Former Potter County Justice of the Peace Richard Herman is officially running to replace U.S. Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-Clarendon).
In an interview with the Pioneer on Monday night, Herman confirmed that he has decided to run to replace Thornberry in 2020, after previously launching an exploratory committee weeks ago. Herman will be running in the Republican primary, and says he plans to file for his spot on the ballot in the coming weeks.
“It’s time we send a veteran to Congress who understands the working person’s struggles,” Herman said. “…I’m that guy.”
Herman served as justice of the peace for Potter County’s Precinct 2 from 2015 through 2019. He won his seat in 2014 by ousting incumbent Democrat Nancy Bosquez, but was later defeated in his bid for re-election in 2018 by Republican Robert Taylor. Herman briefly sought the Amarillo City Council Place 1 seat in the 2019 municipal elections, but dropped out to endorse fellow candidate Hayden Pedigo.
The Republican joins Josh Winegarner, Elaine Hays, Jamie Culley, Chris Ekstrom, Monique Worthy, Vance Snider, and Kevin McInturff in his party’s primary, with Ronny Jackson also reportedly considering a bid. Democrats Greg Sagan and Gus Trujillo have filed with the FEC ahead of their party’s primary.
Candidates can file for spots on the ballot through December 9.