The three announced candidates for district 31 state senator are assembling campaign teams ahead of the March Republican primary elections.
It was reported today by the Texas Tribune that Victor Leal, an Amarillo restaurateur, has commissioned Allen Blakemore as his campaign consultant. Blakemore previously served the chief political strategist to Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick's campaign in 2014. Blakemore led Patrick to a primary runoff victory over incumbent David Dewhurst, 65 percent to 35 percent. Patrick then went on to defeat Leticia Van de Putte in the general election, 58 percent to 39 percent.
Leal praised Blakemore as part of his "team."
"We have the best team in the state." Leal said.
For incumbent Senator Kel Seliger, consultants listed in his last campaign finance report include Keel Systems and Upstream Communications. In 2014, Seliger's campaign paid a slew of consultants, including over $25,000 to the Fort Worth-based Eppstein Group. The company, led by president and CEO Bryan Eppstein, developed Seliger's "Seliger Delivers" campaign.
It is unclear whether Eppstein will return for Seliger's 2018 campaign.
Canon's campaign has paid Berry Communications LLC for consulting services for his 2018 campaign, according to campaign finance reports filed with the Texas Ethics Commission. In 2014, Canon paid the Idalou-based Jack Bush for consulting services.
The Republican primary election for senate district 31 is planned for March of 2018.
