Clay Jenkins is a candidate for County Judge in Dallas. He's running in the Democratic primary against the incumbent, Jim Foster, who knocked off the Republican incumbent in the 2006 countywide sweep, in a race nobody expected him to win. (This is why we say Run Everywhere.) I don't normally get involved in that kind of race outside of the Houston area, but Jenkins was a big supporter of Rick Noriega last year, and any friend of the Noriegas i a friend of mine. Rick and Melissa are hosting an event for Clay Jenkins at their place this Sunday - details are beneath the fold - so if you'd like to know more about Jenkins and what's going on in Dallas, come on out to the Noriegas' house on Sunday and find out.

From the email invitation:

Clay is a life-long Democrat and a fifth-generation North Texan. He is an attorney, businessman and civic leader with a proven track record of accomplishments in the Dallas community, including his service as President of TTLA Dallas.

All of Texas faces new challenges, and it is Clay's leadership and experience that will provide the stature and relationships needed to tackle issues facing Dallas County.

Many of you also know Clay's mama, Joann Jenkins, who is a SDEC legend. If you remember the commercials from my campaign, those were filmed at Clay's house in Dallas-when you know a Jenkins, you have a loyal and true friend.

According to the Dallas Morning News, his endorsements include other significant Dallas county leaders:

Jenkins, who is making his first run for public office, was flanked by Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price and District Clerk Gary Fitzsimmons during his announcement. Other Democrats who have endorsed Jenkins include U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, state Sen. Royce West and District Attorney Craig Watkins. (Dallas Morning News, March 6, 2009)

For a complete bio go to www.jenkinsfordallascounty.com.

Please join Melissa and me at our home, 4430 Pease St, Houston, TX, 77023, on Sunday, May 31, from 4:30 to 6:30 PM, to meet Clay Jenkins, the next County Judge in Dallas County. RSVP to lschechter@gmail.com or 713 385 3015.