Senator Kevin D. Sparks Takes Oath of Office for Second Session in the Texas Senate & Introduces Staff for the 89th Legislature

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Mattie Garland
Tuesday, January14, 2025 mattie.garland@senate.texas.gov
Ph: 512-463-0131
SENATOR KEVIN D. SPARKS TAKES OATH OF OFFICE FOR SECOND
SESSION IN THE TEXAS SENATE & INTRODUCES STAFF FOR THE 89th LEGISLATURE
AUSTIN, TEXAS — In a moment of pride and honor, Kevin D. Sparks took the oath of office today, officially
marking the beginning of the 89th legislature as the Texas State Senator for District 31. With his family, friends,
and supporters in attendance at the Texas State Capitol, Senator Sparks pledged to uphold the Constitution and
serve the citizens of his district with integrity, dedication, and a commitment to the conservative values that define
the Lone Star State. values and interests at the Capitol
“It is an honor and privilege to serve the hardworking people of District 31 in the Texas Senate,” Senator Sparks
stated, “Our state faces significant challenges, but we also have incredible opportunities to lead the nation with
policies that foster freedom, prosperity, and security for all Texans. I am committed to being salt and light for the
glory of God and I will work tirelessly to represent the values and interests at the Capitol of Senate District 31.”
Senator Sparks brings experience after serving in his first session in the 88th as well as a deep connection to the
district he represents. As a lifelong Permian Basin oil & gas businessman, he has long been an advocate for
policies that promote family values, economic competition, preserve individual liberties, and protect children. His
understanding of the unique needs and concerns of District 31 positions him as a strong and effective voice in the
Texas Legislature.
The 89th Legislative Session arrives at a critical juncture for Texas, with lawmakers set to address pressing issues
such as grid reliability, public education reform, infrastructure investment, and safeguarding the state’s economic
competitiveness. Senator Sparks emphasized that his priorities would include addressing these challenges and
other important measures for the people of Senate District 31.
“Our district is home to west Texas, which includes hardworking families, thriving businesses, and neighborly
communities. I am committed to supporting policies that help them flourish,” Sparks continued. “From improving
healthcare workforce to responding to the panhandle wildfires, I am ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work
on behalf of my constituents.” During his swearing-in ceremony, Senator Sparks expressed gratitude to his
supporters and reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accessibility. He encouraged constituents to stay
engaged and share their perspectives with his office throughout the legislative session.
“This is not just my office—it belongs to the people of District 31. I urge everyone to reach out, share their
concerns, and participate in shaping the future of our great state,” he said. Constituents and stakeholders can
connect with Senator Sparks and his team through various channels, including emailing
kevin.sparks@senate.texas.gov, visiting his Senate web page senate.texas.gov/member.php?d=31, following
@kevinsparkstx on Instagram, Facebook, and X, and by visiting his office in Austin. His team is committed to
ensuring open lines of communication.

Senator Sparks also announced his staff for the 89th Texas Legislature:
John Dallas - Chief of Staff: He is from Dallas, Texas, and a graduate of University of Texas. Previously, he
served multiple decades in the hospitality industry where he led various operations to award winning years and
record-breaking results, where he most recently served as the General Manager of the Sonesta Hotel in Bee Cave,
Texas. He is also an Elder at Austin Ridge Bible Church. He serves as the primary contact for all media inquiries
as well as legislative, communications, district, and administrative personnel and operations.
Jeffrey Waldock - Legislative Director: He is from Azle, Texas, and is a graduate of Texas Tech University.
Previously, he served as Chief of Staff for Representative Jared Patterson and has worked over seven years in
state government, with time spent in the Texas Senate, Texas House of Representatives, and the Office of the
Attorney General. He serves as the primary contact for all legislative issues, with specific oversight of items
related to the budget, Sunset Advisory Commission, and Sen. Sparks’ Legislative Priorities package.
Katie Fields - Policy Analyst: She is from Gainesville, Florida, and is a graduate of the University of Florida
and the Bush School – Texas A&M University. Previously, she served as a Legislative Analyst for
ConocoPhillips. She serves as the primary contact for issues related to the Committees on Natural Resources &
Economic Development, Water, Agriculture & Rural Affairs, and electricity/grid reliability matters.
Bobby Schuman - Policy Analyst: He is from San Diego, California, and is a graduate of California State
University, Northridge. Previously, he served as Legislative Director for Representative Matt Schaefer and the
Trump campaign among other various state and national political campaigns. He serves as the primary contact
for issues related to the Committees on Business & Commerce, State Affairs, Border Security, Criminal Justice,
and Veteran Affairs.
Garrit Blizzard - Policy Analyst: He is from Atlanta, Texas, and is a graduate of the University of Texas.
Previously, he served as Legislative Aide for Senator Hughes and completed multiple policy internships for the
Texas Public Policy Foundation. He serves as the primary contact for issues related to the Committees on
Education, Higher Education, Local Government, and Health & Human Services.
Mattie Garland - Scheduler & Office Manager: She is from Thorndale, Texas, and is a graduate of Dallas
Baptist University. Previously, she served as an Admissions Counselor while receiving her master’s degree in
organizational communication from her alma mater. She serves as the primary contact for all scheduling inquires
and press relations.
District Staff: Ken Hankins serves at the primary contact for matters in the southwestern portion of district
(Midland & Odessa Area), Juan Delgado serves as the primary contact for matters in the southeastern portion of
the district (Big Spring Area), and Shannon Parker serves as the primary contact for matters in the northern portion
of the district (Amarillo & Panhandle Area). Legislative Interns: Eliana Ulloa is from Wimberley, Texas and
has received admission to the University of Austin, Hannah Douglas is from Odessa and attends the University
of Texas, and Lexi Yarborough is from Austin and attends the University of Texas.