Democrat Stephanie Draper is challenging Sen. Tan Parker, R-Flower Mound, for his seat representing the 12th District in the Texas Senate. District 12 includes areas south and west of Denton, stretching from Bridgeport to Flower Mound, Carrollton to Colleyville, Bedford and North Dallas, and from Oak Point to Shady Shores.

Draper ran unopposed on the Democratic ticket in the March primary.

Candidates running to represent Denton County residents were offered the opportunity to share their responses to specific questions from the Denton Record-Chronicle. By Friday afternoon, Draper had not responded to requests for replies or comments on the profile.

The following candidate profile, compiled by the Denton Record-Chronicle and completed by the candidate, has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Early voting begins on Monday, October 21 and continues until November 1. Election Day is set for November 5, with polling stations open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. To find your polling place, sample ballots and more election information, visit VoteDenton. .gov.

Tan Parker

Age: 53

Place of birth: Pennsylvania

Years living in Denton County: 25

Education: University of Dallas, 1993; London School of Economics, 1994

Professional experience: Businessman and entrepreneur; served in the Texas House of Representatives from 2007 to 2023 and the Texas Senate from 2023 to present; Chairman of the Texas Industrial Development Corporation, appointed by Governor Rick Perry.

Website: www.tanparker.com

What do you believe should be the top priorities of the Texas Senate, and if elected, how would you advance those priorities for Denton County residents?

The Texas Senate’s top priority this session will be focused on addressing our state’s critical infrastructure. We must strengthen public safety, improve education, strengthen care for our most vulnerable, ensure water security, lower property taxes, further strengthen our energy grid, and stimulate a resilient economy. These problems cannot wait. Texans expect meaningful solutions, and I am ready to deliver.

The Senate must take additional steps to ensure the safety of not only the 30 million Texans, but also the 350 million Americans at risk from a porous border. We must expand government resources to combat illegal immigration, strengthen border controls, and combat the alarming rise in gang violence, human trafficking, and deadly drugs like fentanyl. By improving intelligence sharing between states, as permitted by my Border Treaty bill, we can act even more quickly without waiting for federal approval.

The Senate should consider increasing funding for Texas public education, especially as we work to improve college and career readiness and support special education. The Senate is committed to ensuring every Texas student has the opportunity to succeed. Our students deserve a quality education, and it is important to increase resources for schools while paying special attention to the unique needs of students.

At a time when there are many partisan differences, both nationally and locally, what is your plan to work collaboratively with all members of the Senate?

I remain focused on fulfilling my responsibilities and respecting the trust that the residents of Senate District 12 have placed in me to serve them in the Senate. As a purpose-driven leader, I strive to make government more accessible and service-based. My legislative record reflects serving the people of our great state and solving problems by finding real solutions that benefit all Texans.

Whether it’s strengthening public safety, protecting medical freedom, protecting our most vulnerable, stopping human trafficking, stimulating our economy, cutting taxes, or taking any major policy action for a brighter, more prosperous Texas, I prioritize civility in political discourse, promoting transparency and holding government to account. I believe leadership comes from the front lines, and I will continue to embrace the same spirit of optimism and dedication to building a stronger Texas for everyone.

District 12 encompasses a very demographically diverse group of citizens. How do you plan to introduce them all?

As your state senator, my commitment to Senate District 12 and all Texans remains accessible and responsive. Our district is a reflection of unique stories that require leaders who can solve problems and unite behind a bold vision for our future. Whether it’s finding smart, conservative solutions to policy issues or solving individual problems, I remain committed to making sure every voice is heard.

My SD 12 ministry is rooted in a purpose that requires active communication and a deep understanding of the priorities of our diverse communities. Through initiatives such as First Saturday office hours, collaboration, and daily travel around the county, I strive to meet Texans where they are. There are no barriers to service—only a strong and proven commitment to fighting for a stronger, more prosperous Texas. Our legislative success is a testament to what we’ve accomplished together—from boosting the economy, lowering taxes, expanding access to health care, improving education, addressing the water crisis, improving public safety, protecting vulnerable populations, and holding government accountable to the people it serves. serves. Our work is not done, and I am honored to be your voice working to solve problems for the benefit of our great state.

Stephanie Draper

Website: www.draperfortexas.com