The following are the complete and unedited responses submitted by the candidate listed below to the Amarillo Pioneer’s Candidate Questionnaire.
Schaffer/Photo via campaign
Name: Blair Schaffer
Office Sought: Potter County Commissioner Pct. 2
Party Affiliation: Republican
Age: 53
What is your educational background? Please list any degrees or certificates earned and any institutions attended.
I am a high school graduate and have completed college coursework. I have completed extensive professional training and continuing education in the fire service, including multiple firefighting certifications and specialized emergency response courses.
What is your occupation?
Potter County Commissioner, Precinct 2. Professional firefighter. Small business owner and entrepreneur.
If you are a business owner, please list the business or businesses that you own. (If this question is not applicable, please note that below.)
I own and operate The Jericho Gap and Schaffer Farm
Please list any civic boards or commissions (non-profit, government, union, religious, political, etc.) on which you have served as a board member or equivalent.
Amarillo Tri State Exposition
Amarillo East Gateway Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone 2, TIRZ 2
Potter Randall Appraisal District, PRAD
Amarillo Local Government Corporation, LGC
Jericho Legacy Foundation
Have you previously held or do you currently hold any elected office? If so, what office(s)?
Yes, Potter County Commissioner, Precinct 2.If your campaign has any online campaign resources where voters can learn more about you, such as social media accounts or a website, please list them below.
www.voteblair.com
Facebook: facebook.com/commissionerschaffer
Instagram: instagram.com/blair_pottercountycommissioner
Tik Tok: blair_for_commissioner
Why did you decide to run for this office in 2026?
I decided to run for reelection in 2026 because I love serving my community and I believe Potter County needs leaders who are willing to do the homework and make responsible, conservative decisions. I review and study the items brought before the Commissioners Court, meet with staff and stakeholders, and focus on outcomes that protect taxpayers and strengthen core county responsibilities like public safety, infrastructure, and essential services. I am proud of Precinct 2 and proud to be part of the larger Potter County team. I take conservative values seriously, and I will continue to advocate for limited government, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability.
If elected, what will be your top three priorities in office?
1. Responsible budgeting and taxpayer protection
My first priority is fiscal discipline. I will continue to scrutinize spending, prioritize core county services, and push for transparent budgeting that respects taxpayers. I want Potter County to live within its means, plan responsibly for major projects, and clearly communicate what we are doing and why.
2. Public safety and a responsible justice system
Potter County’s first duty is public safety. That includes supporting law enforcement, fire and EMS, and addressing long term jail and detention needs in a way that is realistic, accountable, and mindful of cost. I support solutions that improve safety, reduce repeat offenders when possible, and ensure our system is secure, effective, and constitutional.
3. Infrastructure and smart growth, especially in Precinct 2
I want to keep improving basic quality of life issues that county government touches, roads, drainage, facilities, and coordination with partner agencies. I also want to encourage smart growth and new housing opportunities in Precinct 2 so families have more options and our community can grow without losing what makes it strong.
What is an issue you believe has gone overlooked in your race and how will you address it if elected?
One issue that often gets overlooked in local races is how county government communicates with the public. People should not have to dig through agendas, rumors, or social media threads to understand what the county is doing with their tax dollars. Clear communication builds trust and reduces misinformation.
If elected, I will keep pushing for better transparency and public information practices, including clearer explanations of major projects and costs, plain language summaries of key votes, and more consistent outreach so residents in every part of Potter County, including Precinct 2, can stay informed and engaged.
Do you have any notable endorsements you would like to highlight for voters? If this question is not applicable, please write N/A.
I am proud to have earned the support of the following organizations:
Amarillo Professional Firefighters Local 542
Potter County Law enforcement Association
Teamsters Local 577
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
I love serving as Potter County Commissioner. I have served one term, and I am running for re-election. Over the past three years, I have learned an incredible amount, and I look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and apply what I have gained in this role.
I work well with other Potter County officials, City of Amarillo officials, and local and state elected representatives. I stay plugged into the community, meet with neighborhood associations, and work closely with them to strengthen our communities. I also hold quarterly town hall meetings and do all I can to communicate with the public, listen to concerns, and provide updates. I support responsible growth and continued development as we plan for the future.