Gary VanDeaver is a Republican representing Texas House District 1, which includes Bowie, Cass, Lamar, Morris, and Red River counties. Raised on a family cattle operation near Clarksville in Red River County, he is a husband, father, grandfather, educator, cattleman, and legislator. A fiscal conservative and strong proponent of gun rights, he advocates for public education, rural concerns, balanced budgets, and low taxes. Notable achievements include passing legislation for District 1 interests, such as election of trustees for Paris Junior College, exemptions from motor fuels tax, bailiffs in Bowie County courts, powers for TexAmericas Center, burial rights for retired peace officers, and aligning career/technical education with state accountability. House Speaker Dustin Burrows appointed him to a key role. He serves on the Texas FFA Foundation Board and has held positions with Texas FFA, Red River County Farm Bureau, Bogata Rodeo Association, Red River County Fair Association, New Boston Lions Club, and New Boston Chamber of Commerce.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: B.S. and M.S. from East Texas State University; Doctorate in Educational Administration.
• Professional Background: 33-year career in public education, starting as a vocational agriculture teacher for 10 years, then principal of an elementary school and high school, and superintendent of New Boston Independent School District. Retired prior to entering politics.
• Political Experience: First elected in 2015; currently serving his sixth term. Vice-chairman of the House Committee on Administration; member of Public Education and Appropriations Committees. Elected to address frustrations with education policy and funding in rural schools.