“We are honored to have the support of so many people in the district, who voted for me to be the Republican nominee for State Representative in District 127,” said Huberty. “Although just the first step in our road to Austin, we have worked very hard to meet with as many people as possible in the district, listened to their concerns, and shared our message. I would like to thank all of my opponents who worked so hard to get their message to the voters as well. It is a tough job, and I appreciate the effort each of them made to make this race challenging and exciting at the same time.”

Curling thanked her supporters and congratulated the Hubertys on their victory.

“This was a tough political race, but it was only a political race. In life people can be victorious every day,” she said. “I thank God for my family and all of the people who know me and stood up for me, particularly Joe Crabb. I also will never be able to adequately thank the people who did not know me and yet supported me fully. Congratulations to Dan, Janet and the Huberty family and volunteers. They worked very hard to earn this victory.”

Huberty also had thanks for his family and supporters.

“I would be remiss if I did not thank my wife Janet, our three kids, and my parents for being troopers and my biggest fans,” he said. “You need a strong support system at home to be able to run for office, and I am grateful to them for allowing me this opportunity. I would also like to thank all our volunteers who helped us run an unbelievable grassroots campaign. I would be honored to serve as the next State Representative from District 127, and will work hard to earn everyone’s vote in the November General Election.”

As the candidates gear up for the November election, they are hoping to get greater voter participation. County-wide, voter turnout was abysmal. Less than one and a half percent of voters chose to participate. In the Humble-Kingwood area, however, the numbers went up significantly, to about eight percent voter turnout.

Hector de Leon, director of communications for the Harris County Clerk’s Office indicated that the turnout numbers were not surprising.

“We like to see more participation, but we know through experience that voters respond to what’s on the ballot,” he said. “If something is compelling, such as the state race, the voters will respond more. When it comes down to it, every election is a triumph for democracy…the freedom to vote, or not to vote, is part and parcel of living in a democratic republic.”

Follow continuing election coverage in The Tribune.

PHOTO: Dan Huberty celebrates his big win with his wife Janet, and children: Dylan (6), Ryan (8) and Brianna (10) on primary runoff election night. Photo by CJ “Cheryl” Johnson.