Robert Nichols

First elected to the Texas Senate in 2007, Robert Nichols represents 18 counties including the greater part of East and Southeast Texas. During his nine sessions as a state senator, Nichols authored and passed legislation to protect landowners' rights, increase educational opportunities in East Texas and reform transportation policies. He has also worked to reduce Medicaid fraud and promote free-market principles. Before running for Senate, Nichols served as transportation commissioner for eight years where he established a reputation for increasing efficiency without compromising quality. Nichols is a businessman from Jacksonville, Texas. In his hometown, he served on city council, was elected mayor, built four successful manufacturing facilities, earned 32 U.S. patents and 128 foreign patents, as well as creating more than 900 jobs for East Texas families. Working his way through college by selling fireworks and ironing clothes for other students, Nichols earned a bachelor's degree from Lamar University in 1968.