Incumbent Whose Seat Could Tip the Balance on the State Board of Education Leading in Primary

A long-time swing voter on the State Board of Education seems to be fending off yet another challenge from far-right conservatives as she tries to hold on to her North Texas seat on the board. Patricia "Pat" Hardy, a retired social studies teacher from Fort Worth, was leading most of the night over her two opponents in the Republican primary for the District 11 seat -- which includes Parker County as well as parts of Tarrant and Dallas counties.Hardy has spent 16 years on the board, which is largely charged with setting curriculum standards for public schools. She was challenged by Feyi Obamehinti and Cheryl Surber.Hardy has been a target by those claiming she wasn't conservative enough because she sometimes worked with more moderate board members. Hardy said she tries to keep politics out to do what's best for kids. On the Democratic side for District 11, neuropsychologist Carla Morton Sylvia was maintaining her lead over educator Sylvia "Celeste" Light. But the Democratic race for District 12 -- the winner would replace longtime member Geraldine "Tincy" Miller -- was too close to call although only one candidate actively campaigned.Suzanne Smith, 41, a Dallas consultant who focuses on issues related to social change, was hovering at just over 50 percent most of the night. Candidates need 50 percent plus one vote to win the primary outright. The other two candidates in the race both said they wanted to withdraw but missed the deadline to do so.The winning Democrat for District 12 faces Republican Pamela Little of Fairview in the general election. She will face Fairview in the general election.  Continue reading...