ROUND ROCK, Texas – A woman and war veteran is looking to unseat the eight-term Republican incumbent in US House District 31.

• Republican John Carter first elected in 2002
• Democrat M.J. Hegar served three tours in Afghanistan

The district has historically been a Republic stronghold. It covers all of Williamson County and parts of Bell. Democrat M.J. Hegar believes the district is looking for change. She grew up in the area and is an Air Force veteran, who served three tours in Afghanistan. 

In Williamson County, almost 2,000 miles away from the nation’s capital, John Carter is known as “judge.” He served on the district court bench for 20 years. 

“I believe I kept my word for people and I’ve told them what I was going to do and I’ve done it. I told them I was going to come home every weekend and I’ve done it. I’ve told them Texas is more important than Washington and I believe it,” said Carter.

The Republican was first elected to represent the state’s 31st Congressional district back in 2002.

“I have a history of working with all people in Congress that are willing to cooperate. I think I’ve got a track record to prove it and I think quite frankly it’s pretty much public knowledge,” Carter said.

MORE | Candidate Conversation: John Carter

“We need more combat veterans elected, because we understand that there are things worth fighting for but we also understand that awesome cost of war,” Hegar said.

Her biographical ad, titled “Doors” has been viewed almost 5 million times. The video highlights Hegar’s military service and landed her in the national spotlight.

“They’re excited at the prospect of having a representative who is going to listen to them and meet with them, a representative who like them has faced the challenges,” Hegar said.  

MORE | Candidate Conversation: MJ Hegar

Carter won his last election by more than 21 points, but Hegar believes he has never had a tough race. She has also attacked Carter over his accessibility to his constituents.

“It doesn’t matter how many times he comes home, what matters is what he does when he’s here,” Hegar said.

“I already do town hall meetings but her definition and my definition are different,” Carter said.

WATCH: Candidate Hegar’s “Doors” video: