Watch: First County Judge Candidate Forum Tonight

First, it's not a requirement to be a lawyer to be a County Judge. This position is more like the Mayor of the County. It doesn't compare to a Court At Law judge where a legal background is necessary. Aside from probating wills, this position is mostly administrative and someone with experience with budgets based on public money is more preferable. 

I would like to see documentation from the candidates to prove they are truly qualified for the job. Tom Usery stated several times he was a supervisor in charge of several lawyers. I would like for him to provide a letter of confirmation stating that, as well as testifying to his competency in that position. Something doesn't add up if he's such a good lawyer but will take a pay cut to become a County Judge.  

Joe Hyde seemed to be more interested in knocking Lane Carter down to make himself look better, rather than promoting himself with his original ideas. I remember when Lane ran for City Council the first time, Joe seemed pretty intent on not reporting on Lane's candidacy so as not to give him publicity. Now, he's facing off directly with Lane and trying to make him look bad with a pointed question that I think Lane defended himself very well. 

Todd Kolls, who wasn't there due to a positive Covid test, is a candidate who represent special interests and not regular taxpayers in this County. 

I look forward to the financial declarations coming out soon that will show who is supporting these candidates so we will all know who will be pulling the strings in our County government. 

My vote will be going to Lane Carter. He was elected to an unpaid position as a City Councilman out of a sense of civic pride and a desire to make a positive impact on San Angelo. He stood his ground admirably, even when confronted with Joe's attempt at knocking him off balance and the rude lady who interrupted the debate. I think he showed fortitude which is a quality we need in a County Judge.

That Trump guy seems exceptionally misinformed & quite stupid, besides.

If Tommy Usery is as highly qualified as he claims to be, why isn't he running for County Court at Law judge, and not County Judge which does not require being a lawyer? Wouldn't his experience be better served adjudicating criminal cases? It makes me question his qualifications.