YCT Endorses David Simpson for State Rep. District 7

Blog / February 1, 2010

The Young Conservatives of Texas (YCT), a non-partisan grassroots political organization, announce their endorsement of David Simpson for State Representative in Texas House District 7.

“The Young Conservatives of Texas are proud to support David Simpson,” said Laura Elizabeth Morales, Senior Vice Chairman. “We believe David Simpson will be a true conservative leader for the voters of District 7,” continued Morales.

Members of YCT endorse candidates based on personal interviews, extensive research and detailed questionnaires.

“I am exceedingly honored to have the endorsement of Young Conservatives of Texas,” said Simpson.

“For 30 years, YCT has established itself as an important policy-shaping player in Texas politics. I have the utmost respect for this organization and the way in which it lends strong support to state, local, and national candidates who best represent its principled conservative values. Tommy Merritt has consistently ranked near the very bottom of the YCT Legislative Scorecard, and ended up with the THIRD lowest score among House Republicans in the YCT analysis of the 81st Legislative Session. My campaign offers voters the chance to change this disgraceful record and we are grateful to have the support of this outstanding group of young leaders,” he continued.

Mr. Simpson is challenging longtime incumbent Representative Tommy Merritt. YCT cites their ratings of the Texas Legislature as a factor in their decision to endorse Simpson.

“Tommy Merritt has earned the dubious distinction of being one of only three state representatives to earn YCT’s ‘Certified RINO’ (Republican In Name Only) award,” said Tony McDonald, Vice Chairman for Legislative Affairs. “Representative Merritt earned a 48 during the 81st legislative session and has a career score of 56.”

David has been married to his wife, Susan, for 24 years. They live in Longview and have been blessed with seven children, ranging in age from six to twenty-two. David operates the family timber business, as well as several other small businesses. He served as Mayor of Avinger, Texas for five years.

YCT, which was founded in 1980, issues the most respected ratings of the state legislature and is the only conservative group to have done so without interruption over the last 18 legislative sessions. YCT has chapters at the University of Texas at Austin, Baylor University, Texas State University, Stephen F. Austin State University, Texas Tech University and the University of Houston.