Helen Kerwin, who defeated incumbent DeWayne Burns in the Republican primary, is bringing her experience as a former mayor and county commissioner to the Texas House.
Motivated by both local and statewide issues, Kerwin says her decision to run was rooted in a desire to make a tangible difference for her community and state.
“The influx of illegal immigration in Eagle Pass had just hit the news, and I was stunned by what was happening in our state and the lack of support from the federal government,” Kerwin said. “Watching Gov. Abbott and Operation Lone Star defending not only Texas but the country inspired me. I’m at a point in my life where I have the time, resources, and energy to make a difference. This opportunity presented itself, and I couldn’t say no.”
Kerwin is already tackling local issues in her district, which includes Johnson and Somervell counties, as she prepares for her first legislative session. She has filed a bill to address PFAs—forever chemicals—after learning about their impact on farmers and ranchers in her district.
“There’s no requirement to test for these forever chemicals, which don’t occur in nature and are now being linked to diseases like cancer and diabetes,” Kerwin explained. “Our farmers deserve clean soil, and our ranchers deserve clean grasslands for their livestock. I hope this will be a bipartisan bill, because it affects everyone.”
Kerwin is also focused on reforming Central Appraisal District boards to ensure more citizen representation, addressing noise concerns from a Bitcoin facility affecting Somervell County residents, and supporting local animal control shelters. On a statewide level, her primary goal is eliminating property taxes.
“My biggest mission in Austin will be eliminating property taxes,” Kerwin said. “I hope I can open the door on that.”
Kerwin acknowledged that transitioning from local government to the state level has been a learning experience, but one she welcomes. “Being a representative in my district and being a representative in Austin are two very different job descriptions,” she said. “I’m excited to work with the 149 other representatives and take on opportunities that can make a real difference.”
Kerwin emphasized the importance of staying accountable to her constituents and maintaining open lines of communication.
“My door is always open,” Kerwin said. “I’ve told my staff I want a doorstop to keep it open the entire time I’m there. I want my constituents to call, come to the Capitol, and testify if they want to support bills.”
In addition to encouraging direct communication, Kerwin is hosting monthly town hall meetings to stay connected with her district. “The night I won, I announced I would hold a town hall meeting the first Saturday of every month at 10 a.m.,” Kerwin said. “Our first one last Saturday was awesome—raucous, even. It’s probably the number one way I’ll remain accountable to my constituents during session.”
