TYLER, Texas — The Republican primary race for Smith County Pct. 1 commissioner is a two-way race this March.
Incumbent Pam Frederick is getting challenged by Christina Drewry in the March 5 election. Precinct 1 covers the southwest portion of the county, which includes areas like Bullard, Tyler, Flint and Noonday.
Frederick began serving in the role after the November 2022 election as current Smith County Judge Neal Franklin stepped into the judge role after serving as Pct. 1 commissioner.
She has 20 years of experience in governmental leadership. She was mayor of Bullard from 2011 to 2022 and she served on the Bullard City Council starting in 2003 until she became mayor. Frederick is also a retired Texas teacher with 29 years of experience.
Drewry describes herself as a servant, wife and mother who is not a politician. On her website, she says her problem-solving skills and building relationships can be used within county government to make positive change for the taxpayers and county employees.
Previously not interested in politics, Drewry said the COVID-19 pandemic-related regulations and the November 2020 election led her to take a "deep dive" into learning about Texas politics on the state and local level.
There is no Democratic challenger in November for this race. Therefore, the winner of the primary would likely be the next Pct. 1 commissioner.
Early voting began Feb. 20 and runs for just under two weeks. Election Day is March 5. For more information about voting hours and locations, click here.