Published: November 05, 2008 03:32 am      

Longtime constable Bennett wins fifth term

PALESTINE — South Anderson County voters chose to return longtime precinct 1 constable Larry Bennett to office for a fifth term Tuesday.

Bennett, the Democratic incumbent, defeated Republican challenger Jeff Taylor, 2,657 votes to 1,740.

“I’m happy,” Bennett said Tuesday night as the results became apparent. “I want to thank the people for voting for me and having confidence in me. I’ll serve them with respect and honor.”

Bennett has served as precinct 1 constable since 1992, while Taylor brought law enforcement experience as a police officer in Grapeland and as a deputy in Anderson and Houston counties.

Bennett said he chose to let his work in the community do his campaigning for him.

“I figured it would be good all along,” Bennett said. “I didn’t knock on a lot of doors because I figured I’d do all my campaigning through my work.”

After 16 years in office, he doesn’t plan to slow down anytime soon, he added.

“I’m going to stay in office as long as I can, as long as my health holds out,” Bennett said. “I love working with the people and the kids.”

Taylor could not be reached for comment Tuesday night.

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Beth Foley may be contacted via e-mail at bfoley@palestineherald.com