3 Under-the-Radar Races Shaping Dallas Politics

The March 5 Texas primaries will decide major political races as Republicans decide whether to nominate Donald Trump for president and Democrats decide who will challenge U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz. Along with those big decisions, there are also three races of interest in the Dallas area that could have a big impact on local politics.

So, here are the three key Dallas-area primary races to watch, according to the Dallas Morning News.

Republican House District 108.

Incumbent Morgan Meyer is facing a primary challenge from Dallas lawyer Barry Wernick, who has the backing of AG Ken Paxton. Meyer, who is endorsed by Gov. Abbott, has held the District 108 seat since 2015.

The winner will run against the Democratic primary victor, either Elizabeth Ginsberg or Yasmin Simon.

Democrats are watching the primary closely, as Wernick could be easier to beat than Meyer. Wernick has moved more to the hard right, which could turn off moderate voters. Meyer, on the other hand, has strong ties to the area.

This district includes the Park Cities, downtown Dallas, Uptown, Preston Hollow, Lake Highlands, and Lakewood.

Democratic House 100

Freshman incumbent Venton Jones faces a challenge from Barbara Mallory Caraway, a former state representative and Dallas City Council member.

Caraway is Jones’ toughest challenger, as she is widely known in political circles. She has run for Congress six times, including in 2022.

Still, Jones has ample resources, with more than $90,000 in his campaign account.

Jones is the first openly HIV-positive state representative in Texas history and is known for his advocacy for black gay men.

The district includes parts of South Dallas, West Dallas, East Dallas, Buckner Terrace, Victory Park, and Oak Cliff.

Dallas County Republican Party Chair

Incumbent Jennifer Stoddard-Hajdu is being challenged by former Texas GOP Chairman Allen West.

When he was chairman of the Texas GOP in 2020, he commanded the party further to the right on issues related to immigration and coronavirus.

Dallas County is one of the bluest areas in Texas, and the result of the primary could shape local politics and the trajectory of the parties.