A sixth-generation Texan, John Raney has served as the State Representative for Texas House District 14, which encompasses Bryan and College Station, since December 2011. Born on April 4, 1947, in Huntsville, he spent much of his childhood in Bryan and has strong roots in the community. Raney holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Texas A&M University, which he graduated from in 1969. During his time at A&M, he founded the Texas Aggieland Bookstore, an enterprise that remains operational today.

Raney's military service includes serving as a 1st Lieutenant in the Texas Army National Guard from 1969 to 1975. He has been an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Bryan and has contributed significantly to Masonic bodies within the Brazos Valley over the past several decades. Raney and his wife, Elizabeth, married in 1974 and have two daughters and eight grandchildren, reflecting a strong family-oriented mindset that he carries into his public service.

In politics, Raney has extensive experience, having served as Chairman of the Republican Party of Brazos County and participating in various leadership roles within local business organizations. His participation in these entities has shaped his understanding of both business and community needs, which he incorporates into his legislative work.

As a member of the Texas House, Raney sits on key committees, including the House Committee on Higher Education and the House Committee on Transportation, where he acts as Vice Chair. His committee work aims to enhance educational access, improve transportation infrastructure, and serve local community interests.

Throughout his legislative career, Raney has sponsored and co-sponsored several significant bills, indicating his focus on education, tax relief, and public safety. Notably, he co-authored HB2615, which proposes creating foundation and trade diploma programs for high school students to prepare them for technical and vocational careers. This initiative is seen as a strategic response to the workforce's demands and aims to keep students engaged in education.

Another important measure is HJR1, a constitutional amendment focused on providing school district tax relief while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Similarly, his support for HB2 emphasizes property tax relief through the public school finance system, displaying his commitment to easing the financial burden on Texas families.

On the education front, he has endorsed HB1361, which establishes support for parenting students at public colleges, highlighting his advocacy for inclusive educational policies that reflect diverse student needs. Additionally, he advocates for public safety measures, as seen in his involvement with SB10, which affects retirement benefits for teachers, and HB3, aimed at exempting small businesses from certain tax burdens.

His legislative actions reveal a centrist approach, balancing fiscal responsibility with social support. By promoting educational initiatives and advocating for tax relief, Raney demonstrates a commitment to his constituents—particularly in facilitating pathways for both economic growth and educational attainment. His focus on public safety and support for long-serving educators further frames his dedication to improving the overall quality of life within his district and across Texas.

In summary, John Raney's background and legislative work illustrate a dedication to community service and a keen understanding of the interplay between education, business, and governance—qualities that define his public service career. He continues to champion policy changes that support Texas families, enhance educational opportunities, and streamline economic growth, underscoring his commitment to the people of Texas.