District Attorney Race

[Peaches]

I read the Bio about Wiley "Sonny" McAfee who recently announced his candidacy for District Attorney. He seems very qualified, and I'm anxious to learn more about him.

I know Oatman has not announced his decision as yet, but has anybody else announced for DA?

I expect this will be THE race to watch...

[JakRussll]

Come on Sam. Run Sam. We still need you.

[Reapp]

It's about time for a change, please.

[Nomos]

I read the Bio about Wiley "Sonny" McAfee who recently announced his candidacy for District Attorney. He seems very qualified, and I'm anxious to learn more about him.

I know Oatman has not announced his decision as yet, but has anybody else announced for DA?

I expect this will be THE race to watch...

Who is he? Why did he just recently move here? Did someone recruit him to come here and run and, if so, who is trying to pull the strings and why?

[Peaches]

Who is he? Why did he just recently move here? Did someone recruit him to come here and run and, if so, who is trying to pull the strings and why?

I hope that's not the case. I really don't like the idea of someone moving into the district just to run for public office...especially the DA's job. Surely we have qualified individuals who actually have an interest in his/her community to fill this office. I'd prefer candidates who own property and pay taxes.

[butchkemper]

Who is he? Why did he just recently move here? Did someone recruit him to come here and run and, if so, who is trying to pull the strings and why?
How do you know that the man just recently moved here? I did not find that information in the article announcing his race for the position.

Even if he did just move here, what is the basis for assuming someone is trying to "pull strings?"

Butch

[butchkemper]

I'd prefer candidates who own property and pay taxes.
Everyone pays property taxes, either directly or indirectly through a rent payment.

Butch

[Peaches]

Everyone pays property taxes, either directly or indirectly through a rent payment.

Butch

I understand what you're saying, Butch, but my point is that I'd prefer candidates who have "roots" in the district. Renters can be very mobile. Property owners (with homestead exemptions) generally tend to be less mobile.

I agree that it may be time for a change, but let's make sure the person we choose has a genuine interest in our Districts. And, let's also make sure we don't find ourselves holding a special election to name a replacement shortly down the road.

I know we have people within the 33rd and 424th Judicial Districts who meet the qualifications. Let's encourage them to seek election.

[ohcuriousone]

I agree with several of you.

A. It is most definitely time for a change. Our officers are tired of spending hours putting together cases for the courts only to have they grow old and dusty in our current DA's office files.

B. I also agree that I would prefer someone with some "roots".

C. While the article doesn't say - my research of public records for the counties of Burnet, Llano, San Saba and Blanco shows that he does not own property under the McAfee name nor Randolph McAfee.

D. I understand that some of his "desires" are particularly attractive to area voters but then if I were running for office I would make sure that was the case. One only has to go to coffee or any number of places in the Hill Country to hear the many displeased stories dealing with the DA's office. You could design the perfect platform merely by listening to what's wrong with the current one.

Let's all keep our ears open slightly more than our mouth and see what else comes down the road!:popcorn:

[Peaches]

I agree with several of you.

A. It is most definitely time for a change. Our officers are tired of spending hours putting together cases for the courts only to have they grow old and dusty in our current DA's office files.

B. I also agree that I would prefer someone with some "roots".

C. While the article doesn't say - my research of public records for the counties of Burnet, Llano, San Saba and Blanco shows that he does not own property under the McAfee name nor Randolph McAfee.

D. I understand that some of his "desires" are particularly attractive to area voters but then if I were running for office I would make sure that was the case. One only has to go to coffee or any number of places in the Hill Country to hear the many displeased stories dealing with the DA's office. You could design the perfect platform merely by listening to what's wrong with the current one.

Let's all keep our ears open slightly more than our mouth and see what else comes down the road!:popcorn:
I totally agree with you, Curious.

For whatever it might be worth, this is the info from the State Bar of Texas:
Mr. Wiley B. 'Sonny McAfee' McAfee Jr.


Bar Card Number: 13318020
Work Address: P.O. Box 325

Buchanan Dam, TX 78609-0325
Work Phone Number: 940-231-0475
Primary Practice Location:

Does anybody have any "favorites" for DA candidate?

[Peaches]

He owns homesteaded property in Denton County, but the tax bill is mailed to a lake home in the Cassie subdivision that's homesteaded to a different person. I supposed this could indicate a very recent home purchase, but I just can't find anything that establishes residency within the Judicial Districts here.

Let's get motivated! Are there any current or past Assistant DAs that are qualified?

[Caretaker]

He owns homesteaded property in Denton County, but the tax bill is mailed to a lake home in the Cassie subdivision that's homesteaded to a different person. I supposed this could indicate a very recent home purchase, but I just can't find anything that establishes residency within the Judicial Districts here.

Let's get motivated! Are there any current or past Assistant DAs that are qualified?


Did you check the DEED history for the Cassie property?. And whats it show for mailing address for only that property..

Also is there anywhere in the rules for a Time limit for residency when it comes to the DAs position?.. In citys they say at least a year or two.

[Caretaker]

I agree with several of you.

A. It is most definitely time for a change. Our officers are tired of spending hours putting together cases for the courts only to have they grow old and dusty in our current DA's office files.

B. I also agree that I would prefer someone with some "roots".

C. While the article doesn't say - my research of public records for the counties of Burnet, Llano, San Saba and Blanco shows that he does not own property under the McAfee name nor Randolph McAfee.

D. I understand that some of his "desires" are particularly attractive to area voters but then if I were running for office I would make sure that was the case. One only has to go to coffee or any number of places in the Hill Country to hear the many displeased stories dealing with the DA's office. You could design the perfect platform merely by listening to what's wrong with the current one.

Let's all keep our ears open slightly more than our mouth and see what else comes down the road!:popcorn:

Is it possible that he lives in a property that is under an LLC or a Corp name.?

Also what kind of cases are gathering Dust in the DAs files? Seems to me that the Real criminal cases would be first.

[Peaches]

Did you check the DEED history for the Cassie property?. And whats it show for mailing address for only that property..

Also is there anywhere in the rules for a Time limit for residency when it comes to the DAs position?.. In citys they say at least a year or two.

I did check the deed records. There are taxes due from 2010, and under normal circumstances those taxes would be paid when property changes to another person. Even if this is a recent transaction, I would expect that no 2010 taxes would be due.

I was really excited about this candidate when I read his biography, and I agree that we need a change. I just want to make sure we make the right change...

[Peaches]

The Secretary of State's Web Site indicates that a candidate must be a resident of his/her district for a period of 2 years before the General Election is held....

[countryboy]

I hope that's not the case. I really don't like the idea of someone moving into the district just to run for public office...especially the DA's job. Surely we have qualified individuals who actually have an interest in his/her community to fill this office. I'd prefer candidates who own property and pay taxes.

I,d prefer someone who has been here awhile as well.He probably moved here cause his chances seemed better for a win.It happens alot in politics.. I read the BIO in the paper and it seems to me that hes not for staying in one area that long.(except the Houston stint)Or is the Hill country his last stop before retirement.. I also did not like the statement about Sam Oatman not Detering crime. Like this guy would be able to. Who does he think he is Judge Roy Bean.

[Caretaker]

The Secretary of State's Web Site indicates that a candidate must be a resident of his/her district for a period of 2 years before the General Election is held....

If it is two years then all one would have to do is checking his filing papers to see what dates were jotted down to see how long hes been a resident..Compare that to the current address..

[Peaches]

I,d prefer someone who has been here awhile as well.He probably moved here cause his chances seemed better for a win.It happens alot in politics.. I read the BIO in the paper and it seems to me that hes not for staying in one area that long.(except the Houston stint)Or is the Hill country his last stop before retirement.. I also did not like the statement about Sam Oatman not Detering crime. Like this guy would be able to. Who does he think he is Judge Roy Bean.

I agree with you, Countryboy. There is a reason for the residency requirement. The bad news is that nobody really enforces it...

I don't want to elect anybody for public office that doesn't follow the rules and requirements. It may not be a "crime" but it certainly isn't a good example for anyone who says he wants to "deter crime" to set...

[chilimeat]

Vast difference between being a cop and a prosecutor. Both may have good intentions but has McAfee ever stood before a Jury and announced ready for trial? Any one who had graduated law school can run for DA, but that does not mean they know how to try a case. How is he going to train prosecutors if he has never really been one? No fan of Oatman, but saying your going to be tough on crime and end a high turnover rate of attorneys is not as impressive as having been there and done that.

[Black Diamond]

I have done some research. Mr. McAfee's driver license information shows that he resides in Burnet.

[ins_man_77]

As of November14, 2011...

1) Homestead on books for Denton
2) Current Voter Registration is for Corinth, TX
3) Bar Card recently changed to Buchanan Dam PO Box
4) Drivers License is listed to a rental house on lake buchanan out of the Button Trust managed in California
5) IF none of this adds up for you in his sincerity, ask his 1st ex wife....or the 2nd ex wife....or maybe the 3rd ex wife....or if they cant tell ya, ask his current, 4th wife....and you people are questioning his dedication?

[Peaches]

Honestly, I'm not confident with either of the candidates for DA. We have one who's mother allegedly hid the knife that was used by the mother's boyfriend to kill the candidate's brother (the mother's son) and we have one that may just be job hunting. I really wish we had a better choice for this position. What a mess!

[Reapp]

Honestly, I'm not confident with either of the candidates for DA. We have one who's mother allegedly hid the knife that was used by the mother's boyfriend to kill the candidate's brother (the mother's son) and we have one that may just be job hunting. I really wish we had a better choice for this position. What a mess!

How in the world is that the candidates fault that her mother did that?

[Peaches]

How in the world is that the candidates fault that her mother did that?

I didn't say it was her fault, but the case had to go to the AG's office for prosecution because the candidate worked for the DA's office when the boyfriend's case came up. (Her employment with the DA's office was VERY short lived.) Because of that situation I have concerns about her ability to prosecute cases of similar circumstances. Will she be able to adequately prosecute someone charged with tampering with evidence or murder?

One might also remember she went up against Judge Dan Mills in his initial 424th District Court race. I feel she might not be running for the DA position because she feels she has the best qualifications, but because she needs a job.

I'm just not excited about either of these candidates.

[Been here forever]

McAfee does NOT pay taxes in this district. He is NOT vested in this district. Dowdle raises her family here, pays taxes here, owns a home here, has been here for 20 something years, has a successful law practice that she will have to give up when elected and will be taking a pay cut to provide public service. She by no means needs a job.....she is however highly qualified and has the experience to do a phenomenal job. She worked part time in 2010 for Oatman to help move cases through when there was some turnover etc. She has been appointed as District Drug Court Judge, helped write the grants for that and is a licenses CPA, and can work with budgets creatively to help revolutionize that office. She's the person to vote for!

[Reapp]

If you want to campaign, go somewhere else.

[Peaches]

Steven Todd is running! My initial reaction is that he will be my choice. I've seen him in action, and he is really sharp-thinking. Of course, there may be things I don't know about him...but he's always been a prosecutor, and I like that idea!!!

[Webmaster]

Steven is a great family man in addition to being a great prosecutor. I've known him for about 12 years.

[Doubtful]

It seems to me that criminal prosecution in this (these) districts is stagnant and ineffectual. Perhaps a "hired gun" with Mr. McAfee's experience is just the ticket to approach the problem with a fresh perspective.

I appreciate the other poster's views on length-of-residency and property ownership. However, a man with few personal or familial ties MAY be more able to speak for ALL of us than a candidate with those many strong ties.

I'm no expert (today) on obtaining the details of campaign funding, but I'd be interested to see any such information that the posters on this forum might have.

Food for thought.

[sdann03]

www.hillcountryvoterforum.weebly.com (http://www.hillcountryvoterforum.weebly.com/). The site was set up because I had several requests to do one & there is no site that I could find that has a compilation of all candidates from all parties. All the races in Burnet & Llano Counties are there with all "current" candidates for those offices, along with a link to either their website, Facebook page or Twitter account. There is a poll for you to vote for your candidate and a blog as well. I have also included a job description for our county offices.

Please feel free to let others know about the site and if you see a correction that needs to be made, let me know.

Have a great day and may God bless each and every one of you.

Shelly

[Hills4me]

As of November14, 2011...

1) Homestead on books for Denton
2) Current Voter Registration is for Corinth, TX
3) Bar Card recently changed to Buchanan Dam PO Box
4) Drivers License is listed to a rental house on lake buchanan out of the Button Trust managed in California
5) IF none of this adds up for you in his sincerity, ask his 1st ex wife....or the 2nd ex wife....or maybe the 3rd ex wife....or if they cant tell ya, ask his current, 4th wife....and you people are questioning his dedication?

I have heard repeatedly that this guy was recruited by two political lobbyist/operatives out of Austin (one which now lives in Burnet County) and one of our District officeholders.

[Hills4me]

McAfee does NOT pay taxes in this district. He is NOT vested in this district. Dowdle raises her family here, pays taxes here, owns a home here, has been here for 20 something years, has a successful law practice that she will have to give up when elected and will be taking a pay cut to provide public service. She by no means needs a job.....she is however highly qualified and has the experience to do a phenomenal job. She worked part time in 2010 for Oatman to help move cases through when there was some turnover etc. She has been appointed as District Drug Court Judge, helped write the grants for that and is a licenses CPA, and can work with budgets creatively to help revolutionize that office. She's the person to vote for!

Angela Dowdle is the right person for our DA. She has the experience plus knows the District and it's citizens. Not a recruited CARPETBAGGER that needs a "real" job.

[Reapp]

You leave out the part where she is backed by a defense attorney?

[Hills4me]

You leave out the part where she is backed by a defense attorney?

Based on conversations I have had, Angela Dowdle seems to be backed by the vast majority of attorneys in the district that practice all types of law.

[Peaches]

Stephen Todd, current Assistant Attorney General and Former 33rd Judicial District Assistant District Attorney is far better qualified than any of the others.

[Peaches]

You leave out the part where she is backed by a defense attorney?


She is backed by Eddie Shell. Shell was going to seek the DA position, but decided to back Dowdle instead.

[Hills4me]

Stephen Todd, current Assistant Attorney General and Former 33rd Judicial District Assistant District Attorney is far better qualified than any of the others.

I too liked what I heard from Richard Todd at the candidates forum last month and spoke with him personally. Both Angela Dowdle and Steven are well qualified.

But Sonny McAfee just moved here to run and is unqualified as far as I am concerned. For starters, according to his bio, he has not practiced in a court room in 12 - 15 years. Just what we need, an on-the-job-training DA!

[Hills4me]

She is backed by Eddie Shell. Shell was going to seek the DA position, but decided to back Dowdle instead.

I do not believe that Eddie Shell could ever win. As for Angela Doedle, she is backed by a significant amount of the attorneys in the District. They know her well since she is typically in a courtroom in this district most every day. A number of attorneys I have asked, told me that she is very fair and qualified.

[Peaches]

I do not believe that Eddie Shell could ever win. As for Angela Doedle, she is backed by a significant amount of the attorneys in the District. They know her well since she is typically in a courtroom in this district most every day. A number of attorneys I have asked, told me that she is very fair and qualified.

With that in mind, who are law enforcement officials backing? I'm not altoghther for someone just because a certain group offers their support. The attorneys are going to back the person with whom they can best negotiate, while law enforcement will back the candidate who will be most likely to take a tough stance on criminals...

[sdann03]

What amazes me the most is that people say they are sick and tired of politicians & politics as usual; but when given the opportunity to choose between slick politicians who can give good speeches and tell people what they want to hear and a real person with passion, they fall hook, line and sinker for the politician. Is it any wonder we are where we are. What's even more disturbing is that once they hear what they want to hear, they look no further and make their decision right then and there.

After attending a number of forums, my ballot will be cast for Angela Dowdle because I believe she is the best person for the job.

[Peaches]

What amazes me the most is that people say they are sick and tired of politicians & politics as usual; but when given the opportunity to choose between slick politicians who can give good speeches and tell people what they want to hear and a real person with passion, they fall hook, line and sinker for the politician. Is it any wonder we are where we are. What's even more disturbing is that once they hear what they want to hear, they look no further and make their decision right then and there.

After attending a number of forums, my ballot will be cast for Angela Dowdle because I believe she is the best person for the job.

How do you define "politician"? And, you have to remember that the DA will have to give good speeches to juries when the time comes for that person to stand up in the court room.

[sdann03]

How do you define "politician"? And, you have to remember that the DA will have to give good speeches to juries when the time comes for that person to stand up in the court room.

First let me say that there is a reason that the Texas Code of Criminal Procedures, Art. 2.01. [25] [30] [31] DUTIES OF DISTRICT has a law that states: "It shall be the primary duty of all prosecuting attorneys,including any special prosecutors, not to convict, but to see that justice is done. They shall not suppress facts or secrete witnesses capable of establishing the innocence of the accused."

It's about justice and not about conviction rates. After being involved with our criminal justice system (in Houston, Texas, which is where Mr. McAfee spent 20 years in law enforcement), there is a reason the legislature found it necessary to put it in writing. I am all for getting criminals off the streets; however, if you convict an innocent person, you have ruined their life and the one who actually committed the crime is still at large.

It's about being a public servant and not about having a position of authority. There is a difference between a politician and a statesman. The following is a great explanation of the difference. "Politician, statesman refer to one skilled in politics. These terms differ particularly in their connotations; politician is more often derogatory, and statesman laudatory. Politician suggests the schemes and devices of a person who engages in (especially small) politics for party ends or for one's own advantage: a dishonest politician. Statesman suggests the eminent ability, foresight, and unselfish patriotic devotion of a person dealing with (especially important or great) affairs of state: a distinguished statesman."

Finally, proving your case with facts and being able to present the facts to a jury is the ultimate goal. All the candidates running for DA have the ability to do that from having listened to them all. What I am looking for are the qualities of a statesman and not the ability to schmooze people, whether that be the public or a jury. Not to offend anyone, but I liken this race to Obama's Hope & Change message that so resounded with people that they never got past those two words. How's that working for America?

[Hills4me]

With that in mind, who are law enforcement officials backing? I'm not altoghther for someone just because a certain group offers their support. The attorneys are going to back the person with whom they can best negotiate, while law enforcement will back the candidate who will be most likely to take a tough stance on criminals...

I agree and we need to ask ourselves why Sheriffs and even a District Judge appear to be endorsing or backing what amounts to a carpetbagger candidate - Sonny McAfee? If you think it appears they are trying to "rig" the election for DA - I suspect that you are spot on! There is absolutely NO way I would personally EVER vote for Sonny McAfee. The other two DA candidates both appear to be qualified. I talked with both of them at the Burnet candidates forum last month and believe they are both sincere and have years of legitimate vested investment in Burnet, Llano, San Saba and Blanco counties.

[Llano]

Carpetbagger!?!?! Now that is a pretty strong term, especially if you haven't personally met, Wiley (Sonny) McAfee.

I have had the pleasure of speaking with all of the candidates personally and I like them all. They were all polite, professional and trustworthy.

I was particuarly impressed with Mr. McAfee's vision for the district, his vast experience, and his positive attitude. In suggesting to Mr. McAfee, I would like for our district to conduct business more like the Williamson County's D.A. office, his response was "I think we can be better than that", and went on to explain how. Mr. McAfee also has a plan (not lots of extra tax dollars) which will have Assistant D.A.'s striving to work here.

Many of our local law enforcement officials and personal have worked with Mr. Todd and Ms. Dowdle when they worked in the current D.A.'s office, but have chosen Mr. McAfee to endorse. You ask, why is that? I can't answer that, perhaps you should ask them yourself.

This is my opinion, and I respect your right to have a different opinion.

[Reapp]

We need someone to come in and make the changes that need to be made in the DA's office, doesn't really matter where they come from. We need this to be a place that sex offenders, drug dealers and other criminals avoid, not flock to.

[Caretaker]

Carpetbagger!?!?! Now that is a pretty strong term, especially if you haven't personally met, Wiley (Sonny) McAfee.

I have had the pleasure of speaking with all of the candidates personally and I like them all. They were all polite, professional and trustworthy.

I was particuarly impressed with Mr. McAfee's vision for the district, his vast experience, and his positive attitude. In suggesting to Mr. McAfee, I would like for our district to conduct business more like the Williamson County's D.A. office, his response was "I think we can be better than that", and went on to explain how. Mr. McAfee also has a plan (not lots of extra tax dollars) which will have Assistant D.A.'s striving to work here.

Many of our local law enforcement officials and personal have worked with Mr. Todd and Ms. Dowdle when they worked in the current D.A.'s office, but have chosen Mr. McAfee to endorse. You ask, why is that? I can't answer that, perhaps you should ask them yourself.

This is my opinion, and I respect your right to have a different opinion.

the term carpet bagger is a very old term.It was generally meant to reference one who came from another area in the hopes of capitalizing on a situation, making a profit or trying to sell you something. I,m not saying This candidate is but the term can fit.

[ins_man_77]

I agree and we need to ask ourselves why Sheriffs and even a District Judge appear to be endorsing or backing what amounts to a carpetbagger candidate - Sonny McAfee? If you think it appears they are trying to "rig" the election for DA - I suspect that you are spot on! There is absolutely NO way I would personally EVER vote for Sonny McAfee. The other two DA candidates both appear to be qualified. I talked with both of them at the Burnet candidates forum last month and believe they are both sincere and have years of legitimate vested investment in Burnet, Llano, San Saba and Blanco counties.


Because several of our elected officials which are backing him are all aligned with a "political consultant" out of austin that they are all paying good money to ensure they are elected/re-elected and "Sonny" was recruited by that consultant. Sherriff, Clerk, Sonny, and Davis all in the same pocket.....Who is gonna owe who when this deal is done?

[sdann03]

If you have not visited http://www.hillcountryvoterforum.weebly.com recently, I have updated the site with the links to the Burnet & Llano County Election Administrators' websites which have the dates, voting locations, sample ballots, etc. For those who haven't visited at all, all the races from Commissioner to President are on the site with links to their websites, an unofficial poll & a blog are there. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO LET EVERYONE KNOW ABOUT THE SITE.

[Llano]

Because several of our elected officials which are backing him are all aligned with a "political consultant" out of austin that they are all paying good money to ensure they are elected/re-elected and "Sonny" was recruited by that consultant. Sherriff, Clerk, Sonny, and Davis all in the same pocket.....Who is gonna owe who when this deal is done?


I must not be very smart because I'm really confused. Lets say, I decide to run for public office. And because I'm not a career politician, I hire someone from out of the district (possibly a consultant) to help me with my campaign. Now, I took my or my campaigns money and pay this person or company, and now I OWE THEM?!?!

Am I missing something here?

As far as this consultant recruiting Mr McAfee, I dont know if that is true or not. Here is what I do know. There are many people in the District not pleased with the way the DA's off is being run, so, many of us were looking for someone qualified to run for this extremely important office. If you will do your research, Mr McAfee is the only candidate bold enough to sign up before the current DA announced his retirement.

Now who is playing political games and using the good ole boy system?

[ins_man_77]

Several local officials including the district clerk, sheriff, and candidate for district judge are all using the same "political consultant" from austin. mcafee was recruited to give them a full slate of candidates to control and pull votes as needed. Being his is former law enforcement, and was just in town in HSB last year training other law enforecement officials on how to stay out of trouble and skirt the laws edge when dealing with suspects - ie we are now innocent till proven guilty viewpoint. There are some other counties in the district which certain officials worried about keeping their well entrenched tax-funded salaries which have also aligned themselves with this crew. This is the common thread. Also, former Texas Rangers are not working with the locals and the cases that the current Texas Rangers are - just a thought to keep in mind. (please see - former law enforcement...think we are all starting to see the picture now).
Also, I believe you will see soon in the local, and looks like, state level newspapers that mcafee is registered to vote and holds a homestead for his PRIMARY residence in Denton county and resided there and enjoyed those tax breaks until the house was placed on the market in January of this election year.....well short of the 6 months of continuous and verifiable residence requirement set forth by the Constitution of the State of Texas and Texas Election Code - even with the Federal Court deadline extended to March 24, 2012 he is only 4 months short or so.
(footnote, according to State of Texas and Denton County records, mcafee is not documented in having voted one time in 10 years at his prior residence - a great showing of his care of our political system and personal responsibilities....not to mention his "dedication" and "republican conservative" stance loses luster with some being on his 4th - yes FOURTH wife....if he is that dedicated in the marriage under the eyes of God, just think what he will do for us!)

[Llano]

Hmmm "INS Man" you obviously are one of the candidates or very close to one of the candidates in this race.

If there was something illegal, rather than rumor, I think you would have filed to have Mr. McAfee pulled from this election. It looks like you will stop at nothing to smear quite a few elected officials and law enforcement.

Rather than calling newspapers and every one else you can get to listen to you, why don't you just run a clean campaign and let the best candidate win?

You seem to be hung up on the Austin Political Consultant some candidates have hired. If one is not a professional candidate, who the heck do they hire to help them? I, for one would hire the consultant that is reccommended by someone I know and who has had proven results. Sounds like a solid business decision to me, sorry you or your candidate didn't make the same choice.

I will also suggest to you, retired or not, once a Texas Ranger, always a Texas Ranger, I find it difficult to imagine them not talking.

I wish you all the best in campaigining.

[Peaches]

There seems to be no controversy over Stephen Todd. He's the best qualified and will get my vote!

[Llano]

Peaches, I must disagree with you on two counts.
1. I don't believe anyone is without controversy.
2. My opinion is. Mr. McAfee is by far the most qualified candidate to serve as D.A. for us.

I must admit, I'm scared to death one of the other candidates will win and the D.A.'s office will be run as usual, because they both worked there before.

Crime is creeping our way from the larger cities. We need someone with the experience in dealing with the horrible things that happen in the larger cities. Mr. McAfee has years of experience dealing with Murders, Drugs, Violent Crimes, and even Internal Affairs on the law enforcement side. On the legal side, if a prosecuter is doing a Capital Murder trial, who do they call for legal assistance? Someone like Mr. McAfee who teaches prosecuters how to try cases.

Peaches and others that have questions about Mr. McAfee, don't you think it best to ask him, and not rely on something posted on the internet? I see him everywhere, and frankly, I've asked him a lot of questions. I don't mind asking tough questions, and he has answered each and everyone of them directly with NO POLITICAL SPIN. (I can't stand political spin)

[Peaches]

Peaches, I must disagree with you on two counts.
1. I don't believe anyone is without controversy.
2. My opinion is. Mr. McAfee is by far the most qualified candidate to serve as D.A. for us.

I must admit, I'm scared to death one of the other candidates will win and the D.A.'s office will be run as usual, because they both worked there before.

Crime is creeping our way from the larger cities. We need someone with the experience in dealing with the horrible things that happen in the larger cities. Mr. McAfee has years of experience dealing with Murders, Drugs, Violent Crimes, and even Internal Affairs on the law enforcement side. On the legal side, if a prosecuter is doing a Capital Murder trial, who do they call for legal assistance? Someone like Mr. McAfee who teaches prosecuters how to try cases.

Peaches and others that have questions about Mr. McAfee, don't you think it best to ask him, and not rely on something posted on the internet? I see him everywhere, and frankly, I've asked him a lot of questions. I don't mind asking tough questions, and he has answered each and everyone of them directly with NO POLITICAL SPIN. (I can't stand political spin)

I also ask tough questions and do lots of investigating on any political candidate before endorsing him/her. I have found no reason to believe that Mr. McAfee meets the qualifications, including residency, to become our District Attorney. I looked at his company's website early on, and when I heard the rumor that he didn't meet the residency requirement, I checked his homestead exemption and found that it was not in our judicial district. In fact, I checked today and he still claims a homestead exemption in the Denton CAD. I find no property listed under his name in the Burnet CAD. The address he used on his campaign finance report belongs to someone who claims a homestead exemption, a disabled vet exemption and an over 65 exemption.

I find he has a post office box in Buchanan Dam as his mailing address, and that his and his wife's cell phones have Denton area codes. These factors lead me to believe Mr. McAfee is only here temporarily.

Mr. McAfee has owned that home in Denton since 2002. Why has he chosen to seek election in the 33rd and 424th Judicial Districts rather than where he's lived for 10 years? It seems he's held a lot of jobs over his career, and I'm curious as to why he jumped around so often.

Llano, you need to go look at the very first post on this thread and see who started it, and what I had to say when McAfee first announced. I did my research and didn't like what I found on Mr. McAfee. I don't know him personally...he's probably a nice man. But, I don't take anything any politician says at face value. I'm a "show-me" person.

As for Steven Todd - I've been in the courtroom with Mr. Todd when he was ADA in our district. I believe he was here 7 or more years before going to work in the State AG's office. He's an honest man. He's a good man. He's a smart man. I believe he cares about his community and will be a great district attorney.

[sdann03]

Thank you, Peaches. I wish everyone was as diligent as you are about looking into candidates. If they were, we wouldn't be in the mess we are in!!!!!

[Caretaker]

I,m with Peaches on this one. Todd has my vote.

[countryboy]

If you have not visited http://www.hillcountryvoterforum.weebly.com recently, I have updated the site with the links to the Burnet & Llano County Election Administrators' websites which have the dates, voting locations, sample ballots, etc. For those who haven't visited at all, all the races from Commissioner to President are on the site with links to their websites, an unofficial poll & a blog are there. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO LET EVERYONE KNOW ABOUT THE SITE.

I went and voted on that forum. Its strange though how Obama was out in front. Is that a democrats site? I surely would have thought Ron Paul would be leading.

[Llano]

I too have seen Mr Todd in the court room. While serving on the grand jury he presented cases to us. Peaches we obvioulsy have a difference of opinion on his ability. Although Mr Todd seems to be a nice person, and I don't hate him or wish to present anything negative about him. As I said before, no one is without controversy.

We need a proven manager who can prosecute, not a prosecuter who will do "On the Job Training" trying to become a manager.

Since so much research has been done on Mr McAfee, did you discover, he tried to move here 5 years ago? Did you discover he was interviewed by the current DA and was offered a job as Assistant DA, but they couldn't agree on compensation. Have you ever changed your homestead and noted how long it takes to show up on public records? Have you ever signed a contract for cell phones and noticed how long a typical contract last? Have you ever moved to a new area and leased/rented until you found the Right Place to buy?

I for one like fresh new idea's, and sometime to get them you need to recruit from outside your area, that is how one runs a successful business.

There is an old saying, those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

[Peaches]

I too have seen Mr Todd in the court room. While serving on the grand jury he presented cases to us. Peaches we obvioulsy have a difference of opinion on his ability. Although Mr Todd seems to be a nice person, and I don't hate him or wish to present anything negative about him. As I said before, no one is without controversy.

We need a proven manager who can prosecute, not a prosecuter who will do "On the Job Training" trying to become a manager.

Since so much research has been done on Mr McAfee, did you discover, he tried to move here 5 years ago? Did you discover he was interviewed by the current DA and was offered a job as Assistant DA, but they couldn't agree on compensation. Have you ever changed your homestead and noted how long it takes to show up on public records? Have you ever signed a contract for cell phones and noticed how long a typical contract last? Have you ever moved to a new area and leased/rented until you found the Right Place to buy?

I for one like fresh new idea's, and sometime to get them you need to recruit from outside your area, that is how one runs a successful business.

There is an old saying, those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.


I do have several comments/questions, Llano, but again, I don't know Mr. McAfee. He's probably a very nice man.
"Trying" to move here doesn't qualify for actual residency.
How is he "renting" a place that still has a homestead exemption, over-65 exemption and a disabled vet exemption?
Telephone contracts can be changed in instances where that particular cell phone service is not available. Why has that not happened? Why has Mr. McAfee not called his cell phone company and asked for a local number, or explained he no longer lives in that company's area, and asked if the contract could be dropped if the company does not serve the Burnet or Lake Buchanan area?
Why no home phone?
A lot of people have been offered jobs in the DA's office over the past several years. One of those people didn't last six months there, but now she wants to be the DA. That's a scary thought!
I am adament about not electing someone who has not been honest with the people who live in the 33rd and 424th Judicial Districts. Something is just not right about Mr. McAfee's residency. Watch how long it'll take Mr. McAfee to get his homestead established if he doesn't get elected. He'll be down the road in a flash.

Llano, if Mr. McAfee does not get elected and does not get his name on the Burnet LCAD (or another CAD in the Judicial District) how about you owe me a DQ Ice Cream? If he does win, your DQ treat will be on me. Deal?

[sdann03]

I went and voted on that forum. Its strange though how Obama was out in front. Is that a democrats site? I surely would have thought Ron Paul would be leading.

It is not affiliated with any particular party. As you can see, all the candidates from all the parties are there. I think, because there are so few Dems in the area, that when they found a platform, they sent it to everyone they knew and so on and so on. I was pretty surprised by it as well. I have it set so that you can only vote once per IP and E-mail address to try and prevent people from voting more than once. If you have any other questions, please let me know.

Shelly Comerford
830-385-6833

[Llano]

Peaches, I don't usually bet such large amounts, but your are on!!!! I must clarify one thing, that is a single cone, not a double, right?

Why don't you call Mr McAfee and go fishing with him from his home on Lake Buchannan, I'm sure you both would enjoy each others company. I really don't care if he owns, rents, leases, inherited, received as a gift, or what ever, as long as he has lived in the District the Required amount of time, which he has without question.

Now lets discuss something of importance. There is currently an on going campaign to smear Mr. McAfee with lies and threads of truth at every turn. They can't rely on experience, fact or truth to win so they have chosen a questionable path.

In my opinion Ms Dowled has stepped over the line with the latest piece of literature she put on the door of my mothers home in Llano. In it she states, Mr Mcafee hasn't done a long list of things required of an attorney, then if you look really close and in the upper right hand corner in itty bitty print it says "in this district, Sonny has...". I'm sure they researched it and people rarely look in the upper right hand corner for information. This is the tactic a career defense attorney would use, not a prosecuter, and especially not a future District Attorney.

I prefer an up front and honest person to represent me, not someone that plays (in my opinion) Dirty Tricks.

[Peaches]

I prefer an up front and honest person to represent me, not someone that plays (in my opinion) Dirty Tricks.

Llano, a single cone will be fine...lol

I agree with your statement. I'm not out to launch an attack on Ms. Dowdle, but I've not heard pleasant things about some of her work ethics. And, to be honest, if there is a runoff between Dowdle and McAfee, Mr. McAfee will get my vote.

Let me say it this way...I believe Stephen Todd has been a prosecutor most, if not all, of his career. Based on his records, he has no problem convincing me that he lives within the Judicial District.

You know as well as I that the really important question for these candidates is, "Why do you want to be our District Attorney?" It would be so amazing to be able to look inside their minds and know for sure what their answer would be.

Unfortunately, I have trouble reading my own mind sometimes...I'm sure I'll never be gifted with the ability to read anybody else's mind!

[Llano]

OH MY, tell me it isn't true, I've heard rumors from two different people that you can get paid for putting one of the candidates signs on your property. Let me just say it isn't Mr McAfee's camapign doing this.

Why would a Republican candidate have a local Democrat Defense Attorey's truck parked on the Llano Square with a large Angela Dowdle sign in the bed of it? Hmmm who owe's who??

Sad to say, one candidate and their campaign think dirty tricks will win an election.

[Llano]

WOW!!! I just recieved a copy of an email sent out by Walter McKee. First let me say, I appreciate Mr McKEE signing what he sends out.

In the email, he states "I believe Bill made an important error in judgement." The "Bill" he is referring to is Horseshoe Bay Police Chief Bill Lane. According to Mr McKEE the error in judgment was the personal endorsement Mr Lane made of Wiley (Sonny) McAFEE for District Attorney.

He goes on to say "I am concerned with the potential for a conflict of interest that has been created by seeking the support of all the heads of Law Enforcement in the DA's area of responsibility. Apparently these well meaning men did not recall that a DA is the Chief Prosecutor should they or their departments run afoul of the law, perhaps a brief lapse of memory."

With all due respect Mr McKEE, it's sad to see a Conservative reach as far as you have, to try to discredit a political opponent as pointed out above. This is also an insult to all the great law enforcement personnel that serve us in our District. A CONFLICT OF INTEREST??!?!?! You want to know what I think is a Conflict of Interest, that is YOUR public support of a Republican Candidate who's largest financial supporter is a Democrat Criminal Defense Attorney

Law Enforcement and the DA's office must work together as a team to get the criminals off our streets.

More importantly, most of the law enforcement who have endorsed Mr McAfee have had the opportunity to work with his opponents in this race as they both have worked at the District Attorney's office. After working with Mr McAFEE's opponents, they chose to endorse Mr McAfee, I wonder why that is??? I really don't believe it is because as you say "should they or their departments run afoul of the law". I imagine it goes far deeper than that,

Let me ask this question, who do you think Criminal Defense Attorney's will support for District Attorney? A candidate with a strong law enforcement back ground, or one of their own?

I strongly support Wiley (Sonny) McAFEE to be our next District Attorney as I am convinced he is the best man for the job.

David Hussey
(Llano)

[Kelly Aldridge]

I had assumed Mr. Hussey would be joining in the conversation at some point. Mr. Hussey of course is defending the candidate he was instrumental in bringing to this district. He of course is offended when any other residents stand up to endorse the candidate they prefer whether the resident is democrat or republican. It was clear last fall as I sat in your office that you were a key player in the McAfee campaign, and it was even more clear that you assumed all of the "prominent" business leaders and well known residents of Llano county would follow suit. Probably stings when they don't all jump on your McAfee train, but I am glad to say that even my family that knows you well have not jumped on board, and have not followed your endorsement of a man that has only a newfound interest in our district. I worry daily about the effects a possible McAfee win will have on this district. I of course want what is best for my family, for our district and for our residents. Mr. McAfee in my opinion is NOT that. I have made it a point to listen to him at forums, meet him at events and he comes across in person as an arrogant short timer that was recruited here by the Johnnie B. Rogers, David Hussey, et al political candidate recruiting firm. I find that to be grossly negligent, and a loss for four counties in this district.

[Llano]

Ms Aldridge, first I would like to Thank You for taking the time to bring Ms Dowdle by my office so I could meet her and speak with her one on one. Ms Dowdle as yourself are very nice ladies and I enjoyed our conversation.

I apoligize if I seem offended by someone not supporting my choice of candidates. That has never been my intent.

As far as my Recruiting Mr McAfEE, that is incorrect. I would be proud to have been the one to bring him here, but I can't take credit for something I didn't do. Having said that, I will tell you I was actively looking for a candidate to run for District Attorney. I honestly can't remember (old timers disease) who first told me Mr McAFEE was going to run, but I can tell you about our first meeting. I met an individual who appeared confident, intelligent, and personable. After many lengthy conversations with Mr McAFEE, he has proven my first impression to be correct.

Ms Aldridge, you and others seem to ignore Mr McAFEE's vast experience, knowledge, proven leadership and management experience essential to be our District Attorney. If you will do additional research, you will find Mr McAFEE also teaches prosecutors how to properly do their job. This is exactly why I am Endorsing Mr McAFEE.

I keep hearing two things over and over.
1) We must hate him because he hired a political consultant. In my opinion, if you aren't experienced at something (politics), seek advice from someone who is. Now you say his consultant is being investigated, yes he was, and nothing became of it. I wonder how many people have been investigated and no charges filed because there was nothing there?? Am I a bad person because I once knew someone that did something questionable or illegal????
2) Mr McAFEE, hasn't lived here long enough, well that requirement is mandated by Texas Law. I ask you, How Long is Long Enough?? I've lived here almost 20 years and I'm still a new commer.
Oops, I just thought of a third one.
3) Mr McAFEE is endorssed by Law Enforcement. OMG, how the Heck does one turn that into a negative. The only time I've seen something like that attempted it is usually a liberal trying to discredit a conservative.


Will I fight for what I feel is right? You Bet I will, and I truly hope my passion does not come across as being offended, or arrogant. Those who know me saw I worked to have a better Sheriff of Llano County, and I'm darn proud of our current Sheriff Bill Blackburn. I have the same feeling about Wiley McAFEE as our new District Attorney.

Ms Aldridge, thanks for engaging in a honest dabate, and I wish you and your candidate all the best. Oh, and to those that want to change my mind, I welcome the conversation, but I Voted the first day of early voting for Mr McAFEE.

David Hussey

[Peaches]

I suggest voters go to the State Bar of Texas site and see what areas of practice each candidate has listed. My main concern for Llano County is taking care of crime first (including protecting the children in our community). Two of the candidates have listed criminal law as their practice area...the third has listed family law, wills, probate, etc...areas that don't generally go to the DA for prosecution.

I checked the Secretary of State's web and found that a candidate for DA must live within the district for a period of at least 6 months prior to March 12, 2012. I started this thread on July 20, 2011. Mr. McAfee does meet the residency qualification.

[Kelly_Aldridge]

Yes sir, a healthy debate is always my cup of tea. *Let's revisit the topic of law enforcement endorsing Mr. McAfee. *Yes, we have all heard and seen the endorsements for Mr. McAfee by the elected sheriffs and allegedly by several former members of the Texas Rangers. Does this mean that all of the subordinates of the elected officials endorse the same candidate? No, it certainly does not. Thankfully, these men and women have their own minds, and while they are likely leary to openly challenge the chosen candidate of their boss, they know their right to vote for their candidate of choice is in fact a given. *I have had the opportunity to speak with many officers who have worked with Angela Dowdle and who appreciate the work she has done both as a prosecutor and as a Drug Court Magistrate. *Further, we must not forget that County Prosecutors are also considered law enforcement and I have not seen any of them publicly endorse Mr. McAfee. *In fact, as I have sat through court proceedings in the past I have seen them admire Angela Dowdle's *work in many facets, including: *special prosecutor and as attorney ad litem for children in need. If we are going to talk law enforcement you should give those hard working prosecutors at the county level some due. *

While I think you have made some great moves for Llano County and while I too supported Sheriff Blackburn I will stand strong in my belief that you and the rest of the McAfee campaign heads made an egregious mistake. *And I do believe utilizing a political consultant with less than ethical practices is not wise. *I further feel that working to bring in a candidate prior to any report of Oatman's decision to run or not prior to seeking out local attorneys with the "lifer" ambition is another shortcoming. *McAfee will use a win here for another short career move, and my guess is he will continue making money with his company providing training to our locals while being paid to prosecute cases. *Perhaps if he wins he will train them probono...but I doubt it.*

[Peaches]

I wonder if all this mud slinging will bury these two candidates leaving Steven Todd the winner? I can only hope!