CBS 19 - The Eye of East Texas News - Joel Hale announces bid for Rusk County Judge

Joel Hale announces bid for Rusk County Judge

By Wilton Johnson

HENDERSON (KYTX) - Retired school administrator Joel Hale hopes his next administrative position is at the helm of Rusk County.

"I’m running for Rusk County Judge,” Hale told CBS19 Monday afternoon.

He says he has what it takes to carry the county into the next 10 years.

"I care about what happens here is the reason I’m running. I got 34 years in the school business and 26 of those as administrator. I feel like I got the background in order to do a good job with that,” Hale continued.

Hale follows John Cloutier into the formality of announcing an intention to run. As of 3 p.m. Monday, there are 3 other names that have formally named a campaign treasurer in the race, but have yet to announce their bids. They are Carolyn Willeford, David Powell and Tom Brown.

Five or more candidates  was expected when long time sitting County Judge Sandra Hodges announced her retirement. Many Rusk County residents all agree, the next judge should keep the status quo.

“Leave the taxes alone. Lower them if anything,” said Sammy Emmons.

"I’m impressed with what they’re doing now,"said Buddy Lane.

Hale says he would’ve waited until after his filing to announce but decided now is as good a time as any.

"Hopefully this will have a  positive effect on what I’m trying to do.”