Representative John Smithee's website shows the last news release that the representative made to constituents was well over a decade ago.
According to information from Representative Smithee's website, the last time that Representative Smithee (R-Amarillo) released information to constituents through his official House of Representatives website was in January of 2003. In his 2003 statement, Smithee released information to inform residents about the rural caucus within the Texas Legislator.
At the time of Smithee's last news report, Senator Kel Seliger had not yet begun his tenure in the Texas Senate and David Swinford was still representing the district north of Smithee's that is now represented by Representative Four Price (R-Amarillo).
In addition to the news information lacking from Smithee's website, Representative Smithee also fails to list a biography or any other media or newsletters. Smithee's website's most recent addition is a 2016 interview that Smithee participated in with the Texas Association of Business.
Representative Four Price and Senator Kel Seliger both feature biographies, newsletters and other such information on their respective websites.
On the home page of the Texas House of Representatives website, a message from Speaker Joe Straus appears. In his message, Straus alludes that the website is a key part of open government.
"It is my genuine hope that you find this site an invaluable resource to help you learn about the legislative process and stay informed of the activities and accomplishments of the Texas House...," Straus' message reads. "An open government is essential to ensuring public confidence and accountability."
John Smithee has served in the Texas House of Representatives since 1985, when he succeeded Representative Bob Simpson.
To see John Smithee's website, visit http://www.house.state.tx.us/members/member-page/?district=86.
