Reaction Mixed as Jason Corley Enters Race for 19th Congressional District
Lubbock County Commissioner Jason Corley announced this week that he’s forming an exploratory committee to run for Texas’s 19th Congressional District–a seat that covers Lubbock and much of West Texas. While some locals see his entry as a natural next step for a familiar name, a substantial number of Lubbock residents are expressing concern about his decision, his record, and what his campaign might represent.
Download the KKCL Mobile App Now
In his announcement, Corley cited “an outpouring of encouragement from supporters” across the region. However, some voters aren’t buying it. On the post by KCBD NewsChannel 11’s Facebook page that shared Corley’s news, almost all comments were decidedly critical:
- “Wait a minute, didn’t he throw a man-baby tantrum at a commissioner meeting, and now he wants to embarrass us on a bigger platform? No thanks.”
- “Big no!”
- “He heard that the House will shut down for months to avoid votes they would rather avoid and he knew it was the place to be.”
- “He couldn’t show up to vote because the vote wasn’t going to go his way. Is he joining the other side of the ticket this time?”
- “I don’t see a single person on this thread supporting that idea… I wonder what he considers an ‘outpouring of supporters’—his mom?”
- “Is this the guy who couldn’t control himself nor his emotions during that commissioners meeting?”
The negative comments continued, as you can see below:
Why Some Lubbock Voters Are Wary
Corley’s history as a county commissioner gives him recognition in Lubbock, but that same tenure is fueling criticism. Some Lubbock observers point to past controversies during budget hearings and internal disagreements in county government, arguing that his leadership style has at times been combative rather than collaborative. That reputation is now following him into the congressional arena, where voters appear divided between familiarity and frustration.
Critics say Corley will need to clarify his vision and shift perceptions if he wants to move from county politics to representing a broad swath of West Texas in Congress. Voters on the 19th district who are hoping for a standout candidate say they’ll be watching his next moves closely–and for real evidence of leadership that transcends name recognition.
Lubbock Democrats posted the following video of Corley being ‘combative’ to County employees:
What Comes Next for the Race
With the current incumbent, Jodey Arrington, opting not to seek re-election, the 19th district is suddenly wide open. That gives Corley a natural opportunity–but also puts him in a field where numerous aspirants will emerge, each vying for attention. For Lubbock voters, the key questions are already forming:
-
Will Corley present a platform distinct enough to set him apart?
-
Can he address the concerns raised on social media and within the local community about his previous leadership style?
-
Will he appeal beyond his base and show himself capable of serving a diverse district that stretches well beyond Lubbock?…