Lamar Smith draws Democratic challenger

[sonias]

Postcards from the Lege blog 6/26/09
Lamar Smith draws Democratic challenger—and another could be in wings

An Austin real estate broker who’s filed paperwork to challenge U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith, R-San Antonio, next year said Friday she needs to raise at least $1 million to mount a competitive bid in the Republican-leaning 21st Congressional District.

The district takes in northeast Bexar and southwest Travis counties and Comal, Kendall, Kerr, Bandera, Real and Blanco counties.

Lainey Melnick, 47, who lives in Westlake, said she decided to take on Smith, initially elected to the House in 1986, partly because "there was nothing statewide or local that I thought would make as big an impact and would be more attainable."

(snip)
Separately, an Austin businessman who’s been weighing a run for the Democratic nomination for the seat said the race might cost a challenger more than $1 million considering the district takes in two major media markets.

Tejas Vakil, 52, described himself as conservative on economic issues but less so on foreign policy and social issues. He said: "The issue is whether or not I can run a credible campaign."

I missed this announcement since I was out of town on Friday. Kudos to Lainey for getting in the race. No seat unchallenged! I was represented by Smith for a couple of years and the guy is a certified nutbag. I hope the people in this district really wake up and give someone else a chance to represent them.

Lainey's website:
laineymelnick.com

:dem:

Sonia

[NoPasaran]

1. Tough district, glad she's running anyway

I still think John Courage had a shot at taking Smith out as 21 was drawn at the beginning of the 2006 race. I was kind of disappointed when re-re-redistricting happened in the middle of the campaign, although since I ended up with Lloyd Doggett I really can't complain too much.

[sonias]

2. Same here

John Courage would have made a great Congressman and if the re-re-re-districting not happened. I do believe he would have taken Lamer out. And Lloyd is my Congressman now so I'm happy with that. :)

Lainey is serious about this run and you just never know. Anything is possible. Women seem to do better in elections in Texas. Maybe some of those R women will vote for a woman even if she's a D.

Sonia