State Representative Ernest Bailes has represented House District 18 since his election in 2016. A lifelong rancher and agriculturalist, he was raised on his family's dairy and beef cattle operation in East Texas and holds a B.S. from Texas A&M University, earned in 2004. Bailes resides in Evergreen, Texas, with his wife, Courtney, and their two sons, Cinco and Rigby, who attend Coldspring-Oakhurst CISD, where Courtney teaches. Involved in his community, Bailes serves on various boards, including the San Jacinto County Fair Association and the San Jacinto County Farm Bureau, and is an active member of the First Baptist Church in Evergreen.

Bailes sits on several committees in the Texas House, specifically the Culture, Recreation & Tourism and Energy Resources committees. His legislative efforts reflect a strong commitment to both education reform and rural interests.

Significantly, Bailes has sponsored and co-authored multiple bills aimed at enhancing various aspects of public service and law enforcement. Noteworthy among these is House Bill 3780, which addresses school accountability by proposing stricter measures for underperforming schools. The bill has garnered substantial discussion, highlighting the balance between necessary interventions and support resources for struggling institutions.

Another prominent bill, House Bill 101, seeks to establish a salary assistance grant program for rural constables, reflecting Bailes' focus on supporting rural law enforcement through enhanced local government funding policies. This initiative aims to improve law enforcement agencies' financial stability, thereby aiding in recruitment and retention efforts in rural areas.

On the energy front, bills like House Bill 2549, which focuses on mitigating light pollution from wind turbines, showcase his commitment to both renewable energy initiatives and the quality of life in rural communities.

Bailes also champions public safety through legislation. The discussion surrounding House Bill 102, which addresses firearm possession by undocumented individuals, demonstrates this commitment to enhancing local safety and involves a heightened focus on law enforcement’s role in community safety.

Politically, Bailes reflects a conservative stance, demonstrated by his support for measures that bolster local governance and law enforcement while emphasizing held values in the community. His legislative actions signal a dedication to accountable funding, particularly in areas impacting education and rural development, while reinforcing law enforcement initiatives.

Overall, Representative Ernest Bailes embodies a representative dedicated to marrying agricultural interests with the enhancement of public services, reflecting the values and needs of his constituents in East Texas. His active proposals and community involvement underline his commitment to improving life for the families within District 18, positioning him as a substantial player in Texas legislative efforts.