Kerrville-focused PAC accuses “We The People” of violating Texas election code

On Tuesday, a Kerrville-based political action group targeted another political organization, accusing it of illegality in a letter demanding it cease and desist its advertising support of City Council candidates Roman Garcia and Barbara Dewell Ferguson.

Kerrville Forward, a recently formed PAC, has lodged a serious accusation against “We The People, Liberty In Action,” alleging illegal and misleading campaign support to the campaigns of Garcia, who is running for mayor, and Dewell Ferguson, who is challenging incumbent Brenda Hughes for Place 4. Such actions, if proven, could have significant legal ramifications.

In a letter from attorney Beth Stevens, Kerrville Forward has pointed out specific instances of misleading information in the flyers, some of which were distributed online and were similar to the group’s handout campaign during last month’s Republican primary election. These intentional misrepresentations suggest that Garcia is already the mayor and Dewell Ferguson is an incumbent.

“Here, the advertisement says “Kerrville Mayor: Roman Garcia” – Mr. Garcia does not hold this office. Under state law, the advertisement must include the word “For” between the candidate name and the office which he seeks so the reader is not left with the impression that he currently holds the office,” Stevens wrote. “Additionally, the advertisement includes “Kerrville City Council Member, Place 4: Barbara Dewell Ferguson”- Ms. Ferguson does not hold this office. Thus, the advertisement must include “For” so as not to mislead the reader into believing she currently holds the position.”

However, Kerrville Forward’s most significant allegation centers around “We The People’s” failure to register as a PAC with the Texas Secretary of State. The Lead has not found “We The People’s” registration with the state or campaign filing with the city or county. During the GOP primary, the group received significant financial support from a North Texas PAC that received money from West Texas billionaires.

According to the cease and desist letter, that effort is largely illegal and violates the Texas Election Code.

“If you do not comply with this demand to immediately cease and desist from publishing these advertisements, we will consider any and all appropriate legal action,” Stevens wrote.