Kevin Sparks
Kevin Sparks | |
|---|---|
| Born | May 10, 1964 Midland, Texas, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, politician |
| Years active | –present |
| Known for | Member of the Texas Senate from the 31st District since 2023; president of Discovery Operating, Inc. |
| Political party | Republican |
Kevin Sparks (born May 10, 1964) is an American entrepreneur and elected official currently representing the 31st District in the Texas Senate since 2023. A member of the Republican Party, Sparks won the seat covering the Texas Panhandle and Permian Basin without opposition in the 2022 election following the retirement of incumbent Republican Kel Seliger.
Early life and education
Originating from Midland, Texas, Sparks obtained a degree in business from the University of Texas at Austin. He earned the distinction of Eagle Scout in 1978.
Oil
Sparks holds the position of president at Discovery Operating, Inc., a Midland-based family enterprise specializing in oil and gas. His experience includes board memberships with the Natural Gas Producers Association as well as the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Politics
In 2022, Sparks initiated a primary challenge against sitting Republican Senator Kel Seliger, known for his moderate stance within the party. With endorsements from former President Donald Trump, Senator Ted Cruz, and Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Sparks emerged as the leading candidate after Seliger announced his decision not to seek re-election. He secured more than half of the votes in the Republican primary, thereby avoiding a runoff, and faced no Democratic opposition in the general election.