SHELLEY TATUM

Democratic

On ballot as: SHELLEY TATUM
Current role: Retired teacher
Background: Lufkin High School graduate
Bachelor of Arts in communications and English, Stephen F. Austin State University (1987) (per Ballotpedia)
Raised in Lufkin
Retired Texas public school teacher, 35 years (per campaign)
Including 2 years in Huntington ISD and 19 years in Lufkin ISD (per campaign)
Married, with two daughters who graduated from Lufkin High School
Experience: First-time candidate for public office (per campaign)
Democratic primary (March 3, 2026): unopposed
Top priorities: "First, I will vote to increase the per-pupil allotment provided by the state to local school districts."
"Second, I will work to reduce the often unfunded and stifling regulations that rob classrooms of creativity, passion, and engagement."
"New legislation to protect East Texas groundwater will be necessary"
"Texas can and must take action to support rural health care before more hospitals close"
In a candidate survey: "Texas must regulate the construction and operation of AI Data Centers due to the risk to communities and the environment."
Tidbits: Abortion: No public statement found
Border and immigration: No public statement found
Guns: No public statement found
Public schools and vouchers: In the 2026 ATPE candidate survey: "If tax payer dollars are going to be given to private schools, there must be measurable requirements for accountability, teacher training and credentials and testing standards."
Property taxes: In the 2026 ATPE candidate survey: "the burden on property owners is too great. The state should step up to provide the majority of funds rather than the minority."
Endorsements: None found in our research
Campaign website: tatum4texas9.com

SHELLEY TATUM

State Representative, District 9

Shelley Tatum