HOUSTON — A Texas Judicial Tour brought together judicial candidates and members of the Houston-area community for an opportunity to meet, exchange views and discuss the role of the judiciary in Texas.

The event was co-hosted by a Texas Republican and the Menudo Club – Gulf Fwy, under the leadership of Eduardo Lopez de Casas. The gathering featured candidates and sitting judges from several Texas courts, providing attendees with an opportunity to hear from individuals seeking or currently holding judicial positions.

Among those in attendance were Texas Court of Criminal Appeals Judge Kevin Yeary, along with Thomas Smith, candidate for Judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 3, and John Messinger, candidate for Place 9.

Other judicial candidates and judges participating included Jessica Caird, candidate for Justice of the 1st Court of Appeals, Place 5; Judge Lori DeAngelo of the 495th District Court; and Judge Dan Simons of the 496th District Court.

The program also featured Brian Staley, candidate for Judge of the 270th District Court; Jesus Guillen, candidate for Judge of the 312th Family District Court; Anna Emmons, candidate for Judge of Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 12; and Judge Tami Pierce, candidate for Judge of the 180th District Court.

The Texas Judicial Tour highlighted the range of judicial races taking place across the state and offered community members an opportunity to become more familiar with the candidates and the judicial offices they are seeking.

The event also underscored the importance of civic engagement and public awareness as Texans prepare to participate in upcoming elections.