Touts Legislative Accomplishments And Takes Aim At The Future

EL PASO -- After keeping his promise to fight for El Paso, State Representative Joe Moody filed for re-election today and said he aims to get even more done next year in the Texas House.

"Two years ago, I said I would fight for El Paso and stand up to the special interests in Austin," Moody said. "That's exactly what I did and what I will continue to do as your State Representative."

In the 2009 legislative session, Moody passed significant legislation that:

• Strengthened our ability to fight the growth of transnational gangs
• Created an Anti-Public Corruption Unit in the Texas Department of Public Safety
• Increased funding for domestic violence shelters
• Bolstered the rights of domestic violence victims
• Provided a 100 % property tax exemption for 100 % disabled veterans (original bill was added on to another bill that passed)

Because of his effectiveness, Moody was named Freshman of the Year by the Mexican American Legislative Caucus and the Texas District and County Attorneys Association.

In laying out his vision for the future, Moody says it's important to remember El Paso's storied past. He noted that he filed on December 14 because El Paso became the county seat on this date in 1883, ushering in an era of growth and prosperity.

"Just like 126 years ago, El Paso is on the brink of unprecedented opportunities," said Moody. "In the 1880's railroads, mining and manufacturing drove growth, and our next growth spurt will be driven by all types of transportation as well our local military and medical complexes.

"In my campaign, we will focus on progress, not politics," he said. "Whoever my Republican opponent is, I hope we can run campaigns about hope, not hate."

In the 2008 elections, Moody won the Democratic Primary with 70% of the vote and the general election with a six-point margin. His victory was instrumental in ending Tom Craddick's ironfisted control of the Texas House and restoring some harmony and cooperation in the Legislature.

"For too long, we've been led by people with their foot on the brake and their eyes in the rearview mirror," said Moody in conclusion. "Though we must always be careful and prudent, it's time to march forward and demand a new destiny for El Paso and our entire state."

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