Williams has been actively recruited by local, county, state and federal leaders to run for Congress in Congressional District 25," reads a statement issued by the Michael Williams campaign. "...Congressional District 25, which includes 13 counties from Hays up to Tarrant County, is in need of a candidate who will fight for our freedoms, has demonstrated an ability to win and a commitment to protecting liberty. While serving on the Railroad Commission, Michael Williams represented the voters of Congressional District 25 and the people of Texas with distinction and honor. Today, Michael Williams is answering the call from the GOP, the Tea Party, and conservatives all throughout CD 25 and will run for the Republican nomination for Texas Congressional District 25."
Upon request from LSR, the Roger Williams campaign issued the following statement: "Roger respects Michael and wished him well. Roger remains focused on continuing to build his grassroots and fundraising support throughout District 33 with his conservative, pro-business, anti-Obama message."
Both Williamses are running campaigns under Congressional lines approved by the Texas Legislature during the June special session of the Texas Legislature. These lines have not yet been pre-cleared under Section 5 of the Federal Voting Rights Act, and a court challenge under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act is pending. Courts can and often do change lines in the couse of redistricting litigation, but it is also common practice for candidates to file soon after the Legislature approves a map because of the campaign benefits of getting into a race early.