Grand Old Chat with Michael Ethridge and Mike Wheeler

Host:  Michael Ethridge / Mike Wheeler

CONTACT:

kendallcountyGOP@gmail.com

P.O. Box 1044, Boerne, TX, United States

Headquarters:

624 N. Main Street, Ste 202, Boerne, TX, 78006

Original Air Date: 9/28/24 as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

Introduction
Michael Ethridge:
Welcome back to Grand Old Chat brought to you by the Kendall County Republican Party on
Boerne Radio! I’m Michael Ethridge, and today we’re diving into Early Voting, the importance
of down-ballot races, and why it’s crucial to vote for Republican candidates. Joining me once
again is Mike Wheeler, the Chairman of the Kendall County Republican Party. Mike, thanks for
being here!
Mike Wheeler:
Thanks, Michael. It’s great to be here, especially as we get closer to Election Day. With so much
at stake, from Donald J. Trump for President to our local races, this election is critical.

Section 1: The Importance of Early Voting
Michael Ethridge:
Let’s start with Early Voting. Why is it such an important tool for voters, especially for
Republicans?
Mike Wheeler:
Early Voting is vital because it allows voters to cast their ballot between October 21 and
November 1 at their convenience, ensuring that unforeseen events don’t prevent them from
voting.
For Republicans, it’s our chance to lock in support for leaders like Donald J. Trump, who’s
fighting to keep America strong, and Ted Cruz, who continues to defend conservative values in
the U.S. Senate. It also allows us to secure victories for our down-ballot candidates like Ellen
Troxclair for State Representative and Donna Campbell for State Senate.

Section 2: Securing Republican Victories with Early Voting
Michael Ethridge:
How does Early Voting help secure Republican victories, especially in this election?
Mike Wheeler:
Early Voting gives us a strategic advantage. By voting early, we lock in our support before
Election Day distractions can arise, allowing candidates like Trump and Cruz to focus on last-
minute outreach.
It’s also crucial for our local candidates—Jennifer McCall and Richard Chapman, running for
County Commissioner in Pct. 1 and Pct. 3, respectively, and Al Auxier for Sheriff—who play

important roles in our community. Early Voting ensures that strong conservative leadership is
established at all levels.

Section 3: The Power of Down-Ballot Voting
Michael Ethridge:
We’ve talked about the top of the ticket, but why are down-ballot races so important?
Mike Wheeler:
Down-ballot races, such as County Commissioners, Sheriffs, and Constables, directly impact our
daily lives. These offices manage everything from public safety to local taxes.
Jennifer McCall and Richard Chapman will ensure that our county is managed efficiently with
fiscal responsibility. Al Auxier has a proven record of keeping our communities safe as Sheriff.
Voting down the ballot means we’re electing leaders who align with our conservative values and
will work hard to improve our daily lives.
We also have candidates like Chip Roy for U.S. Representative in the 21st congressional district,
Christi Craddock for Railroad Commissioner, and important judicial candidates like Jimmy
Blacklock for Texas Supreme Court Place 2, John Devine for Place 4, and Jane Bland for Place
6.
Remember, skipping a race on the ballot or leaving one blank is essentially the same as voting
for the Democrat. Every choice we make has consequences.

Section 4: Why Voting for Republican Candidates Matters
Michael Ethridge:
Why is voting for Republican candidates so crucial in this election?
Mike Wheeler:
Republican candidates stand for the values that built Texas and keep it strong. Donald Trump is
committed to securing our borders, lowering taxes, and defending our freedoms. Ted Cruz has
consistently fought for conservative policies in Washington.
Locally, candidates like Ellen Troxclair, Donna Campbell, Jennifer McCall, Richard Chapman,
and Al Auxier will help keep Texas on the right track with responsible governance, lower taxes,
and strong public safety initiatives.
In addition to those already mentioned, we have important races like David Schenck for
Presiding Judge of the Criminal Court of Appeals, Gina Parker for Place 7, Lee Finley for Place
8, Tom Maynard for State Board of Education, Todd McCray, Lori Massey Brissette, Adrian

Spears, and Lori Valenzuela for 4th Court of Appeals Place 3, 4, 5, and 7, respectively. We also
have Constable races—Todd Setliff for Pct. 1, Paul Knoll for Pct. 2, Gene Serene for Pct. 3, and
Brian Vaughan for Pct. 4. Finally, James Hudson is running for Tax Assessor-Collector.
We also have a Tax Rate Election on the ballot for voters in Blanco ISD, extending into the
northeastern part of Kendall County, including the Kendalia area.
Voting Republican ensures our county, state, and nation remain strong and free. And let’s not
forget the rallying cry: Make America Great Again! This message resonates with so many of us
because it embodies our commitment to restoring our values and securing a prosperous future.

Section 5: Call to Action – Register, Vote Early, and Down-Ballot
Michael Ethridge:
Mike, what’s your final message to voters as they prepare for the election?
Mike Wheeler:
Vote early and vote down the ballot. Early Voting runs from October 21 to November 1, and if
you’re not yet registered to vote, the deadline is October 7. Every vote count, and down-ballot
races like County Commissioner, Constable, and the judicial offices are just as important as the
top of the ticket.
Let’s get out there and vote for Donald Trump, Ted Cruz, and all our Republican
candidates—Ellen Troxclair, Donna Campbell, Jennifer McCall, Richard Chapman, Al Auxier,
and everyone mentioned today. Together, we can secure strong conservative leadership across
the board.

Conclusion
Michael Ethridge:
Thanks, Mike. You’ve laid out just how crucial this election is, and how Early Voting and down-
ballot races play a big part.
Mike Wheeler:
Before we wrap up, I want to take a moment to thank Staci Decker and the entire Kendall
County Elections office for their incredibly hard work and commitment to election integrity. The
dedication they’ve shown ensures that every vote counts and that our elections remain secure and
trustworthy.
Michael Ethridge:
Absolutely, Mike. Election integrity is at the core of our constitutional republic, and thanks to the
hard work of people like Staci and her team, we can trust that our votes are being counted and

counted fairly. Let’s do our part and make sure we get out there and vote. Mike, where can folks
find more information?
Mike Wheeler:
Folks can find more information on our website at www.kcrptx.com or by following us on
Facebook and Instagram @kendallgop. You can also visit our Headquarters located at 624 North
Main, Suite 102, across from Town and Country Nursing Center. Come by and get your yard
signs, Trump swag, shirts, and more!
Michael Ethridge:
Thanks again, Mike, for joining us. And to our listeners, let’s keep Texas and Kendall County
strong by voting early and supporting our Republican candidates from top to bottom.
This has been a political advertisement paid for by the Kendall County Republican Party.