Bell County vs. Sterling County
From Central Command to the Open Range
Texas thrives on contrast, and few pairings capture that better than Bell County’s growth corridor and Sterling County’s quiet plains. Bell County, home to one of the nation’s largest military installations, is a hub of service, industry, and innovation. Sterling County, by contrast, moves to the rhythm of ranch life: measured not by rush hour, but by seasons, rain, and resilience. Together they remind us that commitment to community, whether on a city street or a cattle trail, keeps Texas moving forward.
Bell County (Population approx. 400,000)
Stretching along the I-35 corridor, Bell County’s cities: Killeen, Temple, and Belton; form a dynamic region shaped by Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood). The base drives the local economy and identity, infusing the area with public service and cultural diversity. Healthcare, manufacturing, and education also fuel rapid growth, while leaders grapple with housing affordability, transit congestion, and sustainable planning. Yet amid the expansion, Bell County retains the neighborly feel of a Central Texas town, where veterans, teachers, and small-business owners still come together for Friday-night lights.
Sterling County (Population approx. 1,200)
Far west of the I-35 sprawl, Sterling County’s open skies stretch across miles of ranchland and energy fields. Sterling City: the lone town; anchors a landscape defined by cattle, oil, and wind power. Life here runs on trust and tenacity: volunteer firefighters double as city leaders, and the local school gym hosts everything from weddings to basketball tournaments. Droughts are frequent and opportunities scarce, but residents rely on deep roots and mutual support. For many, this quiet independence is what makes West Texas home.
Why It Matters
Though separated by size and geography, both counties depend on local voices that understand service and self-reliance. Bell County’s rapid growth and Sterling County’s frontier endurance show that Texans face different challenges, but share the same need for responsive leadership that listens first and acts locally.
Why Forward
Forward believes Texas’ strength lies in empowering both growing metro corridors and remote ranching communities.
In Bell County, open primaries and Ranked Choice Voting would encourage candidates who speak for the entire community: from soldiers’ families in Killeen to long-time residents in Belton and Temple. These reforms would shift campaigns toward solutions on infrastructure, workforce development, and affordable housing instead of partisan conflict.
In Sterling County, the same tools would safeguard rural representation and give independent-minded ranchers, teachers, and small-business owners a fair voice in state and regional policy. Ranked Choice Voting would ensure every ballot counts, even in small elections where just a few votes decide outcomes.
Forward’s mission: to build a culture of trust, transparency, and teamwork; fits both counties perfectly. From Bell County’s military precision to Sterling County’s rugged persistence, Texans deserve systems that elevate local problem-solvers and respect every community’s voice.
Did You Know…
Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood) spans 214,000 acres, making it one of the largest active-duty U.S. Army installations in the world.
Sterling County was named after W. S. Sterling, a pioneer trail driver who helped establish West Texas cattle routes in the 1800s.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Residents of Bell County love the sense of shared purpose that unites soldiers, families, and small-town neighbors: a blend of patriotism and community pride. In Sterling County, locals treasure the wide horizons, lifelong friendships, and self-reliance that come from living where the land still shapes daily life.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
Central Texas AirFest (Temple Regional Airport) – A family-friendly airshow honoring veterans and showcasing local aviation with food, music, and community pride.
Sterling County Ranch Rodeo & BBQ Cook-Off (Sterling City) – Cowboys, families, and visitors gather for classic rodeo contests and Texas-style hospitality under the West Texas sky.
People & Tech Created This
The profiles and shared challenges were gathered from Texas Forward Party supporters and written using ChatGPT and Gemini models to combine verified public data, official county/state sources, and general knowledge from Texas historical and government records, including:
