SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas — For Pastor Frank Pomeroy, politicians have done more to divide than unite the nation.
- Running for State Senate District 21
- Challenging incumbent Judith Zaffarini
- 26 Member of his church killed during mass shooting
Pomeroy said he believes fighting back and forth across the political aisle must stop.
“I want to go in and let’s all sit down at that table and have intelligent discourse again, rather than schoolyard name calling,” he said.
Last week, the political newcomer filed paperwork with the state declaring his candidacy for State Senate District 21. Pomeroy said, by running for officer he hopes he will help reinforce a moral foundation for Texas to stand upon.
“That is one of the reasons I am running. I don’t want Texas spiral out of control as the rest of the country seems to be so doing,” Pomeroy said.
READ MORE | Hundreds Fill Pews of New Sutherland Springs Worship Center
Running as a republican, Pomeroy knows he has an uphill battle for State Senate District 21. Texas State Senator Judith Zaffarini (D-Laredo) is entrenched in the deeply democratic district, holding the seat since 1987.
Almost two years ago, 26 of his church congregants, including his daughter, were killed during a mass shooting at the Sutherland Springs Baptist Church. Pomeroy was not in church that day.
He says, he’s had enough after witnessing another round of the gun debate.
“To me how much have they stymied the healing of that group of people there by not building that foundation of grace of mercy, instead of politicizing them and making them bonds,” Pomeroy said.
READ MORE | Texas Safety Commission Holds First Meeting in Wake of El Paso Shooting
Pomeroy said he favors mental health intervention and is not opposed to red flag laws.
“I do not want firearms in the hands of those who are not mentally competent,” he said.
Pomeroy says, civility, integrity and humility will be his platform.
“[I want] to change things, to maybe give my grandkids a chance to see government working the way it is supposed to,” he said.