By Ruth Ferguson
NDG Editor
Voters across the country were clear about one thing: the Tea Party is not a fluke or a joke. The passionate support of Tea Party backed candidates resulted in a tidal wave in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Republican Party regaining control. The Democrats managed to tenuously hold on to power in the U.S. Senate by a slim margin.
The voters in Dallas County apparently want to drown their sorrows regarding the economy with more access to beer and wine. They approved Proposition 1 to eliminate dry areas for retail beer and wine sales. Once the votes are certified local shoppers in previously dry areas can expect shelves in their local grocery store to be re-arranged to accommodate the beverages.
Locally the Democrats were able to savor a few victories. Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins was re-elected with 51% of the vote, keeping challenger Danny Clancy (R) at bay. The contentious election featured accusations of vandalism and other political games.
Despite being spotlighted in a scholarship scandal, Democrat Eddie Bernice Johnson easily coasted to victory over Stephen Broden in her bid for a tenth term as U.S. Representative for the 30th Congressional District.
Other victories for the Dallas County Democratic Party will now allow the party to control the Dallas County Commissioner’s Court for the first time in almost thirty years. Former City Councilwoman Dr. Elba Garcia defeated long-time incumbent Kenneth Mayfield in District 4. Also, Clay Jenkins was elected Dallas County Judge, defeating incumbent Republican Wade Emmert.
