On Sept. 16 Jay Misenheimer, a Smith County businessman, announced that he is seeking the Republican nomination for Texas House District 5 in the upcoming March Primary.
The seat is currently held by Rep. Bryan Hughes, who is running for Texas Senate in District 1.
“I have spent my life in East Texas, dedicated to service in my community. I am a small business owner that knows how to create jobs,” Misenheimer said in a written statement.
“Coupled with my service in my local church and serving on the school board of Lindale ISD, I have the experience and the East Texas values to ensure that our state continues to be a place of economic opportunity and I will fight every day to make sure government stays out of our church, our schools and our business."
According to a press release, Misenheimer was born and raised in East Texas. Upon graduating from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1985, he began a long career in business. Through his work in the local community, he helped create hundreds of good paying jobs in East Texas.
“I will work every day to make sure that Austin does not become some miniature form of the senseless gridlock and absurd dysfunction that plagues Washington D.C.," he added.
"It’s time to quit electing career politicians who only serve themselves and elect normal folks who serve God first, their family and their community. I believe I am that man and I will fight for East Texas values every day in Austin.”
Misenheimer and his wife of 27 years, Melanie, are active members at the First United Methodist Church of Lindale. Additionally, he serves on the Lindale ISD School Board and is the president of the Children’s Advocacy Center which provides support and care for victims of child abuse and their families.
He is a member of the Texas State Rifle Association. He and his wife have a 19-year-old son, Jason, and they live in Lindale.