SA Businessman Challenges SBOE Social Conservative
Of all the State Board of Education races on the ballot this year, the one generating the most attention is the Republican primary battle pitting incumbent Don McLeroy, a Bryan dentist who is the board's controversial former chair, against lobbyist Thomas Ratliff, the son of former Lt. Gov. Bill Ratliff, in a battle royale for the District 9 seat. But another hard-fought primary race has rich and influential Republicans in San Antonio buzzing.
Tim Tuggey, a lawyer-lobbyist who counts preacher John Hagee among his past clients, is challenging conservative incumbent Ken Mercer for a seat in District 5. Should ...
Comments (1)
mbekybell
This article outlines the conflict, but it overlooks one of the most important issues, and that is the actual qualifications of the individuals mentioned. Neither Mr. Mercer nor Mr. Tuggey has any background in education. We need educators on the State Board of Education.
While the ability to raise funds for a campaign is important, we should not automatically choose the person who has received the most donations. We should instead follow the money and consider why individuals with no background in education or demonstrated commitment to education are running for this position. Voters should question whether someone is running for this unpaid office because of financial benefits to donors or for other benefits (such as a stepping stone to future higher office).
Shouldn't we put the future of our children's education in the hands of educators?