MCKINNEY, Texas - March 6, 2020 - Ben Smith, Presiding Judge of the 380th Judicial District Court, was the clear winner in Tuesday's Republican Primary. Smith captured 82.45 percent, or 48,158 votes, from registered voters in Collin County. With overwhelming support behind him, Judge Smith will now focus on winning the November 3rd General Election.

"We ran a strong campaign focused on my experience and qualifications, as well as my commitment to fairness, justice, and the rule of law," Smith said. "Voters chose experience over the negative and misleading drama pushed by my opponent."

"I am thankful for the many supporters who were vocal about my experience, integrity, and record on the bench," he said.

Smith has presided over the 380th District Court since 2012. As in previous campaigns, Smith received numerous endorsements from local leaders, attorneys, and conservative political groups. He was also endorsed by all of the local law enforcement associations who endorsed Collin County candidates in the 2020 primary.

Smith trampled Republican opponent Melvin Thathiah, who received just 17.55 percent, or 10,254 votes. Thathiah ran a negative campaign intent on smearing Smith's character and judicial record—a tired ploy that backfired as Republicans rallied to the Judge's defense.

"Collin County voters recognize the importance of retaining a judge who applies the law as it is written and who treats litigants fairly," Smith said. "Even before they appear in my court, many attorneys who understand the law and trial court proceedings can anticipate the final outcome of their case because I don't legislate from the bench. My job is to examine the evidence and render a decision based on the facts and the law."

Smith strongly encourages voter involvement in district court races. "District court judges," he said, "play a significant role in community safety and in the resolution of high-conflict disputes. They hear felony criminal matters in addition to civil and family law cases."

"For the most part, we enjoy a safe community and good quality of life in Collin County," Smith said. "Our population growth, however, brings more risks. Voters should be informed and retain experienced, fair-minded judges who follow the law."

ABOUT JUDGE BEN SMITH

Ben Smith is the Presiding Judge of the 380th Judicial District Court in Collin County, a position he has held since August 2012. Judge Smith is seeking re-election to the bench in the November 3, general election. Judge Smith adheres to a conservative judicial philosophy, believing the rule of law is the standard by which conflicts are resolved and justice is administered, not the rule of individual preferences. Smith received his juris doctorate from the Boston University School of Law in 2002. He also studied law at Oxford University, United Kingdom. Smith also holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Boston University. He and his wife Rebecca have resided in Collin County since 2005 and have two sons. Learn more at www.keepjudgesmith.com.

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2019 Keep Judge Ben Smith