Democratic House District 46 Candidates To Debate In East Austin

AUSTIN, TX — The candidates for the Democratic nomination for Texas House District 46 — a constituency swath that includes parts of East Austin, Manor and Pflugerville — will debate tonight in East Austin.

Sheryl Cole and Jose "Chito" Vela each captured 39 percent of the votes in the March primary to position them into an upcoming runoff election, both edging out longtime incumbent State Rep. Dawnna Dukes. The debate at Wesley United Methodist Church at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, is free and open to the public, and will be moderated by radio station KUT.

Cole is a former member of the Austin City Council while Vela is an attorney specializing in immigration law. The victor in the May 22 runoff will then face Gabriel Nila in November. Nila ran unopposed for the Republican nomination for the district seat.

KUT rold Patch the event won't be live streamed, but the event is free and open to the public at Wesley United Methodist Church located at 1164 San Bernard St. KUT reporters will moderate the debate, which will include questions from the audience, according to the news station. Those interested can submit a question here.

KUT notes that the Democratic candidates debating tonight have similar platforms. However, Vela is particularly focused on transportation issues while Cole has zeroed on issues related to affordability.

>>> Image via Shutterstock