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Matt Smith Campaigns for District 19 Republican Nomination
Smith promises to bring "biblical wisdom, accountability and strong West Texas values" to Congress
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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Matt Smith, an Abilene native and owner of 'Fat Matt Roofing', is one of seven Republicans running in the primary to represent Texas' 19th Congressional District. Smith is campaigning as an outsider who can bring a fresh perspective to Congress, promising to make "hard cuts and hard decisions" and stop "spending our kids' future."
Why it matters
The race for the District 19 seat is wide open, as the incumbent is not seeking re-election. Smith is positioning himself as a political outsider who can offer a different approach from "career politicians" in Washington.
The details
Smith, who is also a pastor, is calling for "biblical wisdom, accountability and strong West Texas values" to address the country's problems. He believes he can bring a perspective that is reflective of the Lubbock and Abilene area, which makes up the 19th District.
- Early voting begins on February 17, 2026.
- The primary election is on March 3, 2026.
The players
Matt Smith
An Abilene native, the owner of 'Fat Matt Roofing', and a pastor who is running in the Republican primary for the 19th Congressional District seat.
James Barbee
One of the seven Republicans running in the primary for the 19th Congressional District seat.
Jason Corley
One of the seven Republicans running in the primary for the 19th Congressional District seat.
Abraham Enriquez
One of the seven Republicans running in the primary for the 19th Congressional District seat.
Donald May
One of the seven Republicans running in the primary for the 19th Congressional District seat.
What they’re saying
“We keep sending people to D.C. or to Austin that are kind of raised up through the traditional political model. It's time that we send outsiders that realize we can't keep doing the same things. That's insane.”
— Matt Smith (KCBD)
“Let's send people that are willing to make the hard cuts and hard decisions and say no, we can't keep spending our kids' future.”
— Matt Smith (KCBD)
What’s next
The winner of the Republican primary will face the unopposed Democratic candidate, Kyle Rable, in the November general election.
The takeaway
This race for the 19th Congressional District seat is shaping up to be a battle between political outsiders and establishment candidates, with Matt Smith positioning himself as a non-traditional candidate who can bring a fresh perspective to Congress.
