Dec
29
Written by:
William Lutz
12/29/2009 10:50 AM
Rep. David Swinford (R-Dumas) issued a press release last night announcing that he is not seeking re-election. Swinford has served in the Legislature since 1991. He was asked to lead committees by two different speakers. He was chairman of the Committee on Agriculture and Livestock under House speaker Pete Laney and was chairman of the Committees on Government Organization and later State Affairs under Speaker Tom Craddick. Like the rest of the Panhandle delegation, Swinford had a reputation as one of the hardest working members of the House and is respected by Republicans and Democrats alike.
As chairman of Agriculture and Livestock, Swinford authored House Bill 2, the first comprehensive statement of Texas agriculture policy. Later in his career, Swinford became known for his advocacy for wind power and power investment in West Texas. Due both to Texas's electric restructuring act and federal environmental policy, West Texas has become a much more significant player in providing for the state's energy needs, and wind power has become a much more significant part of the region's economy.
Swinford wrote a column for today's Amarillo Globe News discussing his career and decision in more detail. He also issued a statement to the press, which we reprint in full below:
"After almost 20 years of legislative service, I have decided not to run for re-election as State Representative, District 87. This district includes Carson, Moore, Potter and Sherman counties in the Texas Panhandle.
I have enjoyed every minute of my service because I have been honored to represent the finest people in the world. I have also been honored to serve with the Panhandle Team made up of Ambassador Teel Bivins, Senator Kel Seliger and Representatives John Smithee and Warren Chisum. These are the finest, most dedicated public servants in the State.
At our family Christmas gathering, we decided that it was time to become a private citizen again after completing my term that ends in January, [2011]. We have missed so many family events, grandson's ballgames, concerts and events that are special things in all our lives. Joyce and I need to take care of our family and ourselves at this stage in our lives.
I have always strived to serve with honesty and integrity while being an aggressive representative for the folks of the Texas Panhandle. We have accomplished a lot for the region but it is time for “new blood” to join the great Panhandle Delegation in Austin. I look forward to being a voter in the election of our next State Representative.
May God bless you and the great State of Texas."