Cy-Fair ISD board race draws nine candidates, heavy spending and political tension
Nine candidates are vying for three seats on the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Board of Trustees in a heated, politically charged race fueled by more than $100,000 in campaign spending and significant support from conservative-aligned PACs.
Nine candidates are competing for three seats on the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District Board of Trustees in what has become an unusually expensive and politically charged race, with candidates collectively spending more than $100K, according to the latest financial reports.
The race for Texas’ third-largest school district has drawn significant attention due to substantial funding from political action committees and the involvement of conservative groups seeking to maintain their influence on the board.
Position-by-Position Breakdown
For Position 5, which will see a new trustee, voters will choose between Terrance Edmond, Lesley Guilmart and Radele Walker.
In Position 6, a notable political drama is unfolding as current Position 5 board member and Vice President Natalie Blasingame is challenging incumbent Board President Scott Henry and Cleveland Lane Jr.
Blasingame’s move to switch positions appears to be a strategic effort to unseat Henry, described as a former ally turned political opponent.
Position 7 will also welcome a new trustee, with Elecia Jones, Kendra Camarena and George Edwards Jr. vying for the seat.
Political Influence and Outside Funding
A significant portion of campaign funding has come from political action committees supporting what’s known as the “NRG slate,” consisting of Natalie Blasingame, Radele Walker and George Edwards Jr.
These candidates are receiving thousands of dollars in support from groups pushing to maintain conservative dominance on the school board.
The board’s recent history has been marked by conservative-leaning decisions, particularly regarding book banning policies, removing chapters from books and adding religious electives.
Candidates Address Political Nature of Race
At a recent candidate forum, participants openly addressed the political nature of what is technically a non-partisan race.
“Depending on where you look, you can very clearly see where political affiliation may take place,” said Position 7 candidate Elecia Jones.
George Edwards Jr., part of the NRG slate, emphasized their political stance: “NRG is leadership rooted in conservative principles and academic excellence.”
However, incumbent Board President Scott Henry pushed back against the politicization.
“It’s not about politics. It’s not about headlines either. It’s all about doing what’s right for the 117,000 students of our district and the people we serve every single day,” he said.
