Donna HowardWith 40 of 40 precincts reporting (including early voting) Democrat Donna Howard defeated Republican Ben Bentzin 58% to 42% for a vacant Austin House District.  The vote turns a Republican seat Democratic.  The seat came open when the Republican incumbent resigned. The race was closely watched throughout the state and is considered a bell ringer victory for the Democrats.

The seat was also once held by State Ag Commissioner Susan Coombs who is now seeking to replace Carol Strayhorn as Comptroller.  Coombs and Gov. Rick Perry's organization played an aggressive role in attempting to hold the house district for the Republicans.  Although special elections can be tricky and unpredictable the GOP candidate, Ben Bentzin, was a handsome, well-financed, ex-Dell executive.  Democrat Howard was an attractive campaigner who did not pretend to be anything but a liberal.

The primary issue was education and Howard's victory is heartening for candidates in both primaries who are critical of the governor's handling of that issue and the overall GOP performance.  However former US House Majority Leader Tom DeLay's conduct was also a key issue as was the governor's quick call of the special election.

Many political observers believe that Howard's victory could mean that a Democratic takeover of the Texas House is a possibility.

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