Evan Hunt Launches Hunt County Campaign in Greenville

GREENVILLE, Texas —with Republicans advancing a new map that extends Texas’ 3rd District into several rural counties, Democrat Evan Hunt launched his Hunt County campaign Sunday at Luke’s, a new restaurant in downtown Greenville next door to Rep. Keith Self’s office.

Hunt, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel who formally kicked off his bid in Collin County earlier this month, drew a packed crowd that included local Democrats and some former Republicans disillusioned with the GOP. He cast the race as both a local test of political strength and part of a larger fight for democracy.

“In case you hadn’t noticed, Texas is now a battleground state,” Hunt told the crowd. “We’re on the front line.” That line drew nods and applause from several tables.

The new TX-03 now stretches across Collin, Hunt, Delta, Hopkins, Franklin, Morris, and Titus counties. Downtown Greenville, where Hunt chose to stage his Hunt County launch, reflects some of the district’s challenges. Many storefronts remain boarded up, even as new businesses and art spaces have begun to appear.

A District “Ripe for a Flip”

Hunt argued that the district has changed politically after decades of Republican control. “We are ripe for a flip,” he said. “The demographics have shifted, and Trump’s popularity is at an all-time low.”

e pointed to Greenville’s history — including the notorious sign that once hung on Main Street proclaiming “The blackest land, the whitest people” — as a reminder of how far the city has come. The reference prompted quiet nods from some in attendance. “I see a town filled with diversity and opportunity, an affordable place just an hour from Dallas,” Hunt said. “If you live in Greenville and you happen to lose your cat, your dog, or your goat, you better believe people are going to step up and help you find it.”

Still, Republicans remain dominant across much of North Texas. In 2024, Rep. Self won re-election by double digits, carrying Collin County comfortably and benefiting from strong turnout in rural counties. Analysts note that while Democrats have gained ground in suburban precincts, flipping a district that has voted Republican for decades remains a steep challenge.

Evan Hunt’s Policy Priorities

Hunt outlined positions on voting rights, healthcare, immigration, and education. He called for banning gerrymandering through independent commissions, raising the minimum wage, and closing tax loopholes, saying billionaires should not pay less than teachers. He also pledged to lower healthcare costs by reducing reliance on employer-based coverage and increasing transparency.

On immigration, he urged dignity and legal pathways for qualified residents. He opposed private school vouchers, supported stronger civics instruction, and highlighted agriculture, food, and water security as national defense issues. Hunt also called for federal oversight of artificial intelligence.

Republicans have pushed back, warning that higher wages could hurt small businesses, tighter tax rules may reduce investment, and AI regulations could weaken U.S. competitiveness. GOP leaders also defend vouchers as expanding parental choice in education.

Contrast With the Incumbent

Hunt directly criticized Self, accusing him of relying on large donors and defense contractors. “Keith Self already has maxed-out donations from defense companies like Raytheon, to foreign special interests, to Elon Musk himself,” Hunt said. “I don’t even know how all those interests align with one person. It’s insane.”

Republicans counter that Self, a retired Army officer, has long built his reputation on national security and defense policy expertise. His supporters argue that financial backing from defense-related companies reflects alignment with his professional background, not undue influence.

Hunt County Democratic Chair Larry Davis, added that Self has not held any town halls in Greenville during his time in office. TX3DNews has asked Self’s office for comment and will update this story if a response is received.

Campaign Outlook

Hunt closed by framing the race as long but winnable. “This is a marathon, not a sprint,” he said. “Please join us. I appreciate your voice, I appreciate your donations. Whatever you’re willing to give, don’t give yourself too much pressure. We’re in this together.”

While Democrats believe shifting demographics could give them an opening, Republicans remain confident the district will stay safely in GOP hands. The Hunt County launch, held in a restaurant full of energized supporters, sets the stage for a race that will test both parties’ ability to organize across suburban Collin County and the rural counties newly drawn into TX-03.

Disclosure: TX3DNews is an independent, nonpartisan outlet. We cover campaign events for both parties in TX-03 and Collin County. This article reports on Hunt’s campaign activity in Greenville; Rep. Self and other Republican candidates are invited to share announcements and press releases for equal coverage.