AUSTIN, TEXAS -- Rep. Buddy West (R-Odessa) was named Best Politician by the Odessa American 2007 Best of the Permian Basin Readers' Choice Poll.

A lifelong west Texan and resident of the Permian Basin, West has proudly served his constituency since his January 1993 swearing in. He has dedicated his public service to the economic and educational growth of Ector, Andrews and Winkler counties, as well as protecting the ideals and values of his community.

"I want to thank the OA and their readers for this award. It is always humbling to be honored in this manner by your friends and neighbors. I have been truly blessed and honored to have had the citizens of District 81 place their faith in me to represent them for the last 14 years.

"This job wouldn't be worth doing if it wasn't for the great people of Andrews, Odessa, Wink, and Kermit who trust in me to be their voice in Austin. I am forever obliged." West continued.

West has made great strides for the Permian Basin during his tenure. A central figure in establishing the state-of-the-art National Guard Permian Basin Readiness Center, West demonstrated his support for our troops with the $5 million, 38,000 sq. ft. armory. He also worked to pass legislation which provided $54 million for a new UTPB Science and Technology Complex, as well as $45 million for an Arts Convocation and classroom facility at the CEED. UTPB benefited from this past 80th Legislative Session by West passing House Bill 1157 which will provide for a new modern student services building.

A retired safety engineer from Amoco, he remains a strong supporter of the oil and gas community. He, along with local, state, federal officials, business and community leaders, continues to work diligently to see that the federal, near-zero emissions, FutureGen clean coal plant makes its home in the Permian Basin.

Representative West currently serves on the House Committee on Environmental Regulations, as well as the House Committee on Law Enforcement. He is proudly serving his eighth term in the Texas House representing Andrews, Ector, and Winkler Counties in District 81.

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