FROM LEFT: Josh Craft, Dean Crump, Chip Hunt, Sherie Wood, and Kelsey Richardson/Screenshot by Inspire Amarillo
We have asked candidates running for various offices to answer questions for our Voter Guide. While full responses are available here, we are offering you an excerpt in “Candidate Comparisons” ahead of the May 6 general election.
Each response below came directly from the candidate’s questionnaire and is unedited.
Ray White (Withdrawn)
Age: 79 | Occupation: Retired
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
No Comment
Margie Gonzales
Age: 53 | Occupation: Pastor and Chaplain
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
I believe I offer a fresh perspective and a relevant perspective. Of all of the candidates, I believe that I am the most well rounded. I have the background in business administration and accounting along with the fact that I spend every day working in our community to make life better for everyone of our citizens. I believe I best represent the average citizen in our community.
Dean Crump
Age: 59 | Occupation: Entrepreneur
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
I've lived in Amarillo all of my life and believe in the future of our community. I have no political agenda and truly want what's best. I'm a small business owner with experience developing budgets, planning for growth, and bringing people together to tackle big challenges. I'm ready to help take the city in a new direction with a focus on ensuring our basic city services are being met and that our tax dollars are being invested wisely. I'm trustworthy, transparent and honest.
Sherie Wood
Age: 49 | Occupation: Forklift Operator
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
I am the best candidate for the voters to support me for City Council Place 1 because I believe in a fair and transparent Council as well as accountability for actions. I stand for liberty and freedom and believe that every voter has a voice that needs to be heard and acknowledged. I believe in public safety for all. I believe in the rights of individuals that should not be touched or harmed in any way shape form or fashion. I believe in lowering property tax and letting people know what is going on in the city of Amarillo and to ask the people what they believe should be done with the city as well as with their tax paying money. I am for the Voice of the People and I do hear them loud and clear. My motto is "Rejuvenate Amarillo Rejuvenating the People!" I also, first and foremost believe in God and what he will do for me and everyone living in and around Amarillo!!!
Kelsey Richardson
Age: 32 | Occupation: Analyst
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
Because I believe in our town, and the people here. I believe that Amarillo can be that shining city on a hill that shows this country how to turn things around. I want to bring back constitutionalism and limited government. I am running for city council, because I love people and I understand the value of what we have here in America. I'm not willing to sit idly by and let those with bad intentions continue to only do what benefits themselves rather than the community as a whole. I'm ready to stand boldly for what is right and be a voice for the voiceless.
Josh Craft
Age: 28 | Occupation: Firefighter
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
I am not a politician. I have dedicated my life to public service, and have learned leadership skills by witnessing and emulating true servant-leadership style. I am capable of having professional, and productive difficult conversations. I have thorough decision making capabilities. I will be a leader who will work to restore trust and bring people together, even when we don’t agree. I am willing to give everything to ensure the citizens have a voice, and help them trust their elected leaders. I will always vote for what is best for Amarillo, and the people I serve. I will put people first. Every time.
Chip Hunt
Age: 68 | Occupation: Owner of Sixth Street Antique Mall
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
I understand the issues the city is facing and have the business and board experience to get Amarillo back on the right track. I will work tirelessly to stop crime, promote tourism, and represent you.